Politics News: Key Events, Leaders, and Power Shifts Across Africa and Beyond

Africa Check debunks a viral video falsely showing ODM Deputy Governor Susan Kihika slapping Deputy President Ruto's aide, revealing the clip dates back to a 2022 parliamentary session.

SASSA will add R10 to old-age, disability and war‑veteran grants in October 2025, while a July rollout of a new verification system promises tighter fraud controls.

The FTC is digging into whether Media Matters and other groups worked together to push advertisers away from Elon Musk’s platform X, demanding records on alleged boycott strategies. The investigation heats up an already tense legal fight over claims that corporate ads ran next to hateful content on X.

Tulsi Gabbard's nomination as national intelligence director by President Trump has rekindled discussions regarding her ties with Chris Butler, an accused cult leader. The Science of Identity Foundation, linked to Gabbard, faces allegations of employing homophobic and misogynistic tactics. Her past political affiliations with controversial global leaders intensify scrutiny and public backlash.

President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Susie Wiles, a veteran political strategist and his co-campaign manager, as the first woman to become White House chief of staff. Recognized for her adept political skills, Wiles will transition from her behind-the-scenes role to a decisive leadership position, as Trump's chief adviser and counselor. Her extensive experience spans working with established political figures and contributing to high-profile campaigns.

Sue Gray, recently appointed as the Prime Minister's regional envoy, will not participate in an upcoming council of nations and regions meeting, following her resignation as chief of staff from Number 10 amid internal disputes. Although her new responsibilities remain to be announced, Gray's absence highlights recent tensions in her transition, as she takes a break from the public eye.

In a heated presidential debate, Vice-President Kamala Harris sharply criticized Donald Trump for his refusal to accept the 2020 election results and alleged his role in the January 6 Capitol attack. Trump defended his stance, accusing the Biden administration of poor immigration policies. The debate, organized by ABC News, saw both candidates fiercely defending their positions on key national issues.

Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun has been recommended as the next Chief Justice of Nigeria, following the impending retirement of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola. This historic appointment will make her the second female to hold the position, promising a progressive shift in Nigeria's judicial leadership.

Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister of Bangladesh, resigns after 15 years in power due to intense protests over government employment quotas. The protests escalated into violent clashes with police, resulting in over 200 deaths and thousands of injuries. Despite a Supreme Court ruling reducing the veterans' quota, demonstrators continued demanding Hasina's resignation.

Amber Rose, renowned for her diverse roles in reality TV, music, and business, made headlines by endorsing Donald Trump at the RNC. She underscored the necessity of electing Trump for the well-being of multiracial families. Her speech marked a notable shift from her previous criticisms of Trump, indicating a significant political transformation.

A shooting at Donald Trump's campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, has drawn condemnation from Texas political leaders. The incident, which led to Trump's evacuation by the Secret Service, sparked concerns about violence at political events. Thankfully, Trump was unharmed and assessed at a local medical facility. Investigations are ongoing, and both Republicans and Democrats have denounced the violence.

Political leaders from Texas, regardless of affiliation, are condemning a shocking shooting that disrupted a Donald Trump rally in Pennsylvania. After loud bangs rang out, sparking chaos and panic, Trump was quickly whisked away by Secret Service agents. This alarming incident has led to a strong wave of support from Texas politicians and a nation on edge.