Democratic Republic of Congo army says it stopped attempted coup

Democratic Republic of Congo army says it stopped attempted coup

The Democratic Republic of Congo’s armed forces successfully repelled an attempted coup d’etat involving both Congolese and foreign fighters. The coup attempt was put down, with the attackers, including their leader, being neutralized. The presidential palace was attacked, but the army regained control. Two guards and an assailant were killed in an attack on the home of Vital Kamerhe, a potential speaker of parliament. The United States embassy issued a security alert due to ongoing security activity in the area. Christian Malanga, allegedly based in the United States, posted a video claiming responsibility for the attack, expressing dissatisfaction with the current government. President Felix Tshisekedi was re-elected for a second term, but has yet to name a government, causing political tensions.

Comet fragment lights up sky over Spain and Portugal ‘like a movie’

Comet fragment lights up sky over Spain and Portugal ‘like a movie’

A bright comet fragment lit up the skies over parts of Spain and Portugal, with the European Space Agency confirming it was a small piece of a comet flying over the countries at a speed of 45 km per second before burning up over the Atlantic. The likelihood of finding any meteorites from the event is very low. Videos of the bright object streaking across the sky went viral on social media, with reports of the event prompting calls to emergency services in both countries. Lisbon resident Bernardo Taborda described the dazzling display as feeling like a movie and amazing.

Slovak PM Fico out of danger but condition serious, deputy says

Slovak PM Fico out of danger but condition serious, deputy says

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is in serious condition but no longer in immediate danger after an assassination attempt. The suspect, a 71-year-old former security guard, has been charged with attempted murder. The attack has raised concerns about the polarized state of politics in Slovakia. The government’s Ukraine policy and reforms have been cited as possible motives for the suspect’s actions. Calls for unity and toning down of rhetoric have been made across Slovakia’s political spectrum in the aftermath of the incident.

Parents of German-Israeli woman whose body found in Gaza thankful to have a grave

Parents of German-Israeli woman whose body found in Gaza thankful to have a grave

Shani Louk, a 23-year-old tattoo artist, was killed in Hamas’ attack on southern Israel. Her body was recovered months later from Gaza and will finally be laid to rest, bringing comfort to her parents. Shani’s funeral will be held on her mother’s birthday, providing solace to her family. Shani was doing what she loved at the Nova music festival before the attack and likely did not suffer. The attack resulted in over 1,200 deaths and 250 abductions, leading to an Israeli military offensive against Hamas. The conflict has caused widespread destruction in Gaza, with thousands dead and many displaced. Shani’s parents express pain at the misinformation displayed at some U.S. campus protests against Israel’s actions in Gaza, emphasizing the personal impact of the tragedy.

Cyprus receives LGBT human rights score of 34 per cent

Cyprus receives LGBT human rights score of 34 per cent

Cyprus was given a score of 34 per cent for the human rights situation and living standards of its LGBT population.

Have smartphones killed the art of conversation?

Have smartphones killed the art of conversation?

Fact: The use of smartphones has transformed the way people relate to the world and others, leading to a decline in face-to-face conversations and an increase in communication mediated through screens.

Reduction in the Small Business Tax Rate Passes in the House of Assembly

Reduction in the Small Business Tax Rate Passes in the House of Assembly

The small business corporate income tax rate in Newfoundland and Labrador has been reduced from 3 per cent to 2.5 per cent effective January 1, 2024.

Hundreds more French police start deploying to secure New Caledonia

Hundreds more French police start deploying to secure New Caledonia

French police reinforcements arrived in New Caledonia to regain control of the capital after riots resulted in four deaths and hundreds of arrests. The unrest was triggered by anger over an electoral reform, complicating President Macron’s plans to increase French influence in the Pacific. The number of police on the island will increase to 2,700 from 1,700. The government has food stocks for two months but faces distribution issues. Protesters demand the withdrawal of the electoral reform for peaceful talks to resume. France has declared a state of emergency, arrested suspects, and banned TikTok.

RE:SOURCE 2.0 exhibition announces list of artists

RE:SOURCE 2.0 exhibition announces list of artists

The second edition of the environmental art exhibition RE:SOURCE will feature over 30 Cyprus and international artists selected from more than 100 applications. The exhibition aims to explore the nature-human bond in response to trash pollution and promote actions to tackle the environmental emergency. The artworks will include various mediums such as painting, sculpture, installation, photography, and interactive video art. The exhibition will also offer educational programs, workshops, and quests for all ages. RE:SOURCE 2.0 will be held at The Warehouse by IT Quarter in Limassol from May 18th to 21st, with the opening event on May 17th at 6 pm. The exhibition is free and open to the public.

Hate breeds hate

Hate breeds hate

A man who once advocated against violence shot the prime minister of his country because he disagreed with his views. The prime minister, Robert Fico, had fueled social divides and extremism in Slovakia, moving from left to far right. Despite accusations of corruption and forced resignation in 2018, Fico regained support during the pandemic by leading protests against pandemic measures and vaccines. His actions led to chaotic and violent demonstrations, ultimately resulting in an attempted assassination. This incident highlights the dangers of populist leaders who sow hatred and division in societies, emphasizing the need to uphold democracy.