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Bolivia Plunged Into Deadly Violence as Anti-government Protests Escalate

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Bolivia is grappling with a national crisis as anti-government protests turn deadly, claiming multiple lives and threatening the country’s fragile stability.

At least four first responders—three police officers and a firefighter—have lost their lives in confrontations between protesters and authorities.

Justice Minister Cesar Siles confirmed the deaths, stating that some officers were reportedly shot.

The violent turn has shifted the government’s view of the protests, with Siles describing the situation as involving “paramilitary groups” that require a firm response.

The protests are fueled largely by supporters of former President Evo Morales, who was barred from contesting the upcoming August 17 election by the electoral tribunal.

Morales’ supporters argue that his disqualification is politically motivated and unjust, deepening tensions within the ruling MAS party.

Bolivia’s economic situation has worsened, with high inflation and dwindling foreign reserves intensifying public frustration.

Many citizens feel abandoned by a government they believe has failed to uphold the country’s once-celebrated economic model. Morales warned that without urgent change, Bolivia risks falling into “total collapse.”

The government’s response has become increasingly militarized, with tanks and heavily armed security forces deployed to affected areas.

Businesses have been forced to shut down, and transportation has come to a standstill, disrupting daily life and economic activities.

In Nixing EV Standards, Trump Strikes at Two Foes: California and Elon Musk

In a move with far-reaching environmental and political consequences, President Donald Trump has officially rolled back federal recognition of California’s electric vehicle (EV) mandates.

With this decision, Trump not only dismantled key climate goals established under the Biden administration but also took aim at two familiar opponents: the state of California and tech mogul Elon Musk.

At a ceremonial signing event, Trump nullified rules that would have required California—and other states following its lead—to significantly increase the share of zero-emission vehicles.

Under the now-repealed standards, 35 percent of all new vehicle sales in California would have needed to be emission-free by 2026, with that figure rising to 68 percent by 2030 and 100 percent by 2035.

Trump cast the previous rules as a dangerous overreach by environmental extremists and accused the Biden administration of outsourcing American auto policy to California.

“Under the previous administration, the federal government gave left-wing radicals in California dictatorial powers to control the future of the entire car industry all over the country — all over the world, actually,” Trump said.

“This horrible scheme would effectively abolish the internal combustion engine, which most people prefer.”

The former president warned that forcing electric vehicles onto the market would lead to soaring energy costs and strain power grids.

“Energy prices would likewise soar as the radical left forced more electric vehicles onto the grid while blocking approvals for new power plants,” he added. “The result would be rolling blackouts and a collapse of our power systems.”

The decision triggered an immediate backlash from California’s leadership, with Governor Gavin Newsom vowing to fight back.

“Trump’s all-out assault on California continues,” a spokesperson for Newsom said.

“We are suing to stop this latest illegal action by a President who is a wholly owned subsidiary of big polluters.” California, along with several other states that follow its environmental standards, has already filed lawsuits to preserve their autonomy in setting stricter emissions goals.

The rollback also marks a sharp blow to Elon Musk, whose electric vehicle company, Tesla, stands to lose significant ground under a weakened regulatory framework.

Once seen as an unlikely ally of Trump, Musk has since become a vocal critic. Trump, in turn, mocked the billionaire during the announcement, saying, “Now, I know why Elon doesn’t like me so much. Which he does, actually.”

He continued, “I used to say, ‘I’m amazed that he’s endorsing me,’ because that can’t be good for him. He makes electric cars, and we’re saying, ‘You’re not going to be able to make electric cars. You can make them, but it’ll be by the market.’”

Trump also hinted at expanding tariffs on imported vehicles beyond the current 25 percent.

“If they want a Mercedes-Benz, you’re going to have it made here,” he said. “Otherwise, they’re going to pay a very big tariff. I might go up with that tariff in the not-too-distant future.”

The significance of Trump’s move goes beyond partisan battles. For decades, California has set the pace for U.S. environmental standards, with 17 states typically adopting its emissions benchmarks.

Repealing California’s EV mandate and federal fuel economy rules effectively stalls national momentum for cleaner transportation and undermines confidence in the EV market.

Environmental groups describe it as a direct attack on efforts to curb climate change and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Tesla, which has thrived under policies that incentivize electric vehicles, now faces a political and economic climate increasingly hostile to its business model.

The rollback, combined with the removal of federal EV tax credits and expanded tariffs, could dampen demand and make electric cars less affordable for American consumers.

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Diaspora

Diaspora Watch – Vol. 90

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Diaspora Watch - Vol. 90

HOOORAY! IT’S 90TH EDITION OF DIASPORA WATCH NEWSPAPER

Diaspora Watch Newspaper announces the release of its landmark 90th edition, delivering a compelling mix of global politics, diaspora engagement, energy transition, innovation, and culture, carefully curated to inform and engage its diverse international readership.

Diaspora Watch FREE Digital View: https://diasporawatch.com/3d-flip-book/diaspora-watch-vol-90/

On Demand Print: https://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/3316371?__r=1069759

SUBSCRIBE TO DIASPORA WATCH NOW ON THE LINK BELOW!!!
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Leading this edition is the thought-provoking headline, “Is Trump’s Security Being Tested?”, which takes a critical look at evolving security concerns surrounding the United States President, Donald Trump, raising questions about political stability and institutional preparedness in a charged electoral climate.

In a major diaspora spotlight, the edition features “US-based Retired Veterans Honor Obi of Onitsha With U.S. County Key,” capturing a symbolic moment of cross-continental recognition and cultural diplomacy, as distinguished Nigerian traditional leadership receives accolades abroad.

Global climate diplomacy takes center stage in “60 Nations Meet in Colombia to Push Fossil Fuel Exit Amid COP Deadlock,” highlighting renewed international efforts to accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels despite ongoing negotiations under the COP framework.

Africa’s industrial ambitions are further explored in “Dangote Plans 650,000bpd Refinery in East Africa, Seeks Regional Backing,” detailing strategic expansion moves poised to reshape the continent’s energy landscape and strengthen regional economic integration.

On the innovation front, “Japan Unveils First Commercial Hydrogen-Blended Gas Engine for Power Generation” underscores technological advancements aimed at reducing carbon emissions and advancing sustainable energy solutions globally.

The edition also examines developments within the United States defence establishment in “US Navy Secretary Phelan Sacked Amid Pentagon Rift,” shedding light on internal policy disagreements and their implications for military leadership.

Diplomatic and cultural discourse is captured in “Ruto’s ‘Nigerian English’ Remark Sparks Diplomatic-Style Social Media Backlash,” reflecting how language, identity, and public commentary intersect in today’s digital diplomacy landscape.

Health innovation across the Caribbean is explored in “AI, Genomics Offer Path to Transform Caribbean Health – CARICOM SG,” presenting emerging opportunities for data-driven healthcare transformation within the region.

On the back page, readers are treated to a cultural highlight with “Met Gala 2026: Beyoncé, Kidman, Others to Co-Host as Vogue Unveils Theme, Details,” offering insights into one of the world’s most anticipated fashion events and its global influence.

As Diaspora Watch Newspaper marks this significant milestone, the 90th edition reaffirms its commitment to delivering credible, insightful, and impactful journalism that bridges continents and amplifies diaspora voices.

Stay informed and ahead of the curve with the 90th edition of Diaspora Watch where we the complex dynamics shaping our world and provide insights into the stories that matter.

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Diaspora

POLITICS

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POLITICS

Fifteen foreign nationals deported from the United States, mostly believed to be South Americans, have arrived in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) under a temporary hosting arrangement that is already drawing international attention and debate over migration policy and diplomatic cooperation.

The deportees landed at N’djili International Airport in Kinshasa in the early hours of Friday, according to airport sources who confirmed that the group was largely made up of Colombian and Peruvian nationals.

The arrangement marks the first known batch of deportees sent to the Central African nation under a broader US policy of relocating “third-country migrants”,  individuals returned to a country that is neither their origin nor initial destination.

A Congolese government source said the individuals were admitted under short-stay permits and in line with national immigration laws governing the entry and residence of foreigners.

However, authorities stressed that the arrangement is strictly temporary. “The individuals concerned are admitted to the national territory under short-stay permits, in accordance with national legislation concerning the entry and residence of foreigners,” the government stated, while offering no additional details about the identities or conditions of the deportees.

Kinshasa had earlier defended its decision to participate in the arrangement, describing it as consistent with its commitment to human dignity, migrant protection, and international solidarity.

Officials were quick to clarify, however, that the agreement should not be interpreted as a long-term relocation scheme or a form of outsourced migration control.

The United States, under its ongoing immigration enforcement policy, has expanded the practice of transferring deportees to third countries. Similar arrangements have reportedly been made with Ghana, South Sudan, and Eswatini, as Washington intensifies its crackdown on irregular migration.

Although the US State Department declined to comment on specific diplomatic communications with partner countries, it reaffirmed the administration’s hardline stance.

The department said the government remains “unwavering in its commitment to end illegal and mass immigration and bolster America’s border security.”

A minority report from the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee further suggested that the administration may have spent more than $40 million on third-country deportations up to January 2026, though officials concede that the full cost remains unclear.

The report also indicated that over $32 million had been directly disbursed to several partner countries, including Equatorial Guinea, Rwanda, El Salvador, Eswatini, and Palau.

Beyond immigration cooperation, the development comes at a time of deepening US engagement in the DRC over strategic mineral resources.

Washington is reportedly negotiating access to the country’s vast reserves of cobalt, lithium, tantalum, and copper,  minerals critical to global technology and energy industries.

The arrangement also coincides with renewed diplomatic efforts aimed at stabilizing eastern Congo, where conflict involving the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group continues to threaten regional peace.

Following recent talks mediated by the United States and Qatar in Switzerland, both the Congolese government and rebel representatives agreed on measures including humanitarian access, civilian protection, and steps toward a monitored ceasefire.

Despite these diplomatic advances, tensions remain high.

Rwanda has repeatedly denied allegations of supporting the M23 rebels, insisting instead that its military posture is defensive in nature and aimed at countering security threats from armed groups operating within Congolese territory.

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Diaspora

Diaspora Diva – Amaarae

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Diaspora Diva - Amaarae

Ghanaian-American singer Amaarae has steadily carved out a distinct space in global pop culture, blending Afrobeats, R&B, and alté into a sound that feels both futuristic and deeply personal.

Born Ama Serwah Genfi in the Bronx and raised between the United States and Ghana, the genre-bending star has become one of the most exciting voices redefining African music on the world stage. From her early days experimenting with mixtapes as a teenager to the release of her debut EP Passion fruit Summers in 2017.

Amaarae’s artistic journey has been rooted in fearless self-expression. Her breakout moment came with her debut album The Angel You Don’t Know, a critically acclaimed project that earned “Best New Music” recognition and positioned her as a global tastemaker.

Her viral hit Sad Girlz Luv Money, especially its remix featuring Kali Uchis, became a cultural phenomenon, dominating TikTok and international charts.

The track’s success under-scored her ability to create music that resonates across borders while maintaining a unique sonic identity.

Beyond music, Amaarae is equally celebrated for her bold fashion sense and fluid approach to gender and identity. From being featured by Vogue as a style influencer to consistently pushing visual boundaries, she embodies a new generation of African creatives who are as visually compelling as they are musically innovative.

With subsequent projects like Fountain Baby and Black Star, alongside a historic solo performance at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, Amaarae continues to break barriers.

Whether through her sound, style, or stage presence, she remains a symbol of unapologetic individuality, one redefining what it means to be a global African pop star.

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