Current Affairs - Politics

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, a veteran leader of the ruling SWAPO party, became Namibia’s first female president after securing 57% of the votes in the eighth presidential election. At 72, she has had a long and impactful political career since Namibia's independence in 1990, having served in key roles such as Vice President and foreign minister. Her leadership marks a significant milestone in Namibia’s political history and gender representation.

Yamandu Orsi, representing the Broad Front alliance, was elected as Uruguay's president, marking a departure from five years of conservative leadership. Orsi secured 1,123,420 votes, narrowly defeating his rival Delgado, who received 1,042,001 votes, as confirmed by Uruguay’s Electoral Court. His victory highlights a political shift in the nation.

Abdoulaye Maiga, the junta's spokesperson and a trusted ally, has taken over as Mali's new Prime Minister following Choguel Maiga's removal. This transition occurred on November 21, 2024, amidst growing criticism of the junta's handling of the promised transition to democracy. Abdoulaye Maiga's appointment reflects the junta's effort to consolidate power amidst rising dissent. As a lieutenant colonel in the Malian National Gendarmerie, Maiga has been a key figure in the military government, previously serving as Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralisation. His close alignment with the junta suggests a more compliant leadership to advance their objectives during the transitional period.

Navin Ramgoolam, a veteran politician, has returned as the Prime Minister of Mauritius for his fourth term after securing a decisive victory in the elections. His coalition, Alliance du Changement, won an impressive 60 out of 62 parliamentary seats, while the incumbent PM Pravind Jugnauth's Alliance Lepep coalition managed to secure only 27.8% of the vote. Ramgoolam's leadership and political experience have been instrumental in shaping Mauritius' political landscape.

Shigeru Ishiba, leader of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party, took office as Japan's 103rd Prime Minister at the age of 67, succeeding Fumio Kishida who resigned amid scandals. Ishiba's political career spans over three decades, with notable positions including Minister of Defense and Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. He has been a member of the House of Representatives since 1986 and became the President of the Liberal Democratic Party in 2024. Ishiba's leadership marks a significant shift in Japan's political landscape.