Le Journal

Tensions Rise in Uganda as Key Ally of Bobi Wine Detained Amid Election Controversy Muwanga Kivumbi, a pivotal figure in Uganda's opposition, was detained by police on Thursday amid accusations of inciting violence during last week's election. Kivumbi, a deputy president in Bobi Wine's National Unity Platform, faces potential criminal charges, according to police spokesman Kituuma Rusoke.The violence allegedly erupted in Kivumbi's constituency, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals, reportedly at the hands of unidentified security personnel. In response, Bobi Wine, whose birth name is Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, declared his clandestine status following President Yoweri Museveni's controversial re-election. Official results gave Museveni 71.6% of the vote, which Wine rejected as fraudulent.The United Nations Secretary-General has expressed concern over the situation, urging restraint and adherence to human rights obligations. The election, marred by an internet shutdown and logistical failures, casts doubt on Uganda's democratic process as tensions between the ruling party and opposition intensify.

Congress Blocks Resolution Limiting Trump's Actions in Venezuela In a contentious session, the U.S. House of Representatives rejected a resolution that would limit President Donald Trump's military actions in Venezuela without Congress's explicit approval. The vote concluded with a tie of 215-215, reflecting divided opinions even within Trump's Republican Party.The failed resolution aimed to assert Congress's constitutional role in authorizing military force, amid concerns over potential unauthorized wars. Proponents argued it was crucial to avoid another 'forever war,' as seen in Afghanistan and Iraq, while opponents claimed the measure was politically motivated.The Trump administration labeled the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro a judicial operation to address drug charges. However, critics, including some Democrats, expressed concerns about the lack of a comprehensive plan for Venezuela's future and called for greater congressional involvement in military decisions.

Crucial U.N. Deployment: Haiti's Struggle Against Gangs The U.N.-supported security force in Haiti is poised to receive additional troops by April, aiming to reach full capacity by summer. This reinforcement comes amidst escalating political turmoil as the transitional government's term approaches expiration in February without a clear succession plan.U.N. envoy Carlos Ruiz disclosed that the force, planned to have 5,500 troops, mostly Kenyan police, faces challenges due to funding shortcomings and delays. Meanwhile, gangs continue to expand their control, surpassing the police's capacity and engaging in widespread violence and crime across the nation.Political strife deepens as Haiti's transitional presidential council faces internal discord and accusations of corruption, threatening the stability needed for potential elections. As external pressure mounts from the U.S. and Canada, concerns grow over political leaders' alleged collaborations with gangs, exacerbating the country's dire situation.

House Passes Controversial DHS Funding in a Bid to Avert Shutdown The U.S. House of Representatives took a significant step on Thursday by passing fiscal 2026 funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), despite strong opposition from Democrats. At the heart of the controversy is President Donald Trump's deployment of masked federal agents to cities as part of a crackdown on illegal immigration.Faced with a looming January 30 deadline to pass 12 comprehensive spending bills, Congress is working to prevent a second government shutdown in four months. The House's approval of the $64.4 billion DHS bill also includes funding for the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Coast Guard, highlighting bipartisan cooperation despite significant pushback.Debate continues over the roles and responsibilities of ICE under the new funding. Some Democrats argue that the bill lacks necessary safeguards against excesses by ICE agents, while Republicans emphasize the importance of enforcing immigration laws. As the legislation moves to the Senate, it remains a pivotal moment in federal budget negotiations.