Alexey Navalny, the Russian opposition leader who died in February while serving a 19-year prison sentence, anticipated his demise long before it occurred, according to his posthumous memoir, Patriot, set for release on October 22. Excerpts from the book, published by The New Yorker, reveal a profound sense of foreboding and resignation in Navalny’s prison writings, where he grapples with the likelihood of spending his final years behind bars.

“I will spend the rest of my life in prison and die here,” Navalny wrote in his prison diary on March 22, 2022. He expressed the painful reality of isolation, lamenting that he would miss life’s most cherished moments—anniversaries, family gatherings, and the chance to meet his grandchildren. Navalny’s words reflect not only his personal sorrow but also his unflinching resolve in the face of a regime that he openly defied until the very end.

Navalny, a key political adversary of Russian President Vladimir Putin, was arrested in January 2021 upon his return to Russia after surviving a poisoning attempt in 2020—an attack many attribute to the Kremlin. He was subsequently convicted on “extremism” charges and sent to a penal colony in the Arctic. His death on February 16, 2024, at the age of 47, sparked international outrage, with widespread condemnation directed at Putin’s government for its role in his imprisonment and deteriorating health.

The memoir provides rare glimpses into Navalny’s inner thoughts during his time in prison. His reflections oscillate between the grim reality of his imprisonment and a sense of duty to his country. “The only thing we should fear is that we will surrender our homeland to be plundered by a gang of liars, thieves, and hypocrites,” he wrote on January 17, 2022, underscoring his enduring commitment to Russia and his belief in the power of resistance.

Despite the grave circumstances, Navalny’s diary also retains moments of humor. In a July 1, 2022 entry, he describes the absurdity of his daily routine: waking at 6 a.m., followed by seven hours at a sewing machine on a stool “below knee height.” After work, he would sit for hours on a wooden bench beneath a portrait of Putin, an activity disturbingly termed “disciplinary.”

The memoir, to be published by U.S. publisher Knopf, will also be available in Russian. David Remnick, editor of The New Yorker, noted in his reflections on Navalny’s writing that it is “impossible to read [his] prison diary without being outraged by the tragedy of his suffering, and by his death.”

One of the most poignant excerpts is from January 17, 2024, when Navalny addresses the recurring question from fellow inmates and prison guards about why he chose to return to Russia, knowing the dangers he faced. His response encapsulates the essence of his life’s mission: “I don’t want to give up my country or betray it. If your convictions mean something, you must be prepared to stand up for them and make sacrifices if necessary.”

Navalny’s memoir serves as a final testament to his unwavering principles and his readiness to endure immense personal sacrifice for what he believed was the greater good of his country. His tragic death, however, leaves Russia without one of its most vocal advocates for democracy and transparency, a loss that will likely resonate for years to come.

Guinea’s military junta, under the leadership of General Mamady Doumbouya, has implemented a new travel ban on ministers, restricting them from leaving the country without his express permission. In a statement issued on Thursday, the government announced that all ministers currently abroad have been ordered to return immediately, and the travel restrictions will remain in place until the end of 2024.

This sudden directive is reportedly part of a broader effort to curtail public spending and ensure more efficient management of the state’s resources, according to government spokesman Ousmane Gaoual Diallo. While ministers are required to stay within the country, senior officials and diplomats will still be allowed to represent Guinea abroad.

Doumbouya, a former colonel who was promoted to general after seizing power in a coup in September 2021, has since assumed the role of president of Guinea. Initially, the junta had committed to transitioning back to civilian rule by the end of 2024, under pressure from the international community. However, that timeline has since been abandoned.

As the country’s political landscape evolves, speculation has grown regarding Doumbouya’s intentions in future elections. Several members of his government have voiced support for him to potentially run in the next presidential race, raising questions about Guinea’s political trajectory and the future of civilian governance.

Nihon Hidankyo, a Group of Atomic Bomb Survivors, Wins 2024 Nobel Peace Prize for Nuclear Disarmament Efforts

The 2024 Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded to Nihon Hidankyo, a Japanese organization representing survivors of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, for its decades-long advocacy for a world free from nuclear weapons. The announcement was made on Friday by Norwegian Nobel Committee Chairman Joergen Watne Frydnes in Oslo, Norway, recognizing the group’s “witness testimony” as a vital contribution to global disarmament efforts.

Nihon Hidankyo, founded in 1956, is Japan’s largest organization of Hibakusha—survivors of the two atomic bombs dropped by the U.S. during World War II. The organization has played a pivotal role in preserving the testimonies of those who lived through the bombings, which initially claimed 120,000 lives and killed many more later due to radiation exposure. Today, roughly 650,000 Hibakusha remain, and their stories form the foundation of the group’s educational campaigns against nuclear proliferation.

In a statement accompanying the announcement, the Nobel Committee praised Nihon Hidankyo for “demonstrating through witness testimony that nuclear weapons must never be used again.” The group has become a global symbol of resilience and advocacy, reminding the world of the catastrophic human cost of nuclear warfare.

A Legacy of Witnessing and Advocacy

For decades, Nihon Hidankyo has focused on two core missions: promoting the rights and welfare of Hibakusha and advancing global nuclear disarmament. The group works to ensure that the stories of atomic bomb survivors—many of whom have faced long-term health and social challenges—are heard worldwide. As Jiro Hamasumi, a member of the group, emphasized in a 2020 interview, “If we don’t speak, the bombing will be forgotten as if it had never happened.”

The Nobel Committee’s decision to honor Nihon Hidankyo comes at a time when the world is witnessing renewed threats of nuclear weapons use, particularly in light of ongoing geopolitical conflicts. The committee’s statement highlighted the devastating power of nuclear arms, calling them “the most destructive weapons the world has ever seen.” The Nobel Peace Prize, awarded to Nihon Hidankyo, aims to remind humanity of the irreversible consequences of nuclear warfare and the urgency of disarmament.

Global Recognition and Renewed Calls for Disarmament

In response to the award, U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres praised Nihon Hidankyo as “selfless, soul-bearing witnesses of the horrific human cost of nuclear weapons.” Guterres further called on world leaders to heed the warnings of the Hibakusha and commit to eliminating nuclear arsenals. “It is time for world leaders to be as clear-eyed as the Hibakusha and see nuclear weapons for what they are: devices of death that offer no safety, protection, or security,” he said.

The Nobel Peace Prize, which includes a cash award of over $1 million, is traditionally seen as the highest global recognition of efforts toward peace and human rights. Nihon Hidankyo’s award places them in the company of renowned figures and organizations that have shaped global efforts for peace, from Martin Luther King Jr. to the International Campaign to Ban Landmines.

The peace prize will be formally presented at a ceremony in Oslo on December 10, coinciding with the presentation of other Nobel Prizes in Stockholm. For Nihon Hidankyo and the Hibakusha community, the honor not only elevates their cause but also serves as a solemn reminder of the dangers the world still faces from nuclear weapons.

As the world continues to grapple with rising tensions and nuclear threats, the Nobel Peace Prize stands as a powerful call to action—a reminder that the work of organizations like Nihon Hidankyo is far from over. Their mission remains as critical today as it was in the aftermath of the atomic bombings: to ensure that no one ever again suffers the devastating effects of nuclear warfare.

Dahabshiil—the prominent remittance company with deep roots in Somaliland—has found itself at the center of a burgeoning controversy following its decision to remove the term ‘Somaliland’ from its website. This action, enacted to align with an order from the Somali government, has provoked outrage among the Somaliland populace and raised serious questions about the functioning of national identity in the face of economic pressures.

The Decision that Sparked Outrage

Dahabshiil’s removal of ‘Somaliland’ from its platform—an act that many perceive as a capitulation to Mogadishu’s directives—has ignited a firestorm of criticism. In a recent statement issued through the social media platform X, Dahabshiil justified its decision, emphasizing that as an international company operating in over 120 countries, it must adhere to international laws. The company framed its compliance as a necessity for its expansive operations rather than an affront to its origins.

Yet, as the Somaliland community awoke to the news, the reactions were swift and vehement. “You have chosen over your country our enemy, Somalia,” tweeted a disappointed user identified as Qodah. “I have stopped using your services.” The sentiment encapsulated a widespread feeling of betrayal among Somalilanders, who view Dahabshiil’s actions as not merely corporate maneuvering but a dilution of their national identity.

This controversy cannot be examined in isolation; it dovetails into a broader political landscape fraught with historical grievances. The Somali government’s recent edict to airlines and remittance services to cease using the name ‘Somaliland’ is a continuation of the ongoing struggle over the legitimacy of Somaliland’s sovereignty. Nearly three decades after declaring independence from Somalia in 1991, Somaliland functions its own government, currency, and institutions, yet it remains unrecognized by the international community.

The compliance of Dahabshiil with the Somali government’s directive is emblematic of the precarious position Somaliland finds itself in. While the Somali capital, Mogadishu, grapples with ongoing issues of governance, security, and legitimacy, the comparatively stable and democratic Somaliland has had to navigate the complexities of economic relationships that span the region. Dahabshiil’s cooperation with Mogadishu raises critical questions: Is the company prioritizing profit over the very identity that initially propelled it into the international market?

A Reaction to Remember

As the outrage surged on social media, experts and commentators echoed the sentiments expressed by countless numeraries. Notably, an influential user on X, bhlub, articulated a broader narrative of disappointment, stating, “For years now, we said Somaliland will not be taken seriously if its people and government don’t take it seriously.” Bhlub’s observations reflect a growing feeling among Somalilanders that their leaders may be complicit in undermining their own legitimacy.

Other reactions on X echoed this concern. “You obeyed orders from a hostile state and deliberately erased your own country,” stated one user in response to Dahabshiil’s corporate rationale. “Imagine FlyDubai removing UAE on orders from Qatar,” they continued, effectively spotlighting the absurdity of the situation. The general consensus among commentators is that Dahabshiil’s actions not only jeopardize their standing as a Somaliland-based company but also risk alienating the very customer base that built their success.

The Dangers of Economic Compliance

The underlying corporate decision reveals an unsettling trend: a prioritization of economic interests over national identity. Twitter users highlighted that several companies operate similarly, with Somaliland-related entities complying with pressures from Mogadishu at the expense of regional integrity. “Somalian banks, Somalian telecommunications… it’s an individual interest over national security,” tweeted another critical voice, underscoring ignorance or apathy from local leaders toward the larger implications of such actions.

Furthermore, the marked disparity in treatment between Somaliland and Somalia poses a significant ethical dilemma. Dahabshiil is not alone; its stance may well reflect broader corporate larger trends among businesses operating in unstable regions—where fiscal survival often overshadows the need for principled stands on identity and sovereignty.

The trajectory of Dahabshiil, and similar enterprises, raises important questions regarding national identity amid economic constraints. Somalilanders are urging their leaders not only to respond to corporate measures that undermine their autonomy but also to confront the oligarchs who continue to financially support a government that lays claim over their right to self-determination.

For Somaliland to solidify its international presence and foster sustainable growth, a reckoning with the interplay between economic necessity and national pride is essential.

As the outrage over Dahabshiil’s decision reverberates through communities and online platforms, it serves as both a warning and a catalyst for a more cohesive, self-respecting national narrative.

The battle between Kenya’s President and his Deputy will reshape the nation’s future.

Kenya’s political scene is heating up as President William Ruto and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua lock horns in a showdown that could determine both men’s political fates. Gachagua, embattled by 11 charges ranging from economic crimes to violations of the constitution, is now desperately fighting off an impeachment motion set to be voted on in Parliament. His last-minute attempt to block the process through multiple legal petitions reflects a man cornered but unwilling to go down without a fight.

The looming vote presents an existential crisis not just for Gachagua but for President Ruto himself. If Ruto’s parliamentary troops succeed in ousting the Deputy President, it would remove a potential threat to his political dominance, but the cost could be steep. This battle isn’t just about impeachment; it’s about the future of power in Kenya.

For Gachagua, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Impeachment would not only end his tenure but also bar him from holding public office, dashing his ambitions to succeed Ruto in 2027 or 2032. On the other hand, surviving this political assassination would solidify Gachagua’s status as the undisputed king of the Mt. Kenya region. He would emerge from this saga even stronger, able to wield considerable influence in future alliances and deals.

The silence from President Ruto on the matter has been deafening, but insiders suggest his fingerprints are all over the push to oust Gachagua. The tension between the two has been simmering for months, and this showdown has been a long time coming. With Gachagua’s star rising in Mt. Kenya, a key electoral base, Ruto faces the dangerous possibility that the impeachment bid could backfire, turning into a referendum on his own popularity.

Gachagua has been playing grievance politics masterfully, portraying himself as the victim of a political witch hunt. In Kenya, such a strategy often works wonders. Just look at President Ruto, who rode a wave of resentment politics to power in 2022. The ICC cases against both Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta had initially been seen as career-ending, but they weaponized those indictments into a rallying cry that helped them win in 2013. Could Gachagua be pulling a similar move?

There’s a strong possibility that this impeachment fight could fracture Ruto’s own political coalition. In the regions where Gachagua holds sway, particularly Mt. Kenya, the impeachment has become a symbol of a larger battle between elites in Nairobi and the so-called “hustlers” that Ruto himself once championed. If Gachagua turns the impeachment into a populist cause, Ruto could find himself losing ground where he can least afford it. The political fallout could be severe, with youth-led protests already shaking the nation earlier this year over issues like the high cost of living.

But for President Ruto, losing this battle is not an option. With his administration already facing economic instability and internal rebellion, seeing off Gachagua would allow him to reassert control over his government. Failure to remove his rebellious deputy would not only weaken his grip on power but would also embolden other dissenters within his United Democratic Alliance.

Gachagua’s fate will be sealed in the coming weeks, but the outcome will reverberate far beyond the walls of Parliament. Both men stand to lose everything, and Kenya’s political future hangs in the balance.

Rideshare Drivers Plan Protest After Charges Dropped Against Somali Driver in Rape, Kidnapping Case

Rideshare drivers in Tukwila are preparing to protest after charges of rape and kidnapping against a Somali Uber driver, Ahmed Hassan Ali, 58, were dropped by prosecutors. The charges were dismissed after dashcam footage failed to prove the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt.

Ali, who had been accused of assaulting an intoxicated passenger, was initially arrested when the woman’s family found her unclothed in his car. The case has sparked tension, with drivers calling for Ali’s reinstatement, while prosecutors cite insufficient evidence to proceed.

The incident, which took place in Thurston County, initially involved disturbing claims backed by GPS data, but the lack of conclusive evidence led to the dismissal.

The case has raised concerns about the judicial process and the challenges of balancing legal certainty with public safety.

Housing Developer Accused of Fraud in Proposed Nolosha Project; Hundreds of Somali Families Seek Refunds

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison has filed a lawsuit against Abdiwali Abdullahi, the developer behind a planned housing project targeting the state’s Somali-American community. The lawsuit, filed in Hennepin County District Court, accuses Abdullahi of fraud and deceptive practices in marketing his Nolosha Development, a 37-acre housing project in Lakeville that promised affordable, interest-free homes compliant with Islamic finance principles.

Court Clash Over Somali Real Estate Developer Unveils Tensions in Minnesota

The allegations have sent shockwaves through the Somali-American community, many of whom had placed significant financial hopes on the project. The Attorney General’s Office claims that Abdullahi misled buyers with false promises about the development’s timeline, financing options, and the nature of the housing to be built.

A Dream Deferred: Somali Families Caught in Legal Limbo

The Nolosha Development was marketed as a unique opportunity for Somali families seeking homes in compliance with their religious beliefs, particularly the prohibition against paying interest on loans. According to the lawsuit, Abdullahi’s promotional materials boasted that the development would include single-family homes priced between $370,000 and $500,000, with payment plans aligned with Islamic principles. The project was also dubbed “Nolosha Lakeville” to appeal to the growing Somali-American population in Minnesota, despite lacking necessary construction permits.

Yet, as the lawsuit details, Abdullahi’s promises have unraveled. The Attorney General’s Office alleges that over $1 million in down payments were collected from more than 160 prospective buyers, many of whom paid $25,000 each to secure their future homes. Once those lots were filled, Nolosha began charging $500 for interested buyers to join a waitlist, which has since swelled to over 1,500 names. However, the lawsuit alleges that there is no plan for the promised single-family homes, and instead, buyers will be required to finance multi-family units—far from what they were led to expect.

Perhaps most devastating for these hopeful homeowners is the realization that Nolosha will not be ready for occupancy until at least 2025, according to court filings. The lawsuit alleges that Abdullahi has failed to acquire the development site, despite a signed purchase agreement. Repeated delays in the project’s closing date have left many Somali families in financial limbo, their dreams of homeownership indefinitely postponed.

Legal Battle Over Fraud and Accountability

The Attorney General’s lawsuit paints a picture of a development plagued by mismanagement, lack of transparency, and deceptive practices. It charges Abdullahi and Nolosha with violations of Minnesota’s consumer fraud and deceptive trade practices laws. One of the central allegations is that Nolosha failed to inform buyers about significant delays in construction, while continuing to solicit payments. Despite requests from the Attorney General’s Office to provide refunds due to these delays, Nolosha has refused.

Further complicating the legal battle is the dispute over the development site itself. While Abdullahi claims to have secured a purchase agreement for the land, the lawsuit asserts that Nolosha does not own the site and has yet to break ground. The land, currently described as “undeveloped wetlands” in court documents, stands as a stark contrast to the vision of thriving Somali-American families living in a custom-built community.

The lawsuit also raises concerns about Abdullahi’s financial motivations. According to the Attorney General, Abdullahi is the sole full-time employee of Nolosha, drawing a salary between $2,000 and $4,000 a month while failing to deliver on his promises. These revelations have only deepened frustrations within the community, many of whom now feel exploited by a project that seemed tailored to their specific needs and values.

A Community Struggling for Justice

The Nolosha saga has reverberated throughout Minnesota’s Somali-American community, where homeownership is both an aspiration and a symbol of stability for immigrant families. Dozens of Somali families attended a hearing in August, voicing their concerns and calling for transparency in the development’s management. The courtroom saw emotional exchanges, with many attendees expressing deep disappointment over what they feel is an unjust betrayal.

“This was supposed to be a place where our families could grow and thrive,” said one Somali father who had paid the $25,000 down payment. “Now we are left with nothing but empty promises.”

Ellison’s office has been investigating Nolosha since early 2023, spurred by what the Attorney General’s Office refers to as a whistleblower. While Abdullahi has claimed that the investigation stems from a disgruntled former employee, the lawsuit marks the first formal accusation of fraud. As the case moves forward, both sides are preparing for a contentious legal fight, with the next court hearing scheduled for October 21.

The Path Forward

As the legal process unfolds, the Somali families affected by the Nolosha Development are left grappling with uncertainty. Many had invested their life savings in the project, hoping for a future free from the complexities of traditional mortgages. Now, they are calling on the Attorney General’s Office to secure swift justice and financial restitution.

In addition to seeking refunds for the affected buyers, Ellison’s office is pushing for a court order to prevent further misrepresentations by Nolosha. Whether Abdullahi’s dream of a community-focused development will ever materialize remains to be seen, but for the families involved, the stakes could not be higher.

As the Somali-American community watches this case unfold, it stands as a stark reminder of the vulnerability faced by minority groups in the housing market—and the critical role of legal oversight in protecting them from fraudulent practices.