Current Affairs - Politics

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.

Alix Didier Fils-Aime, a Haitian businessman and politician, took office as the interim Prime Minister of Haiti on November 10, 2024, succeeding Garry Conille who was dismissed by the Transitional Presidential Council. Fils-Aime's appointment comes at a critical time as Haiti grapples with escalating gang violence, deepening the country's humanitarian and security crisis. Born on November 14, 1971, Fils-Aime has a background in business and politics, having studied at Boston University. His priorities include addressing insecurity and conducting uncontested elections to stabilize the country.

Duma Boko, leader of the Umbrella for Democratic Change, made history by becoming Botswana's 6th president, marking a significant shift in the country's politics. As the presidential candidate of the Umbrella for Democratic Change, Boko's victory ended nearly six decades of rule by the Botswana Democratic Party. His leadership experience includes heading the Botswana National Front since 2010 and serving as the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly from 2014 to 2019. Boko's inauguration on November 1, 2024, signalled a new era for Botswana.