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May 18, 2024
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Burundi declares cholera outbreak
September 07, 2023
There has been an outbreak of cholera in Burundi, a country in Africa. The Health Ministry of Burundi announced this on Wednesday. So far, there have been 15 reported cases of cholera in the western part of the country. This area is known for having water shortages, which makes it more prone to cholera outbreaks.
Cholera causes severe diarrhea and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration. Cholera is usually spread through contaminated water or food. When people drink or eat something that has the cholera bacteria in it, they can get sick.
What is Being Done?
The Ministry of Public Health and AIDS Control is taking action to help the people affected by cholera. The patients with cholera have been taken to a hospital in the municipality of Bujumbura, and there are other treatment centers available too. The Ministry is asking everyone, including health authorities, residents, and other stakeholders, to work together to fight against cholera. They are also urging people, especially those living in the affected areas, to follow hygiene rules to prevent the spread of the disease.
Why Does Cholera Happen in Burundi?
In the western part of Burundi, there are often water shortages, especially during the dry months from May to September. This makes it easier for cholera to spread. Earlier this year, two people died from cholera in the Bujumbura health district, particularly at the Kajaga beach on Lake Tanganyika.
Cholera in Africa
Cholera is not only a problem in Burundi but also in other countries in Africa. According to a report from the World Health Organization (WHO), there have been cholera outbreaks in 15 countries in the African Region. In the latest outbreak, six countries, including Burundi, have been affected, with over 200 new cases reported. However, the WHO says that the situation is getting better and they are keeping a close eye on it.
What Can We Do?
It is important for countries to be prepared and take preventive measures to stop the spread of cholera. This includes keeping a close watch on communities and border crossings to prevent the disease from spreading across borders. As individuals, we can also do our part by practicing good hygiene, such as washing our hands with soap and clean water and making sure our food and water are safe to consume.
France: Principal Sends Student Home for Wearing a Kimono
September 07, 2023
The principal of a high school in Lyon, France recently sent a student home for wearing a kimono, a traditional Japanese garment. However, the principal later admitted that the student's outfit was not an abaya, as initially claimed, but rather a long coat of a religious nature.
Discussion with the Student
The 15-year-old student was called in to discuss the incident with the principal and her family. Accompanied by her mother and sister, she explained that her outfit did not represent any religious affiliation, despite being a Muslim herself.
Principal's Response
The principal responded by stating that the school's regulations cover all outfits that show a religious affiliation, not just abayas. According to the principal, when a student arrives veiled in the morning, it is clear what their religious affiliation is.
Similar Incident
It was discovered that at least one other student from the same high school faced a similar measure for wearing a kimono.
Legal Action
The family's lawyer, Maitre Nabil Boudi, has filed a complaint for discrimination based on religious affiliation. He emphasized the humiliation and religious discrimination experienced by his client and called for urgent intervention from the judicial authority.
Student's Experience
The student shared that she was reprimanded in front of her entire class by a member of the educational staff. When taken to the principal's office, she was asked to remove her kimono under the ban imposed by the Ministry of National Education. Refusing to comply would result in her being prohibited from attending classes. The student refused, stating that her outfit was not illegal as it was not an abaya. The principal then informed her that she could not be accepted in class wearing that outfit.
India: Case Registered Against BJP Leader for Allegedly Assaulting and Killing Dalit Girl's Father
September 07, 2023
The Uttar Pradesh Police have taken legal action against the district president of the ruling BJP's Minority Morcha in Maharajganj. The leader, Masoom Raza Rahi, has been accused of assaulting a 17-year-old Dalit girl and causing the death of her father.
The Allegations
According to the complaint filed by the minor girl, Rahi assaulted her on August 28. When her father tried to intervene, the BJP leader attacked him, resulting in severe injuries that led to his death.
The Background
The Dalit girl and her family were living as tenants in Rahi's property. Unfortunately, this incident took place within the premises where they resided.
The Charges
Rahi has been charged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including murder, assault with intent to outrage a woman's modesty, wrongful restraint, voluntarily causing hurt, insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace, and criminal intimidation. Additionally, charges have been invoked under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act.
It is important to note that these charges are serious and carry severe consequences if proven guilty.
This case highlights the importance of justice and the protection of vulnerable individuals in the Indian society. It is crucial that everyone, regardless of their background, is treated with respect and dignity. The legal system should now investigate the allegations against the BJP leader, and appropriate action will be taken based on the evidence presented.
Israeli defense companies accused of selling advanced weapons to Myanmar
September 06, 2023Two Israeli defense firms have reportedly sold advanced technology weapons to Myanmar following the military coup in the country.
According to a report in Israel's Haaretz newspaper on Tuesday, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Elbit Systems allegedly sold defense systems to the Myanmar government after the military coup until 2022.
The report claimed that IAI sold air defense systems to Myanmar, while Elbit Systems also sold air defense weapons and machine guns during the same period.
The weapons were shipped from Israel's Ashdod Port to Myanmar's Yangon Port, the report said.
Myanmar has been plagued by a spiral of violence and economic crisis since the military toppled an elected government and launched a brutal crackdown on dissent in 2021.
The military takeover triggered mass protests, with the junta's forces killing more than 1,500 people in a crackdown on dissent, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, a local monitoring group.
Appeal for Peace in Kirkuk
September 06, 2023Head of Iraqi Turkmen Front Urges Endorsement of Certificate of Honor
An important appeal made by Hasan Turan, the head of the Iraqi Turkmen Front (ITF), to preserve peace in Kirkuk. Let's dive in!
Hasan Turan spoke to the press and highlighted the fact that Kirkuk has been a peaceful city for many years. He wants to make sure that no tensions or conflicts arise that could disrupt this peace. Turan believes that it's important for everyone to come together and discuss the present and future of the city.
Signing the Certificate of Honor
Turan is calling upon all political and community groups to sign a certificate of honor. This certificate is meant to protect coexistence, tranquility, and social harmony in Kirkuk. It's like a promise that everyone agrees to keep the peace and work together.
Turan also thinks that it's not fair for one group to make all the decisions for the city. He believes that all parties should have a say in how Kirkuk is governed. This way, everyone's voice is heard and considered.
Protests in Kirkuk
Recently, there have been protests in Kirkuk. This all started because the government decided to give control of a building called the Kirkuk Operations Command headquarters to the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP). The KDP said that they used to have control of the building and wanted it back.
But this decision didn't sit well with everyone. Some people were upset and started protesting. Unfortunately, things got out of hand, and four people lost their lives, while 15 others got injured.
It's important to remember that in 2014, when the ISIS group emerged, the Peshmerga forces (who are affiliated with the Kurdish Regional Government) took over bases in Kirkuk that were abandoned by the Iraqi army. However, in 2017, the Iraqi government took back control of Kirkuk and the Peshmerga forces had to leave.
So, that's the situation in Kirkuk right now. Hasan Turan wants everyone to come together, sign the certificate of honor, and work towards peace and harmony in the city. Let's hope that everyone listens and takes his appeal seriously!
France Bans Abayas in Schools fueling accusations of Islamophobia
September 03, 2023France has recently announced that students will no longer be allowed to wear abayas in schools. This decision has sparked controversy and accusations of Islamophobia. Abayas are long, robe-like garments often worn by Muslim women.
The Reason Behind the Ban
<p>The French Education Minister, Gabriel Attal, explained that this ban is based on the principle of laïcité, which means the separation of state institutions and religions. The government believes that in schools, students should not be identified by their religious identity through their clothing.
Opposition and Criticism
However, this decision has faced criticism from opposition lawmakers. Some argue that it is a form of Islamophobia. Prominent opposition politician Danièle Obono called it a "new Islamophobic campaign." Jean-Luc Mélenchon, a far-left politician, expressed his sadness over the polarization caused by this decision.
A History of Controversial Bans
This is not the first time France has implemented bans on clothing associated with Muslims. Last year, the wearing of hijabs and other "conspicuous religious symbols" was banned in sports competitions. The United Nations Human Rights Committee also criticized France's ban on niqabs, stating that it violated human rights.
The Impact of Such Policies
These bans and restrictions have drawn international attention and have been seen as divisive. French legal scholar Rim-Sarah Alouane argues that these policies only deepen the fractures within the nation.
What's Next?
While the ban on abayas has been confirmed, there is no information yet on whether guidelines regarding hijabs will be enforced in schools. The education minister has not commented on this matter.
France's decision to ban abayas in schools has sparked a heated debate. It is important to understand different perspectives and consider the impact of such policies on religious freedom and social cohesion.
Understanding Psoriasis: A Common Skin Condition
August 31, 2023
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis, also known as psoriasis vulgaris, is a chronic skin disease that causes scaly red patches on the skin. These patches can be found on different parts of the body and can be quite distressing, especially when they appear on visible areas. However, it's important to know that psoriasis is not contagious, even though some people may think it is.
How Common is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis affects a large number of people worldwide, with an estimated 125 million individuals living with the condition. The prevalence of psoriasis can vary depending on where you live, ranging from 1% to 3% of the population. In Türkiye, studies suggest that the prevalence is between 2.5% and 3%.
What are the Symptoms?
Psoriasis can take different forms, but the most common symptoms include whitish or silvery scaly patches on the skin accompanied by redness. These patches are often found on the scalp, knees, and elbows.
What Causes Psoriasis?
The exact cause of psoriasis is still unknown, but experts believe that a combination of factors can contribute to its development. These factors include changes in the immune system, genetic predisposition, and environmental factors. Environmental factors can include throat infections, certain medications, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, skin trauma, sunburn, and stress. These factors can either trigger the onset of the disease or make existing symptoms worse.
How is Psoriasis Treated?
Treatment for psoriasis can vary depending on the individual's condition and the severity of the disease. It's important to regularly communicate with medical professionals throughout the treatment process. Some patients may skip follow-up appointments, which can lead to unsupervised use of medications and serious skin issues. The drugs used in psoriasis treatment can cause thinning of the skin and non-healing wounds. Self-medication without proper medical guidance can also result in serious health problems, such as liver damage. Therefore, it's crucial to follow the doctor's recommendations during the treatment process.
Significant Development in Corruption Case
In the ongoing corruption case involving former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, there has been a big update. The court has decided to temporarily postpone his 3-year prison sentence and grant him bail, which means he will be released for now.
Court's Decision on Corruption Case
The Islamabad High Court has made a decision about the corruption case where Khan was sentenced to 3 years in prison. Instead of sending him to jail right away, the court has allowed him to be released on bail.
Reason for Khan's Arrest
Before this decision, the court found Khan guilty of selling gifts worth $490,000 that he received while he was Prime Minister. He was also accused of misusing his position. Because of these charges, he had an arrest warrant, and the court sentenced him to 3 years in prison.
Khan's Arrest and Ban from Politics
On August 5th, the police arrested Khan at his home in Lahore based on the court's order. Then, on August 8th, the Pakistan Election Commission decided that Khan, who was already found guilty and imprisoned, would be banned from politics for 5 years.
Khan's Current Situation
Currently, Khan is being held in Attock Prison, which is located in the northwest part of the country.
Libyan Prime Minister Abdel Hamid Dbeibeh suspended Foreign Minister Najla al-Mangoush on Sunday after she secretly met in Rome with Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen.
"It was decided to suspend Libyan Foreign Minister Najla al-Mangoush and to launch an investigation against her," said a decree published by the Government of National Unity.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry on Saturday said a “historic meeting” was held last week between the foreign ministers of Israel and Libya.
Pointing out that the meeting was the first between the foreign ministers of the two countries, it said they discussed the historical ties between the two nations, the legacy of the Libyan Jews, and the possibility of bilateral cooperation.
Dbeibeh appointed Fathallah Al-Zani, the current youth minister, as interim foreign minister and referred al-Mangoush to an investigation panel.
The Libyan Foreign Ministry later released a statement saying the meeting between al-Mangoush and her Israeli counterpart was “not official.”
The North African country does not recognize Israel and does not have diplomatic relations with Tel Aviv. It is forbidden by law to have relations with Israel.
“This was an informal and impromptu meeting that took place in Rome during the meeting with the Italian foreign minister. It did not involve any discussion, agreement or consultation,” it said.
It also reaffirmed its full commitment to concerns regarding issues of Arab and Islamic countries, especially the Palestinian issue, and emphasized its adherence to Jerusalem as the eternal capital of Palestine.
The ministry emphasized that it “completely and unequivocally rejects normalization with the Zionist formation” and reaffirmed that its stance is firm towards the Palestinian cause and the brotherly Palestinian people.
Meanwhile, a group of activists gathered in front of the Foreign Ministry building in Tripoli and in other provinces to protest the meeting between al-Mangoush and Cohen.
Local media cited witnesses as saying that gunfire was heard in front of the ministry, adding that protesters also set fire to Dbeibeh’s residence in the Shatt al-Hanshir area of Tripoli.
The Libyan House of Representatives, meanwhile, called for an emergency session on Monday to discuss the "crime committed against the Libyan people."
Security agency denies facilitation to Mangoush
While security sources said al-Mangoush departed Tripoli for Istanbul on a Libyan government plane with assistance from the Internal Security Agency, the institution denied the claims.
“The Internal Security Agency denies what is being circulated on social media regarding allowing or facilitating the travel of the suspended Minister of Foreign Affairs who did not pass through the official channels at the Mitiga airport outlet, whether the regular, private or presidential terminal," the agency said in a statement.
The agency “confirms the presidency and members of their standing together with the aspirations of the Libyan people and respecting their feelings, which we share with them towards all issues, especially the Palestinian cause,” it added.
It "included the name of the concerned person in the list of those banned from traveling until they comply with the investigations."
“We also warn and note paid pages and electronic accounts that have been seeking for days to spread rumors by fabricating false stories, falsifying facts, and fabricating charges, as well as those who incite the sabotage of state public institutions and property.
“All legal measures will be taken against anyone whose involvement is proven in accordance with legal procedures,” the agency said.
In a terrible incident in Florida, a gunman carried out a racially motivated attack that resulted in the deaths of three innocent people. Officials have revealed that the gunman had a gun with Nazi symbols and even left behind a manifesto expressing his hatred towards black people.
Confirmation of Deaths
The Clay County Sheriff, Michelle Cook, has confirmed the tragic deaths that occurred at a store on Kings Road in Jacksonville, Florida. The incident has left the community in shock and mourning.
Location of the Incident
The shooting took place near Edward Waters University, which is a small historically Black university. This has deeply affected the students and faculty of the university, as well as the surrounding community.
Mayor's Response
Mayor Donna Deegan expressed her deep concern and sadness over the incident. In an interview with WJXT television station, she stated that multiple fatalities occurred inside a Dollar General store. However, she did not provide any further details about the victims.
Unacceptable Violence
Mayor Deegan strongly condemned the act of violence, stating that it is completely unacceptable. She emphasized that even one shooting is too much, and the occurrence of mass shootings is particularly difficult to comprehend and accept.
