In a recent interview with BBC Newsnight, Sky Roberts, the brother of Virginia Giuffre—the woman who accused Prince Andrew of sexual assault—expressed the family’s complex emotions following the prince’s decision to relinquish his royal titles. Roberts described the moment as ‘joyous’ yet acknowledged the mixed feelings within the family. The announcement marks a significant chapter in the ongoing controversy surrounding Prince Andrew, who has faced intense public scrutiny and legal battles. While the family views the development as a step toward accountability, the emotional toll of the prolonged ordeal remains palpable. The decision to strip Prince Andrew of his titles has been seen as a move by the royal family to distance itself from the scandal, which has tarnished its reputation. Roberts’ comments highlight the personal impact of the case on those directly involved, underscoring the broader implications for the monarchy and public trust.
分类： society
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Heavy security after deadly violence in Kenya as thousands turn out to mourn former PM Odinga
In a bid to prevent further tragedies, Kenya has mobilized extensive security measures in Kisumu, a western city, for the final public viewing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s body. This comes in the wake of five fatalities during the previous two funeral events. On Saturday, military personnel, police forces, and air surveillance units were stationed at a local soccer stadium, where thousands of mourners had gathered overnight to pay their respects. Odinga, a revered political figure in Kenya and beyond, passed away on Wednesday in India at the age of 80. He is set to be buried on Sunday in his rural hometown of Bondo. Odinga’s supporters, known for their fervor and determination, have been turning out in large numbers since his body was repatriated to Kenya on Thursday. The funeral events have been marred by violence, with police firing live bullets and tear gas on Thursday, resulting in three deaths. A stampede on Friday claimed two more lives and left 163 injured. Odinga’s widow, Ida, and his brother, Oburu, have both urged mourners to maintain peace and avoid provoking law enforcement. Odinga, who ran for Kenya’s presidency five times over three decades, is celebrated for his lifelong activism that significantly contributed to Kenya’s transition to a multiparty democracy. His body lay in state at parliament on Friday, an honor typically reserved for presidents and former presidents. Kenya’s President William Ruto, who once campaigned for Odinga in 2007 but later became his political rival, praised him as a patriot and selfless statesman. Earlier this year, the two leaders signed an agreement following months of anti-government protests, leading to the appointment of opposition party members to Cabinet positions.
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How an old suitcase revealed a hidden family fortune, lost under Nazi rule
In 2009, Antony Easton stumbled upon a small brown leather suitcase hidden under his late father Peter’s bed in Lymington, Hampshire. What he discovered inside would unravel a decades-long mystery about his family’s past, revealing a tale of immense wealth, devastating loss, and survival during the Holocaust. The suitcase contained immaculate German banknotes, photo albums, and a birth certificate that shattered Antony’s understanding of his father’s identity. Peter Roderick Easton, who had prided himself on his ‘Englishness,’ was, in fact, born Peter Hans Rudolf Eisner in pre-war Germany, a member of one of Berlin’s wealthiest Jewish families.
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Learn about Diwali, the Festival of Lights
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, stands as the most significant annual celebration in India, particularly for Hindus, yet it transcends religious boundaries, embraced by over a billion people globally. This five-day festival, rooted in the Sanskrit word ‘Deepavali’ meaning ‘a row of lights,’ symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Celebrants illuminate their homes with traditional clay oil lamps, fostering a sense of unity and spiritual renewal. This year, Diwali falls on October 20, aligning with the Hindu lunar calendar. While its origins vary by region, the overarching theme remains consistent: the victory of good over evil. In southern India, Diwali commemorates Lord Krishna’s defeat of the demon Naraka, while in the north, it honors Lord Rama’s return from exile. The festival is marked by vibrant traditions, including fireworks, feasts, rangoli art, and the exchange of sweets and gifts. Unique regional practices, such as the early morning oil bath in the south and the worship of Goddess Lakshmi in the north, further enrich the celebrations. Despite concerns over air pollution, India’s Supreme Court has permitted the use of ‘green fireworks’ to mitigate environmental impact. Beyond Hinduism, Diwali holds significance for Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, each observing the festival with their own narratives. In a landmark move, California has designated Diwali as an official state holiday, joining Pennsylvania and Connecticut in recognizing the festival’s cultural importance. This decision underscores the growing acknowledgment of Diwali’s universal appeal and its role in fostering inclusivity.
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Watch: Oman Police airlift man injured while hiking mountain
In a swift and efficient rescue operation, the Royal Oman Police Air Wing successfully airlifted an injured hiker from a remote mountainous area in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate. The Omani citizen sustained a foot injury while trekking in the IMTI region, prompting authorities to deploy a helicopter for his medical evacuation. A video shared on X (formerly Twitter) by the Royal Oman Police showcased the meticulous operation, highlighting the professionalism of the rescue team. The injured man was promptly transported to Nizwa Hospital, where he is receiving the necessary medical attention. This incident underscores the critical role of emergency services in ensuring public safety, particularly in challenging terrains. Notably, this rescue comes just two days after Omani authorities detained several individuals for reckless driving through hazardous wadis, despite repeated warnings. The contrasting events highlight the importance of adhering to safety guidelines in both recreational and everyday activities.
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UAE: Partial road closure announced in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra for nearly a month
Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region will experience a significant disruption in traffic flow as authorities announce a partial road closure on Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed International Road (E11). The closure, which affects two right lanes heading towards Abu Dhabi, will be in effect from midnight on Sunday, October 19, until 6am on Thursday, November 13. Motorists are strongly advised to seek alternative routes during this period to avoid delays. This development follows a recent 10-day partial closure on Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street (E10) due to roadworks, which concluded on October 20. The latest closure underscores the ongoing infrastructure improvements in the UAE capital, aimed at enhancing road safety and efficiency. Commuters are encouraged to stay updated on traffic advisories and plan their journeys accordingly. For real-time updates, residents can follow official channels such as KT on WhatsApp Channels.
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‘We have to prioritise South Africans’: Anti-migrant movement blocks foreigners from healthcare
In South Africa, Operation Dudula, once a grassroots anti-migrant movement, has evolved into a political party, sparking nationwide debate over access to public services for foreigners. The group, whose name means ‘to remove by force’ in Zulu, has intensified its campaign by blocking non-South Africans from entering public health facilities in provinces like Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. Despite arrests, authorities have struggled to curb their activities, leaving migrants and even some locals without essential healthcare.
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Saudi Arabia: No limit on online orders of bottled Zamzam for residents
Saudi Arabia has unveiled a groundbreaking service allowing residents and citizens to order unlimited quantities of Zamzam water through the Nusuk app. This initiative, launched by Dr. Tawfig Al-Rabiah, the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, aims to provide greater convenience for those living within the Kingdom. The service enables users to request 330-millilitre bottles of the sacred water, which holds immense religious significance for Muslims worldwide, and have them delivered to any location in Saudi Arabia. Previously, Zamzam water was often sold in larger containers, but the introduction of smaller bottles makes it more portable and accessible. The Nusuk app, which has evolved into a comprehensive platform for Hajj and Umrah services, now includes this feature alongside its existing offerings such as accommodation bookings and Umrah visa issuance. This development reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance the experience of its residents and pilgrims.
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Campaigners say celebrities quit British Museum event after climate and pro-Palestine pressure
The British Museum’s upcoming Pink Ball, a high-profile fundraising event, has sparked significant controversy, leading to the apparent withdrawal of several celebrities from its organizing committee. Campaigners attribute these pullouts to heightened scrutiny over the museum’s ties to British Petroleum (BP) and its association with companies linked to Israel’s actions in Gaza. Pro-Palestine and climate justice groups, including Energy Embargo for Palestine (EEFP) and Culture Unstained, have urged committee members to step down, citing BP’s alleged complicity in both the Gaza conflict and environmental degradation. The museum, however, denies any connection between the withdrawals and the campaign, stating that committee membership is voluntary and reflects active support for the event. The Pink Ball, marketed as a rival to New York’s Met Gala, aims to celebrate London’s cultural prominence and features a pink theme inspired by the museum’s ‘Ancient India: Living Traditions’ exhibition. Despite its glamorous aspirations, the event has drawn criticism for its ethical implications. Campaigners highlight the involvement of the Ambani family, whose businesses have ties to the Israeli military, and Carole Bamford, director of JCB, a company accused of supplying equipment used in demolishing Palestinian homes. Museum staff have also expressed concerns about the event’s impact on the safety of artifacts and its insensitivity to cultural restitution disputes. The controversy has reignited anger among staff over the museum’s handling of a previous event for the Israeli embassy, further fueling calls for greater accountability and ethical responsibility.
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UAE: Ajman Ruler performs Salat Al Istisqa, prays for rain
In a significant spiritual gathering, Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, led the Salat Al Istisqa (rain-seeking prayer) at the Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Mosque in Ajman. This prayer, deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, was conducted in alignment with the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad and in response to a nationwide call by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The event saw the participation of Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman, Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Municipality and Planning Department, alongside numerous sheikhs, senior officials, and a congregation of citizens and residents. Following the prayer, attendees raised their hands in supplication, beseeching Allah for rain as a divine mercy to benefit the people, land, and all creatures. They also prayed for the protection and guidance of the UAE’s leadership and for eternal peace for the nation’s founding leaders.