Photo : Michele Spatari, AFP
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : Michele Spatari, AFP
IN BRIEF
By Jerry Franklin
Ethiopia: Human rights group condemns the end of UN-backed inquiry
On 5 October, BBC reported that the human rights groups condemned the UN member countries for not extending the UN's investigation into abuses committed in Ethiopia. The mandate of the International Commission of Human Rights Experts on Ethiopia (ICHREE) is set to expire later this month. ICHREE accused the Ethiopian military of committing war crimes during the Tigray War. Additionally, ICHREE claimed that Eritrean soldiers were responsible for several sexual assaults and blamed Tigrayan insurgents for committing serious crimes. The chair of the ICHREE, Mohamed Chande Othman, stated: “Our report shows that the overwhelming majority of risk factors for future atrocity crimes are present in Ethiopia, including ongoing serious violations, widespread violence and instability, and deeply entrenched impunity.” Ethiopia has condemned ICHREE's operations, accusing them of partiality. (“Criticism as UN-backed probe into Ethiopia to end,” BBC, 5 October 2023)
Kenya: Odinga criticizes the UN peacekeeping mission in Haiti
On 5 October, BBC reported that Kenya's opposition leader Raila Odinga stated the country's decision to lead a peacekeeping mission in Haiti to combat gang violence a mistake. Odinga stated: “Before you even come to Africa, Haiti is at the doorstep of the United States which is the most powerful nation in the world. What is it that is so unique about Kenya that it is being chosen to lead the multinational force in Haiti? The problem in Haiti is political, it does not just require guns, it requires talks.” Additionally, Odinga warned that the proposed deployment put the lives of Kenyan police officers at peril because of the increasing violence in Haiti. The UN Security Council authorized the deployment of a Kenya-led peacekeeping mission for a year, with a review after nine months. President William Ruto of Kenya promised not to let the people of Haiti down. (“Haiti crisis not Kenya's priority - Odinga,” BBC, 5 October 2023)
Mauritius: Court revokes anti-homosexuality law
On 5 October, BBC reported that the Supreme Court ruled that Section 250 of the Mauritian Criminal Code from 1898 was unconstitutional on 4 October. The Supreme Court ruled that the statute that was repealed did not represent any traditional Mauritian beliefs but rather was a legacy of British colonialism. The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAids) stated: “The UN welcomes the decision of Mauritius to join the growing list of African countries protecting the human rights of everyone, including LGBTQI+ people.” (“Mauritius repeals colonial-era anti-homosexuality law,” BBC, 5 October 2023)
Gabon: Appointment to the national assembly will begin shortly, says interim president
On 5 October, BBC reported that the interim president of Gabon, General Brice Oligui Nguema, stated that the transitional National Assembly and Senate would shortly have representatives selected, reiterating his administration's dedication to social engagement. Gen Nguema appointed the chairperson of both legislative bodies in September, allowing the possibility for additional selections of parliamentarians. Gen Nguema announced the decision after meeting with Central African Republic President Faustin-Archange Touadera on 5 October. Following talks with the leaders of Congo-Brazzaville and Equatorial Guinea, Gen Nguema visited the CAR to ask for cooperation in getting regional organizations to suspend their sanctions against Gabon in the wake of the coup. (“Gabon's interim president announces assembly appointments,” BBC, 5 October 2023)