With the two parties evenly matched in parliament, the opposition NDC tries for some tactical victories against the government, Eyeing tougher economic conditions, corruption allegations and growing concerns about regional security, the opposition National Democratic Congress reckons it should be able to wrongfoot President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo s government this year.
Embattled by the insurgency in the north and the hidden loans scandal, President Nyusi faces a bruising year, Another troubled year is in store for President Filipe Nyusi as his unpopularity in the ruling Frente de Libertação de Moçambique (Frelimo) grows due to his deep involvement in the US$2 billion hidden loans debacle (AC Vol 62 No 18) and his failure to resolve the security crisis in the north.
Government is on hold as a presidential race reliant on personalities and corralling regional blocs takes centre stage, Big challenges to President Uhuru Kenyatta s government are looming this year on the economic management front and on regional security. But barring a phenomenal new crisis, the political scene will be consumed by the presidential elections due in August which pit erstwhile opposition leader turned establishment man, Raila Odinga of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and Deputy President William Ruto of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Diplomatic spats with erstwhile European allies and rumblings in Western Sahara are unsettling the Makhzen, As they survey the country from the Makhzen (establishment), King Mohammed VI (M6) and his advisors view the new year with some foreboding. The reasons aren t obvious.
Chinese mining deals will help the junta fight off international pressure to hold elections, and withstand sanctions, On 27 December, prime minister Mohamed Béavogui presented his government s roadmap back to civilian rule to Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, who has ruled Guinea since a coup last September. The document – put together by a largely civilian and technocrat government, serving under the military – sets out plans for righting the wrongs of the past, including creating an independent judiciary, achieving national reconciliation and revising voters lists.