News from November 11, 2025

World

A Trump doco has plunged the BBC into crisis. The critics have a good point

But that’s been going on for decades, and neither Britain’s conservative politicians nor its rampant national press have the power that they used to have. For all the meteoric rise of Nigel Farage’s Reform Party in the polls, the power in Westminster and Canberra right now is with Labour and Labor. Donald Trump, of course, has demonstrated the most ferocious opposition to critical media outlets, whether they are American or foreign. And it is a documentary about Trump, aired last October in the run-up to the presidential election, that is the primary reason for the resignation of Davie and Turness. Panorama’s editing of Trump’s famous speech on January 6, 2021 was, in my view as in many others’, egregious. Trump is a rambling speaker. It’s normal to edit people down for television. But to take two widely separated fragments of his speech and run them together to suggest that, in a single sentence, he had called on the crowd to march on the Capitol and “fight like hell”, without even a wipe to indicate the edit, is unacceptable. Still, does a single unjustifiable edit in a Panorama program merit the resignation of the boss of the entire BBC? Most people would say, “of course not”.

Jonathan Holmes 11 hours ago

Politics

How neo-Nazis slipped the net and used NSW parliament for their vile ends

How it unfolded October 27: The NSW leader of the National Socialist Network, Jack Eltis, submitted a Form 1 application as a “notice of intention to hold a public assembly”. Eltis, a north-west Sydney tradie, who describes himself as a “white man of honour”, described himself in the form as the “NSW state leader” of White Australia. The Herald revealed the application was addressed to Lanyon. November 3: Thurtell said he was made aware of the planned rally five days before the event. He said later he did not have any information there would be any illegal activity, but acknowledged: “In hindsight, it was an oversight of mine not to tell the commissioner.” November 4: In a wide-ranging speech about the threats facing the country, Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) director-general Mike Burgess sounded the alarm about the NSN, although he noted it had not engaged in terrorism. “I remain deeply concerned by its hateful, divisive rhetoric and increasingly violent propaganda, and the growing likelihood these things will prompt spontaneous violence, particularly in response to perceived provocation,” he told the Lowy Institute. Friday: The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Greg Piper, became aware of the planned protest. The President of the Legislative Council, Ben Franklin, was also informed. Piper said he was aghast when informed late on Friday and immediately asked his staff to contact the parliament’s security team for an urgent intervention, but was told it was too late. Saturday: The rally took place at 10am. A Herald photographer captured the event. Minns and Lanyon held a media conference about 3pm, where the premier and the police commissioner both said they had not been informed in advance. Minns raised the prospect of introducing new laws.

Michael Ruffles 11 hours ago

World

Born to an unwed mother far from home, this baby cannot leave

Precious’ mother, Penina Wanjiru Kihiu, came to Saudi Arabia in 2019. Kihiu, now 32, worked for an abusive employer for nine months, she said. When he finally let her quit, she said, he abandoned her, nearly broke, at the airport. Another Kenyan offered shelter and helped her find work as a freelance housekeeper. Most mothers interviewed by the Times were working freelance when they became pregnant. Leaving their employers violates Saudi labour and immigration regulations, which human rights groups say are a form of “modern-day slavery” – but it is also common. Employers and Saudi officials call the vast workforce of women like Kihiu “runaways”. Kenyan freelancers call themselves by another name: kemboi. The term is inspired by the Kenyan Olympian Ezekiel Kemboi, whose sport is steeplechase racing, in which athletes leap over hurdles. As a new kemboi, Kihiu relied on a Nepali taxi driver to ferry her around Riyadh. They began dating, and soon, she said, she missed her period. Most mothers interviewed by the Times conceived their children during a relationship with another immigrant. Four said that they had been raped. Two said they had not realised they were pregnant when they arrived in Saudi Arabia. Pregnant women are entitled to medical care, regardless of their paperwork, the Saudi government centre said. But when an unmarried woman gives birth, the hospital must notify the police of an “illegal pregnancy” Mufareh Asiri, the medical director of the women’s health hospital at King Saud Medical City, said. So, like many single mothers, Kihiu gave birth at home. After eight hours of labour, Precious arrived on May 17, 2022. Precious’ day care was run by a matronly proprietor named Agatha. Kihiu would spend days or weeks working and then visit her daughter when she returned. While she was gone, Agatha became Precious’ surrogate mother. One day in March, Kihiu finished a job and bought diapers for Precious, planning to visit her the next day. That evening, police raided Kihiu’s housing complex. She was arrested along with other East African residents, she said, in what she assumes was an immigration crackdown. On March 28, Kihiu was deported to Kenya, alone. The Saudi government did not respond to questions about her case, but said that separating a mother and child was not allowed “under any circumstance”. Precious would not have been able to leave the country without documents. Several women said that authorities had denied their pleas to self-deport with their children. In the end, the mothers can leave. Their children cannot. For Precious, the day care is home now. An almost impossible task Because the kingdom has no written penal code, the boundaries of permissible behaviour are fuzzy. Two unmarried mothers interviewed by the Times said that they had been briefly jailed. Others, including several who gave birth in hospitals, said they had faced no repercussions. The snag came when they tried to register their children. On paper, all children in Saudi Arabia are entitled to birth certificates, and parents are obligated to report home births to the authorities, the Saudi government centre said. In reality, single mothers fall into a bureaucratic abyss. When foreign parents apply for birth certificates, authorities are supposed to “verify that the marital relationship exists”. An absent or uncooperative father can hinder a child’s registration. Asked how unmarried women could obtain birth certificates at his hospital, Asiri said it was a “complicated process” involving social workers and the police. “By the end, she can get it,” he said. “But I’m not sure how.” Many mothers turn to their embassies for help. Countries like the Philippines operate shelters for destitute mothers in Saudi Arabia, guide them through the process of obtaining birth certificates and exit permits for their children, and buy them plane tickets. Several mothers said that workers at the Kenyan Embassy called them prostitutes or accused them of seducing men. Some mothers received Kenyan birth certificates at the embassy, but could not say why they succeeded. Others could not get them, and similarly had no idea why. “Our government, I think they don’t care,” said Rose Namusasi, a Kenyan woman who works at a school in Riyadh and has assumed an unofficial role lobbying Kenyan officials on behalf of the mothers. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on what’s making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter.

Vivian Nereim And Abdi Latif Dahir 11 hours ago

Technology

Bord Bia: Irish hospitality and foodservice market hits €10.4 billion

The value of the Irish hospitality and foodservice market has reached a record €10.4 billion, according to Bord Bia. The Bord Bia annual Foodservice Market Insights report published today (Tuesday, November 11), shows that the Irish ‘out of home’ sector has increased in value by 5%. The report noted that much of this increase has come about due to inflation and higher menu prices driven by significant cost pressures in the sector. The foodservice market includes all food and drink consumed and prepared out of home including restaurants; pubs; hotels; coffee shops; workplace catering; hospitals; education; and vending. The research shows that although the sector has been resilient, post-pandemic growth is slowing, and consumer footfall remains mostly unchanged. Bord Bia sais that operational profitability remains under significant strain, as input costs continue to rise and margin pressures persist. According to the report, prices on menus are now 26% higher than in 2020. "Consumers want to go out and eat but many perceive that dining out has become unaffordable. "This is a significant challenge as the industry is unlikely to see any real growth until menu price inflation is in line with or lower than the general inflation rate," the report added. Bord Bia said that hotels and pubs continue to show slower recovery than other commercial channels. There is also an "urban-rural divide" with businesses outside of major towns facing greater challenges and resulting in higher closure rates. Maureen Gahan, foodservice specialist at Bord Bia, said that many operators still struggle with profitability due to rising costs. "However, sectors like education catering and events are experiencing sustained growth. "Future growth will depend not only on pricing, but also on collaboration, innovation, and a renewed emphasis on making foodservice both affordable and enjoyable for consumers," she added. Opportunities Bord Bia said that despite the challenges, there are areas of strong performance and emerging opportunities. The expansion of the Hot School Meals programme in the Republic of Ireland and workers returning to offices drove 15.5% growth in institutional foodservice. Consumer spending at sporting, cultural and music events remains robust. Fast-food restaurants and food to go outlets have also outpaced the market by capturing everyday meal occasions and value-conscious consumers. Collaboration Bord Bia is projecting further growth of 5% in the industry in 2026, expected to be again driven primarily by inflation. To overcome shared challenges around labour shortages, wage inflation, and operational efficiency, the report emphasises that collaboration across the supply chain will be critical. "While the operating landscape remains challenging, the outlook is not without opportunity. "Our research shows that businesses which clearly articulate their value proposition, execute consistently, and strategically target market share can still outperform, even in a low-growth environment," Gahan said. Foodservice seminar Over 300 industry representatives and experts are expected to attend Bord Bia's annual foodservice seminar at Johnstown Estate, Enfield, Co. Meath today. The event will discuss the current challenges and opportunities for Ireland’s hospitality and foodservice sector. Among the speakers at the seminar will be Pat Sullivan, chief executive Master Chefs; Maxine Hyde, general manager, Ballymaloe Foods; Sean Ryan, foodservice account director, Kerry and Jack Kirwan, co-founder and chief executive, Sprout.

Aisling O,Aisling O'Brien 11 hours ago

Technology

Bond market: Turnover declines 30% to GH¢399m

The Secondary bond market softened notably, with total turnover declining 30.12% week-on-week to GH¢399.29 million from GH¢571.42 million the previous week. Trading was largely concentrated in the February 2032 maturity, which remained the most actively traded paper. This accounted for GH¢145.04 million of flows. The 2031-2034 bonds emerged as the market’s anchor, capturing 56% of total turnover at a weighted average yield of 15.74%. The 2027–2030 maturities also drew notable interest, accounting for 35% of traded volumes at a weighted average yield of 15.92%. Databank Research said it expects market activity to remain subdued in the near term. However, the S&P upgrade of Ghana’s credit rating to B-/B from CCC+/C signals improving macro and fiscal conditions and could gradually support sentiment and investor re-engagement. President Commissions 36.5 Million Dollars Hospital In The Tain District You Will Not Go Free For Killing An Hard Working MP – Akufo-Addo To MP’s Killer I Will Lead You To Victory – Ato Forson Assures NDC Supporters Visit Our Social Media for More

Hbtvghana 11 hours ago

Business

Young Innovators Dialogue connects South African entrepreneurs with UAE investors and opportunities

The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in South Africa, in partnership with Azanyah Trade Hub and My Aman NPC, will host the Young Innovators Dialogue, a pioneering platform designed to connect South Africa’s brightest young entrepreneurs with UAE companies, investors, and industry leaders. The dialogue will bring together entrepreneurs aged 18–35, policymakers, and innovation ecosystem partners for a day of exchange, networking, and collaboration. Strategically supported by Empact Group, the event seeks to build bridges between innovation communities in South Africa and the UAE. “The Young Innovators Dialogue reflects our belief that innovation and entrepreneurship are essential drivers of progress,” said Mahash Saeed Alhameli, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to South Africa. “By empowering young people to think boldly and collaborate across borders, we are building a foundation for shared prosperity, mutual growth, and lasting partnerships between our nations.” The Young Innovators Dialogue aims to showcase cutting-edge projects across fintech, agritech, health-tech, renewable energy, and other emerging sectors, offering participants the opportunity to connect directly with UAE-based businesses and potential investors. Through interactive panel discussions, live demonstrations, and networking sessions, the initiative will unlock new pathways for knowledge sharing, investment, and cross-border collaboration. Beyond the event itself, the dialogue forms part of a broader vision to strengthen bilateral ties between South Africa and the UAE through youth-led innovation. By fostering a culture of co-creation and enterprise, the initiative aligns with both nations’ commitments to sustainable development, job creation, and inclusive growth. It also reflects a shared belief that young entrepreneurs are not just future leaders, they are active architects of today’s economic transformation. “This initiative creates an inspiring space for dialogue and action,” said Counsellor Fatima Alsuwaidi of the UAE Embassy in South Africa. “The partnerships formed here will not only open new markets for young entrepreneurs but also deepen the spirit of collaboration and knowledge exchange between our countries.” By empowering young entrepreneurs with access to resources, mentorship, and global markets, the dialogue is expected to generate tangible partnerships that drive economic growth and sustainable development across both nations. President Commissions 36.5 Million Dollars Hospital In The Tain District You Will Not Go Free For Killing An Hard Working MP – Akufo-Addo To MP’s Killer I Will Lead You To Victory – Ato Forson Assures NDC Supporters Visit Our Social Media for More

Hbtvghana 11 hours ago

Politics

Punjab CM Bhagwant Manns home district grapples with sanitation woes - The Tribune

Sangrur, the home district of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, continues to grapple with serious sanitation issues.Streets remain littered with garbage and stray cattle rummage through waste, presenting an unhygienic picture even near key landmarks such as Ranbir College, where the 350th martyrdom day is being observed.Despite the Punjab State Human Rights Commission taking suo motu cognisance of an earlier Tribune report (November 2) about civic neglect, conditions in several localities — particularly Ramnagar — remain poor, with sewage water still stagnant.Residents and activists, including Jaswinder Kaur and Harbinder Singh Sekhon (93), have criticised the administration for its inaction, urging the government to declare a health emergency in the city.Municipal Council Executive Officer Ashish Kumar acknowledged the challenges, citing recent efforts to address employee negligence and a shortage of waste transport trolleys.He assured that civic issues would be resolved “in a time-bound manner”.Social activist Roshan Garg warned that the unhygienic conditions and waterlogging are leading to multiple health problems among residents.

Mohit Khanna 11 hours ago

Sports

Hogs plan for 2 OL to return

FAYETTEVILLE -- The University of Arkansas should have a pair of key offensive linemen back, but will not have the services of a third injured lineman when the Razorbacks face LSU at 11:45 a.m. Saturday in Baton Rouge. Starting center Caden Kitler and starting right tackle E'Marion Harris should be back in the mix for Arkansas (2-7, 0-5 SEC) when it takes on LSU (5-4, 2-3 SEC). Kitler and Harris both missed a 38-35 loss against Mississippi State on Nov. 1 with unspecified injuries. Redshirt freshman Shaq McRoy, who started at right tackle, suffered a leg injury on the game's second play and did not return. "Both offensive linemen are back going," Arkansas interim Coach Bobby Petrino said in reference to Harris and Kitler. "Shaq did not practice last night. We probably won't have him available for us." McRoy was helped off the field and replaced by redshirt freshman Kavion Broussard for the rest of the game. "I'm just glad that it's not worse than it was," Petrino said of McRoy's injury. "It was an ugly look on video so he's actually fortunate that it wasn't worse than it was." Petrino said quarterback Taylen Green and nickel back Jordan Young should be full go for Tuesday's practice, while defensive end Charlie Collins is less probable to be ready by Saturday. Collins and Young both left the game against Mississippi State with leg injuries. "Charlie Collins should get some work in tomorrow," Petrino said. "That'll give us an idea of where he'll be at. A lot of his is just being able to handle the pain and see where that's at. It's a bone bruise, which are always very painful in your knee. No structural damage, so that's a great thing for him and his future. But it'll just be how quickly he can get back and whether he can or not." LSU injuries LSU is dealing with injuries to key players, though not as many as the Razorbacks. Tigers linebacker Whit Weeks' availability is still uncertain for the Arkansas game on Saturday, interim LSU Coach Frank Wilson said Monday. Weeks has had a bone bruise in his ankle since Sept. 27, and he's missed the last three games. Wide receiver Nic Anderson suffered a knee injury during Saturday's 20-9 loss at Alabama and he's questionable for this week. "We were really worried on the sideline that it could be something long term," Wilson said. "It is not. It does not require a procedure, and so we're day by day in a rehabilitation, preventative manner with him to get him along the way." Anderson left the game walking gingerly and was seen on crutches on the sideline later. The junior transfer from Oklahoma has 12 receptions for 74 yards and 2 touchdowns on 18 targets. The Arkansas at Texas game on Nov. 22 in Austin, Texas, will not receive a kickoff time until Sunday after the SEC's broadcast partners applied further "flex" status to the game. The former Southwest Conference rivals have three potential kickoff times -- at 2:30 p.m., 6 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. Central. The Tennessee at Florida game, also set for Nov. 22, has the same kickoff options. Every other SEC game has a set kickoff time for that date. There are only four conference games, with Missouri at Oklahoma at 11 a.m. Central and Kentucky at Vanderbilt at 2:30 p.m. Central, joining the others. Arkansas will have its seventh consecutive morning or afternoon kickoff at 11:45 a.m. Saturday at LSU. Weather watch The forecast for Saturday in Baton Rouge is calling for a partly cloudy day with a high of 79 degrees and about a 22% chance for rain. That'll make for a much more pleasant end to the week than the Razorbacks had to start it. Sunday evening's practice was held inside Walker Pavilion, as it was windy with temperatures dropping rapidly throughout the day to an overnight low of about 20 degrees in Northwest Arkansas. Monday's high temperature in the region was in the low 40s. However, the afternoon highs are expected to reach into the mid 70s again for a few days, beginning Thursday. The nature of Arkansas' tight losses is evident in the team's scoring numbers. Despite being five games below .500, the Razorbacks are still outscoring opponents 319-300 on the season. The Razorbacks are 0-5 in one-score games this season; 0-2 under Sam Pittman and 0-3 under interim Coach Bobby Petrino. Arkansas has been outscored 191-167 while going 0-5 in SEC games for an average score of 38-33. Notre Dame handed the Razorbacks a 56-13 loss on Sept. 27, their only margin of defeat greater than 10 points this season. In its three other nonconference games, Arkansas beat Alabama A&M 52-7 on Aug. 30, downed Arkansas State 56-14 on Sept. 6 and lost to Memphis 32-31 on Sept. 20. First action With starting center Caden Kitler and tackle E'Marion Harris unavailable for a 38-35 loss to Mississippi State on Nov. 1, freshman Kash Courtney and redshirt freshman Shaq McRoy started the first game of their careers. Redshirt freshman Kavion Broussard replaced an injured McRoy for the game's third snap and played the final 80 in a quasi start. Courtney played all 82 snaps and was graded harshly by Pro Football Focus in the pass-blocking category. "They both played well at times," interim Coach Bobby Petrino said. "They showed their ability and that they're both going to be really, really good football players. And then their inexperience showed up at times, too. So it's kind of that balancing act of being able to get your job done even though you're inexperienced." Petrino made it sound like Kitler and Harris should be back in the lineup on Saturday, but the young linemen gained key experience. Redshirt freshman Kobe Branham, in his first season as a full-time starter, posted the highest run and pass-blocking grades by PFF. Sunday practices under Bobby Petrino usually feature younger players, while the starters from Saturday's game pair running and conditioning to reduce soreness. However, this past Sunday's hour-and-a-half-long practice following the bye week was different than normal. The interim coach said he likes to bring players back on a Sunday to ensure an entire roster is present and ready for Monday classes. Petrino said it was a longer, more grueling practice and players handled it well. "We had two good days of work last week and then came back last night," Petrino said. "Had a good practice last night. I thought the players reacted really well, had a lot of enthusiasm and worked extremely hard to get us into a normal schedule so they could be off (Monday) and then get us into a regular Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday schedule."

Matt Byrne,Tom Murphy 11 hours ago

Entertainment

Tatsuya Nakadai, Japanese actor of Ran, Yojimbo and Harakiri, dies aged 92

Star of Japan’s cinematic golden age, who collaborated with Kurosawa and played the lead in Kobayashi’s Human Condition trilogy, died from pneumonia

Justin McCurry in Tokyo 11 hours ago

World

Tragic Brits in their 70s died together in Spanish floods as they drove to get petrol

Two British ex-pats in their 70s died tragically together in their car after getting caught in floods in Spain. Donald Turner, 78, and Terry Turner, 74, became trapped in their car during the Valencia floods last year. The pair were found dead in their vehicle on November 2, 2024. The natural disaster was Spain’s largest flooding catastrophe in decades, leaving more than 230 people dead when nearly a year’s worth of rain fell in just eight hours, reports Stoke On Trent Live . An inquest into their deaths heard the couple were reported missing to the Spanish authorities as torrential floods hit the Spanish city on October 29 last year. Donald and Terry, from Burntwood in Staffordshire had been driving to a petrol station near their home when they attempted to cross a ford that was one-foot wide. A sudden burst of floodwater emerged from uphill, flipping their car onto its side and leaving the pair submerged inside. Relatives reported that the ‘catastrophic’ aftermath left the usually narrow ford around 50m in length. Paying tribute, daughter Ruth O’Loughlin said: “They were the best people. And the best parents anyone could have ever asked for. Dad was always the funny one, being silly and having a laugh. Mum was more serious but she always gave the best advice when you needed it.” Her sister, Renee Turner, added: “They’d planned to move away for retirement for a long time. They actually wanted to go to Greece originally, but the house prices were too expensive. They’d lived there for 11 years. Dad loved it, but Mum had started to miss home towards the end. They were actually planning on moving back soon - which just makes it all the more tragic.” Dr Miquel Solenne, of the Medical Institute of Valencia, confirmed that the couple had died from ‘mechanical asphyxiation’ after becoming submerged in their car. Daughter Ruth and Renee criticised Spanish authorities at the time of their parents' deaths for failing to provide enough warning of the massive floods. Their concerns were shared with the inquest. Speaking on the subject, Coroner Andrew Barkley said: “The issue at hand, which is of course a very valid concern, is that the outcome may have been different had a weather warning been given earlier. The difficulty I have with that is I don’t have any evidence that helps me come to a sensible conclusion. "Of course, predicting a flooding event and the effects it will have is often very difficult. Whilst I understand fully that there is a very legitimate concern, I don’t think we can take that particular matter any further forward.” Mr Barkley concluded that the couple had died as a result of misadventure after becoming caught up in the floods. He added: “It was a natural event. The misadventure is that they died as a consequence of driving their car to a petrol station to get gas. “My thanks to all the family for attending. Your evidence has been very helpful. It is very difficult when the information we’ve received from the foreign jurisdiction is so sparse. I hope this has brought you some form of closure.”

Kirstie McCrum,Thomas Cooper 11 hours ago

Politics

Bird flu alert issued for poultry growers Kansas credit union merges with UNIFY Index dips by 1.63, ends day at 916.49

Bird flu alert issued for poultry growers The Arkansas Department of Agriculture issued a notice reminding poultry growers and industry partners to remain alert to signs of highly pathogenic avian influenza on Monday. The department stated a confirmed case of avian influenza in a backyard flock in Mississippi County. "While this is currently the only confirmed detection, cases in neighboring states highlight the ongoing importance of prevention and monitoring," the department said. Avian influenza is highly contagious and can affect both domestic and wild birds, causing sudden death or severe injury to poultry, according to the department. Losses of poultry from the spread of disease could result in major economic losses for state poultry producers. Arkansas rules require any suspected or confirmed case of avian influenza to be reported to the department immediately. Confirmed cases could result in quarantines, restriction of poultry movement or require depopulation and disinfection. The Agriculture Department recommends washing hands and footwear before and after contact with birds, restricting visitors to poultry areas, limiting exposure to wild birds and reporting dead or sick birds immediately. -- Dylan Sherman Kansas credit union merges with UNIFY Kansas-based CommunityAmerica Credit Union expanded its holdings into Arkansas by merging with UNIFY Financial Credit Union on Nov. 1. The merger gained CommunityAmerica a federal charter, top 40 credit union status, $9 billion in assets, and over 600,000 members. "This merger marks an exciting milestone for CommunityAmerica," Lisa Ginter, CEO of CommunityAmerica Credit Union, said in a release. UNIFY Financial Credit Union has six locations in Northwest Arkansas. The integration of all systems and operations is expected to be completed by the middle of 2026. Newly-merged members can expect detailed updates about the timeline, brand integration, and changes to service over months ahead. "Joining forces with CommunityAmerica marks an exciting new chapter for UNIFY," Gordon Howe, CEO of UNIFY Financial Credit Union, said in a statement. Ginter will continue as CommunityAmerica's CEO. Howe, meanwhile, joins the newly merged credit union's team of executives. Three additional members of UNIFY's board of directors have been transferred the CommunityAmerica board, as well. Index dips by 1.63, ends day at 916.49 The Arkansas Index, a price-weighted index that tracks the largest public companies based in the state, closed Monday at 916.49, down 1.63 points. "Stocks closed higher on Monday, on news that the Senate may have the votes to begin the process of opening up the government and AI-related stocks helped the cause, pushing higher after last week's sell-off," said Leon Lants, managing director at Stephens Inc. The index was developed by Bloomberg News and the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette with a base value of 100 as of Dec. 30, 1997.

John Magsam 11 hours ago

Politics

India police investigate final moments of vehicle in fatal Delhi blast

Eight people killed in explosion outside city’s historic Red Fort on Monday evening

Hannah Ellis-Petersen in Delhi 11 hours ago

World

Cedi rally cools off; one dollar going for GH¢11.95 at forex bureaus

The Ghana cedi’s strong rally steadied over the past two weeks as market momentum cooled across both interbank and retail markets. On the interbank market, the local unit closed at a midrate of GH¢10.92 to one US dollar, depreciating by 0.64% from GH¢10.85 to a dollar. The pound fell by 0.37% to GH¢14.37 from GH¢14.42, while the euro edged up 0.22% to GH¢12.64 from GH¢12.61. In the retail market, the US dollar/Ghana cedi pair closed at GH¢11.95 (up 2.51% from GH¢12.25), while the pound/cedi and euro/cedi pairs settled at GH¢15.45 (up 5.18% from GH¢16.35) and GH¢13.65 (up 4.40% from GH¢14.25), respectively. As broadly expected, the strong appreciation of the cedi moderated as sell-offs eased and buyers were drawn to discounted opportunities. “We believe the cedi’s gain in the retail market most likely reflects retailers recalibrating rates from elevated levels amid relatively weak demand, as participants favoured interbank rates”, Databank Research stated. “Looking ahead, we foresee modest pressure on the cedi as foreign exchange supply tightens ahead of the expected US$385 million inflow post-International Monetary Fund board approval in December 2025. Despite well-anchored expectations from stronger FDIs [Foreign Direct Investments] and the S&P credit upgrade, we believe a measured reduction in BoG [Bank of Ghana] interventions to support export competitiveness and protect local producers may temper further cedi gains in the near term”, it added. Meanwhile, the local currency began this week going for GH¢11.95 in the retail market. On the interbank market, the cedi is selling at GH¢10.92. President Commissions 36.5 Million Dollars Hospital In The Tain District You Will Not Go Free For Killing An Hard Working MP – Akufo-Addo To MP’s Killer I Will Lead You To Victory – Ato Forson Assures NDC Supporters Visit Our Social Media for More

Hbtvghana 11 hours ago

World

Delhi blast aftermath: Bhubaneswar airport put on three-day alert, hotels across Odisha tighten security

"In the wake of the Delhi car explosion on Monday evening that claimed multiple lives, security has been heightened across Odisha, with the Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar and leading hotels across the state stepping up surveillance and screening.Advertisment Accordingly, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a nationwide high alert for all airports for three days, prompting state authorities to enforce stricter security checks and monitoring, informed authorities at the BPIA. Complete Bag Screening In Place Sources reported an increase in security presence at Bhubaneswar airport with Quick Response Teams (QRTs), bomb disposal squads, and dog squads patrolling both the arrival and departure zones. Airport Director Prasanna Kumar Pradhan said that the DGCA has directed intensified vigilance at all entry and exit points.Advertisment “After the unfortunate incident in Delhi, the DGCA has issued a high alert for all airports for three days. Our Special Airport Security team is holding an emergency meeting today to strengthen existing protocols. One of the measures we"ve adopted is 100% screening of all bags and luggage, both during check-in and pre-boarding, for the next three days,” Pradhan told OTV. Authorities have also increased CCTV surveillance coverage and deployed additional staff at sensitive checkpoints. Security personnel have been instructed to remain on high alert and coordinate closely with the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and local police to handle any emergencies. Additional Checkpoints, Round-The-Clock Patrols Reports stated that following the DGCA alert, check posts near the airport"s outer perimeter have been strengthened. Routine frisking and document checks for vehicles entering the terminal area are now mandatory. Sources in the airport security unit said teams are conducting continuous patrolling throughout the day and night to ensure no suspicious activity goes unnoticed. However, the Bhubaneswar airport director added that no flights have been delayed or disrupted due to the enhanced measures, and passenger cooperation has been “satisfactory.” ALSO READ: Delhi Blast LIVE Updates: Conspirators behind this will not be spared, says PM Modi Hotel Industry Issues Alert Circular To Members Meanwhile, the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Odisha (HRAO) has circulated an advisory urging all hotels and hospitality establishments in the state to tighten their internal security systems. The association"s statement warned that “anti-socials may target key tourist destinations or vital installations such as Hirakud Dam and other prominent locations. Hotels could be among the first points of entry for such individuals.” The circular further directed hotel owners to intensify guest screening and ID verification, maintain proper registers of visitors, and ensure that security personnel remain alert yet courteous while frisking guests. In case of any suspicious movement or identity discrepancies, hotel authorities have been advised to immediately inform local police stations. ALSO READ: Red Fort blast: Slow-moving vehicle stopped at red light, then exploded Statewide Alert And Inter-Departmental Coordination Senior officials from the Odisha Home Department confirmed that district administrations have been asked to stay vigilant, particularly in Puri, Bhubaneswar, and Sambalpur, where major tourist and infrastructure sites are located. The Odisha Police Headquarters in Cuttack has also issued instructions to strengthen security at railway stations, bus terminals, and religious sites, ensuring coordination between intelligence and local law enforcement units. Airport sources said security arrangements will remain at elevated levels until further review by the central authorities. The enhanced checks are expected to continue for at least three days, subject to further orders from the DGCA and the Ministry of Civil Aviation."

Mohammed Imteshal Karim 11 hours ago

World

Reading as Defiance

A Message from The Moscow Times: Dear readers, We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent." These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia. We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help. Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact. By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.

Russia Underground 11 hours ago

World

Ex-RSL chief Greg Melick urges Albanese to boost defence spending

Former RSL Australia President Greg Melick has called on the Albanese government to lift defence spending, questioning the nation's preparedness for future conflicts. In a speech to the Australian War Memorial in Canberra on Tuesday during the Remembrance Day National Ceremony, Major General Melick - who retired last month - launched a critique on the state of the nation's armed forces. "Despite the fact that this nation has been involved in wars more often than not since Federation, I fear we remain complacent," he said. "Without a grand strategy to inform it and without sufficient funding, our defence strategy risks becoming a matter of what we can afford and not what we need." For many years, Major General Melick said, the RSL's defence and security committee had been "agitating, without apparent success, on the need to ensure that we bolster our defence spending and significantly increase our reserves, especially in fuel and ammunition, to best equip our dedicated servicemen and women before we send them into harm's way." While Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy looked on, Major General Melick said Mr Marles was "keenly aware of the issues facing his portfolio." "The challenge before him is to convince his colleagues to rebalance our priorities," he said. "Otherwise, in future Remembrance Day ceremonies we may well regret the conflict we didn't deter and remember those who we demanded to protect us without the necessary wherewithal." He said Australia needed to "appropriately prepare for a conflict we hope never comes." Quoting former Prime Minister Alfred Deakin, he said: "When we are attacked it will not be with kid gloves, or after convenient notice, but it will be when and where we least desire it and with remorseless fury." "It could be argued that little has changed since that warning, as the Defence Strategic Review has outlined," Major General Melick said. "The Indo-Pacific region has never been as dire since 1941." He expressed concern over recent polling suggesting only 30 per cent of Generation Z were prepared to fight for their country. "Let us today honour the service and sacrifice of all who have worn the nation's uniform and the families that love and support them ... and give thanks to the remarkable men and women who stand ready to defend our freedom and our values." Australia spends about 2 per cent of GDP on Defence, projected to hit about 2.4 per cent by the middle of next decade. United States Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has called for defence spending to be lifted to 3.5 per cent. Opposition defence spokesperson Angus Taylor said on Tuesday that Australia was "facing the most dangerous circumstances since the Second World War" and that the Albanese government was "underfunding our services at a time when we need the Australian Defence Force to be the strongest we can make it". Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has previously said that his government will fund defence based on what is needed on a continually reassessed basis, rather than setting an arbitrary percentage of GDP target. The government is investing an extra $70 billion in defence over the next decade, with $10.6 billion of this over the next four years. It has committed an initial $12 billion towards a major naval shipbuilding and maintenance hub at the Henderson Defence Precinct in Western Australia, part of Australia's obligations under pillar one of the AUKUS submarine deal. Defence spent $16.6 billion on acquisitions in 2023-24 and more than $17.4 billion in 2024-25.

Dana Daniel 11 hours ago

Politics

Taiwan evacuates 3000 as Typhoon Fung-wong approaches

Taiwan has evacuated more than 3000 people, issuing a land warning for the arrival of Typhoon Fung-wong, which is expected to dump large volumes of rain on its mountainous east coast, recently lashed by another typhoon. The weakening Fung-wong is forecast to hit land on Wednesday on the island's southwestern coast around the major port of Kaohsiung, after it killed 18 people while powering through the Philippines as a much stronger system. "Fung-wong may have been downgraded to a weak typhoon, but we still cannot lower our guard," Chen Chi-mai, the city's mayor, told reporters on Tuesday. On his Facebook page, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te urged people to keep clear of the mountains, the coast and other potentially dangerous areas. The transport ministry said 66, mostly domestic, flights were cancelled on Tuesday. Fung-wong is expected to cross the bottom part of Taiwan and enter the Pacific Ocean along the coast of the sparsely populated eastern counties of Taitung and Hualien. A typhoon in September unleashed flooding that killed 18 people in Hualien. The government, which has ordered evacuations in the town of Guangfu, the scene of those deadly floods, said 3337 people in four counties and cities had been moved to safer areas. Hualien closed schools and offices on Tuesday, as did the neighbouring county of Yilan. The typhoon will not directly affect the northern city of Hsinchu, home to TSMC, the world's largest contract chipmaker. Most deaths in the Philippines were caused by landslides in its mountainous northern Cordilleras, senior civil defence official Raffy Alejandro told a briefing, with two people reported missing and 28 injured. Australian Associated Press

Unknown 11 hours ago

Business

UK unemployment rises to 5%, the highest level in four years

ONS says jobs market worsening before budget, as HMRC reports falling number of workers on firms’ payrolls

Richard Partington Senior economics correspondent 11 hours ago

Politics

Former PM wanted to arrest the man who sacked Whitlam

Gough Whitlam should have arrested the governor-general who sacked him, former prime minister Paul Keating says, as another past leader lifts the lid on the "ruthless" politics preceding the dismissal. Months of parliamentary deadlock, which risked the government running out of money to pay public servants and run programs, culminated in Mr Whitlam's dismissal as prime minister on 11 November, 1975. Mr Whitlam was summoned to the residence of governor-general Sir John Kerr, who told him he'd been sacked as prime minister and opposition leader Malcolm Fraser would be installed in the job instead. Mr Keating said the saga was "destructive" and revealed he urged the prime minister to go directly to Queen Elizabeth II to have Sir John sacked. "In the event that Kerr resisted, I said to Gough he should be put under police arrest," the former Labor leader told journalist Niki Savva in an interview played at Old Parliament House to mark 50 years since the momentous day. "That is certainly what I would have done if I was prime minister." Mr Keating, who was the minister for northern Australia in 1975, was with Mr Whitlam and Sir John in the days before the fateful event. He said he saw the pair laughing together in a meeting, which added to the deceit surrounding the sacking just four days later. After the meeting, Mr Keating recalled Mr Whitlam getting into a Mercedes before saying, "Well, he seems alright ... he's entirely proper, he'll do the right thing." That was how the governor-general lulled Mr Whitlam into a false sense of security, the former prime minister said. "It was the brutality and malevolence of it all, really, which was so striking but not immediately apparent on the day," Mr Keating said. Mr Keating's successor, former Liberal prime minister John Howard, said Sir John had been unfairly criticised in the 50 years after the dismissal. "Fate cast him in a very difficult position," he told journalist Barrie Cassidy in a separate interview at Old Parliament. "(Fraser) and Whitlam together were two very determined men who were ruthlessly intent on their objectives," Mr Howard said. Australia's second-longest serving prime minister also suggested a number of changes to parliamentary processes to smooth the operations of government, including fixed four-year terms. "I would say to (Opposition Leader) Sussan Ley, to the prime minister, get together on it now and don't attach conditions," he said. Governor-General Sam Mostyn said it was unlikely such a series of events would ever play out again, although she added she would continue her role "consistent with the conventions of this office". "I could not imagine a situation in modern Australia where a prime minister would be surprised or blindsided by the governor-general in the same circumstances that occurred in 1975," she said. Ms Mostyn added there was a "strong mosaic" of checks and balances which helped underpin Australia's system of government. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the Whitlam legacy while announcing a statue of the former Labor leader would be erected outside Old Parliament. "The dismissal was a calculated plot, hatched by conservative forces which sacrificed conventions and institutions in the pursuit of power," he said. Australian Associated Press

Zac de Silva And Grace Crivellaro 11 hours ago

Politics

New scholarly work examines sophisticated military apparatus of Anlo

The institutional memory of pre-colonial African governance systems has suffered from both scholarly neglect and wilful misrepresentation. V. L. K. Djokoto’s Revolution offers a corrective — a meticulous examination of the Anlo military establishment that challenges prevailing assumptions about organisational capacity in 18th and 19th century West Africa. What emerges from Djokoto’s research is a portrait of institutional sophistication that bears comparison with contemporaneous European military structures. The Anlo developed a tripartite command architecture — centre, left, and right wings — under unified ministerial oversight, with hereditary generalships providing continuity whilst permitting tactical flexibility. This was no ad hoc arrangement of tribal levies, but rather a standing military apparatus with designated headquarters, established supply chains, and codified strategic doctrine. Archival rigour meets contemporary vision The opening chapter features a rare archival photograph from the German Bremen Mission, immediately establishing Djokoto’s methodological seriousness. These missionary archives, often overlooked in favour of British colonial records, provide invaluable primary source material for reconstructing 19th-century Ghanaian institutional life. That a 30-year-old researcher has accessed and deployed such materials suggests both archival sophistication and a commitment to documentary evidence rather than received narratives. The economics of warfare The logistical dimension proves particularly instructive. Djokoto documents a comprehensive provisioning system that maintained three reinforced war camps simultaneously, managing the distribution of grain stores and munitions across multiple theatres of operation. The final distribution — one corn seed per combatant on the decisive day — suggests both quartermaster efficiency and an understanding of psychological timing that would not seem out of place in a modern military handbook. Of equal interest is the economic structure supporting this martial infrastructure. Military service represented the apex of social capital within Anlo society — what Djokoto describes as “the most honourable form of civic achievement.” This created a self-sustaining system in which status incentives drove recruitment, whilst hereditary military castes preserved institutional knowledge across generations. The result was an effective mobilisation of human capital that permitted sustained territorial expansion. Institutional continuity and strategic security The classification of military intelligence as “Empire secrets” restricted to initiated elites demonstrates a sophisticated approach to information asymmetry. Meanwhile, the integration of religious ceremonies served dual functions: reinforcing unit cohesion whilst providing ideological justification for martial enterprise. The longevity of individual reigns offers further evidence of institutional stability. King Tenge Dzokoto II’s 38-year tenure as Dufia (1873-1911) provided strategic consistency during a period of significant European colonial expansion. His father, General Dzokoto I, had previously demonstrated the system’s capacity for prosecuting extended military campaigns. An unusual pedigree That this work emerges from V. L. K. Djokoto (b. 1995) makes it all the more intriguing. The young author represents an uncommon synthesis of influences: cultural theorist, financier, and gallerist, he leads D. K. T. Djokoto & Co., an old-fashioned top-tier multi-family office established in 1950. It is precisely the sort of institutional longevity — spanning three-quarters of a century — that might attune one to the importance of heritage and continuity in governance structures. Djokoto’s dual orientation — stewarding generational wealth whilst curating contemporary artistic experiences — informs his approach to historical research. Through his gallery work, he seeks to mobilise Ghanaians by weaving together African music, literature, and art into cohesive cultural narratives. Revolution extends this project into the historical realm, excavating narratives of institutional sophistication that have been systematically obscured. There is something rather fitting about a financier writing military history. Both disciplines require an appreciation for logistics, strategic planning, and the management of resources across time. Djokoto brings this sensibility to his examination of Anlo military economics, identifying systems of capital allocation — human, material, and symbolic — that sustained empire-building over generations. Contemporary relevance For readers concerned with governance structures in emerging markets, the Anlo example offers instructive parallels. The system balanced hereditary privilege with meritocratic advancement, maintained operational security whilst distributing command authority, and created incentive structures that aligned individual ambition with collective strategic objectives. Djokoto’s work arrives as African institutional history receives overdue scholarly attention. The continent’s contemporary challenges in state-building and security sector reform might benefit from examining indigenous governance models that demonstrably functioned over extended periods. The broader implication is methodological. Too often, institutional analysis of pre-colonial Africa has been refracted through European typologies or dismissed as insufficiently “developed.” Revolution demonstrates the analytical value of examining these systems on their own terms, according to their own logic and within their own contexts. What the Anlo created was not a primitive war-band, but a sophisticated military establishment with clear lines of authority, established logistics, strategic planning capacity, and ideological apparatus — in short, the institutional prerequisites of statecraft. That this achievement has been overlooked says rather more about historiographical blind spots than about the capabilities of the architects themselves. For Ghana’s policy elite navigating contemporary diplomatic and economic challenges, understanding these historical precedents is not merely academic. It is a question of institutional memory, national identity, and the intellectual foundations upon which modern governance must be constructed. That a 30-year-old financier and cultural theorist has taken up this challenge — armed with Bremen Mission archives and a researcher’s rigour — suggests a generational shift in how Ghana’s young elite engage with their heritage: not as museum piece, but as living intellectual capital with contemporary relevance. Revolution by V. L. K. Djokoto merits serious attention from historians, political scientists, and anyone interested in the institutional architecture of pre-colonial African states. President Commissions 36.5 Million Dollars Hospital In The Tain District You Will Not Go Free For Killing An Hard Working MP – Akufo-Addo To MP’s Killer I Will Lead You To Victory – Ato Forson Assures NDC Supporters Visit Our Social Media for More

Hbtvghana 11 hours ago