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A former defense minister in Guinea has been sentenced to five years in prison for corruption.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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In a landmark ruling, Mohamed Diane, the former Minister of Defence in Guinea, has been sentenced to five years in prison by a special court, facing charges of corruption, illicit enrichment, embezzlement, and money laundering. The court also imposed a substantial fine of $58.5 million (£46 million) and ordered the seizure of his assets, which include properties and bank accounts in Conakry and Kankan, deemed to have unclear origins.

Diane served under ex-President Alpha Condé from 2015 until the military coup in 2021 that culminated in the rise of the junta led by General Mamady Doumbouya. The military regime has prioritized an anti-corruption agenda, establishing a special court to address such issues shortly after seizing power. There has been a concerted effort to pursue legal action against over 180 former officials, including ex-ministers and President Condé himself.

Although the junta initially garnered support from the populace, there are growing concerns about its methods, with accusations of suppressing dissent and targeting opposition figures linked to the previous administration. Gen Doumbouya has assured the public that the anti-corruption initiative will not devolve into a “witch hunt.”

As the promised transition to democratic governance appears stalled, the introduction of a draft constitution in July has generated speculation about Gen Doumbouya’s potential presidential aspirations in future elections, which remain as yet unannounced. The developments surrounding Diane’s sentencing signify not only a pivotal moment in Guinea’s legal landscape but also the complex dynamics of governance as the nation navigates its post-coup reality.

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Entertainment

Val Kilmer, Acclaimed Actor, Passes Away at 65.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Hollywood mourns the loss of Val Kilmer, the acclaimed actor known for his diverse and memorable roles, who passed away in Los Angeles on Tuesday at the age of 65. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed the news.

Kilmer, a prominent figure in 1990s cinema, achieved widespread recognition for his performances in iconic films such as “Top Gun,” “The Doors,” where he embodied Jim Morrison, and “Tombstone,” where he portrayed Doc Holliday. He also donned the cowl as Batman in “Batman Forever.” His extensive filmography includes significant roles in “Heat,” “The Saint,” “Willow,” and the recent “Top Gun: Maverick.”

Beyond his on-screen achievements, Kilmer’s career was marked by periods of controversy and fluctuating box office success. He was reportedly diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014, though he later recovered.

Val Kilmer’s talent and dedication to his craft will undoubtedly be remembered by audiences for years to come.

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Foreign

Case Dismissed: Federal Charges Against Mayor Adams Dropped.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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On Wednesday, District Court Judge Dale Ho dismissed, with prejudice, the federal criminal case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. This action effectively terminates the possibility of the Department of Justice (DOJ) resurrecting the five-count indictment against the Democrat in the US District Court in Manhattan.

The dismissal follows a controversial request by the Trump administration, nearly two months prior, to drop the corruption charges. The DOJ argued that prosecution would impede Mayor Adams’ ability to govern New York City and collaborate with the administration’s immigration enforcement policies.

The request prompted significant internal dissent, culminating in the resignation of seven federal prosecutors, including the acting Manhattan US attorney. Their departure underscores the contentious nature of the decision to seek dismissal and the ethical questions it raised within the Department. The “with prejudice” ruling solidifies the finality of this complex and closely watched legal battle.

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Entertainment

Mayorkun Considers Relocation Amidst Rising Trend of Nigerian Celebrities Abroad.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Afrobeats artist Mayorkun, known for hits like “Mayor of Lagos,” has publicly expressed his contemplation of relocating abroad. In a recent post on X, the singer stated, “I dey reason to japa [relocate].”

Mayorkun’s sentiment echoes a growing trend among Nigerian celebrities. The past decade has witnessed a significant exodus, with notable figures such as Tacha, Eldee, and Genevieve Nnaji among those who have chosen to relocate. This trend, further exemplified by Banky W’s move to the United States for educational pursuits last year, highlights concerns regarding current socio-economic conditions within Nigeria. The reasons behind these decisions are multifaceted and warrant further observation as more prominent figures weigh similar options.

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