Political Tensions Escalate as Sudanese Politician Held in Kenya.

Yassir Arman, leader of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement Revolutionary Democratic Current (SPLM-RDC), was detained by Kenyan authorities upon his arrival in Nairobi. Acting on an Interpol warrant issued at Sudan’s request, the arrest marks a significant escalation in the Sudanese government’s crackdown on opposition figures.

Arman, a key figure in Sudanese politics and a vocal opponent of the military’s involvement in governance, was stopped by Kenyan police as soon as he disembarked his flight. He was informed of the arrest warrant and subsequently taken to a local hotel where he is currently being held pending further investigation.

The detention is based on charges that include collaboration with the controversial Rapid Support Forces during the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which erupted on April 15, 2023. These charges, as stated by Sudan’s Attorney General Al-Fateh Tayfour, also extend to other prominent members of the Coordination of Civilian Democratic Forces, or Tagadum, including former Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok.

Arman’s arrest occurred amidst his planned meetings with Western diplomats to discuss the turbulent situation in Sudan. His visit was part of broader efforts by Sudanese civilian groups to seek international support against both the military-led government and the parallel government efforts by the Rapid Support Forces.

The accusations leveled against Arman and his colleagues have been criticized as politically motivated. On September 24, just days before Arman’s detention, Tagadum’s legal team had approached the General Secretariat of Interpol and the Commission for the Control of Interpol Files (CCF), challenging the legitimacy of the red notice. They argued that the allegations were part of a broader strategy to suppress political dissent through accusations of undermining constitutional order, genocide, and inciting rebellion.

This incident has raised significant questions about the misuse of international law enforcement tools to pursue political objectives. Sources close to the matter have called for Arman’s immediate release and have urged the Kenyan authorities to not participate in what they view as a politically motivated campaign orchestrated by the Sudanese government.

The international community is closely watching the developments, as they could have far-reaching implications for the use of Interpol in politically sensitive cases, as well as for the stability and human rights situation in Sudan.

The sacred month of Ramadan in 2025 showcases the remarkable adaptability of Muslims worldwide, as fasting durations fluctuate dramatically due to geographical variances. From the lingering daylight of Greenland’s shores to the shorter days of New Zealand’s landscapes, the fasting hours during Ramadan can last anywhere from 13 to 16 hours.

This year, Ramadan’s start varies globally due to its alignment with the lunar calendar, which typically causes the holy month to shift approximately 10 to 12 days earlier each year compared to the solar calendar. This unique aspect of the Islamic calendar underscores the dynamic nature of this observance through varying seasons across years.

In 2025, Muslims in regions near the poles, like Iceland and Greenland, will endure some of the longest fasting times, approximately 16 hours, due to the extended daylight hours during the summer months. Conversely, countries in the southern hemisphere, such as New Zealand and Chile, will experience shorter fasting periods, around 13 hours, owing to their proximity to the winter solstice.

The distinction in fasting hours also illustrates the diverse experiences of Muslims during Ramadan, affecting daily routines and spiritual practices. For instance, in the Northern Hemisphere, the fasting hours are on the decline and will reach their shortest duration by 2031 during the winter solstice, after which they will gradually lengthen. Conversely, in the Southern Hemisphere, fasting durations will incrementally extend as they approach their summer solstice.

These variations not only highlight the physical demands placed on those observing Ramadan but also reflect the profound commitment of Muslims to their faith, adapting yearly to the rhythms of the lunar calendar regardless of location.

The spiritual journey of Ramadan is deeply intertwined with the history of Islam, commemorating the month when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad over 1,400 years ago. This period is one of reflection, prayer, and community, marked by a universal spirit despite the local differences in observance.

As Muslims worldwide welcome Ramadan, they navigate the challenges of their respective geographies, each community finding unique solace and strength in the rhythms of fasting and feasting, from dawn to dusk. This global observance not only underscores the diversity within the Muslim world but also the unifying threads of faith and endurance.

Toronto’s Somali community is poised to achieve a significant cultural milestone with the announcement of a $20 million federal investment for the construction of the Somali Centre for Culture and Recreation (SCCR). Located in the city’s Rexdale neighbourhood, this funding marks a historic achievement for both Black and Muslim communities within Canada’s bustling metropolis.

After nearly four decades of persistent advocacy, this federal commitment comes as part of the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program. The proposed 100,000-square-foot facility aims to be a net-zero emissions building, offering a wide range of services including fitness and sports facilities, arts and music spaces, and essential support services for newcomers.

The Somali Canadian community in Toronto, estimated to be around 20,000 strong, has long sought such a space that resonates with their cultural heritage while addressing their social needs. Many in this community arrived during the late 1980s and 1990s, fleeing the civil unrest in Somalia. Despite their substantial contributions to Toronto’s socio-economic fabric, they have faced numerous systemic barriers, including a significant lack of public infrastructure that caters to their specific needs.

The initial proposal for the cultural centre faced considerable hurdles, including local opposition to its planned location in Buttonwood Park due to concerns over losing valuable green space. This backlash, supported by political figures including Ontario Premier Doug Ford, led to the reconsideration of the centre’s location. After extended deliberations, a suitable site was secured at 95 Humberline Drive—a locale with a significant Somali population and a stronghold of Somali-Canadian heritage.

This new facility is not just a win for the Somali community but a pivotal step towards rectifying historical oversights in Toronto’s urban planning and community development. While the federal funds have injected new hope into the project, complete financing is yet to be secured. The SCCR continues to seek additional funding from provincial and municipal sources and is initiating community fundraising efforts to bring this project to fruition.

As the SCCR moves forward, it promises not only to be a cultural and recreational hub but also a transformative space that tackles broader social and economic challenges facing the Somali-Canadian community in Toronto. This project stands as a testament to the resilience and persistence of a community in pursuit of recognition and equality within the diverse tapestry of Canadian society.

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard announces significant firings over explicit chat group involvement within the NSA.

In a sweeping action that underscores a stringent stance on professional conduct within the intelligence community, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard announced that over 100 employees will be terminated from their positions. This decision comes in response to their involvement in explicit chats on Intelink, a secure intranet system used by the intelligence community, maintained by the National Security Agency (NSA).

The controversy centers around two chat server channels, labeled “LBTQA” and “IC_Pride_TWG.” These channels reportedly hosted discussions that deviated significantly from professional standards, engaging in what has been described as “obscene, pornographic, and sexually explicit” content. The fallout from these revelations includes not only the termination of the involved personnel but also the revocation of their security clearances.

Director Gabbard expressed her disapproval strongly on X, previously known as Twitter, condemning the chat groups as “disgusting” and indicative of the “DEI insanity” she associates with the previous administration. Her remarks reflect the broader administrative directive issued by President Donald Trump, which recently culminated in an executive order terminating diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives across the federal government.

Deputy Chief of Staff Alexa Henning detailed the directive from Gabbard, which orders all intelligence agencies to pinpoint and dismiss those who participated in the inappropriate discussions by the end of the week. This sweeping action highlights a commitment to “clean house” and reestablish the foundational principles of trust and professionalism within the intelligence sectors.

In her appearance on Fox News, Gabbard elaborated on the severity of the breach, describing it as a “violation of trust” and a deviation from the core mission of the intelligence community. Her decision is framed as part of a larger effort under the Trump administration to eliminate corruption and restore integrity within federal institutions.

This incident not only signals a hardline policy against misconduct within the U.S. intelligence community but also sets a precedent for how such issues will be handled moving forward under the current administration. As the situation develops, the intelligence community is poised to undergo significant changes to ensure that its primary focus remains on safeguarding the security and freedom of the American people.

Elon Musk, armed with his power and presidential backing, reignites his plan to clean house in the federal government—this time, the stakes are high.

The world’s richest man and Trump’s point man on “government efficiency,” Elon Musk, sent a warning shot through Washington, daring federal workers to justify their existence or face termination.

His bold email demands federal employees provide a justification of their roles. The timing couldn’t be more chaotic—weeks into a Trump-era push to slash the bureaucracy to its bone. But did Musk underestimate the pushback? On Monday, federal agencies were sent scrambling, unsure whether to comply or defy, as the Office of Personnel Management bluntly declared his directive non-binding.

Musk, however, refused to back down, doubling down on the threat of termination: “Fail again, and you’re out.” His comments fueled uncertainty across federal agencies, which now face a storm of confusion and defiance. The crackdown has already seen over 20,000 government employees booted out—and that’s just the beginning.

Musk is pushing forward with his disruptive downsizing initiative—the DOGE program, designed to strip the government to the core. And as thousands teeter on the edge of the unemployment abyss, his radical methods are shaking the very foundations of Washington D.C.

But not everyone’s on board. Critics, including labor unions, have raised their voices in outrage, demanding the court block Musk’s “illegal” email orders. They claim it violates rights, risks national security, and creates chaos.

As Washington reels from these destabilizing orders, only time will tell if Musk’s plans will end in government collapse or triumph.

President Donald Trump has announced that a deal to end the Ukraine war is within reach, after a series of high-stakes talks with French President Emmanuel Macron at the White House. The discussions come as the war entered its grim third anniversary, with Trump pushing for European allies to take a more substantial role in funding the war’s resolution, while Macron emphasized the need for guarantees from Moscow before any deal is struck.

Trump, confident in his ability to broker peace, suggested that a deal between Ukraine and Russia could be finalized soon, potentially including an agreement on Ukraine’s critical mineral resources. He believes both sides want peace but warned that distrust remains high. “I think it’s to the very much benefit of Russia to make a deal,” Trump said, urging for a swift resolution despite skepticism on all sides.

Macron, however, sounded more cautious, advocating for a careful and thorough approach to ensure the agreement’s credibility. He insisted that Europe’s role, alongside U.S. backing, is critical for maintaining a strong deterrent and providing sufficient security guarantees for Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who has voiced hope for a fruitful outcome, emphasized the importance of continued U.S. support, with millions of Ukrainians relying on American leadership. Yet, there are growing concerns over the exclusion of Ukraine from key diplomatic processes, with Turkish President Erdogan urging for Ukraine’s inclusion in negotiations.

As tensions simmer, some analysts fear Trump’s approach may align too closely with Russia’s interests, potentially sidelining Ukraine’s sovereignty in favor of normalization with Moscow. The next steps remain unclear, but the world’s eyes are on Washington, Paris, and Kyiv as the conflict enters its fourth year, with hopes for peace hanging in the balance.

Somalia’s Mask Slips: A Terrorist Sympathizer’s War on Somaliland’s Destiny

The tension surrounding Somalia’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi is thickening as the UAE grows more vocal in its discontent. Fiqi, already infamous for his involvement in the  2024 assassination of UAE military personnel, has crossed a dangerous line. His latest verbal attack on the UAE over the presence of Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Irro at the World Governments Summit in Dubai is no more than a desperate act. But there’s something lurking beneath this diplomatic bluster—something Fiqi may come to regret.

Fiqi’s history with the UAE is stained with blood. As Somalia’s Interior Minister, he was allegedly linked to the brutal killing of Emirati officers, men who were sent to aid Somalia in its fight for stability. The UAE hasn’t forgotten this betrayal. Yet, Fiqi’s nerve to lash out at the Emirates, in the face of their overwhelming aid and investment in Somalia, speaks volumes about his audacity, or perhaps, his ignorance of the UAE’s reach and resolve. The ghosts of those slain officers are not easily forgotten.

For Somalilanders and their allies, Fiqi’s behavior represents more than just a political snub—it’s a reminder of Somalia’s disregard for justice. His role in enabling Al-Shabaab sympathizers within his cabinet has turned Somalia into a breeding ground for terrorism. And now, the UAE finds itself with a critical choice: will they continue to allow Fiqi’s arrogance to go unpunished, or will they take decisive action?

For Somaliland, this isn’t just a matter of diplomacy—it’s about survival. While Mogadishu’s government falters, Somaliland thrives, and the UAE has become its trusted partner. Fiqi’s attacks on Somaliland only further reveal his desperation and irrelevance in the face of real progress. The UAE’s next move could be seismic. Will they target Fiqi and hold him accountable for his bloody legacy? Somaliland may be the key to tipping the scales of justice in this increasingly volatile region.

The future of Somaliland is being reshaped, and the catalyst for its rise to regional dominance is a game-changing partnership with the United Arab Emirates. With a $3 billion infrastructure deal, military training programs, and a rapidly growing diplomatic and economic footprint, the UAE is firmly invested in securing Somaliland’s position as a strategic powerhouse in the Horn of Africa.

Strategic Partnership: Strengthening Global Influence

Somaliland has just formalized a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the UAE, which includes opening a UAE embassy in Hargeisa, marking a new level of political and diplomatic recognition. This shift isn’t just ceremonial—it’s a statement. As the UAE’s influence grows, Somaliland’s position in the international community will solidify. The enhanced diplomatic ties will unlock new doors for trade, global recognition, and a deepening relationship that extends beyond the Horn of Africa.

Economic Power Surge: $3 Billion Railway and Trade Hub

A cornerstone of this partnership is the development of a $3 billion railway connecting Berbera to Ethiopia, transforming Somaliland into the region’s primary trade corridor. The Port of Berbera, already one of the most vital maritime routes in East Africa, will now have a direct link to Ethiopia, a landlocked giant with a booming economy. This railway will secure Somaliland’s place as a key economic transit hub and provide immense revenue and trade opportunities for the future.

In addition to this major infrastructural feat, the UAE’s investment will see the construction of three new airports in Hargeisa, Borama, and Burco. These airports will not only strengthen regional connectivity but also open up new markets, drawing in foreign investment and positioning Somaliland as a central hub in global commercial aviation.

Military Superiority: Training, Bases, and Maritime Control

The UAE’s commitment goes beyond infrastructure. They’ve pledged to train 15,000 members of Somaliland’s military, police, and intelligence services, boosting the country’s defense capabilities and readiness. With the UAE’s proven military expertise, Somaliland’s forces will be equipped to defend their nation with cutting-edge strategies and tactics.

But that’s not all—the partnership includes the construction of a new naval base in Berbera, jointly operated by the UAE and Somaliland. This will establish Berbera as a critical naval port, reinforcing maritime security and ensuring control over vital shipping lanes. As the UAE strengthens its influence across the region, this base will play a pivotal role in ensuring regional stability and deterring piracy and terrorism in the Arabian Sea and beyond.

Regional Geopolitical Shifts: Transforming Somaliland’s Role

This strategic alliance isn’t just about economic or military might—it’s a power move in the geopolitical chess game of the Horn of Africa. The UAE’s investment is paving the way for Somaliland to rise as a dominant player on the regional stage, with strengthened security, advanced infrastructure, and enhanced diplomatic recognition. The partnership with the UAE will catalyze foreign direct investment across critical sectors like agriculture, banking, logistics, and trade.

With 11 bilateral agreements and 5 Memorandums of Understanding already signed, the groundwork for deeper economic integration and security cooperation has been laid. The shift in Somaliland’s global standing is imminent, and the UAE’s unwavering support will guarantee the country’s ascension as an economic, military, and geopolitical force.

The Future is Now: Somaliland’s Rise

The alliance between Somaliland and the UAE isn’t just a partnership; it’s the blueprint for regional dominance. With the UAE’s investment and expertise, Somaliland will become the new center of trade, security, and strategic influence in the Horn of Africa. As the UAE’s influence grows, so will Somaliland’s, with both nations standing shoulder to shoulder, shaping the future of the region. This is just the beginning, and the world will soon witness the unstoppable rise of Somaliland.