Vote counting under way in Ivory Coast as Ouattara victory expected

In a significant escalation of violence, the paramilitary force RSF has taken control of El-Fasher, the last stronghold of the Sudanese army in Darfur, marking a critical moment in the ongoing conflict. This takeover follows months of intense fighting, highlighting the deteriorating security situation in the region. Meanwhile, political unrest continues as Paul Biya, the world's oldest serving ruler, has secured an eighth term amid protests demanding fair election results, and Ivory Coast's President Alassane Ouattara has also won a fourth term. These developments underscore the instability in the region and the challenges facing governance.

Alassane Ouattara has secured a remarkable victory in the Ivory Coast presidential election, winning 89.77% of the votes, which marks his fourth term in office. Despite concerns about a clampdown on dissent, the election was noted for its peaceful nature, attributed to low voter turnout. This outcome is significant as it reflects the political landscape in Ivory Coast and Ouattara's continued influence in West Africa, raising questions about the future of democracy in the region.

Ivory Coast's President Alassane Ouattara, aged 83, has secured a fourth term in office, a result that many view as unsurprising given that his main rivals were barred from participating in the election. This situation raises concerns about the fairness of the electoral process and the state of democracy in the country, as it limits the choice available to voters and could lead to increased political tension.

Alassane Ouattara, the incumbent president of Ivory Coast, has been declared the winner of the recent election, securing his fourth term in office. At 83 years old, Ouattara's victory comes amid controversy, as two of his main rivals were excluded from the vote. This election is significant as it highlights the ongoing political dynamics in Ivory Coast and raises questions about the future of democracy in the country.

Alassane Ouattara has won a fourth term as President of Ivory Coast, as indicated by the provisional results from the Independent Electoral Commission. This election saw nearly nine million voters participating, highlighting the democratic engagement in the country. Ouattara's victory is significant as it reflects the continuity of his leadership and policies, which could impact the nation's stability and development moving forward.

In the Ivory Coast, candidate Billon has conceded as partial results indicate a favorable outcome for Alassane Ouattara, who is poised to secure a fourth term in office. This election is significant as it reflects the political landscape of the country and the ongoing support for Ouattara, despite concerns about governance and democracy. The final results are eagerly awaited, as they will determine the future direction of the nation.

Vote counting is currently taking place in Ivory Coast following the presidential election where citizens have cast their ballots. Longtime President Alassane Ouattara is aiming for a fourth term, but it's important to note that his main rivals were barred from participating in this election. This situation raises questions about the democratic process in the country and the implications for its political future.

Last week saw a variety of significant global events, including elections in Ivory Coast and a Russian strike in Kyiv. These occurrences highlight the ongoing political dynamics and conflicts shaping our world today. Understanding these events is crucial as they can have far-reaching implications for international relations and local communities.

A parliamentary committee is currently examining the controversial decision to drop the case against two men accused of spying for China. This inquiry is significant as it raises questions about national security and the effectiveness of legal processes in handling espionage cases. The differing opinions among key figures highlight the complexities involved in such sensitive matters.

The Trump administration is making a controversial move by asking the Supreme Court to permit the firing of Shira Perlmutter, the director of the US Copyright Office. This request follows a federal appeals court ruling that stated she cannot be dismissed unilaterally. This situation raises significant concerns about the independence of copyright oversight and the implications for intellectual property rights, which are crucial for creators and industries relying on copyright protection.

Hurricane Melissa is currently a life-threatening category 5 storm, packing winds of up to 175 mph as it approaches Jamaica. Residents are being urged to seek shelter immediately, with severe rainfall expected in Jamaica and neighboring countries like Cuba, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic. This storm poses a significant risk to life and property, making it crucial for those in its path to take precautions and stay informed.

In Australia, major social media platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, and Meta are set to comply with a new law banning under-16s from using their services. While this move aims to protect younger users, TikTok's director of public policy warns that it could drive them to less safe areas of the internet. This development is significant as it highlights the ongoing debate about online safety and the responsibilities of tech companies in safeguarding youth.

Hurricane Melissa is set to hit Jamaica, with meteorologists warning of catastrophic winds, flooding, and storm surges. This storm, predicted to be the strongest of 2025, poses a serious threat to the island's safety and infrastructure. Residents are urged to prepare for potential devastation, highlighting the importance of disaster readiness in the face of climate change.

In a troubling revelation, it has come to light that Prince Andrew hosted Jeffrey Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, and Harvey Weinstein at his Royal Lodge in 2006 during his daughter Beatrice's 18th birthday celebrations. This gathering raises serious questions about Andrew's judgment and associations, especially given the controversial backgrounds of the guests. The implications of such connections could further tarnish the royal family's reputation and highlight ongoing discussions about accountability and the influence of powerful individuals.