Madagascar’s political landscape has been thrown into disarray following the ousting of former President Andry Rajoelina in a military coup last week. The new regime, led by Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo, has taken the unprecedented step of revoking Rajoelina’s Malagasy citizenship, citing local laws that mandate the loss of nationality for individuals who acquire foreign citizenship. Rajoelina, 51, obtained French citizenship a decade ago, a move that had previously sparked controversy during the 2023 presidential election, which he ultimately won despite calls for his disqualification. The former president fled the country after weeks of escalating protests over chronic power and water shortages, which culminated in a military takeover led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina. Rajoelina has since gone into hiding, citing concerns for his safety, and his current whereabouts remain unknown. The protests, initially organized by the youth movement Gen Z Mada and inspired by similar anti-government demonstrations in Nepal, intensified after Rajoelina’s government responded with violence. Despite sacking his energy minister and later his entire government, Rajoelina’s efforts to quell the unrest proved futile. Protesters had hoped for his resignation to facilitate a democratic transition, but his refusal to step down led to the military’s intervention. Colonel Randrianirina has now been sworn in as the new leader, promising to hold elections within two years.
标签： Africa
非洲
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Ivory Coast’s Ouattara seeks fourth term as allegations of opposition clampdown rise
Ivory Coast is set to hold a pivotal presidential election on Saturday, with incumbent President Alassane Ouattara vying for a fourth term amidst significant political tension. The election, scheduled to run from 0800 to 1800 GMT, will see 8.7 million registered voters cast their ballots. However, the process has been overshadowed by the exclusion of key opposition figures, sparking widespread protests and raising concerns about the fairness of the electoral process. Ouattara, 83, who has led the world’s largest cocoa producer since 2011, is widely expected to retain power, extending his rule to nearly two decades. His party, the Rally of Houphouetistes for Democracy and Peace (RHDP), already holds a majority in parliament, further consolidating his position. Despite overseeing economic growth averaging 6% annually, challenges such as poverty, which affects 37.5% of the population, and youth unemployment persist. The election has also drawn attention to the broader trend of aging leaders in Africa, with figures like Cameroon’s Paul Biya, 92, and Uganda’s Yoweri Museveni, 81, continuing to dominate the political landscape. The build-up to the vote has been marked by unrest, with hundreds arrested during protests against the disqualification of prominent candidates like Tidjane Thiam and Laurent Gbagbo. The government has deployed over 40,000 security personnel to maintain order, but fears of electoral violence reminiscent of past crises remain. Ouattara has denied allegations of suppressing opposition and has emphasized his achievements in infrastructure and public sector investment. The international community, including former colonial ruler France, has largely remained silent, focusing on other priorities. With four other candidates, including former first lady Simone Gbagbo and ex-commerce minister Jean-Louis Billion, in the race, analysts predict a decisive victory for Ouattara, who has pledged to continue driving economic growth.
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‘Journey of ambition’: Sheikh Hamdan lauds Emirates on first flight anniversary
Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum commemorated the 40th anniversary of Emirates’ inaugural flight, praising the airline’s transformative journey and its role in shaping Dubai into a global hub. In a heartfelt message shared on October 25, 2025, Sheikh Hamdan reflected on the historic moment in 1985 when Emirates took its first flight from Dubai, marking the beginning of an ambitious venture that continues to soar. He lauded the airline’s team, led by Chairman and CEO Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, for their unwavering dedication and vision, which have propelled Emirates to become a world leader in aviation. Earlier that day, Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also celebrated the milestone, describing Emirates as a ‘national pride’ that has transported over 860 million passengers worldwide. Starting with a modest $10 million investment and two leased aircraft, Emirates has grown into a global powerhouse with a modern fleet of Boeing 777, Airbus A380, and Airbus A350 aircraft, and over 300 planes on order. To mark the occasion, Emirates released a video showcasing the evolution of its fleet since 1985, highlighting its commitment to innovation and excellence in aviation.
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Three-way tie at the top as Skaik leads UAE bid at Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship
The 16th Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship (AAC) at Emirates Golf Club is heating up with a thrilling three-way tie at the top of the leaderboard. Japan’s Rintaro Nakano, Vietnam’s Khanh Hung Le, and Australia’s Harry Takis are all tied at 11-under-par, setting the stage for a competitive final weekend. Meanwhile, UAE’s Ahmad Skaik has emerged as a local hero, showcasing resilience and skill to remain in contention. Despite a challenging round on Friday, Skaik fought back to finish level-par, leaving him tied for 10th at four-under 140, just seven shots behind the leaders. Skaik’s performance has ignited local enthusiasm, with compatriots Sam Mullane and Rayan Ahmed also advancing past the cut, ensuring a strong Emirati presence in the tournament. Lebanon’s Geoffrey Laklak made history by becoming the first player from his country to make the AAC cut, adding another layer of excitement to the event. Nakano, Le, and Takis each delivered standout performances, with Nakano matching the day’s best score of 66. The tournament’s depth is evident, with 62 players progressing to the weekend rounds and 22 breaking par after two days. As the competition intensifies, all eyes are on the final 36 holes, where the winner will secure a coveted spot at The Masters. Round three begins on Saturday, with the leaders teeing off at 10:06 a.m. For live updates and scores, visit www.aacgolf.com.
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Attacks on people like me happen every time my country has an election
For 42-year-old Mariam Staford, election season in Tanzania is not a time of hope but of terror. While many Tanzanians engage in the festive rallies and campaign songs, Mariam and others with albinism face a grim reality: heightened risks of violence driven by deeply rooted superstitions. Albinism, a rare genetic condition affecting approximately 30,000 Tanzanians, reduces melanin production, resulting in lighter skin, hair, and eye color. Tragically, this condition has made them targets of brutal attacks fueled by the false belief that their body parts bring wealth, luck, or political success. Mariam’s story is a harrowing testament to this violence. In 2008, during a local election period, armed men attacked her in her home, severing both her arms. She survived, but her unborn child did not. The trauma of that night still haunts her. ‘Even now, I sometimes dream of that night,’ she says. ‘When I wake up, I touch my arms and remember they are not there.’ Mariam’s experience is not isolated. Since 2008, there have been 211 documented attacks on people with albinism in Tanzania, including 79 killings and 100 mutilations. These attacks often spike during election seasons, as political aspirants seek supernatural advantages. Despite government efforts to curb the violence, including awareness campaigns and stricter laws, the problem persists. In June this year, another attack was reported in Simuyu, though the victim escaped unharmed. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has condemned these ‘harmful traditional beliefs,’ but rural areas remain vulnerable. Activists and survivors like Mariam argue that more needs to be done to protect the albinism community. While progress has been made in some areas, the murder of two-year-old Asimwe Novath last year serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing threat. As Tanzania prepares for its upcoming elections, Mariam and others with albinism live in fear, choosing to stay home rather than participate in the democratic process.
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UAE: Temporary winter tent camp rental period, season date revealed
As the winter season approaches, Umm Al Quwain is preparing to welcome residents and visitors with its newly established temporary winter camps. These camps, designed to offer a unique outdoor experience, are set to open on November 3, 2025, and will be available for rent until the end of the season. The initiative aims to encourage people to embrace nature and enjoy the cooler months in a serene environment. The Umm Al Quwain Municipality has outlined specific guidelines for those interested in renting these camps. Rentals must be for personal use only, with a duration ranging from three to six months. Applications are restricted to citizens of Umm Al Quwain, and the camps cannot be used for commercial purposes. Campers must adhere to strict safety and cleanliness standards, including compliance with Civil Defense regulations. Additionally, the use of spotlights, loudspeakers, and drones is prohibited to maintain a peaceful atmosphere. Violations of these rules may result in permit revocation and penalties. The camps are located in the Al Aqran and Al Thania areas, providing ample space for outdoor activities. Fees and insurance deposits must be paid within three days of application approval to secure a permit. This initiative reflects Umm Al Quwain’s commitment to promoting outdoor recreation while ensuring safety and environmental responsibility.
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Association of IT Experts announces AITEX Summit Fall 2025 focused on deployable AI solutions
The Association of Information Technology Experts (AITEX) has unveiled plans for the AITEX Summit Fall 2025, a high-intensity event set to take place on November 1–2, 2025. This summit will bring together AI and IT professionals from across the globe to develop practical, deployable AI solutions under real-world conditions within a 48-hour timeframe. Unlike traditional hackathons, AITEX emphasizes tangible results, requiring participants to create original, functional prototypes that address complex challenges. Reused code and recycled ideas are strictly prohibited, placing a premium on innovation, execution, and real-world applicability.
The summit is designed to push the boundaries of AI development, focusing on measurable outcomes and real business and social impact. A spokesperson for AITEX highlighted the event’s mission: ‘AITEX Summit is built on the principle that innovation should be measurable and applicable. Our goal is to bring together professionals who can turn AI concepts into working solutions.’
AITEX Summit Fall 2025 is more than just an event; it is a global network of seasoned technologists from the U.S., Europe, and the Commonwealth of Independent States. Members of this network have spearheaded over 30 major technology initiatives and published more than 100 peer-reviewed articles in leading journals. The summit’s rigorous evaluation process, overseen by senior engineers, domain specialists, and product leaders from top companies like Oracle, Amazon, and Walmart, ensures that each prototype is assessed for originality, usability, and technical integrity.
Participants, including software engineers, UX designers, and data scientists, are challenged to create solutions with real-world impact. The judging criteria prioritize functionality, value creation, and scalability over mere showmanship. Amidst the rapid evolution of AI and increasing industry interest, the AITEX Summit provides a structured platform for developing enterprise AI solutions that deliver tangible results.
Beyond the competition, participants gain visibility, professional recognition, and access to a global network of peers and potential employers. AITEX Summit Fall 2025 stands as a proving ground for credible, deployable AI solutions, fostering innovation that truly matters.
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RAG unveils the UAE’s tallest business center
In a significant milestone for the UAE’s business sector, RAG Holdings has officially launched the RAG Tower, now recognized as the tallest business center in the country. The unveiling took place during the RAG Business Conclave 2025 at the Grand Hyatt Dubai, under the theme ‘Building Tomorrow Together.’ The event, certified under the Hamdan Innovation Incubator by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to discuss the future of innovation, collaboration, and community-driven growth in the UAE. Dr Shashi Tharoor, Member of Parliament and former Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the importance of public-private partnerships in fostering sustainable economies. Rassal Ahmad, CEO of RAG Holdings, highlighted the company’s mission to empower entrepreneurs through innovation and collaboration, stating that RAG Tower is more than just a business center—it is a symbol of ambition, creativity, and collective progress. The conclave also saw the launch of the RAG Club, an exclusive community for entrepreneurs, and the ‘RAG Idea HǪ Startup Awards,’ where RAG announced its investment in the Halal Journey App. The event concluded with a networking gala attended by over 350 entrepreneurs, celebrating innovation and shared purpose. Rassal expressed gratitude to the UAE’s leadership for creating an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and reaffirmed RAG’s commitment to contributing to the nation’s vision of community-driven growth and global excellence.
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Restaurant Review: Culinara at One Za’abeel is Dubai’s newest food hall experience
Dubai’s latest culinary gem, Culinara, located at One Za’abeel, offers a dining experience that is as visually stunning as it is gastronomically satisfying. Perched high above the city, this food hall combines innovative architecture with a diverse array of cuisines, creating a social dining experience like no other. The venue’s floating bridge, known as The Link, connects the twin towers of One Za’abeel, setting the stage for a meal that feels both luxurious and adventurous. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by Giellan, the affable Outlet Manager, who provides a warm welcome and a guided tour of the multi-concept space. The expansive glass walls offer breathtaking views of Dubai’s evolving skyline, symbolizing the city’s rapid transformation over the past five decades. The Persian section, Seyran, proved particularly inviting, with its aromatic dishes and cozy ambiance. Ordering at Culinara involves navigating a digital system of QR codes and layered menus, which, while initially challenging, soon becomes an engaging part of the experience. The dishes, ranging from tender kebabs to saffron rice, are both flavorful and beautifully presented, showcasing authentic flavors without unnecessary embellishments. Dining at such a height adds an element of joy to the meal, complemented by the lively yet relaxed atmosphere and attentive service. While the tech-driven ordering system could benefit from greater intuitiveness and clearer signage, these minor inconveniences are easily overlooked when savoring the culinary delights and taking in the panoramic views. Culinara is more than just a restaurant; it’s a spectacle that blends architecture, altitude, and gastronomy, making it an ideal destination for impressing visitors, enjoying a romantic evening, or simply reveling in Dubai’s penchant for grandeur. Highlights include the deconstructed lamb souvlaki, which stands out as a hero dish, and the overall vibe, which strikes a perfect balance between energy and tranquility. With an overall score of 8/10, Culinara cements its place as a must-visit culinary destination in Dubai.
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Dubai Fitness Challenge: When activewear becomes a style statement
Dubai is redefining the intersection of fitness and fashion, as the city gears up for its annual Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC). This month-long event, running from November 1 to 30, is not just about physical activity but also about making a style statement. From Kite Beach’s scenic running tracks to Pilates studios popping up across the city, Dubai’s elite are trading their Hermès handbags for WHOOP fitness trackers and diamond-encrusted activewear. The city’s fitness culture has become a symbol of status, with influencers like Karen Wazen showcasing fitness wearables alongside Cartier bracelets. Fashion brands are also embracing this trend, with Victoria’s Secret recently featuring athletes like Angel Reese and Suni Lee in their shows. The DFC offers a plethora of Instagram-worthy moments, from the Dubai Run, which transforms Sheikh Zayed Road into a massive running track, to unique events like spinning classes on airport runways and triathlons at the AURA Skypool. This year, participants can flaunt their style with collaborations like Kim Kardashian’s NikeSKIMS collection or Valentino’s partnership with Vans. The event is a testament to Dubai’s ambition to become the world’s most active city, blending fitness, fashion, and luxury in a dazzling display of wellness culture.