Photo : Yassine Gaidi-Anadolu Agency
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : Yassine Gaidi-Anadolu Agency
IN BRIEF
by Apoorva Sudhakar
Tunisia: Proposed constitution increases presidential powers
On 30 June, president Kais Saied published the proposed new constitution that will be voted on in a referendum on 25 July. The draft constitution proposes that the government be answerable to the president and not the parliament; however, the parliament can withdraw support to the government with a two-thirds majority. The president will also have the power to present draft laws, be the sole power to propose treaties, draft state budgets, appoint or remove ministers and judges. The president can also extend the two-term tenure if the president felt an unavoidable threat to the country. Various other measures increasing the president’s powers are also listed in the draft. (Tarek Amara and Angus Mcdowall, “Tunisian president takes most powers in proposed constitution,” Reuters, 30 June 2022)
Nigeria: 20 people found dead along border with Libya
On 30 June, Niger’s defence ministry said 10 migrants were found dead in the Niger state, along the border with Libya. The bodies were found summarily buried in Dirkou city and an investigation has been launched. The news report explains that Dirkou is a common route for smugglers carrying migrants weapons, and drugs to Libya and later, Egypt. On 29 June, 20 people who died of thirst were found in Libya along the border with Chad. (“Ten people found dead in Niger near Libya border,” News24, 30 June 2022)
Nigeria: Chinese nationals kidnapped in gunmen attack
On 29 June, at least four police officials, two local vigilante members, and a few soldiers were killed and four Chinese nationals were abducted in an attack by gunmen in Niger State. No group has claimed the attack. The development comes amid an increased number of attacks against Chinese nationals in African countries. In Nigeria, many Chinese nationals are engaged in mining, agricultural and construction sectors. (Ishaq Khalid, “Chinese miners kidnapped in deadly Nigerian raid,” BBC, 30 June 2022)
South Sudan: Elections in 2021 doubtful, says UN official
On 30 June, the UN peacekeeping Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) said prospects for holding elections in the country in 2023 look bleak. The UNMISS head said political parties had conveyed that conditions are unfavourable to hold free and fair elections. The UNMISS said elections can be held if there is a good will and a serious intent. South Sudan, which became an independent country in 2011, has never held elections. (Nichola Mandil, “South Sudan elections in 2023 looking doubtful - UN,” BBC, 30 June 2022)