Irish presidential election: Who is running and what’s at stake?

Ivory Coast is gearing up for its presidential elections, with voters heading to the polls to choose their next leader. Five candidates, including the current President Alassane Ouattara, are in the running, although some notable rivals have been barred from participating. This election is significant as it reflects the political landscape of the country and could shape its future direction.

The recent announcement of a $100,000 fee to contest the upcoming elections in Guinea has sparked shock and concern among potential candidates and the public. Authorities justify this steep cost as a means to ensure that only credible candidates participate, but many see it as a barrier to entry that could stifle democracy and limit representation. This situation is significant as it raises questions about the inclusivity of the electoral process and the future of governance in Guinea.

Students at a high school in Serbia have taken a stand by blocking their campus for two weeks, joining a wave of protests against President Aleksandar Vucic's government. This is significant as it marks the first school to participate in the nationwide demonstrations, which have been fueled by growing concerns over democratic freedoms and rampant corruption. The government's response to regain control of the school highlights the escalating tensions in the country, as citizens demand accountability and change.

In a shocking incident, four thieves managed to break into the Louvre museum in Paris, the world's most-visited museum, and steal eight valuable items worth €88 million. This brazen theft not only raises concerns about security at such a prominent cultural institution but also highlights the ongoing issue of art crime, which can have lasting impacts on heritage and tourism.

Hadush Kebatu, a migrant sex offender, was arrested in north London just two days after being mistakenly released from an Essex jail. This incident raises serious concerns about the prison system's ability to manage offenders and ensure public safety, highlighting the potential risks posed by administrative errors.

In a significant diplomatic move, Thailand and Cambodia have signed an expanded ceasefire agreement in Malaysia, with US President Donald Trump in attendance. This agreement comes after Trump's economic pressure encouraged both nations to pause their border skirmishes. While this is a hopeful step towards lasting peace, experts like Adam Hancock from FRANCE 24 express skepticism about the durability of the agreement, given the history of breaches in previous ceasefires. This development is crucial as it highlights the ongoing efforts to stabilize a long-standing conflict in the region.

In the final group game of the Women's Cricket World Cup, New Zealand was all out for 168 runs, setting the stage for an exciting match against England. With players like Plimmer and Kerr showing promise, the game is heating up, especially with the intense 40-degree weather. This match is crucial as it determines the teams' standings in the tournament, making every run count and adding to the competitive spirit of women's cricket.

This matchday is packed with exciting football action, featuring key clashes like Hearts vs. Celtic and Arsenal hosting Crystal Palace. The anticipation builds as fans look forward to the iconic clásico between Real Madrid and Barcelona, a rivalry that never fails to deliver drama and excitement. These matches are not just games; they represent the passion and culture of football, drawing fans together and showcasing the talent of some of the best teams in the world.