Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today after the House voted to pass Senate Republicans’ budget resolution:
“Anyone who has ever promoted fiscal responsibility but supports this Republican budget resolution is defrauding the American people. This budget is unprecedented in its fiscal irresponsibility, upending decades of precedent to clear a path for Republicans to add $5.8 trillion to our national debt over the next decade. That’s more than the cost of the American Rescue Plan, the Inflation Reduction Act, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the CHIPS and Science Act, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, and Donald Trump’s original 2017 tax cuts for the rich combined.
“Republicans are exploding the national debt to pass their massive tax cuts for the wealthiest individuals and companies in America. At the same time, this budget threatens the largest cut to Medicaid in history, while Trump’s tariffs continue to increase everyday costs for working Americans. The American people are already struggling economically. They should not have to bear additional costs to help the wealthiest individuals get even further ahead.
“Republicans threw out the rulebook to force this budget through. They ought throw out their budget proposal instead.”
TAMPA, Fla. – U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement arrested Elieser Aurelio Gomez-Zelaya, 33, an illegal alien from Honduras, March 31.
Gomez-Zelaya is charged by federal indictment in Florida with aggravated identity theft, false representation of a Social Security number, and false claim to U.S. citizenship. If convicted on all counts, the defendant faces a minimum penalty of two years, up to 12 years, in federal prison.
According to the indictment, Gomez-Zelaya misused the names and Social Security numbers of others and falsely claimed to be a United States citizens with the intent to engage unlawfully in employment.
“Identity theft is not a victimless crime, it undermines our immigration laws and poses a serious threat to the safety of our communities,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Tampa Assistant Special Agent in Charge Micah McCombs. “We are committed to working side-by-side with our federal, state and local partners in enforcing the law, and holding accountable those who exploit the system for personal gain.”
This case was investigated by ICE HSI Tampa, the Department of Transportation – Office of Inspector General, the Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General, the United States Border Patrol, the Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher F. Murray.
Police have charged two people with drug trafficking and weapons offences after executing a search warrant in Pictou.
On April 3, 2025, the Pictou County Integrated Street Crime Enforcement Unit (PCISCEU) executed a search warrant at a residence on Welsford St. as part of an ongoing drug trafficking investigation. A man and a woman were safely arrested inside the home.
Officers searched the residence and seized a quantity of cocaine, methamphetamine, cash, a firearm, a machete, mobile devices and tools, which are believed to have been stolen
Jennifer Anne Stevenson, 40, and Chad Andrew Thomson, 34, both of Pictou are each charged with:
Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (cocaine)
Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (methamphetamine)
Careless Use of Firearm
Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
Possession of a Firearm Knowing its Possession is Unauthorized
Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose (2 counts)
Possession of Property Obtained by Crime (2 counts)
Stevenson and Thomson were released on conditions and are scheduled to appear in Pictou Provincial Court on July 7.
The investigation is ongoing and is being led by PCISCEU with assistance of Pictou County District RCMP, Antigonish/Guysborough Street Crime Enforcement Unit and RCMP Police Dog Services.
Nova Scotians are encouraged to contact their nearest RCMP detachment or local police to report crime, including the illegal sale of drugs, in their communities. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or using the P3 Tips app.
Note: The PCISCEU is made up of police officers from Pictou County District RCMP, Westville Police Service, and Stellarton Police Service.
Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE
Headline: OSCE hands over ambulance vehicles and equipment to Tajikistan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs
(left-right) Major General Azizulozoda Safialo, National Coordinator for Police Reform at the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Miroslav Milojevic, Adviser on Police Affairs at the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe, during the handover ceremony of ambulance vehicles and equipment to Tajikistan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, Dushanbe, 11 April 2025. (OSCE/Atodzhon Salibaev) Photo details
On 11 April 2025, the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe officially handed over two ambulance vehicles and five sets of equipment to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan.
This donation supports the Government of Tajikistan’s efforts to advance internal reforms and strengthen police services. Specifically, the ambulance vehicles will enhance the capacity of the Medical Service of the Ministry to provide on-site first aid and emergency medical transportation for police personnel.
The five sets of equipment will be awarded as prizes in the “Best Territorial Police Inspector” competition, organized by Public Councils across five regions of the country.
Baltimore, Maryland – Garrick Powell, 32, of Baltimore, has pled guilty to the unlawful possession of a machine gun in federal court.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the plea with Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby, Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms (ATF) – Baltimore Field Division, and Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD).
According to the guilty plea, on April 19, 2023, law enforcement found Powell in possession of a machine gun. BPD officers from the Eastern District Baltimore Community Intelligence Center — who were surveilling the 500 block of North Patterson Park Avenue — spotted Powell displaying the characteristics of an armed person.
An officer observed Powell enter a vehicle and drive away from the block. Officers then conducted a traffic stop, searched Powell’s vehicle, and recovered a loaded Poly80 9mm handgun with an extended magazine. The Poly80 firearm is frequently referred to as a “ghost gun” because there is no serial number on the firearm. Additionally, the Poly80 had a conversion device attached to the weapon which converted the semi-automatic weapon into an automatic Poly80, making it a machine gun. Officers also recovered a second extended magazine and 63 rounds of 9mm ammunition from Powell’s vehicle.
Sentencing is set for July 16, at 10 a.m. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ATF and BPD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patricia McLane and Stanton Lawyer who are prosecuting the case.
DEL RIO, Texas – A Del Rio man was sentenced to 360 months in federal prison for production of child pornography.
According to court documents, Hector Sanchez, 33, used his Facebook account to contact a 13-year-old female in October 2020. Sanchez demanded that the child send him explicitly nude photos, which she eventually did, and told her he was going to purchase condoms. On Oct. 6, 2020, he met the child victim outside her house and later messaged that he wished she wasn’t so young so that they wouldn’t “have to hide.” He also told her to ensure she deleted their conversations. On Oct. 26, Sanchez sent the child nude photos and a sexually explicit video of himself.
On Nov. 23, 2020, Homeland Security Investigations received information originating from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding suspected child exploitation in violation of federal law. The following day, agents were able to conduct a forensic interview with the child victim. Sanchez pleaded guilty to one count of production of child pornography on July 21, 2023.
“Sanchez knowingly and deliberately befriended a minor over social media with full intent to develop a discreet sexual relationship with her,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas. “I am very grateful for the involvement of NCMEC and our law enforcement partners in this case. Because of the systems and processes available to us and our capabilities to investigate and prosecute crimes against children, Sanchez will spend the next three decades paying for his actions in federal prison.”
“This lengthy sentence is a testament to the disgusting nature of child exploitation crimes, particularly the production of child pornography,” said ICE HSI San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Craig S. Larrabee. “HSI agents make it a priority to protect vulnerable children from victimization by working with their law enforcement partners to investigate predators involved with the possession and distribution of child pornography and ensure they are held accountable for their actions.”
HSI investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nallely Duarte and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Rex Beasley prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
A meeting of top diplomats from China, Iran and Russia – three so-called revisionist powers.Photo by Getty Images
Once upon a time, “revisionist power” was a term reserved for nations trying to overturn the postwar liberal order – the usual suspects being countries like Russia, China or Iran.
But what does revisionist really mean? And why should we care?
The roots of ‘revisionism’
At its core, “revisionist power” is a label applied to nations that want to change the way the world is ordered. The concept dates back to the period between the two world wars, when it described countries opposing the Treaty of Versailles that ended World War I. Political scientist Hans Morgenthau later distinguished between status quo powers and those seeking to overturn the balance of power.
The label itself was popularized in the mid-20th century, especially through A.F.K. Organski’s 1958 work on power transition, which defined revisionist powers as those dissatisfied with the existing order and determined to reshape it.
The change desired by nations can take many forms: redrawing borders, rebalancing regional power balances or creating alternative rules, norms and institutions to the ones that currently structure international politics. The key is that revisionists nations aren’t just unhappy with specific policies – they’re dissatisfied with the broader system and want to reshape it in fundamental ways.
In that framework, countries operate in an anarchic international system with no higher authority to enforce the rules. The most powerful nations construct or impose a particular set of rules, norms and institutions on the international system, creating an order that reflects their values and serves their interests.
Revisionism in action
In this tradition, status quo powers benefit from the system and want to keep it more or less as it is. But revisionist powers see the system as constraining or unjust – and seek to alter it.
This doesn’t always mean war or open confrontation. Revisionism isn’t inherently aggressive, nor is it always destabilizing. It simply describes a nation’s support for or opposition to the prevailing international order. How that desire is expressed can include diplomacy, economic coercion or even armed conflict.
China presents a different kind of case. Beijing has made use of existing international institutions and benefited enormously from global trade, but it’s also been building alternatives, including regional banks, trade blocs and digital infrastructure designed to reduce dependence on Western systems. China’s expanding presence in the South China Sea, its pressure on Taiwan and its desire to shape global norms on everything from human rights to internet governance point to a broader effort to revise the current order – though more gradually than Russia’s approach.
Iran, meanwhile, operates mostly at the regional level. Through its support for proxy groups like Hezbollah, its influence in Iraq and Yemen, and its confrontational stance toward Israel and the Gulf monarchies, Iran has long sought to reshape the Middle East’s power dynamics. It’s not trying to rewrite the entire international system, but it’s certainly revisionist in the region.
A loaded term
Of course, calling a nation “revisionist” is not a neutral act. It reflects a judgment about whose vision of world order is legitimate and whose is not. A rising power might see itself as correcting historical imbalances, not disrupting stability. The term can be useful, but it can also obscure as much as it reveals.
Still, the label captures something real – though maybe not as cleanly as it used to. Much of today’s geopolitical tension does hinge on a basic divide: Some nations want to preserve the existing order, and others want to reshape it. But it’s no longer obvious who belongs in which camp.
Now, when the U.S. sidelines institutions it once championed, imposes extraterritorial sanctions or pushes for new tech and trade regimes that bypass rivals, it starts to blur the line between defender and challenger of the status quo.
Maybe the more useful question now isn’t just which great power is revisionist – but whether any of them are still committed to the post-World War II international order created in the U.S.’s image.
Andrew Latham does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Supporters of opposition candidate and former President John Dramani Mahama celebrate his victory in Accra, Ghana, on Dec. 8, 2024. AP Photo/Jerome Delay
It is also the first presidential vote to take place in Africa in 2025, to be followed by contests later this year in Ivory Coast, Malawi, Guinea, Central African Republic, Guinea-Bissau, Tanzania, Seychelles and Cameroon.
Of particular interest is whether these elections will continue the trend of last year’s votes. As the continent with the youngest population, Africa’s youth was crucial throughout 2024 to a series of seismic political shifts – not least the removal of incumbents and changes in the governing status quo in Ghana, Senegal and South Africa.
Indeed, analysis of the 2024 African Youth Survey – one of the most comprehensive continent-wide polls of people age 18 to 24 – and election results of that year show a clear lack of optimism among the youth.
Unemployment, the rising cost of livingand corruption are primary factors driving youth dissatisfaction on the continent. For example, 59% of South African youth considered their country to be heading the wrong direction – and that’s not hard to imagine given that the country’s youth unemployment rate reached 45.5% in 2024. Not surprisingly, unemployment was a key factor in the election results. Meanwhile, widespread protests in Kenyaand Uganda in the summer of 2024 were youth-led and sparked, respectively, by concerns over tax increases and corruption.
As a professor of political science and an expert in African politics, I believe that a failure to address such concerns could have potentially serious implications for political leaders in the upcoming elections. It also makes it more difficult for countries to consolidate or protect already-fragile democracies on the continent.
Unemployment fueling instability
While African political campaigns often make note of persistently high rates of youth unemployment, the policy priorities of governments across the continent have seemingly failed to fix this intractable problem.
In a 2023 Afrobarometer survey, unemployment topped the list of policy priorities for African youth between the ages of 18 and 35.
Supporters of the UMkhonto weSizwe party, which helped unseat the long-time African National Congress, attend an election meeting near Durban, South Africa, ahead of the May 2024 general elections. AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti
Many governments, faced with the ongoing economic aftereffects of the COVID-19 pandemic and supply-chain issues – which exacerbated rising living costs, high inflation and external debt issues – pursued unpopular revenue collection policies
The violent anti-tax protests in Kenya also provide an example of desperate unemployed youth tapping into a sense of deep popular resentment over fiscal policies.
The combination of deep dissatisfaction with government policies and high youth joblessness can be a destabilizing influence. A 2023 United Nations Development Program study focusing on Ghana pointed to a problem that is common elsewhere on the continent. It concluded that in regions with higher-than-average youth unemployment, that factor was the most common cause for violent extremism and radicalization.
The U.N. study underscored the importance of addressing the social and economic challenges that foster marginalization and anger among youth across sub-Saharan Africa.
The issue of youth unemployment in Africa is exacerbated by the cumulative growth in the youth labor force – estimated to grow by 72.6 million between 2023 and 2050, according to a 2024 report by the International Labor Organization.
The concerns in those countries mirror grievances registered around the continent more broadly, with reducing government corruption listed as a top priority by respondents in the African Youth Survey.
Similar to unemployment, high levels of corruption correlated to some of the political shifts of 2024.
An Afrobarometer survey of attitudes in 2024 showed that 74% of Ghanaians believed corruption had increased over the previous year.
In Kenya, 77% of people view their government’s efforts in fighting corruption as ineffectual.
Of particular concern to many African youth is the belief that security forces and government officials are often considered the most corrupt and that incidents of regularized corruption are underreported.
And it is youth that bear the brunt of much of this corruption. According to a 2022 U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime report, people between the ages 18 and 34 are among the most vulnerable to having to pay bribes to public officials in Ghana.
Supporters of soldiers who launched a coup against the government demonstrate in Niamey, Niger, on July 27, 2023. AP Photo/Fatahoulaye Hassane Midou
Again, youth attitudes toward corruption don’t bode well for many of the governments in this year’s elections. Gabon, Cameroon, Central African Republic and Guinea-Bissau all score poorly on Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index.
Democracy is at its strongest when it empowers governments to deliver on the needs of their populations, particularly the youth.
But the experience of incumbent governments in 2024 elections suggests that too many may have disregarded young people’s needs, which in turn has led to anger resulting in destabilizing protests and regime change – both through democratic and undemocratic means.
It also makes it harder to instill democratic sentiment among younger voters.
Over half of Africa’s 18- to 35-year-olds surveyed in the 2023 Afrobarometer agreed that the military can intervene when leaders abuse power – a pertinent caution about their willingness to support political change, even if it interrupts the democratic process.
While a majority of youth in Africa still retain an apparent preference for democracy to other forms of governance, a growing proportion would embrace nondemocratic governance under some circumstances, according to the 2024 African Youth Survey. The top scores in this particular response came from Gabon, Ivory Coast and Tanzania – all of which have upcoming elections in 2025.
Richard Aidoo does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
The Government today expressed regret at the resignation of Justice Robert French as a non-permanent judge of the Court of Final Appeal (CFA) and extended gratitude for his contribution over the years.
The Judiciary announced that Mr French, a non-permanent judge from other common law jurisdictions (CLNPJ) of the CFA, tendered his resignation to the Chief Executive.
The Judiciary said it is grateful to Mr French for his valuable contributions to the work of the CFA and his support for the rule of law in Hong Kong during his tenure.
In his resignation letter to the Chief Executive, Mr French expressed great respect for the judicial officers of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region as well as their independence and integrity, adding that he felt honoured to have worked with them.
The Government said the long-time presence of esteemed judges from overseas as non-permanent judges of the CFA, participating in hearings of the court, is conducive to the international legal environment and the development of the jurisprudence of common law in Hong Kong.
Their continued participation alongside permanent judges speaks to the enduring strength and resilience of the court, it added.
Noting the judicial system of the Hong Kong SAR is protected by the Basic Law, the Government said that the city is vested with independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication and that the courts exercise judicial power independently, free from any interference.
It emphasised that the presence or absence of individual judges will not undermine the integrity of the system nor impair the Government’s determination in upholding the rule of law.
Upon Mr French’s departure, there are nine non-permanent judges comprising four non-permanent Hong Kong judges and five CLNPJs from the UK and Australia in the CFA.
The Judiciary stressed that in light of the steady caseload, the operation of the CFA will not be affected by the recent change in membership of the court. It will continue to identify suitable local and overseas candidates for appointment as non-permanent judges.
The Government indicated its full support to the Judiciary in the continuous efforts to appoint and retain foreign non-permanent judges in the future, and will endeavour to capitalise on the Hong Kong SAR’s common law system, upholding the rule of law in Hong Kong.
United States federal agents tried to enter two Los Angeles elementary schools on April 7, 2025, and were denied entry, according to the Los Angeles Times. The agents were apparently seeking contact with five students who had allegedly entered the country without authorization.
Many K-12 educators are worried that Immigration and Customs Enforcement could start removing students from classrooms. In some places, including New York City, school attendance has decreased over fears that children could be swept up in a raid.
This last clause was used following the 9/11 terrorist attacks of 2001 as the constitutional basis to establish the Department of Homeland Security and create ICE as one of its security agencies. ICE enforces over 400 federal statutes dealing with immigration, including the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, which allows it to investigate and detain certain noncitizens.
ICE arrested Columbia University student Mahmoud Kahlil in March 2025, spurring protests. Several other international students have been detained since. Andrew Lichtenstein/Corbis via Getty Images
This law can place schools and their staff in a potentially conflicted legal position if ICE starts targeting schools, because educators have legal obligations to their students.
The U.S. Supreme Court has additionally ruled that students who are not legally living in the U.S. have the same right to an education as any other child.
In the 1975 U.S. Supreme Court decision Plyler v. Doe, the justices struck down a Texas law allowing the state to withhold school district funds for educating children without legal immigration status. The court said the law was unconstitutional because it violated the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment, which reads in part that no state shall “deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.”
Plyler v. Doe asserted that “person” meant just that − a person, not necessarily a citizen.
Around the same time, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act was enacted to protect personal student information from release to a third party. That includes law enforcement and ICE, except under three circumstances: the parents consent to the release; a school directory includes student information; or a court orders the school to release the information.
Finally, the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act says that schools must enroll and educate students who are with unstable living situations, including migrants, without discrimination.
In addition to these federal laws and cases, many states have additional laws that encourage the education of local K-12 students who lack citizenship or residency status. In Michigan, for example, the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act of 1976 prohibits discrimination based on national origin and race in schools, including in admissions and expulsions.
A women who fears she could be targeted by immigration officials holds a ‘know your rights’ card handed out by her grandchildren’s school on Jan. 22, 2025, in the San Francisco Bay Area. AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez
School districts and ICE
What can K-12 educators do if they find themselves confronting contradictory legal obligations − that of educating all students and that of not impeding a criminal investigation?
Interpreting conflicts in the law is the job of judges − not teachers, ICE agents or academics. The following guidance may help districts prepare for immigration enforcement in K-12 schools:
1. Get ready. Every school district should develop a process and protocol for how to engage with law enforcement in general and ICE specifically.
This plan would involve coordination between the school principals and district superintendent, as well as, most importantly, the district’s lawyers. Traditional school corporate counsel may not have much experience in criminal law; engaging additional counsel with experience in criminal procedures and Fourth Amendment protections can be helpful.
Everyone should understand their role in the plan. Administrative assistants are likely to be the first people engaged when ICE shows up to the school. Do they know what to do?
2. Collect data thoughtfully. There is no state or federal mandate for schools to document citizenship for K-12 school enrollment, though some states are considering requiring proof of citizenship or legal immigration status for enrollment, including Oklahoma, Indiana, Texas, Tennessee and New Jersey.
3. Obey the law. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act forbids sharing certain information about students with outsiders, including law enforcement. As a rule, then, staff should always avoid discussing students beyond what they are required to do as a function of their employment. Many school board policies ensure that the information they release publicly about enrolled students is minimal.
4. Understand how warrants work. Just because a school is public does not mean that anyone can just come into a classroom, and that includes the police or ICE. A warrant may not be required to detain or arrest a student on the spot, but law enforcement must produce one to access any nonpublic areas of the school in search of that student. They must also show a warrant to see student records or other information, unless parents have previously consented to this information being shared.
5. Keep records. If ICE does knock on the schoolhouse door, administrators should be sure to prepare a report, in accordance with school board policies, for the school district’s records that describes everything that happened and retain all documentation.
Brian Boggs does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
The SAVE Act would require anyone registering to vote in federal elections to first “provide documentary proof of U.S. citizenship” in person, like a REAL ID or a passport.
The House already passed an identical bill in July 2024, also along partisan lines, with the GOP largely supporting the legislation. At that time, the Senate killed the bill. With a now GOP-controlled Senate, and a Republican in the White House, the SAVE Act could become law before 2025 ends.
Voting rights experts and advocacy organizations have detailed how the legislationcould suppress voting. In part, they say it would particularly create barriers in low-income and minority communities. People in such communities often lack the forms of ID acceptable under the SAVE Act for a variety of reasons, including socioeconomic factors.
As of now, at least 9% of voting-age American citizens – approximately 21 million people – do not have even have driver’s licenses, let alone proof of citizenship. In spite of this, many legislators support the bill as a means of eliminating noncitizen voting in elections.
As a legal scholar who studies, among other things, foreign interferencein elections, I find considerations about the potential effects of the SAVE Act important, especially given how rare it is that a noncitizen actually votes in federal elections.
Yet, it is equally crucial to consider a more fundamental question: is the SAVE Act even constitutional?
The SAVE Act would forbid state election officials from registering an individual to vote in federal elections unless this person “provides documentary proof of United States citizenship.”
Acceptable forms of proof for registration would include REAL ID, a U.S. passport or a U.S. military identification card. A regular driver’s license alone would not be enough unless it shows the applicant was born in the U.S., or if it is accompanied with a birth certificate or naturalization certificate.
So, should the SAVE Act become law, if a person turns 18 or moves between states and wishes to register to vote in federal elections in their new home, they would likely be turned away if they do not have any such documents readily available. At best, they could still fill out a registration form, but would need to mail in acceptable proof of citizenship.
For married people with changed last names, among others, questions remain about whether birth certificates could even count as acceptable proof of citizenship for them.
The Constitution says little about voting rights
Despite the national conversation the SAVE Act has sparked, it is unclear whether Congress even has the power to enact it. This is the key constitutional question.
The U.S. Constitution imposes no citizenship requirement when it comes to voting. The original text of the Constitution, in fact, said very little about the right to vote. It was not until legislators passed subsequent amendments, starting after the Civil War up through the 1970s, that the Constitution even explicitly prohibited voting laws that discriminate on account of race, sex or age.
Who, then, gets to decide whether someone is qualified to vote? No matter the election, the answer is always the same – the states.
Indeed, by constitutional design, the states are tasked with setting voter-eligibility requirements – a product of our federalist system. For state and local elections, the 10th Amendment grants states the power to regulate their internal elections as they see fit.
States also get to decide who may vote in federal elections, which include both presidential and congressional elections.
When it comes to presidential elections, for instance, states have – as I have previously written – exclusive power under the Constitution’s Electors Clause to decide how to conduct presidential elections within their borders, including who gets to vote in them.
The states wield similar authority for congressional elections. Namely, according to Article I of the Constitution and the Constitution’s 17th Amendment, if someone can vote in their state’s legislative elections, they are entitled to vote in its congressional elections, too.
Conversely, the Constitution provides Congress zero authority to govern voter-eligibility requirements in federal elections. Indeed, in the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2013 ruling on the Arizona v. Inter Tribal Council case, the court asserted that nothing in the Constitution “lends itself to the view that voting qualifications in federal elections are to be set by Congress.”
Is the SAVE Act constitutional?
The SAVE Act presents a constitutional dilemma. By requiring individuals to show documentary proof of U.S. citizenship to register for federal elections, the SAVE Act is implicitly saying that someone must be a U.S. citizen to vote in federal elections.
In other words, Congress would be instituting a qualification to vote, a power that the Constitution leaves exclusively to the states.
Indeed, while all states currently limit voting rights to citizens, legal noncitizen voting is not without precedent. As multiplescholarshave noted, at least 19 states extended voting rights to free male “inhabitants,” including noncitizens, starting from our country’s founding up to and throughout the 19th century.
Today, over 20 municipalities across the country, as well as the District of Columbia, allow permanent noncitizen residents to vote in local elections.
Any state these days could similarly extend the right to vote in state and federal elections to permanent noncitizen residents. This is within their constitutional prerogative. And if this were to happen, there could be a conflict between that state’s voter-eligibility laws and the SAVE Act.
Yet, in this instance, where Congress has no actual authority to implement voter qualifications, the SAVE Act would seem to have no constitutional leg on which to stand.
When it comes to the constitutionality of the SAVE Act, though, proponents simply assert that Congress is acting within its purview.
Specifically, many proponents have cited the Constitution’s Elections Clause, which gives Congress the power to regulate the “Times, Places and Manner” of congressional elections, as support for that assertion. Sen. Mike Lee, for example, explicitly referenced the Elections Clause when defending the SAVE Act earlier in 2025.
But the Elections Clause only grants Congress authority to regulate election procedures, not voter qualifications. The Supreme Court explicitly stated this in the Inter Tribal Council ruling.
Congress can, for instance, require states to adopt a uniform federal voter registration form, and even include a citizenship question on said form. What it cannot do, however, is implement a non-negotiable mandate that effectively tells the states they can never allow any noncitizen to vote in a federal election.
For now, the SAVE Act is simply legislation. Should the Senate pass it, President Donald Trump will almost assuredly sign it into law, given, among other factors, his March 2025 executive order that says prospective voters need to show proof of citizenship before they register to vote in federal elections. Once that happens, the courts will have to reckon with the SAVE Act’s legitimacy within the country’s constitutional design.
John J. Martin does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Two men have been convicted of the fatal stabbing of 38-year-old Jack Hague in Tower Hamlets last year.
Umair Rafiq, 36 (21.12.88) of no fixed address was found guilty of murder at Inner London Crown on Thursday, 10 April.
Mohammed Ikram Uddin, 24 (27.08.99), of no fixed address was also found guilty of manslaughter at the same court on Thursday, 10 April.
In a trial which started on Monday, 17 March, the court heard that police were called at around 20:20hrs on Sunday, 5 May 2024 to reports of a fight on Corfield Street, E2. The jury were told that this followed an initial exchange of words between the three men which quickly escalated and led to Jack’s fatal stabbing.
Despite the best efforts of emergency services, Jack died at the scene as a result of multiple stab wounds across his body.
A manhunt began immediately, with officers painstakingly combing through hours of CCTV footage to understand what took place, identify the attackers and track their movements after they fled the scene. Uddin was arrested on Thursday, 9 May 2024 and charged the following day. Rafiq was arrested on Sunday, 12 May 2024 and charged the following day.
A knife and Rafiq’s glasses were both discarded at the scene and were sent for forensic testing. DNA found on the items provided a match to Rafiq – further proof that he had been at the scene.
Jack’s mother Lesley said:
“Last year our lives changed forever. Ever since, I do not feel like I used to. I am not living, just existing, with no joy, life appears to be an act. I think I am truly only happy when my grandkids are around, they help me forget about things for a little while, and I enjoy them. Jack was my blue eyed boy and called me “mummsy”. His loss has caused an emptiness and void nothing can fill. I feel like I am at the edge of it looking in but noting can fill it.
“I miss him so much. A mother should not have to bury her son. We are in mourning at the loss of my precious child but also because of the loss of so many hopes, dreams and expectations.
“Today’s result will not bring back my son but I hope that it will keep those responsible from committing such a monstrous crime again.”
Detective Sergeant Brian Jones who led the investigation said:
“There is nothing that can be done to bring back Jack, but I hope today’s result brings some closure at this terrible time.
“By carrying and using a knife, Rafiq’s callous act demonstrates once again the devastating and far-reaching effects of knife crime.
“I therefore commend the officers who worked incredibly hard to build evidence against Rafiq and Uddin in order to prove that there could be no doubt as to their guilt. London will be a safer place with them taken off the streets”.
Umair Rafiq and Mohammed Uddin will be sentenced on Friday, 6 June at Inner London Crown Court.
As part of a stolen vehicle investigation, 24-year-old Jack LeBlanc of Summerford was arrested by Twillingate RCMP on April 8, 2025.
Shortly before 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, Twillingate RCMP received a report that a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado had been stolen from a commercial property in Summerford. As part of the investigation, police attended the area and gathered information that identified Leblanc as the suspect.
Later that same morning, Twillingate RCMP received a report of a single-vehicle crash in Twillingate involving the stolen truck. The driver, who was identified as LeBlanc, departed the scene on foot and was causing a disturbance outside a nearby residence. Police attended the property where LeBlanc was arrested without further incident.
LeBlanc appeared in court earlier this week and was charged with the following criminal offences:
Theft of a motor vehicle
Possession of property obtained by crime
Failure to comply with conditions of an undertaking
He was released by the court on a number of conditions and is set to appear in court at a later date.
The investigation is continuing.
RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law, and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE
Headline: OSCE PCUz organizes workshop on gender mainstreaming in anti-corruption
Representatives of the OSCE PCUz, OSCE Gender Issues Programme and Law Enforcement Academy of the Republic of Uzbekistan open the workshop. (OSCE) Photo details
On 11 April, the OSCE PCUz organized a workshop on gender mainstreaming in anti-corruption at the Law Enforcement Academy of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
Representatives from government ministries and agencies as well as academia and NGOs were involved in the workshop, led by OSCE Adviser on Gender Issues Javiera Thais Santa Cruz, to discuss the role of gender in anti-corruption work.
Through discussions and examples of gendered corruption, such as job discrimination, unequal access to services and sextortion, participants examined the impact of corruption on men and women, and identified tools needed to improve current approaches. The session emphasized the importance of mainstreaming gender into anti-corruption policies and included interactive group work where participants developed practical examples and strategies for incorporating gender perspectives into institutional frameworks. The event concluded with a collaborative session aimed at identifying challenges and solutions to stakeholder engagement.
Opening the event, Dr. Lara Scarpitta, OSCE Senior Adviser on Gender Issues stated that “corruption is not a gender-neutral topic. Research from the past 20 years shows that women often face corruption differently than men due to societal roles, existing stereotypes, and sometimes limited access to information and justice.”
PCUz Head of Office, Ambassador Antti Karttunen underlined the importance of the event, stating: “the objective of this workshop is to work towards exploring issues of gender equality in relation to anti-corruption and we hope to build on the efforts already accomplished by the OSCE.”
This event comes as part of the PCUz’s support in improving Uzbekistan’s reforms in the sphere of good governance as well as women empowerment.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
News story
Crime news: annotating bank statements to support applications
Encouraging clients to annotate their bank statements with the nature, source, and frequency of credits when applying for a representation order
Sometimes applicants have no other evidence of their income other than bank statements. For example, if they are recently self-employed. In such instances we will include all credits shown on the bank statements as income unless it appears appropriate not to include certain credits. Annotating bank statements may therefore provide suitable reason for a credit not to be included as self-employed income. In addition, for any bank statements provided in support of an application, we will include any credits that appear to form regular income. For example, regular credits from friends and family, online sales, and gambling.
If applicants annotate their bank statements before submitting them this will assist us in accurately assessing their means on first submission.
A woman has been sentenced to life for murdering her two young sons in their east London home in 2022.
Kara Alexander, 47 (23.12.77), of Cornwallis Road, Dagenham was sentenced to life with a minimum term of 24 years in prison at Kingston Crown Court on Friday, 11 April for drowning her children.
Detective Chief Inspector Paul Waller of the Metropolitan Police, who led the investigation, said:
“This is an incredibly tragic case, which has left a father without his two beloved boys and a family without two young brothers.
“Kara Alexander will spend the next two decades behind bars, where the memory of what she has done will haunt her forever.
“To the family and friends of Elijah and Marley, while no amount of time will erase the pain of such a loss, I hope this sentence serves to bring some semblance of justice.
“I hope you can now move on with your life, remembering the boys as you knew them, and treasuring the happy times you spent with them.”
Emergency services were called at around 14:00hrs on 16 December 2022, after the bodies of two young children were found by their father in their shared bunkbed inside their house in Dagenham.
Two-year-old Elijah Thomas and five-year-old Marley Thomas were both pronounced dead at the scene.
Following the discovery, their mother Kara Alexander ran from the house, but was arrested nearby a short time later.
Post-mortem examinations identified drowning as the cause of death for both boys.
Detectives from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command launched an investigation, reviewing footage from local CCTV cameras and doorbells and forensically analysing Alexander’s phone.
Alexander was charged on 19 December 2022 with two counts of murder and was convicted at Kingston Crown Court on Friday, 21 February following a three-week trial.
Deteriorating Human Rights situation in Georgia: Joint Statement to the OSCE, April 2025.
UK and other OSCE participating States express concern over the deteriorating human rights situation and call on Georgia to open an inclusive dialogue with political parties, civil society and the OSCE institutions.
Thank you, Madam Chair,
I am delivering this statement on behalf of Albania, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Malta, Montenegro, the Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Moldova, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Ukraine and my own country, Germany.
As OSCE participating States, we have committed to upholding and defending fundamental human rights, democracy, and the rule of law—not only within our own borders, but across our shared OSCE region. This commitment carries a responsibility: to hold each other accountable when we witness signs of democratic backsliding.
It is in this spirit that we express again our deep concern over the deteriorating human rights situation in Georgia. Since our last discussion in February, we have regretfully witnessed Georgian authorities taking further steps away from their democratic and human rights commitments.
Madam Chair,
Our main concerns are threefold: the legislative restriction of civic space, the targeting of independent media, and the continued lack of accountability for excessive use of force by police, the use of indiscriminate violence by unidentified groups against peaceful protesters as well as unnecessarily long pre-trial detention periods and the reported ill-treatment of those in pre-trial detention.
The Foreign Agents Registration Act requires all individuals and organisations receiving foreign funding to register as so-called “Foreign Agents,” with financial sanctions and criminal penalties imposed on those who refuse. We share ODIHR’s concern that “this law, along with other recent legislative initiatives, could further curtail the activities of civil society organizations and human rights defenders by removing the safeguards needed for them to carry out their work”. This law lacks the legal safeguards that prevent civil society, media and private individuals from being branded as instruments of foreign influence based solely on funding sources, which strongly suggests that this law is not about transparency, but about suppressing dissent and tightening the grip on civil society. This is of particular concern in view of the upcoming local elections.
We are also closely monitoring recent amendments to Georgia’s electoral legislation. It is essential that any changes to the electoral framework enhance transparency and public trust, and that reforms are developed through inclusive dialogue and in line with OSCE commitments. Relatedly, we are concerned about legislative amendments undermining freedom of peaceful assembly, including the amendments to the Criminal and Administrative Offences Codes and the Law on Assemblies and Manifestations. The amendments undermine the principle of equal suffrage and restrict freedom of assembly, as stated in relevant ODIHR’s and Venice Commission latest opinions. We urge the Georgian authorities to implement their recommendations.
Madam Chair,
We are alarmed by the escalating threats and intimidation faced by journalists in Georgia. The Public Defender’s 2024 Human Rights Report highlights a significant decline in media freedom, exacerbated by restrictive laws—such as the recent amendments to the Law on Broadcasting—and growing hostility toward journalists.
Notably, there have been incidents where journalists were being targeted by police while covering protests, including physical assaults and equipment seizures. Furthermore, reports of targeting journalists in exile and negative rhetoric from high-ranking officials and politicians have further eroded media freedom and increased risks for journalists.
We call for the immediate cessation of these practices and the immediate release of all arbitrarily detained journalists, including Mzia Amaghlobeli, who remains in detention on charges of up to 7 years in prison.
Finally, we remain deeply troubled by the persistent lack of accountability for police violence. We have seen no evidence of credible efforts by the Georgian authorities to investigate reports of disproportionate use of force against peaceful protesters, arbitrary detentions, excessive over-reliance on long pre-trial detention periods, and mistreatment of detainees.
We call on the Georgian authorities to take immediate action to protect the rights of those exercising their fundamental freedoms and to conduct a thorough investigation of the use of police force during peaceful protests since 28 November 2024 in order to hold those responsible for human rights violations to account. Failure to do so further undermines public trust in Georgia’s institutions.
Madam Chair,
Despite repeated statements by Georgia reaffirming their commitment to dialogue and the OSCE principles and commitments, we have yet to see any concrete and genuine steps toward meaningful engagement. Instead, recent actions by the Georgian authorities have moved Georgia further away from democracy. We call on the Georgian authorities to open an inclusive dialogue with all political parties and civil society organisations in order to find peaceful and democratic solutions to the ongoing crisis.
We welcome recent statements by ODIHR and RFoM and strongly urge Georgia to continue to constructively engage with OSCE institutions and make use of their expertise. As fellow OSCE participating States, we will explore all available tools and mechanisms within the OSCE context going forward. In this spirit, we call on Georgian authorities to implement recommendations by ODIHR with regard to the upcoming elections.
Our unwavering commitment to Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity remains unchanged. We stand steadfast in our support for the Georgian people and their pursuit of a democratic, stable and European future, and we remain ready to work with Georgia to ensure it upholds its international obligations and ensures that human rights and fundamental freedoms are fully respected.
At 2pm today, the offender was located and arrested at a residence in Sadadeen. The victim was also located and is receiving medical treatment for serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.
Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Chay McArthur said, “This was a brutal and completely abhorrent domestic violence assault, and the offender will be charged later today.
“Police would like to thank members of the community for their assistance, and our Aboriginal Liaison Officers and investigative team for their tireless work.”
If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114. In an emergency dial 000.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information on the whereabouts of a motor vehicle that was stolen in the West Daly Region on Friday 4 April.
Police allege that between 9am and 3:15pm, the NSW registered vehicle and boat trailer were stolen from the Daly River boat ramp whilst the registered owner was fishing. Police have since sighted the vehicle in Palumpa and Wadeye; however, a pursuit was not initiated due to safety concerns. On one occasion the stolen vehicle bumped the rear of a police vehicle.
Investigations remain ongoing into the whereabouts of the outstanding vehicle and offenders involved.
Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this incident to make contact on 131 444. You can anonymously report crime via Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.
Cooperation between authorities from France, Slovenia, Spain and Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the support from Eurojust and Europol, has resulted in the dismantling of an arms traffickers group. Actions taking place simultaneously in France, Spain and Bosnia and Herzegovina led to the arrest of seven members of the criminal group.
Investigations into the group started when authorities found a large number of weapons, ammunition and grenades. Further investigations in the group led to suspicions that some members of the group resided in France. Authorities found out that the criminal group trafficked large numbers of weapons that they bought on illegal marketplaces in Bosnia and Herzegovina to smuggle them into France.
Authorities started to work together through Eurojust to stop the criminal group and arrest its members. Eurojust ensured that European Arrest Warrants and European Investigation Orders were prepared ahead of the coordinated operation. Europol supported the investigation from the outset, delivering operational analysis to the cases in the involved countries, coordinating international cooperation by organising operational meetings, and deploying officers to France and Spain for the action day.
A coordinated operation to take down the group started on 18 March. The cooperation between authorities led to the arrest of seven members of the criminal group, four in France, one in Spain and two in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Searches were carried out in Spain and Bosnia and Herzegovina to collect information and evidence on the group’s activities. Bosnian authorities are actively searching for the main target.
The following authorities carried out the operations:
France: JIRS Paris (Interregional Specialised Jurisdiction); OCLCO (National Police Office against organised crime)
Slovenia: District State Prosecutor’s Office in Kranj; Police Directorate Kranj
Spain: PPO Audiencia Nacional; Central Investigating Court num 5 at Audiencia Nacional; Guardia Civil
Bosnia and Herzegovina: The Prosecutor’s Office of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Border Police of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Ministry of Interior Affaires – Republic of Srpska (part of the investigation before the operation)
Reacting to the deteriorating health condition of Tofig Yagublu, a prominent opposition activist from Azerbaijan, who is serving a nine-year prison term, and who has been on a hunger strike since 1 April, Marie Struthers, Amnesty International’s Eastern Europe and Central Asia Director, said:
“Tofig Yagublu has endured years of politically motivated persecution and ill-treatment by Azerbaijani authorities. This time, not just his freedom, but his health and life are at stake. His condition has been significantly deteriorating, and every day counts.”
“The Azerbaijani authorities must immediately and unconditionally release Tofig Yagublu, who has been imprisoned solely for his outspoken criticism of government, and should urgently provide him access to all necessary health services.”
Background
On 10 March 2025, the Baku Serious Crimes Court sentenced Tofig Yagublu, a leading member of the opposition Musavat Party and the National Council of Democratic Forces, to nine years in prison on charges of “fraud resulting in substantial harm” and “document forgery.” Amnesty International has recognized him as a prisoner of conscience.
Tofig Yagublu has long been a target of Azerbaijani authorities. He has been arbitrarily detained multiple times and has been sentenced to prison on three separate occasions on various politically motivated charges. Tofig Yagublu has been on hunger strike since 1 April to protest against his most recent nine-year sentence. He said, “I am released at 75 years old, is this a life? If it is [not a life], I will choose to die before”.
According to Tofig Yagublu’s family, his health, already weak after years of persecution, detention and ill-treatment, has been rapidly deteriorating. His lawyer, who visited him recently, described him as being very weak, pale, rapidly losing weight and having difficulty walking. Tofig Yagoublu’s health has reportedly been damaged as a result of the ill-treatment he was subjected to during his previous detention. He is suffering from chronic asthma, which has been worsening due to poor prison conditions and lack of adequate medical care. His lawyer’s request for an independent medical examination has so far not been granted.
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Vinothan Naidoo, Associate Professor of Public Policy and Administration, University of Cape Town
South Africa’s multi-party government of national unity (GNU), which emerged in the wake of the May 2024 elections, marked a turning point in the country’s political history. It took South Africans back to the 1990s, when the country showed that political opponents could find common cause.
The formation of the government of national unity expressed the hope that the country could do it again.
But just nine months into its term, the good will and pragmatism which marked its formation have worn thin. A major budget impasse between the two major actors, the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA), threatens the coalition.
South Africans have long been accustomed to viewing the world of politics, governance and bureaucracy through the lens of a top-down “strong” state – a vicious apartheid state, an East Asia style developmental state, or a collusive “predatory state”.
But as recent analyses we co-authored with others have detailed, the vision of a top-down politically cohesive state no longer fits South Africa’s realities.
The government of national unity promised the hope that the country was embracing an approach that is key to success for almost all inclusive constitutional democracies. That is – abandon “all or nothing” confrontation, and instead pursue pragmatic bargains to achieve mutually agreeable policy outcomes.
At the most basic level, the government of national unity achieved this, at least for a while. The sharing of cabinet ministries between multiple parties created a diverse platform for executive power-sharing that was not dictated by a single dominant party, and which prevented the risks of parties building institutional fiefdoms.
In our view, failure to overcome deeply ingrained political differences could set off a downward spiral in the country.
Achievements on the governance front
On governance, the government of national unity created the space to pursue two sets of gains.
The first comprises the potential benefit of bringing together unlikely bedfellows.
The former opposition parties brought into a power-sharing arrangement were bound to be performance-driven, given the country’s long deteriorating government performance and ethical integrity. They had made “good governance” and criticism of the ANC central to their political brands.
New “outsider” eyes brought into formerly cloistered and factionalised ANC-run departments created the possibility of a new urgency to perform.
It’s too soon to tell whether this is happening, but anecdotal evidence suggests there are some green shoots.
The second governance gain comprises the crucial task of building a capable and professional state bureaucracy. The challenges include being able to pay the public sector wage bill, fostering a culture of delivery, and consolidating the bloated network of government departments.
Based on their party manifestos and public utterances, members of the government all aim to professionalise the public service.
Detailed technical work is already happening on issues such as training and competency assessment, transferring powers of appointment from politicians to senior public servants, and instituting checks in the recruitment and selection process. The National Assembly’s recent adoption of the Public Service Commission Bill forms part of this agenda.
The government of national unity has struggled to create effective mechanisms to translate agreement on a broad agenda of policy priorities into specific outcomes. This came at a higher cost than expected.
Still, it has made gains in challenging policy areas. These gains have repeatedly been undermined by the perverse determination of sections within both the ANC and the DA to engage in brinkmanship.
On health, both parties agree on the principle of universalising access. They differ on how to achieve this. But at least one seemingly intractable sticking point has been resolved. Both sides agree that private medical aid schemes need to be retained as part of a broader strategy of pursuing health system reform.
On basic education, the public spat over the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill overshadows the potential to agree on balancing the autonomy of school governing bodies with the oversight role of provincial departments.
On land expropriation, the emotive rhetoric which followed the signing of the Expropriation Bill and the unwelcome and toxic intervention of international actors has overshadowed technical concerns which can be resolved.
On pro-growth policies: Operation Vulindlela, a joint Presidency and National Treasury initiative to unblock constraints in targeted economic sectors, has made significant strides. It has laid the groundwork for new rounds of growth-supporting infrastructural reforms and has the potential to build cohesion in the government of national unity. However, the DA’s attempt to lobby for a greater role in the strategic oversight of Operation Vulindlela in exchange for supporting the budget risks souring relations with the ANC.
What now?
A thriving inclusive society depends on powerful actors visibly committed to co-operation.
For all of the challenges confronting the government of national unity, it was built on a foundation of pragmatism. For the sake of South Africa’s future, it remains vital to build on this foundation. Obsolete top-down governing approaches must go. Pathways to performance must be lifted above political grandstanding. Constructive solutions should supersede ideological rigidity. South Africa has done it before. It can do it again.
– South Africa’s coalition government is crumbling: why collapse would carry a heavy cost – https://theconversation.com/south-africas-coalition-government-is-crumbling-why-collapse-would-carry-a-heavy-cost-254302
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
​The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government spokesman today (April 11) expressed regret at the resignation of Mr Justice Robert French as a non-permanent judge of the Court of Final Appeal of the HKSAR, and extended gratitude for his contribution over the years.
The HKSAR Government was grateful that Mr Justice French, in his resignation letter to the Chief Executive, expressed great respect for the judicial officers of the HKSAR as well as for their independence and integrity, and that he felt honoured to have worked with them.
The spokesman said that the long-time presence of esteemed judges from overseas as non-permanent judges of the Court of Final Appeal participating in hearings of the Court has been conducive to the international legal environment and the development of the jurisprudence of common law in Hong Kong. Their continued participation, alongside permanent judges, speaks to the enduring strength and resilience of the Court. The judicial system of the HKSAR is protected by the Basic Law. The HKSAR shall be vested with independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication; the courts shall exercise judicial power independently, free from any interference. The presence or absence of individual judges will not undermine the integrity of the system, nor impair the HKSAR Government’s determination in upholding the rule of law.
The HKSAR Government fully supports the Judiciary in its continuous efforts to appoint and retain foreign non-permanent judges in the future, and will endeavor to capitalise on the HKSAR’s common law system, upholding the rule of law in Hong Kong.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The following is issued on behalf of the Judiciary:
In response to media enquiries, the Judiciary confirmed today (April 11) that Mr Justice Robert French, a non-permanent judge from other common law jurisdictions (CLNPJ) of the Court of Final Appeal (CFA), had tendered his resignation to the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. In his resignation, Mr Justice French reaffirmed his continued respect for the independence and integrity of all of the Judges on the CFA.
The Judiciary is grateful to Mr Justice French for his valuable contributions to the work of the CFA and his support for the rule of law in Hong Kong during his tenure.
Upon the departure of Mr Justice French, there are nine non-permanent judges comprising four non-permanent Hong Kong judges and five CLNPJs from the United Kingdom and Australia in the CFA. In light of its steady caseload, the operation of the CFA will not be affected by the recent change in membership of the Court.
The Judiciary will continue to identify suitable local and overseas candidates for appointment as non-permanent judges.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Speech
Challenges to media freedom in the OSCE region: UK statement to the OSCE, April 2025
Ambassador Neil Holland recalls the vital contribution of media freedom to security in the OSCE region, and calls on Russia, Belarus and others to live up to their OSCE commitments.
Thank you Mr Chair. And welcome back to the Permanent Council in your new capacity, dear Jan.
In this fiftieth anniversary year, I want to start with the Helsinki Final Act. In 1975 our predecessors accepted citizens’ right to seek, receive, and impart information and ideas. Free, independent and pluralistic media should be at the heart of our societies and our shared security. Sadly we are still far from realising our predecessors’ ambition when it comes to media freedom and other fundamental freedoms in our region.
We believe early warning sits at the core of your mandate. We welcome your public statements on recent cases of concern and, in particular, take this opportunity to express our concern about the case of Mzia Amaglobeli in Georgia and the so called “foreign agents” law in Republika Srpska.
Since Russia’s full scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, many journalists and media workers have been killed. And over 100 Ukrainian and foreign journalists have been detained or taken hostage by Russian forces. Furthermore, state disinformation, information manipulation and censorship in Russia and Belarus have reached unprecedented levels. Systemic repression has led to the closure of almost all independent media organizations and a media space largely subject to the State apparatus.
We call on both Russia and Belarus to release all political prisoners (including media actors) immediately and unconditionally, including those held by Russia in temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories.
In order to realise the ambition of 1975, every participating State has work to do. I am pleased that the Security Committee’s May 2025 meeting will focus on security implications of information manipulation and interference.
And domestically, the UK looks forward to working with you on the safety of journalists, combatting foreign information manipulation and interference and global media freedom challenges.
We launched our National Committee for the Safety of Journalists in 2020 and the UK’s National Action Plan for the Safety of Journalists was first launched in 2021. The Action Plan was refreshed in 2023 following delivery of many of its original commitments. Achievements under the 2023 Action Plan include updated Online Harassment Guidance for Journalists; the launch of a journalist safety tracker by the National Union of Journalists; and a Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation Taskforce and workplan.
The SLAPPs Taskforce has initiated new guidance on SLAPPs for journalists. The Solicitors Regulation Authority who are members of the Taskforce, launched a thematic review on SLAPPs in April 2024 and published an updated warning notice on SLAPPs in 2024, to help solicitors and law firms understand their obligations and how to comply.
In 2025 the UK’s National Committee for Safety of Journalists will focus on three priority areas: enhancing the criminal justice response to crimes against journalists; supporting journalists and their employers to tackle online and offline harassment; and – with a non-legislative focus – tackling the risks posed by SLAPPs and other abusive legal threats against journalists.
The National Committee – co-chaired by the Minister for Sports, Media, Civil Society and Youth and the Minister for Safeguarding and Violence against Women and Girls – will also develop the next iteration of the UK National Action Plan later this year.
The UK looks forward to continuing to discuss developments of concern across the wider OSCE region with you as well as our domestic policy framework. And the UK remains a strong supporter of your office, your mandate and your team. Thank you.
Merseyside Police has arrested a man and seized suspected counterfeit clothing with a retail value of approximately £80,000 after officers visited a shop in Liverpool city centre.
In partnership with representatives from Liverpool City Council’s Trading Standards team, officers paid a visit to the store on Wednesday 9 April and seized a large quantity of clothes and trainers.
It’s suspected that the items, which had Adidas, Nike and The North Face logos attached to them, were counterfeit and being sold to the public as legitimate products. Officers also seized cash at the premises that is believed to have been made from selling the products.
A 69-year-old man from Manchester has been arrested on suspicion of: • Acquiring/using/possessing criminal property • Three counts of applying to goods/packaging a sign identical to/likely to be mistaken for a registered trade mark
He has been bailed pending further inquiries.
City centre Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant Richard Clare said: “This arrest forms part of our ongoing work in the city centre aimed at disrupting criminal activity.
“Along with our partners at Trading Standards at the council, we are committed to protecting the public from poor quality or unsafe goods which put consumers at risk and threatens legitimate businesses.
“While they might look like the real thing, counterfeit clothing is usually made from poor quality materials and may be easily flammable or otherwise unsafe.
“We’ll continue to work with partners to drive this work forward and make Liverpool a safer place.”
Cllr Laura Robertson-Collins, Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Neighbourhoods and Streetscene added: “It is important that everyone is vigilant when it comes to counterfeit goods – we all like a bargain, but counterfeit clothing is poor quality, potentially unsafe and is often linked with the funding of illegal activities.
“It’s great to see our Trading Standards team work in partnership with Merseyside Police to crackdown on the sale of these goods to protect consumers. I hope this sends out a strong message to all retailers that we will not tolerate the sale of counterfeit products in our city and are not afraid to take swift and serious action.”
The Government announced today that it will launch the Pilot Scheme on Wading Line System at five low-lying road sections with a higher flooding risk to tackle flooding as early as possible and alert drivers on the road ahead, thereby reducing the possibility of vehicles stalling due to water damage.
The system is being introduced in view of the increasing likelihood of flooding at low-lying road sections caused by heavy rain under extreme weather. Five pilot road sections have been selected as they experienced serious flooding in September 2023, causing damage to vehicles and rendering them inoperable.
The road sections are at Chai Wan Road, Lung Cheung Road, Tsui Ping Road, Chatham Road North and Nam Wan Road in Tai Po Market.
Traffic arrangements will be implemented in phases from later this month at the relevant road sections to facilitate the installation of the system’s warning signs. The installation is expected to be completed in mid-May.
Under the system, warning signs will be placed at low-lying road sections, including a red wavy line and the words “Wading Line” painted on the road surface, with a water meter gauge placed next to it and a sign erected next to the carriageway.
When the water level has reached or submerged the wading line, it indicates the depth of the water at the lowest point of the road ahead has reached 0.3m or above.
The Drainage Services Department (DSD) will install water level sensors called Flood Monitoring Devices at the lowest point of the road sections to collect real-time water level data.
When the devices detect the water level on the road has reached the warning level, the monitoring system will immediately alert relevant government departments. The DSD and the Highways Department will promptly deploy emergency response teams to inspect and clear blocked drains to reduce the risk of flooding.
When the depth of the water has reached 0.3m, there will be temporary traffic guidance on-site to prevent vehicles from entering the flooded road sections. The Transport Department will disseminate information on traffic arrangements accordingly and Police will give assistance as necessary.
If vehicles have entered low-lying road sections before the temporary traffic guidance is in place, drivers should stop their vehicles before reaching the wading line and avoid entering the flooded area. They should also turn on their hazard warning lights and follow the on-site directions to leave the temporarily closed road sections.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi lays foundation stone, inaugurates development works worth over Rs 3,880 crore in Varanasi,Uttar Pradesh In the last 10 years, the development of Banaras has gained a new momentum: PM
Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule ji worked throughout their lives for the welfare of women empowerment, their self-confidence and the welfare of the society: PM
Banas Dairy has changed both the image and destiny of thousands of families in Kashi: PM
Kashi is now becoming the capital of Good Health: PM
Today, whoever goes to Kashi, praises its infrastructure and facilities: PM
India today is carrying forward both development and heritage together, Our Kashi is becoming the best model for this: PM
Uttar Pradesh is no longer just a land of possibilities but of competence and accomplishments!: PM
Posted On: 11 APR 2025 12:56PM by PIB Delhi
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated various development projects worth over Rs 3,880 crore today in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Addressing the gathering, he highlighted his deep connection to Kashi, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the people of his family and the region for the blessings and acknowledged the love and support that has been extended to him. He emphasized his indebtedness to this love, stating that Kashi is his, and he belongs to Kashi. Noting that tomorrow is the auspicious occasion of Hanuman Janmotsav, Shri Modi expressed his honor at having the opportunity to visit Sankat Mochan Maharaj in Kashi. He highlighted how, ahead of Hanuman Janmotsav, the people of Kashi have gathered together to celebrate the festival of development.
“In the last 10 years, the development of Banaras has gained a new momentum”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, adding that Kashi has embraced modernity, preserved its heritage, and adopted a bright future. He remarked that Kashi is no longer just ancient but also progressive, now positioned at the center of Purvanchal’s economic map. He further noted that the Kashi guided by Lord Mahadev himself is now driving the chariot of Purvanchal’s development.
Mentioning the inauguration and foundation laying of numerous projects connected to Kashi and various parts of Purvanchal earlier in the event, Shri Modi emphasized the strengthening of connectivity through infrastructure projects, the campaign to provide tap water to every household, and the expansion of education, health, and sports facilities. He remarked on the commitment to provide better amenities to every region, family, and youth, stating that these initiatives will serve as milestones in transforming Purvanchal into a developed region. He noted that every resident of Kashi will benefit greatly from these schemes and extended congratulations to the people of Banaras and Purvanchal for these development efforts.
The Prime Minister marked the occasion of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule’s birth anniversary today, recognizing his and Savitribai Phule’s lifelong dedication to the welfare of society and the empowerment of women. He highlighted the ongoing efforts to advance their vision and commitment to women’s empowerment. He further stated that their Government treads on the mantra of ‘Sabka saath, Sabka Vikas’. He extended congratulations to the livestock-rearing families of Purvanchal, particularly the hardworking women, who have set a new example for the region. He remarked that trust, when placed in these women, has created history. The Prime Minister noted the distribution of bonuses to livestock-rearing families associated with Uttar Pradesh’s Banas Dairy Plant. He emphasized that this bonus, exceeding ₹100 crore, is not a gift but a reward for their hard work and dedication, reflecting the value of their labor and perseverance.
Emphasising the transformative impact of Banas Dairy in Kashi, which has reshaped the lives and destinies of thousands of families, Shri Modi highlighted how the dairy has rewarded hard work and given wings to aspirations. He proudly noted that the efforts have enabled many women in Purvanchal to become “Lakhpati Didis,” transitioning from concerns of sustenance to a path of prosperity. He remarked that this progress is evident not only in Banaras and Uttar Pradesh but across the country. “India has become the largest milk producer globally, with a nearly 65% increase in milk production over the past decade”, he highlighted, attributing this success to millions of farmers and livestock owners, recognizing that such achievements are the result of continuous efforts over the last ten years. He pointed out the initiatives undertaken to advance the dairy sector in mission mode, including linking livestock owners to Kisan Credit Card facilities, increasing loan limits, and introducing subsidy programs. The Prime Minister also mentioned the free vaccination program against Foot and Mouth Disease to protect livestock, as well as efforts to revive over 20,000 cooperative societies for organized milk collection, incorporating lakhs of new members. He underlined the focus on developing indigenous cattle breeds and improving their quality through scientific breeding under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission. These initiatives aim to connect livestock owners with new development pathways, better markets, and opportunities. He lauded the Banas Dairy complex in Kashi for advancing this vision across Purvanchal and noted that Banas Dairy has distributed Gir cows in the region, with their numbers steadily increasing, and has begun arrangements for animal feed in Banaras. He commended the dairy for collecting milk from nearly one lakh farmers in Purvanchal, empowering them and strengthening their livelihoods.
The Prime Minister mentioned the privilege of distributing Ayushman Vay Vandana Cards to several senior citizens. He highlighted the sense of satisfaction evident on their faces, calling it a testament to the scheme’s success. He acknowledged the concerns families have had for their elders’ healthcare and recalled the difficulties faced across Purvanchal 10-11 years ago regarding medical treatment. Noting the drastic improvements in the region, he stated “Kashi is now becoming a health capital”. He remarked that advanced hospitals, once limited to cities like Delhi and Mumbai, are now accessible near people’s homes. He emphasized that this is the essence of development—bringing facilities closer to the people.
Emphasising the significant strides made in healthcare over the past decade, not only increasing the number of hospitals but also enhancing the dignity of patients, Shri Modi highlighted the Ayushman Bharat scheme as a boon for the poor, providing not just treatment but also instilling confidence. He remarked that thousands in Varanasi and lakhs across Uttar Pradesh have benefited from the scheme, with every treatment, operation, and relief marking a new beginning in their lives. He further noted that the Ayushman Bharat scheme has saved crores of rupees for lakhs of families in Uttar Pradesh, as the government has taken responsibility for their healthcare. Recalling his promise of free treatment for senior citizens, which led to the launch of the Ayushman Vay Vandana scheme, the Prime Minister highlighted that this initiative ensures free treatment for every senior citizen above 70 years of age, regardless of their income. He remarked that Varanasi has issued the highest number of Vay Vandana cards, with nearly 50,000 cards distributed. He emphasized that this is not just a statistic but a commitment to service, eliminating the need for families to sell land, take loans, or face helplessness for medical treatment. He assured that with the Ayushman card, the government now bears the financial responsibility for their healthcare.
The Prime Minister highlighted the remarkable transformation of Kashi’s infrastructure and facilities, which have earned widespread praise from visitors. He noted that millions of people visit Banaras daily, offering prayers to Baba Vishwanath and bathing in the sacred Ganga, with many remarking on the city’s significant changes. He emphasized the challenges Kashi would have faced if its roads, railways, and airport had remained in the same condition as a decade ago. He recalled the traffic jams during small festivals, where travelers had to navigate through the entire city, enduring dust and heat. He remarked on the construction of the Phulwariya flyover, which has shortened distances, saved time, and brought relief to daily life. The Prime Minister also highlighted the benefits of the Ring Road, which has drastically reduced travel time for residents of rural areas in Jaunpur and Ghazipur, as well as those from Ballia, Mau, and Ghazipur districts heading to the airport, eliminating hours of traffic congestion.
Underlining the improved connectivity in the region which has led to faster and convenient travel to cities like Ghazipur, Jaunpur, Mirzapur, and Azamgarh with widened roads, Shri Modi remarked that areas once plagued by traffic jams are now witnessing the speed of development. He emphasized the investment of approximately ₹45,000 crore over the past decade in enhancing connectivity in Varanasi and surrounding regions. He stated that this investment has transformed not just infrastructure but also trust, benefiting Kashi and neighboring districts. He announced the expansion of infrastructure projects, including the foundation laying of projects worth thousands of crores. The Prime Minister highlighted the ongoing expansion of Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport and the construction of a six-lane underground tunnel near the airport to improve connectivity. He noted the initiation of projects connecting Bhadohi, Ghazipur, and Jaunpur, as well as the long-awaited construction of flyovers at Bhikharipur and Manduadih. He expressed happiness over the fulfillment of these demands. He also announced the construction of a new bridge connecting Banaras city and Sarnath, which will eliminate the need for travelers from other districts to enter the city while heading to Sarnath.
The Prime Minister remarked that in the coming months, once the ongoing projects are completed, commuting in Banaras will become even more convenient, stressing that this progress will boost both speed and business activities in the region. He highlighted the enhanced ease for those visiting Banaras for livelihood and healthcare purposes. He also mentioned the commencement of the trial for the city ropeway in Kashi, which will position Banaras among the select cities globally to offer such a facility.
Underscoring that every development and infrastructure project in Varanasi benefits the youth of Purvanchal, Shri Modi highlighted the government’s focus on providing continuous opportunities for Kashi’s youth to excel in sports. He remarked on the construction of new stadiums in Banaras and the development of excellent facilities for young athletes. He noted the opening of a new sports complex, where hundreds of players from Varanasi are undergoing training. He also mentioned that participants in the MP Sports Competition have had the opportunity to showcase their talent on these grounds.
Emphasising India’s journey of balancing development and heritage, highlighting Kashi as the finest example of this model, the Prime Minister remarked on the flow of the Ganga and the consciousness of India, describing, “Kashi is the most beautiful representation of India’s soul and diversity”. He noted the unique culture in every neighborhood and the distinct colors of India visible in every lane of Kashi and expressed happiness over initiatives like the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam, which continue to strengthen the threads of unity. He announced the upcoming Ekta Mall in Kashi, which will showcase India’s diversity under one roof, offering products from various districts across the country.
The Prime Minister highlighted the transformation in Uttar Pradesh over recent years, noting that the state has not only changed its economic landscape but also its outlook. He remarked that Uttar Pradesh is no longer just a land of possibilities but has become a land of capability and achievements. He stressed on the growing resonance of ‘Made in India’ globally, with Indian-made products now becoming global brands. He noted the recognition of several products with Geographical Indication (GI) tags, describing these tags as more than just labels—they are certificates of identity for the land. He remarked that GI tags signify that a product is a creation of its soil, and wherever GI tags reach, they open pathways to greater market success.
Underscoring Uttar Pradesh’s leading position in GI tagging across the country, Shri Modi mentioned the growing international recognition of the state’s art, crafts, and skills. He noted that over 30 products from Varanasi and its surrounding districts have received GI tags, describing them as a passport of identity for these items. He listed products from the region that have been recognized, such as Varanasi’s tabla, shehnai, wall paintings, thandai, stuffed red chili, red peda, and tiranga barfi. He also mentioned that products like Jaunpur’s imarti, Mathura’s sanjhi art, Bundelkhand’s kathiya wheat, Pilibhit’s flute, Prayagraj’s moonj art, Bareilly’s zardozi, Chitrakoot’s woodcraft, and Lakhimpur Kheri’s Tharu zardozi have recently been awarded GI tags. “The fragrance of Uttar Pradesh’s soil is now crossing borders, spreading its legacy far and wide”, he added.
Remarking that preserving Kashi means safeguarding the soul of India, the Prime Minister concluded by emphasising the collective commitment to continually empower Kashi and to keep it beautiful and connect its ancient spirit with a modern identity.
The Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Smt Anandiben Patel, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Yogi Adityanath were present among others at the event.
Background
Prime Minister laid the foundation stone and inaugurated various development projects worth over Rs 3,880 crore in Varanasi. In line with his commitment to infrastructure development, particularly enhancing road connectivity in Varanasi, he inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various road projects in the region. Furthermore, he laid the foundation stone for a road bridge between Varanasi Ring Road and Sarnath, flyovers at Bhikharipur and Manduadih crossings of the city and a highway underpass road tunnel on NH-31 at the Varanasi International Airport worth over Rs 980 crore.
Giving a boost to the electricity infrastructure, Prime Minister inaugurated two 400 KV and one 220 KV transmission substations and associated transmission lines of Jaunpur, Chandauli and Ghazipur districts of Varanasi division worth over Rs 1,045 crore. He also laid the foundation stone of a 220 KV transmission substation at Chaukaghat, Varanasi, a 132 KV transmission substation in Ghazipur and augmentation of the Varanasi city electricity distribution system worth over Rs 775 crore.
Prime Minister inaugurated a Transit Hostel at the Police Line and barracks at PAC Ramnagar Campus, to improve facilities for the security personnel. He also laid the foundation stone of new administrative buildings at various police stations and a residential hostel in Police Line.
In line with his vision to ensure education for all, Prime Minister inaugurated projects including a Government Polytechnic College at Pindra, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Government College at village Barki, 356 rural libraries and 100 Anganwadi centres also. He also laid the foundation stone for renovation of 77 primary school buildings under the Smart City Mission and the construction of a new building for Kasturba Gandhi School at Cholapur, Varanasi. Promoting sports infrastructure in the city, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for a synthetic hockey turf with floodlights and spectator gallery at Uday Pratap College and a mini stadium at Shivpur.
Prime Minister also inaugurated the redevelopment of Samne Ghat and Shastri Ghat at Ganga river, 130 rural drinking water schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission worth over Rs 345 crore, improvement of six municipal wards of Varanasi and landscaping and sculpture installations at various sites of Varanasi.
Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for MSME Unity Mall for artisans, infrastructure development works of Transport Nagar Scheme at Mohansarai, 1 MW solar power plant at WTP Bhelupur, Community halls in 40 Gram panchayats and beautification of various parks in Varanasi.
Prime Minister presented Geographical Indication (GI) certificates to various local items and products including tabla, painting, thandai, tiranga barfi among others. He also transferred over Rs 105 crore bonus to milk suppliers of Uttar Pradesh associated with Banas Dairy.
काशी का तेजी से चहुंमुखी विकास हो रहा है। इसी कड़ी में आज विभिन्न विकास परियोजनाओं का लोकार्पण-शिलान्यास करना मेरे लिए सौभाग्य की बात है। https://t.co/6vY4qCCLYp
महात्मा ज्योतिबा फुले और सावित्री बाई फुले जी ने जीवन भर नारी शक्ति के हित, उनके आत्मविश्वास और समाज के कल्याण के लिए काम किया: PM @narendramodipic.twitter.com/m0hui2d0Xh
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
In view of the increased chance of flooding at low-lying road sections caused by heavy rain under extreme weather, the Government will launch the Pilot Scheme on Wading Line System at five low-lying road sections with higher risk to monitor the flooding situation in real time, to facilitate effective mobilisation and collaboration of relevant government departments to tackle flooding as early as possible, and alert drivers of flooding on the road ahead, thereby reducing the possibility of vehicles stalling due to damage by flooding.
A Government spokesman said today (April 11) that the five pilot road sections are located at Chai Wan Road, Lung Cheung Road, Tsui Ping Road, Chatham Road North, and Nam Wan Road in Tai Po Market. During the severe rainstorms in September 2023, these locations experienced more serious flooding, causing damage to vehicles and rendering them inoperable.
Warning signs of the system will be placed at low-lying road sections, including a red wavy line and the words “Wading Line” painted on the road surface, with a water meter gauge placed next to it and a sign erected next to the carriageway. When the water level has reached or submerged the wading line, it indicates that the depth of the water at the lowest point of the road ahead has reached 0.3 metre or above.
In addition, the Drainage Services Department (DSD) will install water level sensors called Flood Monitoring Devices at the lowest point of the road sections to collect real-time water level data. When the devices detect that the water level on the road has reached the warning level, the monitoring system will immediately alert relevant government departments. The DSD and the Highways Department (HyD) will promptly deploy emergency response teams to inspect and clear blocked drains to reduce the risk of flooding. When the depth of the water has reached 0.3 metre, there will be temporary traffic guidance on-site to prevent vehicles from entering the flooded road sections. The Transport Department will disseminate information on traffic arrangements accordingly and the Police will assist at scene as necessary.
If vehicles have entered low-lying road sections before temporary traffic guidance is in place, drivers should stop their vehicles before reaching the wading line and avoid entering the flooded area. They should turn on hazard warning lights and follow the on-site directions to leave the temporarily closed road sections.
The Government will monitor the implementation of the pilot scheme, review its effectiveness in due course and optimise it as necessary.
To facilitate the progressive installation of warning signs of the system at the pilot road sections by the HyD, which will begin in late April, temporary traffic arrangements will be implemented in phases at the relevant road sections. The installation is expected to be completed in mid-May.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
​The Department of Health (DH) announced today (April 11) that, for the first time, a person, not being a registered dentist, had been arrested for suspected taking of a digital impression with an intra-oral scanner and prescription of a clear aligner after the updated definition of “practising dentistry” under the Dentists Registration Ordinance (DRO) (Cap. 156) came into effect.
The Police and the DH yesterday (April 10) conducted a joint enforcement action against a person, not being a registered dentist, who was suspected of taking a digital impression with an intra-oral scanner in another person and prescribing another person with a clear aligner at a commercial building in Tsim Sha Tsui. During the operation, a 33-year-old woman was arrested for allegedly practising dentistry without being a registered dentist.
With effect from January 1 this year, the definition of “practising dentistry” under the DRO has been updated. The DRO clearly stipulates that only registered dentists may provide the services specified for the meaning of practising dentistry in Schedule 2, which includes taking of a digital impression with an intra-oral scanner in another person and providing another person with the following services:
the carrying out of dental bleaching or teeth whitening procedure;
the prescription of clear aligner; and
the carrying out of teeth veneering procedure.
Any person who provides or attempts to provide the aforementioned services but not being a registered dentist will commit an offence. The offender will be liable on summary conviction to a fine at level 6 and to imprisonment for three years, or on conviction on indictment to imprisonment for five years.
The DH reminded members of the public not to patronise non-registered dentists for their own health. Citizens may check before choosing dental services the List of Registered Dentists published by the Dental Council of Hong Kong online to verify the qualifications of service providers. If in doubt, citizens should refrain from receiving such services to ensure safety.
