Mali court jails ex-PM Mara after online post backing political prisoners

The musical duo Amadou and Mariam, beloved for their vibrant sound, has released their final album 'L'Amour à la Folie' following Amadou's passing last April. This album serves as a heartfelt posthumous love letter from Mariam to her late husband, showcasing their enduring bond and the legacy of their music. With the support of their son Sam Bagayoko, Mariam continues to honor Amadou's memory through their shared artistry, reminding fans of the power of love and music even in loss.

Mali's military government has announced a two-week closure of schools and universities due to a fuel blockade imposed by the jihadist group JNIM. This decision highlights the ongoing challenges the country faces as the blockade disrupts daily life and education, affecting students and families alike. The situation underscores the broader implications of security issues on education and the well-being of the population.

In a significant legal development, ten individuals are on trial in Paris for the online harassment of Brigitte Macron, the French first lady. This trial marks an important step in addressing the harmful conspiracy theory that falsely claims she is a man named Jean-Michel Trogneux. The case highlights the ongoing fight against misinformation and online abuse, emphasizing the need for accountability in the digital age.

Hurricane Melissa has intensified to a category 5 storm, prompting urgent warnings for communities in Jamaica and neighboring countries like Cuba, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic. With predictions of up to 40 inches of rain in eastern Jamaica, the potential for catastrophic flooding and damage is significant. This situation is critical as residents are urged to seek shelter immediately, highlighting the severe impact that such natural disasters can have on vulnerable communities.

Cameroon's 92-year-old president, Paul Biya, has secured a controversial eighth term in office, making him the world's oldest head of state. This election has been overshadowed by reports of violence and allegations of fraud, raising concerns about the integrity of the democratic process in Cameroon. The outcome is significant as it reflects ongoing political tensions and the challenges facing the nation.

Jordana Timerman discusses the precarious situation of Argentina's president, Javier Milei, whose libertarian policies are faltering. His reliance on unpredictable support from the U.S., particularly from Donald Trump, raises questions about the sustainability of their alliance. This situation is significant as it highlights the challenges Milei faces in maintaining power amidst a turbulent political landscape, reminiscent of Argentina's past under leaders like Juan Perón.

A recent report from Food Banks Canada reveals that food bank visits reached nearly 2.2 million in March 2025, almost double the numbers from 2019. This alarming increase highlights the growing cost of living crisis affecting many Canadians, prompting concerns from Conservative leaders about the government's handling of the situation. The surge in food bank usage underscores the urgent need for effective policies to address food insecurity and support vulnerable populations.

Eastern Airways is facing a critical situation as it has filed a notice of intention to appoint an administrator, putting hundreds of jobs at risk. This development is significant not only for the employees and their families but also for the aviation industry, which is still recovering from the impacts of the pandemic. The potential collapse of the airline could lead to further job losses and affect regional connectivity.