Haiti: uncertainty after PM’s resignation
Haiti faces uncertainty after prime minister Ariel Henry's resignation, welcomed by Haitians amid escalating gang violence. Henry, stranded in Puerto Rico, pledged to resign once a transition council and temporary leader were chosen. US officials, after talks in Jamaica, expect the council to be appointed soon. Acting prime minister Michel Boisvert has signalled his willingness to facilitate an orderly transition. Port-au-Prince shows signs of improved security; the streets are quiet and the main cargo port has been reopened, though the airport remains closed. One of Haiti’s largest TV stations has left its headquarters, citing the insecurity. In another potential setback, the plans to deploy Kenyan police officers for a UN-backed security mission are on hold pending a new interim government. Haitians hope for stability as they await a new leadership amidst ongoing challenges.
Iraq: new church at historic site of Ur
A bell has chimed for the first time at Ibrahim Al-Khalil Church in Ur, heralding its upcoming inauguration and marking a significant step in the region's religious and cultural landscape. The church, part of a larger complex honouring Abraham, aims to revive pilgrimage to the historic site and encourage the return of Christians to Iraq. It symbolises interfaith dialogue and offers a space for worship, social gatherings, and cultural activities. Designed with elements reflecting spirituality and history, the church hopes to attract tourists and strengthen ties between Muslims, Christians, and other minorities. Amidst challenges of war and sectarian violence, its completion signifies a new chapter, emphasising dialogue and reconciliation. With optimism for Iraq's reconstruction, the project's completion signals hope for a peaceful future, echoing the Pope’s message of peace and outreach amidst regional tensions.
Sudan: army gains control of broadcasting headquarters
Sudan's army has reclaimed the state broadcaster's headquarters in Omdurman, marking a symbolic victory in its eleven-month civil war against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The RSF had held the building since the conflict began but had not been able to transmit from it; state television has continued to show pro-army content, broadcast from elsewhere in the country. Despite UN calls for a ceasefire during Ramadan, intense fighting has continued in several parts of Khartoum. This recapture signifies a major setback for the RSF, which had used the headquarters as a stronghold. The conflict, stemming from disagreements between military and RSF leaders over a political transition to civilian rule, has displaced millions, devastated Khartoum, and triggered ethnic violence in Darfur. International efforts to broker peace have faltered, and the humanitarian toll remains dire, with warnings of growing hunger and continued displacement.
South Africa: man arrested after murder of three Coptic priests
South African police have arrested a suspect following the murder of three Egyptian priests on 12 March. The Coptic Orthodox Church said that they had been subjected to a criminal attack in a monastery in Cullinan. The 35-year-old man is expected to appear before Cullinan magistrates' court on 14 March. All three victims were found with stab wounds, while a fourth victim who survived said that he was hit on the hand by an iron rod before fleeing and hiding in one of the rooms. The police said the suspect left without taking any valuable items or properties from the place, and his motive is unknown at this stage.
