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Tensions Deepen as South Sudan’s Kiir Suspends Machar, Slams Treason Charges
Tensions Deepen as South Sudan’s Kiir Suspends Machar, Slams Treason Charges
South Sudan’s fragile unity government lurched into crisis on Thursday after President Salva Kiir suspended his deputy, First Vice President Riek Machar, hours after the Justice Ministry formally charged him with treason, murder, and crimes against humanity.
Justice Minister Joseph Geng announced that Machar, Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol, and 20 others had been indicted over their alleged role in directing the White Army militia to attack federal forces in Nasir, a northeastern town, earlier this year.
Thirteen of those charged remain at large.
“The evidence gathered shows the White Army operated under the command structure of Machar’s faction, the SPLM/A-in Opposition,” Geng declared.
He stressed that while international partners had shown concern, the matter was now before the courts, warning against external pressure.
By evening, state radio carried Kiir’s decree suspending both Machar and Kang Chol from office, a decision that escalates the long-running power struggle between the two men.
Kiir and Machar—once battlefield rivals during South Sudan’s 2013–2018 civil war that claimed an estimated 400,000 lives—have shared power uneasily since the 2018 peace deal brokered regional stability. But mistrust and periodic clashes have continued to haunt the coalition.
Machar has been under house arrest since March, following the Nasir incident in which scores were killed.
Western governments and human rights groups have warned that his detention and now treason charges could derail peace and plunge the country back into conflict.
Local civil society groups were quick to caution against politically driven justice.
Activist Edmund Yakani said: “This matter must be handled by a competent court of law, not a kangaroo court. Otherwise, it will inflame the very tensions we are trying to avoid.”
International observers fear the indictment could split Machar’s SPLM/A-IO faction, with loyalists threatening to abandon the peace process.
Diplomats privately warned that the developments risk undoing years of fragile reconciliation efforts in the world’s youngest country.
For Kiir, the move may consolidate authority in the short term. But with elections looming next year and the opposition fractured, the treason charges against Machar could yet reshape South Sudan’s volatile political landscape.
Late Afrobeat Pioneer, Fela Earns Historic Global Recognition.
Late Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, has been inducted into the prestigious Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, becoming the first Nigerian artist to receive the honor.
Naija News reports that the announcement marks another major global recognition for the iconic musician, decades after his passing.
Fela was inducted under the “Early Influence” category, alongside renowned global music figures such as Queen Latifah, Celia Cruz, MC Lyte, and Gram Parsons.
The list of inductees was unveiled in the United States during a live broadcast of the popular television show, American Idol.
Also recognized is Nigerian-born British singer, Sade Adu, who will be inducted in the “Performer” category.
She joins a lineup of global stars including Phil Collins, Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, Oasis, Luther Vandross, and Wu-Tang Clan.
Despite stiff competition, several high-profile nominees failed to make the final list. These include Shakira, Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, New Edition, and Pink.
Organizers disclosed that over 1,200 artists, historians, and music industry professionals participated in the voting process.
The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place on November 14 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.
Fela’s latest recognition comes just months after he made history in January as the first African musician to receive the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
The honor, coming nearly 30 years after his death, further cements his legacy as a global music icon and pioneer of Afrobeat.
It also follows the introduction of the Best African Performance category at the Grammy Awards two years ago, reflecting growing global recognition for African music.
Rihanna to Receive Edison Achievement Award for “Reshaping the World Through Innovation”
The Edison Achievement Awards ceremony will take place in Fort Myers, Florida on April 16. However, Rihanna won’t be making the trek as she is confirmed to accept virtually.
Rihanna is being singled out for her innovative skills.
The superstar singer and entrepreneur has been selected to receive an Edison Achievement Award, an honor doled out to recognize “individuals who are reshaping industries and the world through innovation.” The award is presented each year to groundbreakers “whose extraordinary contributions transcend expectations advancing human-centered design, accelerating meaningful change and redefining what’s possible within their fields.” Winners are plucked by a steering committee that zeroes in on recipients based on biography, impact and visionary practices.
The award ceremony will take place in Fort Myers, Florida on April 16. However, Rihanna won’t be making the trek as she is confirmed to accept virtually. Also set to be honored that night will be National Basketball Association commissioner Adam Silver.
“Rihanna has consistently pushed boundaries across music, beauty, fashion and philanthropy while setting new standards for creativity, inclusivity, and global influence,” said Frank Bonafilia, Edison Awards executive director. “She embodies the spirit of Thomas Edison, by using inclusive innovation as a catalyst for progress. We are honored to recognize her with this year’s award.”
In announcing the news, the Edison team cited Rihanna’s achievements in transforming the beauty industry with the launch of Fenty Beauty, hailed for its inclusive standards with the range of products, and building on that foundation and vision with an expansion that includes Fenty Skin, Fenty Hair and Savage X Fenty fashion line. In addition to her accomplishments in music, she also founded the Clara Lionel Foundation to give back.
Australia Gets Its First Female Army Chief, Susan Coyle.
Susan Coyle, currently chief of joint capabilities, is the first woman to be appointed head of any of the services in the Australian military.
Australia will get its first female chief of army, with the appointment of Lieutenant General Susan Coyle to the post. Coyle, currently chief of joint capabilities, is the first woman to be appointed head of any of the services in the Australian military.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced the appointments of new military chiefs on Monday, ahead of the government unveiling its 2026 statement on defense strategy and investment later this week. The appointments commence in July.
The current Navy Chief, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, will become the new Chief of the Defence Force, replacing Admiral David Johnston.
Hammond has commanded submarines and the Australian fleet. He has been the Chief of the Navy since 2022. As the second naval officer in a row to serve as chief of the Australian Defence Force (ADF), his expertise is particularly relevant as Australia deals with the AUKUS agreement.
Coyle, who enlisted in the Army Reserves in 1987, has worked at the tactical, operational and strategic levels and in command roles. These include the commander of the Task Group Afghanistan and the commanding officer of the 17th Signal Regiment. She replaces Lieutenant General Stuart as Army Chief.
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