Tag "Corruption"
Elections called in a Contested Ethiopia
The political crisis in the North of Ethiopia is currently one of the most notorious humanitarian disasters in global affairs. The tragedy and ferocity of the conflict has sometimes distracted from it’s trigger: the delay of the 2020 federal & regional elections. Now, one year since their postponement, Ethiopians head to the polls to contest the leading Prosperity Party’s grip on power. Whether this will prove to be an opportunity to strengthen the country’s democratic institutions or a gateway to further crises remains to be seen.
The Zondo Commission: Consequences for President Ramaphosa
The Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture or the Zondo Commission, headed by Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, has been notified about the overwhelming scale of corruption and fraud involving public bodies under the presidency of Jacob Zuma (2009-2018) in South Africa. The Commission’s findings have badly damaged the reputation of the African National Congress (ANC) and South African institutions. The revelations of this ongoing inquiry highlight a pressing issue for Cyril Ramaphosa, Zuma’s successor as president: Ramaphosa must restore confidence in South African politics in order to restore the position of both his own party and South Africa’s international standing.
Alex Saab and the State of Corruption in Venezeula
The Venezuelan government of Nicolás Maduro has been accused of turning a blind eye to or engaging actively in corruption for both the personal enrichment of state officials and as part of sanction-dodging efforts. Among other individuals linked to corruption by the Maduro government, in June 2020 Colombian national Alex Saab was arrested in Cape Verde in connection with an Interpol Red Notice concerning money laundering. Now, 6 months after his arrest, it seems likely that he will be extradited to the US. How significant is Saab to the Maduro government and what impact might his extradition have?
From protests to constitutional crisis: Boyko’s latest gamble
After years of stability and growth, Bulgaria is navigating a turbulent crisis while no one seems to be paying attention. What’s next for this small European country?
Crisis besets Venezuela: A failing regime?
Economic downturn, trading tensions with the USA, and international sanctions have all begun to play a role in the destruction of the Maduro regime. The possible results of this are civil unrest, economic collapse and ultimately, a failed state.
Zimbabwe’s President Mnangagwa: One Year Later
Following the ousting of late President Robert Mugabe, Zimbabweans hoped for a real change. One year into the administration of his successor Emmerson Mnangagwa, there are mixed emotions.
Cameroon: Escalating Crisis in the Anglophone Regions
The escalation in Anglophone Cameroon began about two years ago and shows no signs of resolution. The international community should encourage the Cameroonian government and Anglophone separatists into meaningful dialogue.
Romania’s campaign against Laura Codruța Kövesi
Laura Codruța Kövesi, the former head of Romania’s National Anticorruption Directorate (DNA), has secured many high-profile convictions in her career.
Latvian elections: Populist success and coalitions
Latvia held a parliamentary election on October 6th. This saw the success of numerous small parties; notable is the arrival of KPV LV, relative newcomers who gained sixteen seats in the hundred seat Saeima. Expect the upcoming weeks to be consumed by movements to form a coalition.
Peru’s democracy is at stake in Vizcarra’s anti-corruption crusade
As yet another corruption scandal reverberates through Peru, if new president Martín Vizcarra fails to lead the country past the wrongdoing that has plagued its government for decades, Peru could fall into a democratic crisis.
