Category: MIL-OSI

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Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) Chairperson directed to appear before committee

Source: APO


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The Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) has directed the Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), Mariam Wangadya to appear before on Friday, 24 July 2026 after failing to attend a meeting examining the commission’s Auditor General’s report. 

The committee members uncovered what they described as a breakdown in the institution’s leadership.

During the meeting chaired by Hon. Muwada Nkunyingi on Wednesday, 22 July 2026, officials from UHRC admitted that they not held a formal commission meeting since March 2026 despite the law requiring the body to oversee the institution’s work.

Nkunyingi questioned the acting Secretary and Accounting Officer, Kamadi Byonabye over governance and accountability at the commission, noting that although he assumed office after the retirement of the former accounting officer, Margaret Lucy Ejang, he remained responsible for accounting for public funds under Article 164 of the Constitution.

Kamadi revealed that he had personally informed Wangadya about the committee invitation and that she had indicated the Auditor General’s report concerned technical matters.

Nkunyingi warned that should she fail to attend the meeting; Parliament would invoke lawful measures including summons or warrants to compel her to attend.

“We are giving her and the commission a second chance; the matters to handle are very, very concerning,” he said.

Commissioner Simeo Nsubuga confirmed that the commissioners last met in March and acknowledged that no subsequent commission meetings had been convened.

“We are supposed to have a monthly commission meeting. The commission meeting is the top management decision-making body of the commission,” Nsubuga said before admitting that he had never formally written to remind the chairperson or fellow commissioners to convene another meeting.

The revelations prompted concern from committee members with Martin Muzaale (NRM, Buzaaya County) questioning how the commission had continued executing its constitutional mandate, including submitting reports to Parliament without meeting as a governing body.

Elgon North County Member of Parliament, Hon. Gerald Nangoli said the commission appeared dysfunctional, arguing that months without meetings meant Ugandans could no longer be certain the institution was operating effectively.

The committee also heard that the Commission’s tribunal system has effectively stalled because, under the Uganda Human Rights Act and the commission’s rules, only the chairperson can preside over tribunal proceedings.

Commissioner Shifrah Lukwago explained that without the chairperson, complaints requiring tribunal hearings cannot proceed.

The committee also examined delays in hearing human rights complaints.

The Director of Complaints, Investigations and Legal Services at UHRC, Pauline Nansamba disclosed that the commission last held tribunal sessions in December 2025 after exhausting the budget allocated for hearings.

Wangadya submitted a notice of resignation to President Yoweri Museveni on 06 July 2026.

However, the Attorney General has advised that her resignation will only take effect upon formal acceptance by the appointing authority, meaning she remains the substantive Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

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Niger: 3 Years of Military Rule Deepens Human Rights Crisis

Source: APO


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Niger’s military junta has entrenched authoritarian rule, dismantled democratic institutions, and intensified repression since seizing power three years ago, Human Rights Watch said today.

On July 26, 2023, Gen. Abdourahamane Tiani and other Nigerien army officers overthrew the elected government of President Mohamed Bazoum. Since then, the junta has consolidated sweeping and unchecked powers, systematically weakening institutions capable of holding the military authorities to account. In the past year, the military authorities have dissolved all political parties and several independent unions, suspended dozens of civil society groups, detained journalists under a broad cybercrime law, stripped political opponents of their nationality, criminalized consensual same-sex relations, announced Niger’s withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC), and prolonged the country’s political transition without any roadmap toward democratic elections.

“Three years after the coup, Niger’s junta has broadened its assault on human rights,” said Ilaria Allegrozzi, senior Sahel researcher at Human Rights Watch. “The military leaders have expanded their own authority while closing civic space and shutting off pathways to justice for victims.”

The junta continues to arbitrarily detain former President Bazoum, his wife, the former Interior Minister Hama Amadou Souley, and Moussa Tiangari, a prominent human rights defender. The United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, in opinions issued in February 2025 and May 2026, found that the detentions of both Bazoum and Tiangari were arbitrary, in violation of international human rights law, and called on authorities to release them.

In March, the junta adopted a new criminal procedure code setting pretrial detention in terrorism cases at 12 months, renewable once. As Tiangari has been detained since December 2024 on terrorism-related charges, his lawyers filed an application for his release with the court of appeal on June 19. Although the law requires the court to rule within three days, no decision was issued. A week later, the authorities amended the law, extending the maximum pretrial detention period to four years, renewable once.

“The coincidence is too serious to be ignored,” Hamid Amadou N’gadé, former communication adviser to President Bazoum, said on social media. “A justice system worthy of the name doesn’t change the rules to keep a citizen in prison.” Tiangari’s lawyers contend that the revised provision cannot be applied retroactively to justify his continued detention.

The military authorities have also taken a series of actions that restrict media freedom and civic space. They have targeted journalists for reporting on or sharing matters of public interest under sweeping cybercrime legislation. In October 2025, police in Niamey, the capital, arrested the journalists Moussa Kaka, Abdoul Aziz Idé, Ibro Chaibou, Souleymane Brah, Youssouf Seriba, and Oumarou Kané after they shared on social media an invitation to a media briefing about a solidarity fund to raise money for the state security forces. The authorities charged them with “complicity in distributing documents likely to disturb public order” under the cybercrime law. In November, a court released Kaka, Idé, and Brah on bail, and retained Chaibou, Seriba, and Kané in custody, ordering their transfer to Kollo prison, outside Niamey. Seriba and Kané were released on July 15, while Chaibou remains in detention. The cybercrime law, which the junta amended in 2024, reintroduced prison sentences and fines for broadly defined public order offenses.

The African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, both of which Niger ratified in 1986, guarantee the rights to freedom of opinion and expression.

The authorities have also sought to suppress criticism beyond Niger’s borders. Since late 2024, the authorities temporarily stripped at least 18 exiled opposition figures of their Nigerien citizenship based on a 2024 order that created a national database of people suspected of terrorism. In June 2026, the authorities revoked the Nigerien citizenship of Mariama Djibrine, president of a coalition of Nigerien, Malian, and Burkinabè diaspora opposition groups advocating for a return to constitutional rule in the three Sahel countries. That month, the foreign affairs minister instructed Nigerien diplomatic missions to monitor online criticism of the military authorities, signaling an effort to discourage the diaspora from discussing the country’s human rights situation.

In March, Niger adopted a new penal code that punishes consensual same-sex relations and broadly defined Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) practices with 5 to 10 years in prison and heavy fines. Same-sex marriage is also punishable by 10 to 20 years in prison, and the same penalties apply to people who facilitate, support, finance, organize, or participate in organizations and events for LGBT people.

International media reported that in June, security forces detained at least 16 people, including senior police officers, under the revised legislation. In Niger, where LGBT people already face stigma and discrimination, the criminalization of same-sex conduct is already having consequences far beyond the courtroom. Several community health workers told Human Rights Watch they have suspended outreach and support activities for men who have sex with men due to fears of harassment or abuse. The junta’s criminalization of consensual same-sex conduct contravenes its obligations under regional and international human rights law.

The security situation in the country has continued to deteriorate. Islamist armed groups linked to Al Qaeda and the Islamic State have repeatedly carried out deadly attacks against civilians in the western Tillabéri region. Niger’s security forces have responded with abusive counterinsurgency operations. In January, a Nigerien military drone strike killed at least 17 civilians at a crowded market in western Niger in violation of laws-of-war prohibitions against indiscriminate attacks.

Niger’s withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States in 2025, coupled with the withdrawal from the ICC in June, reflects a broader effort by the junta to restrict avenues for regional and international accountability.

International engagement with Niger’s military authorities has often come at the expense of human rights. Some governments including the United States, Russia, Türkiye, and Italy have prioritized security cooperation without conditioning assistance on adequate human rights benchmarks, despite the junta’s worsening abuses.

The UN has not consistently denounced human rights violations by Niger’s military authorities. As the UN reviews its approach to the Sahel region, including through the assessment commissioned by Secretary-General António Guterres of the UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), UN member states should ensure that accountability and protecting human rights are central pillars of any future UNOWAS engagement with Niger, Human Rights Watch said.

“Niger’s international partners need to reengage to address the junta’s escalating repression in the pursuit of security,” Allegrozzi said. “They should press the authorities to respect fundamental rights, release those arbitrarily detained, stop targeting political opponents and critics, and set out a credible path to civilian rule.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Human Rights Watch (HRW).

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Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC): Over 180 children dead in Ebola outbreak as thousands need mental health support

Source: APO


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At least 189 children have now died in the latest Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) with thousands more living with fear and trauma and in need of mental health support after witnessing loss in their communities, Save the Children said.

More than 4,000 children in Ituri, the epicentre of the outbreak, are receiving mental health and psychosocial support from Save the Children, which has set up safe  spaces where children struggling with grief and anxiety can play, relax and start to recover.

Save the Children staff in Ituri said the disease has changed how some children are interacting with each other and with adults, with many now avoiding close contact and keeping their distance from others.

The outbreak has taken a devastating toll on children since it was declared on 15 May. Some 476 children are confirmed to have contracted the disease with more than 189 children dying, accounting for over 20% of confirmed deaths [1], according to the latest DRC Ministry of Health data. 

Save the Children staff said many children were living in fear after witnessing illness and death in their communities. Others are expected to require temporary care outside their families after being separated from their parents or caregivers due to caregiver illness, abandonment, isolation or death.

Anxiety among children and families is widespread, with many worried about whether children will be able to return to school when they reopen in September as new cases Ebola continue to emerge. 

For children already displaced by conflict in DRC, the outbreak has created a second crisis, leaving many feeling fearful, anxious and hopeless.

Save the Children is operating over 18 permanent and mobile Child Friendly Spaces in Ituri, where more than 4,000 children attend newly established safe spaces to take part in activities such as storytelling, educational songs, reading and writing, drawing, clay modelling and relaxation exercises.

Through games, art and guided discussions, children are supported to process difficult experiences, build resilience and reconnect with their peers. Due to the Ebola outbreak, activities have been adapted to ensure they can be implemented safely, with appropriate infection prevention and control measures, including enhanced hygiene and physical distancing protocols.

Dr Babou Rukengeza, Save the Children’s Ebola Response Lead in the DRC, said:  

“Children in Ituri are carrying an enormous emotional burden. Many have witnessed violence, lost loved ones because of the Ebola outbreak or lived through repeated displacement. Child Friendly Spaces give them a safe environment where they can express themselves, rebuild confidence and simply be children again. 

“Children demonstrate a natural ability to successfully cope with distress, depending on their age, developmental stage, disability status and access to basic and survival needs. Yet, receiving adequate social-emotional and responsive care from a constant caregiver is key to avoiding immediate and detrimental effects on children and adolescent’s development, wellbeing and mental health.”

Save the Children said the effects of prolonged stress and distress during childhood can extend far beyond the immediate crisis. Without adequate support, repeated exposure to adversity can have lasting consequences for children’s cognitive development, emotional wellbeing and long-term physical and mental health.

As the outbreak continues, Save the Children is calling on the international community to increase funding for child protection and mental health and psychosocial support services as needs continue to outpace available resources in eastern DRC. 

In the DRC since 1994, Save the Children partners with 13 local organisations, as well as international agencies and government authorities, to deliver life-saving support in health, nutrition, education, child protection, food security, water, sanitation, and hygiene for children and their families.

[1] According to data from the DRC Ministry of Health released July 18 – SitRep N°065/MVB_18/07/2026 – National Institute of Public Health

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Save the Children.

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Qatar Welcomes Netherlands, Belgium Bans on Israeli Settlement Imports

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, July 22, 2026

The State of Qatar welcomes the bans by the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Kingdom of Belgium on Israeli settlement products.

It considers the move a crucial step that supports efforts aimed at deterring the occupation’s settlement policies, which flagrantly violate the resolutions of international legitimacy, particularly Security Council Resolution 2334, and represent an egregious encroachment upon the rights of the Palestinian people.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses the State of Qatar’s hope that more countries will take similar steps in this context and stresses the importance of the international community undertaking its legal and moral responsibilities to compel Israel to halt its settlement policies in the occupied Palestinian territories.

The ministry reiterates the State of Qatar’s iron-clad and enduring position in support of the Palestinian cause and the brotherly Palestinian people, based on the resolutions of international legitimacy and the two-state solution to ensure the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

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Côte d’Ivoire : la Banque africaine de développement accorde un financement de 200 millions d’euros pour renforcer la production de carburants à faible teneur en soufre

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le Conseil d’administration du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org) a approuvé, le 13 juillet 2026 à Abidjan, un prêt d’un montant de 200 millions d’euros destiné au financement du projet « Clean Air » porté par la Société ivoirienne de raffinage (SIR).

Le projet comprend la conception, la construction et la mise en service d’un complexe d’hydrodésulfuration du gazole au sein de la SIR. Cette infrastructure stratégique permettra de renforcer les capacités de la raffinerie en matière de traitement des produits pétroliers et de produire un gazole à très faible teneur en soufre.

La Société ivoirienne de raffinage renforcera ainsi ses capacités de production de carburants répondant aux standards internationaux tout en améliorant la qualité de l’air et la transition vers des produits pétroliers plus respectueux de l’environnement dans la région. Créé en 1962, la SIR assure le raffinage du pétrole brut et la distribution de produits pétroliers en Coté d’Ivoire et dans le reste du monde, selon son site internet.

D’un coût total estimé à 833 millions d’euros, le projet sera financé par un consortium d’institutions financières de développement et de partenaires financiers. En tant qu’arrangeur chef de file mandaté, la Banque africaine de développement jouera un rôle central dans la structuration du financement et la mobilisation de ressources complémentaires pour cette opération stratégique. La mise en service de ce nouveau complexe HDS est prévue en 2029.

« En permettant à la Côte d’Ivoire de produire des carburants à très faible teneur en soufre, le projet Clean Air associe modernisation industrielle et action climatique tout en améliorant la santé publique dans toute l’Afrique de l’Ouest, » a déclaré Kevin Kariuki, vice-président du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement chargé de l’Électricité, de l’Énergie, du Climat et de la Croissance verte. « La Banque africaine de développement est fière d’accompagner cette transformation, qui contribuera à rendre les villes plus propres, à améliorer l’efficacité des moteurs des véhicules et à préserver la compétitivité de l’industrie ivoirienne des carburants. »

De surcroît, le projet renforcera la sécurité énergétique de la Côte d’Ivoire et de plusieurs pays voisins enclavés, notamment le Mali et le Burkina Faso, qui s’approvisionnent en partie auprès de la SIR en produits pétroliers raffinés. Il contribuera à préserver la compétitivité de l’une des plus importantes raffineries opérationnelles d’Afrique de l’Ouest dans un contexte de durcissement des exigences environnementales régionales et internationales.

La construction du complexe devrait mobiliser quelque 1 140 emplois sur le chantier. Après sa mise en service, 82 postes permanents seront nécessaires pour son exploitation tandis qu’environ 900 emplois existants au sein de la SIR seront maintenus. Il est également prévu la mise en œuvre d’un programme de développement des compétences destiné à une cinquantaine d’employés afin de soutenir l’exploitation de technologies plus performantes et plus respectueuses de l’environnement.

Le projet Clean Air s’inscrit dans la Stratégie décennale 2024-2033 du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement et contribue à la réalisation de ses Quatre Points cardinaux, notamment pour mobiliser des capitaux à grande échelle et bâtir des infrastructures résilientes face au changement climatique en promouvant les efforts d’industrialisation.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact médias :
Natalie Nkembuh
Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement
Département de la communication et des relations extérieures
media@afdb.org

À propos du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement :
Le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (BAD) est la première institution multilatérale de financement dédiée au développement de l’Afrique. Elle comprend trois entités distinctes : la Banque africaine de développement (BAD), le Fonds africain de développement (FAD) et le Fonds spécial du Nigeria (FSN). La BAD est présente sur le terrain dans 44 pays africains, avec un bureau extérieur au Japon, et contribue au développement économique et au progrès social de ses 54 Etats membres régionaux.

Pour plus d’information : www.afdb.org/fr 

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Costa do Marfim: Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento concede um financiamento de 200 milhões de euros para reforçar a produção de combustíveis com baixo teor de enxofre

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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O Conselho de Administração do Grupo do Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (www.AfDB.org) aprovou, a 13 de julho de 2026, em Abidjan, um empréstimo no valor de 200 milhões de euros destinado ao financiamento do projeto ‘Clean Air’, liderado pela Sociedade Marfinense de Refinação (SIR).

O projeto inclui a conceção, a construção e a entrada em funcionamento de um complexo de hidrodessulfuração do gasóleo nas instalações da SIR. Esta infraestrutura estratégica permitirá reforçar as capacidades da refinaria no que diz respeito ao tratamento de produtos petrolíferos e produzir gasóleo com teor de enxofre muito baixo.

A Sociedade de Refinação da Costa do Marfim reforçará assim a sua capacidade de produção de combustíveis que cumprem as normas internacionais, melhorando simultaneamente a qualidade do ar e a transição para produtos petrolíferos mais respeitadores do ambiente na região. Fundada em 1962, a SIR assegura a refinação de petróleo bruto e a distribuição de produtos petrolíferos na Costa do Marfim e no resto do mundo.

Com um custo total estimado em 833 milhões de euros, o projeto será financiado por um consórcio de instituições financeiras de desenvolvimento e parceiros financeiros. Na qualidade de coordenador principal mandatado, o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento desempenhará um papel central na estruturação do financiamento e na mobilização de recursos complementares para esta operação estratégica. A entrada em funcionamento deste novo complexo HDS está prevista para 2029.

“Ao permitir que a Costa do Marfim produza combustíveis com muito baixo teor de enxofre, o projeto Clean Air alia a modernização industrial à ação climática, melhorando simultaneamente a saúde pública em toda a África Ocidental”, afirmou o vice-presidente do Grupo do Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento responsável pela Eletricidade, Energia, Clima e Crescimento Verde, Kevin Kariuki. “O Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento orgulha-se de acompanhar esta transformação, que contribuirá para tornar as cidades mais limpas, melhorar a eficiência dos motores dos veículos e preservar a competitividade da indústria de combustíveis da Costa do Marfim”, acrescentou.

Além disso, o projeto reforçará a segurança energética da Costa do Marfim e de vários países vizinhos sem litoral, nomeadamente o Mali e o Burquina Faso, que se abastecem parcialmente junto da SIR de produtos petrolíferos refinados. Contribuirá para preservar a competitividade de uma das mais importantes refinarias em funcionamento da África Ocidental, num contexto de endurecimento das exigências ambientais regionais e internacionais.

A construção do complexo deverá gerar cerca de 1.140 postos de trabalho no estaleiro. Após a sua entrada em funcionamento, serão necessários 82 postos de trabalho permanentes para a sua exploração, enquanto cerca de 900 postos de trabalho existentes na SIR serão mantidos. Está igualmente prevista a implementação de um programa de desenvolvimento de competências destinado a cerca de 50 colaboradores, com o objetivo de apoiar a utilização de tecnologias mais eficientes e mais respeitadoras do ambiente.

O projeto Clean Air insere-se na Estratégia Decenal 2024-2033 do Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento e contribui para a concretização dos seus Quatro Pontos Cardeais, nomeadamente na mobilização de capitais em grande escala e na construção de infraestruturas resilientes face às alterações climáticas, promovendo os esforços de industrialização.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contacto para os media:
Natalie Nkembuh
Departamento de Comunicação e Relações Externas
media@afdb.org

Sobre o Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento:
O Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento é a principal instituição financeira de desenvolvimento em África. Inclui três entidades distintas: o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (AfDB), o Fundo Africano de Desenvolvimento (ADF) e o Fundo Fiduciário da Nigéria (NTF). Presente no terreno em 41 países africanos, com uma representação externa no Japão, o Banco contribui para o desenvolvimento económico e o progresso social dos seus 54 Estados-membros. Mais informações em www.AfDB.org/pt 

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Côte d’Ivoire: The African Development Bank grants €200 million in financing to strengthen production of low-sulfur fuels

Source: APO


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The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) approved, on 13 July, 2026, in Abidjan, a loan of €200 million to finance the “Clean Air” project carried out by the Société Ivoirienne de Raffinage (SIR).

The project includes the design, construction, and commissioning of a diesel hydrodesulfurisation complex within SIR. This strategic infrastructure will strengthen the refinery’s capacity to process petroleum products and produce ultra-low-sulfur diesel.

The Société Ivoirienne de Raffinage will thus be able to produce fuels meeting international standards, while improving air quality and the transition toward more environmentally friendly petroleum products in the region.

Founded in 1962, SIR handles the refining of crude oil, and the distribution of petroleum products in Côte d’Ivoire and other parts of the world, according to its website.

With a total estimated cost of €833 million, the project will be financed by a consortium of development financial institutions and partners. As mandated lead arranger, the African Development Bank will play a central role in structuring the financing and mobilising additional resources for this strategic operation. The commissioning of this new HDS complex is planned for 2029.

“By enabling Côte d’Ivoire to produce ultra-low-sulfur fuels, the Clean Air project combines industrial modernisation and climate action, while improving public health across West Africa,” said Kevin Kariuki, Vice-President of the African Development Bank Group for Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth. “The African Development Bank is proud to support this transformation, which will help make cities cleaner, improve vehicle engine efficiency, and preserve the competitiveness of Côte d’Ivoire’s fuel industry.”

Furthermore, the project will strengthen the energy security of Côte d’Ivoire and several neighboring landlocked countries, notably Mali and Burkina Faso, which partly source refined petroleum products from SIR. It will help preserve the competitiveness of one of the largest working refineries in West Africa, amid tightening regional and international environmental requirements.

The complex is expected to generate some 1,140 jobs on-site during construction. After it becomes operational, 82 additional permanent staff are expected to be hired, while maintaining approximately 900 existing jobs.  A skills development program for around 50 employees is also planned, to support the operation of higher-performing and more environmentally friendly technologies.

The Clean Air project is part of the African Development Bank Group’s Ten-Year Strategy 2024-2033, and contributes towards achieving one of its Four Cardinal Points, notably that of mobiliing capital at scale and building climate-resilient infrastructure, while promoting industrialisation.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media Contact:
Natalie Nkembuh
Communication and External Relations Department
media@afdb.org

About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (African Development Bank Group), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.African Development Bank Group.org 

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Outcome of inquiry into fitness to hold office of Adv Andrew Chauke

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has communicated to Gauteng South Director of Public Prosecutions Adv Andrew Chauke that he has been exonerated by the Nkabinde Panel of Enquiry that probed the Director’s fitness to hold office.

President Ramaphosa established the Enquiry on 29 September 2025 in terms of section 12(6)(a) of the National Prosecuting Authority Act of 1998.

The mandate of the Enquiry was to investigate and determine whether Adv Chauke was fit and proper to continue to hold office in the context of certain serious allegations regarding his fitness and propriety to hold such office.

President Ramaphosa placed Adv Chauke on suspension with effect from 20 July 2025, pending finalised of the Enquiry.

The Panel chaired by Justice Baaitse Elizabeth Nkabinde considered extensive oral evidence, documentary evidence, expert opinions, witness statements and legal submissions.

The Panel has found that there was no credible evidence upon which it could conclude that Adv Chauke had taken prosecutorial decisions as alleged in respect of the Cato Manor matter, or that he had acted unlawfully in the performance of his coordination functions.

The Panel has also found that Adv Chauke’s decision to provisionally withdraw the murder and related charges against former Crime Intelligence head, General Richard Mdluli, and to refer the matter to an inquest was not irrational.

In view of these and other findings that exonerate Adv Chauke, President Ramaphosa is satisfied that there is no basis upon which to conclude that Adv Chauke is unfit to hold office as Director of Public Prosecutions.

The President has thanked Adv Chauke for his cooperation throughout the enquiry process and expressed his trust that the finalisation of this matter will enable Adv Chauke to continue discharging his constitutional and statutory responsibilities with dedication and integrity in service of the National Prosecuting Authority and the nation.

President Ramaphosa has also reiterated his appreciation to Enquiry Chairperson Justice Nkabinde, assisted by Adv Elizabeth Baloyi-Mere SC and Attorney Matshego Ramagaga for the manner in which they undertook their task.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Prof. Frank Stangenberg HaverKamp e a Dra. Rasha Kelej, presidente e CEO da Fundação Merck, reuniram-se com Primeira-Dama do Gabão para reforçar seu compromisso de longo prazo com a saúde e o desenvolvimento social e económico do país

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Fundação Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), o braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha lançou oficialmente os seus programas em parceria com S. Exa. a Sra. Zita Oligui Nguema, Primeira-Dama da República Gabonesa e também Embaixadora da “Fundação Merck Mais do que uma Mãe”. Os programas, que começaram em 2024, têm como objectivo transformar o atendimento ao paciente, desenvolver a capacidade do sistema de saúde, quebrar o estigma da infertilidade, empoderar mulheres e apoiar a educação de meninas no Gabão e no resto da África.

O programa foi presidido pela Primeira-Dama do Gabão, S. Exa. a Sra. Zita Oligui Nguema, pelo Presidente do Conselho de Curadores da Fundação Merck, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, ​​e pela CEO da Fundação Merck, Dra. Rasha Kelej. O evento aconteceu no Palácio Presidencial, no Gabão.

A Senadora Dra. Rasha Kelej (aposentada), CEO da Fundação Merck e Presidente da campanha “Mais do que uma Mãe”, enfatizou: “É uma grande honra manter encontro com a minha querida irmã, S.E. a Sra. Zita Oligui Nguema, Primeira-Dama do Gabão. Declaramos oficialmente a sua nomeação como Embaixadora da campanha Fundação Merck ‘Mais do que uma Mãe’. Também lançamos formalmente os programas da Fundação Merck no país e reforçamos o nosso compromisso com o desenvolvimento da capacidade dos sectores da saúde e mídia, a transformação do cenário de atendimento ao paciente, o combate ao estigma da infertilidade e o apoio à educação de meninas, em conjunto no país.”

O Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp acrescentou: “O nosso objectivo é melhorar a saúde e o bem-estar geral das pessoas, desenvolvendo a capacidade dos serviços de saúde em África, Ásia e outros países em desenvolvimento. Estamos fortemente comprometidos com a transformação do cenário de atendimento ao paciente através do nosso programa de bolsas de estudo.”

S.E. A Sra. Zita Oligui Nguema, Primeira-Dama da República Gabonesa e Embaixadora da “Fundação Merck Mais do que uma Mãe”, declarou: “É um prazer receber e manter encontro com Presidente e a CEO da Fundação Merck no nosso país. Juntos, lançamos oficialmente os nossos programas conjuntos e também celebramos marcos importantes do grande sucesso dos nossos programas conjuntos para desenvolver a capacidade da área da saúde, transformar o atendimento ao paciente, quebrar o estigma da infertilidade e apoiar a educação de meninas. Esta é a primeira vez que trabalhamos em programas de tão grande impacto; estamos a fazer história. Conquistamos muito num curto período de tempo, através da nossa parceria de longo prazo, que começou em 2024.

Tenho muito orgulho de partilhar que, através da nossa parceria, concedemos 16 bolsas de estudo para os nossos profissionais de saúde locais, que serão os futuros especialistas em saúde do Gabão, que já se formaram, estão a formar-se ou iniciarão em breve as bolsas de estudo da Fundação Merck para treinamento em especialidades críticas e carentes, como Fertilidade, Embriologia, Oncologia, Diabetes e Hipertensão.”

“Também tenho muita satisfação em partilhar que, juntamente com a Primeira-Dama do Gabão, estamos a apoiar a educação de meninas, oferecendo bolsas de estudo anuais para 40 alunas de alto desempenho, porém carentes, até a formatura, para que possam alcançar o seu potencial e realizar os seus sonhos”, acrescentou a Dra. Rasha Kelej.

A Fundação Merck concedeu mais de 2.600 bolsas de estudo para profissionais de saúde de 52 países em 44 especialidades médicas críticas e carentes.

Do total de 16 bolsas de estudo concedidas no Gabão, a Fundação Merck ofereceu:

  • 4 bolsas de estudo para Fertilidade e Embriologia. Essas bolsas consistiram em treinamentos práticos na Índia. O primeiro embriologista do país foi formado através do programa.
  • 4 bolsas de estudo para Diabetes e Hipertensão, incluindo um curso de mestrado especial de 3 meses em Diabetes em francês e uma especialização clínica em Diabetes e Hipertensão. Ao concluírem o treinamento, esses especialistas terão conhecimento necessário para estabelecer clínicas dedicadas em hospitais e centros de saúde, aprimorando significativamente a prevenção e o controlo de diabetes, hipertensão e doenças cardíacas, trazendo imensos benefícios para a população do Gabão.
  • 8 Bolsas de Estudo para Enfermagem Oncológica, área crucial para o tratamento do câncer.

Durante o programa de lançamento, as beneficiárias do programa Educar Linda também estiveram presentes, e algumas delas compartilharam testemunhos inspiradores sobre como as bolsas de estudo transformaram as suas vidas.

“Eu realmente acredito que, quando as meninas são formadas, os seus países tornam-se mais poderosos, fortes e prósperos”, acrescentou a Senadora Kelej.

A Fundação Merck, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama do Gabão, lançou sete livros infantis: “Mais do que uma Mãe”, “Educar Linda”, “Resgate da Jaqueline”, “Você Não É Quem É”, “Viagem ao Futuro”, “Jude Livre de Açúcar” e “Pressão de Mark”. Esses livros abordam questões sociais e de saúde cruciais para crianças pequenas. Alguns exemplares dos livros foram autografados pela Primeira-Dama do Gabão, pelo Presidente e CEO da Fundação Merck. Milhares de exemplares desses livros serão distribuídos para alunos de escolas.

Além disso, a Fundação Merck realizou duas edições do seu Treinamento Online de Mídia em Saúde para jornalistas gaboneses, a fim de capacitá-los a conscientizar sobre questões sensíveis, como quebrar o estigma da infertilidade, apoiar a educação de meninas, combater a violência do género, acabar com o casamento infantil e a mutilação genital feminina, e conscientizar sobre a prevenção e detecção precoce da diabetes e da hipertensão.

A Fundação Merck, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama do Gabão, também anunciou a Chamada para Candidaturas para os seus 8 importantes Prémios anuais de Jornalismo, Canção, de Moda, Cinema, para estudantes e novos talentos com potencial nessas áreas.

Informações sobre os Prémios:

1. Prémio de Jornalismo África Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2026: Representantes da mídia e estudantes de comunicação são convidados a apresentar seus trabalhos para conscientizar sobre uma ou mais das seguintes questões sociais: Combater o estigma da infertilidade, apoiar a educação de meninas, empoderar mulheres, acabar com o casamento infantil, acabar com a mutilação genital feminina e/ou erradicar a violência de gênero em todos os níveis.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de setembro de 2026.

2. Prémio do Cinema Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2026:  Todos os cineastas africanos, estudantes de instituições de formação cinematográfica ou jovens talentos da África estão convidados a criar e compartilhar um filme ou curta-metragem, seja drama, documentário ou docudrama, que transmitam mensagens fortes e impactantes que abordem uma ou mais das seguintes questões sociais: quebrar o estigma da infertilidade, apoiar a educação de meninas, empoderar mulheres, acabar com o casamento infantil, acabar com a mutilação genital feminina e/ou combater a violência do género em todos os níveis.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de setembro de 2026.

3. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2026: Todos os estudantes e estilistas de moda africanos estão convidados a criar e compartilhar designs que transmitam mensagens fortes e impactantes para conscientizar sobre uma ou mais das seguintes questões sociais: Quebrar o estigma da infertilidade, apoiar a educação de meninas, empoderamento feminino, acabar com o casamento infantil, acabar com a mutilação genital feminina e/ou combater a violência de gênero em todos os níveis.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de setembro de 2026.

4. Merck Foundation Song “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2026: Todos os cantores e artistas musicais africanos estão convidados a criar e compartilhar uma MÚSICA com o objectivo de abordar uma ou mais das seguintes questões sociais: Quebrar o estigma da infertilidade, apoiar a educação de meninas, empoderar mulheres, acabar com o casamento infantil, acabar com a mutilação genital feminina e/ou acabar com a violência do género em todos os níveis.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de setembro de 2026.

5. Prémio de Jornalismo Fundação Merck 2026 “Diabetes & Hipertensão”: Os representantes da mídia são convidados a apresentar o seu trabalho través de mensagens fortes e impactantes para promover um estilo de vida saudável e aumentar a conscientização sobre a prevenção e a detecção precoce da diabetes e da hipertensão.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de outubro de 2026.

6. Prémio do Cinema Fundação Merck 2026 “Diabetes & Hipertensão”: Todos os cineastas africanos, estudantes de instituições de formação cinematográfica ou jovens talentos da África estão convidados a criar e compartilhar um filme ou curta-metragem, seja drama, documentário ou docudrama, que transmitam mensagens fortes e impactantes que promovam um estilo de vida saudável e aumentem a conscientização sobre a prevenção e a detecção precoce de diabetes e hipertensão.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de outubro de 2026.

7. Prémio de Moda Fundação Merck 2026 “Diabetes & Hipertensão”: Todos os estudantes e designers de moda africanos estão convidados a criar e compartilhar designs que transmitam mensagens fortes e impactantes para promover um estilo de vida saudável e aumentar a conscientização sobre a prevenção e a detecção precoce da diabetes e da hipertensão.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de outubro de 2026.

8. Prémio da Canção Fundação Merck 2026 “Diabetes & Hipertensão”: Todos os cantores e artistas musicais africanos estão convidados a criar e compartilhar uma música com o objectivo de promover um estilo de vida saudável e aumentar a conscientização sobre a prevenção e a detecção precoce da diabetes e da hipertensão.

Prazo para submissão: 30 de outubro de 2026.

Inscreva-se aqui: https://merck-foundation.com/Awards-Online-Application-Form (https://apo-opa.co/4wZX75l)

As inscrições para todos os prêmios devem ser enviadas por e-mail para: submit@merck-foundation.com

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Merck Foundation.

Contato:
Mehak Handa
Gerente do Programa de Conscientização Comunitária
Telefone: +91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

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Sobre Fundação Merck:
A Fundação Merck, criada em 2017, é o braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha e tem como objectivo melhorar a saúde e o bem-estar das pessoas e melhorar as suas vidas através da ciência e da tecnologia. Os nossos esforços estão focados principalmente em melhorar o acesso a soluções de saúde de qualidade e equitativas em comunidades carenciadas, desenvolver a capacidade de saúde e investigação científica, empoderar raparigas na educação e pessoas em STEM (Ciência, Tecnologia, Engenharia e Matemática), com um foco especial nas mulheres e nos jovens. Todos os comunicados de imprensa da Fundação Merck são distribuídos por e-mail ao mesmo tempo que são disponibilizados no site da Fundação Merck. Por favor, visite www.Merck-Foundation.com (https://apo-opa.co/4vHwG30) para ler mais. Siga a mídia social da Fundação Merck: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4wWPSuW), X (https://apo-opa.co/4wXQkZP), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/44Iimwo), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4wXmvbL), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/452aK8d) e Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4wUE10f).

A Fundação Merck dedica-se a melhorar os resultados sociais e de saúde para as comunidades carenciadas. Embora colabore com vários parceiros, incluindo governos, para atingir os seus objectivos humanitários, a fundação mantém-se estritamente neutra em questões políticas. Não se envolve nem apoia qualquer actividade política, eleição ou regime, concentrando-se exclusivamente na sua missão de elevar a humanidade e melhorar o bem-estar, mantendo uma postura estritamente apolítica em todos os seus esforços.

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Prof. Frank Stangenberg HaverKamp and Dr. Rasha Kelej, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Merck Foundation meet Gabon First Lady to underscore their long-term commitment to health, social and economic development of Gabon

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany officially launched their programs in partnership with H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, The First Lady of Gabonese Republic, also the Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, the programs which started in 2024 with the aim to transform patient care, build healthcare capacity, break the stigma of infertility, empower women, support girl education in Gabon and the rest of Africa.

The program was chaired by The First Lady of Gabon, H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, and CEO of Merck Foundation, Dr. Rasha Kelej. The program took place at the State House, Gabon.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign emphasized, “It is a great honor to meet my dear sister, H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, The First Lady of Gabon. We officially declared her as the Ambassador of the ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother’ campaign. We also formally launched the Merck Foundation programs in the country and underscored our commitment towards building healthcare and media capacity, patient care landscape transformation, breaking infertility stigma and supporting girl education, together in the country.”

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp added, “Our aim is to improve the overall health and wellbeing of people by building healthcare capacity across Africa, Asia and other developing countries. We are strongly committed to transforming patientcare landscape through our scholarships program.”

H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, The First Lady of Gabonese Republic & Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” expressed, “It is a pleasure to welcome and meet Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO to our country. Together we officially launched our joint programs and also celebrated important milestones of the great success of our joint programs to build healthcare capacity, transform patientcare, break infertility stigma and support girl education. This is the first time that we are working on such impactful programs, it is history in the making. We have achieved a lot in a very short span of time, through our long-term partnership, which started in 2024.

I am very proud to share that through our partnership, we have provided 16 scholarships for our local healthcare providers who will be the future healthcare experts of Gabon, who have either graduated, undergoing or will be starting soon the Merck Foundation scholarships of training in critical and underserved specialties such as Fertility, Embryology, Oncology, Diabetes and Hypertension.”

“I am also very happy to share that together with The First Lady of Gabon, we are also supporting girl education by providing annual scholarships to support the education of 40 high-performing yet underprivileged schoolgirls, till they graduate, so that they can reach their potentials and achieve their dreams”, Dr. Rasha Kelej added.

Merck Foundation has provided more than 2600 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.

Out of the total 16 scholarships provided in Gabon, Merck Foundation has provided:

  • 4 scholarships for Fertility and Embryology. These were hands on practical trainings in India. The first ever embryologist of the country has been trained through the program.
  • 4 scholarships for Diabetes & Hypertension, including a special 3 months Diabetes Mastercourse in French language and Clinical Fellowship in Diabetes and Hypertension. Upon completion of the training, these specialists will have the expertise to establish dedicated clinics in hospitals and health centers, significantly enhancing the prevention and man0agement of diabetes, hypertension, and heart diseases, bringing immense benefits to the people of Gabon.
  • 8 Scholarships for Oncology Nursing, which is very critical for cancer care.

During the launch program, the beneficiaries of the Educating Linda program were also present, where a few of them shared inspiring testimonies on how the scholarships have changed their lives.

“I really believe that when the girls are educated, their countries become more powerful, stronger & prosperous”, added Senator Kelej.  

Merck Foundation in partnership with The First Lady of Gabon has launched seven children’s storybooks, “More Than a Mother”, ‘Educating Linda”, “Jackline’s Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future”, “Sugar free Jude” and “Mark’s Pressure”. These books address critical social and health issues to young children. Few copies of the storybooks were signed by The First Lady of Gabon, Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO. Thousands of copies of these storybooks will be distributed to schoolchildren.

Moreover, Merck Foundation has conducted two editions of their Online Health Media Training for the Gabonese journalists in order to empower them to raise awareness about sensitive issues like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, stopping GBV, ending Child marriage and FGM and raise awareness about diabetes and hypertension prevention and early detection.

Merck Foundation in partnership with The First Lady of Gabon has also announced the Call for Application for their 8 important annual Awards for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.

Details of the Awards:

1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

2. Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026:  All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

3. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

4. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

5. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

6. Merck Foundation Film Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

7. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

8. Merck Foundation Song Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

Apply here: https://merck-foundation.com/Awards-Online-Application-Form (https://apo-opa.co/4wZX75l)

Entries for all the awards are to be submitted via email to: submit@merck-foundation.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager 
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

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About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.merck-foundation.com (https://apo-opa.co/4vHwG30) to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4wWPSuW), X (https://apo-opa.co/45gb42X), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/44Iimwo), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4wXmvbL), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4vC4LS5) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4wUE10f).

The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.

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