Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force has charged a 34-year-old man in relation to alleged sexual intercourse with a young person.
The man was an employee at a Top End school, and is alleged to have been having sexual intercourse with a student enrolled at the same school. The man is not a member of the teaching staff.
The alleged offender was arrested yesterday and has been charged with Sexual intercourse – young person (by person in position of authority).
He was remanded in custody overnight to appear in Darwin Local Court today.
Detectives from the Child Abuse Taskforce are continuing to investigate.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information after an aggravated robbery occurred in Coolalinga overnight.
Around 11:20pm, police received reports that a 16-year-old male was allegedly threatened with an edged weapon for his keys and wallet outside a gym on Fairweather Crescent.
The male and female offenders subsequently fled the scene in the victim’s Mitsubishi Outlander.
Strike Force Trident have carriage and investigations are ongoing.
Police urge anyone with information about the incident to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number P25091342. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
2025-50 HAWAI‘I COUNTY POLICE DETECTIVE FOUND GUILTY OF PERJURY
Posted on Apr 3, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom
STATE OF HAWAIʻI
KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI
DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL
KA ʻOIHANA O KA LOIO KUHINA
JOSH GREEN, M.D. GOVERNOR
KE KIAʻĀINA
ANNE LOPEZ
ATTORNEY GENERAL
LOIO KUHINA
HAWAI‘I COUNTY POLICE DETECTIVE FOUND GUILTY OF PERJURY
News Release 2025-50
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 3, 2025
HILO, Hawai‘i – William Brown, a detective in the Vice Division of the Hawaiʻi County Police Department, was found guilty of Perjury, a class C felony offense, following a bench trial by Judge Peter K. Kubota on April 2, 2025.
Brown was found guilty of knowingly making a false statement while under oath, to a grand jury proceeding before the Circuit Court of the Third Circuit, while employed as a Hawaiʻi County Police detective.
The false statement involved his interview with a suspect in a case where drugs were found in a vehicle. During the interview, the suspect stated multiple times that the only item she brought into the vehicle with her was her cell phone. The majority of the drugs found in the vehicle were in a black bag which also contained a pink stuffed animal pencil type case. Brown then testified falsely during the grand jury that the suspect claimed to have brought both her cell phone and the pink stuffed animal case into the vehicle with her.
Deputy Attorney General Albert Cook, who handled the prosecution of the case stated, “Our legal system is designed to find the truth. When witnesses lie, it undermines our legal system and perverts the quest for justice. The Department of the Attorney General is committed to protecting the integrity of the criminal justice system and will prosecute those who commit perjury.”
Sentencing is set for May 23, 2025, before the Honorable Peter K. Kubota. Brown faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison.
# # #
Media contacts:
Dave Day
Special Assistant to the Attorney General
Office: 808-586-1284
Email:[email protected]
Web:http://ag.hawaii.gov
Toni Schwartz Public Information Officer Hawai‘i Department of the Attorney General Office: 808-586-1252 Cell: 808-379-9249 Email:[email protected]
2025-49 HAWAI‘I JOINS MULTISTATE LAWSUIT AGAINST UNLAWFUL EXECUTIVE ORDER TO IMPOSE VOTING RESTRICTIONS
Posted on Apr 3, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom
STATE OF HAWAIʻI
KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI
DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL
KA ʻOIHANA O KA LOIO KUHINA
JOSH GREEN, M.D. GOVERNOR
KE KIAʻĀINA
ANNE LOPEZ
ATTORNEY GENERAL
LOIO KUHINA
HAWAI‘I JOINS MULTISTATE LAWSUIT AGAINST UNLAWFUL EXECUTIVE ORDER TO IMPOSE VOTING RESTRICTIONS
Lawsuit Asserts Voting Restrictions Are Not Authorized by the U.S. Constitution or Congress
News Release 2025-49
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 3, 2025
HONOLULU – Attorney General Anne Lopez today joined a coalition of 19 attorneys general in filing a lawsuit against President Donald J. Trump, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, the federal Election Assistance Commission, and other Trump Administration officials over Executive Order No. 14248 (the Elections Executive Order), an unconstitutional attempt to impose sweeping voting restrictions across the country.
Among other things, the Elections Executive Order attempts to force state election officials to impose documentary proof of citizenship requirements when Americans seek to register to vote. It also seeks to upend well-established state procedures for counting ballots.
According to the lawsuit, the president has no constitutional power to rewrite state election laws by decree, nor does the president have the authority to modify the rules Congress created for elections. The coalition’s lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts, explains that the power to regulate elections is reserved to the states and Congress and therefore, the Elections Executive Order is ultra vires, or beyond the scope of presidential power, and violative of the separation of powers.
The attorneys general ask the court to block the challenged provisions of the Elections Executive Order and declare them unconstitutional and void.
“The Elections Executive Order intrudes on Congress’ and the states’ power over elections,” said Attorney General Anne Lopez. “This unlawful effort to usurp election authority will irreparably harm the states and interfere with the lawful exercise of the right to vote.”
The challenged provisions include:
Forcing the Election Assistance Commission (the Commission) to require documentary proof of citizenship on the federal mail registration form (the Federal Form). The Commission is an independent, bipartisan, four-member body established by Congress. It is responsible for developing the Federal Form, in consultation with the chief election officers of the states, for the registration of voters for elections for federal office. In their lawsuit, the attorneys general underscore that Congress has never required documentary proof of citizenship to register to vote using the Federal Form.
Commanding the head of each state-designated federal voter registration agency to immediately begin “assess[ing] citizenship prior to providing a federal voter registration form to enrollees of public assistance programs.” This aspect of the Elections Executive Order commandeers state agencies and their personnel, forcing states to participate in the president’s unlawful and unnecessary agenda.
Forcing states to alter their ballot counting laws to exclude “absentee or mail-in ballots received after Election Day.” Consistent with federal law, members of the multistate coalition have exercised their constitutional and statutory authority to determine how to best receive and count votes that are timely cast by mail in federal elections. Many of the plaintiff states provide for the counting of timely absentee and mail ballots received after Election Day.
Requiring military and overseas voters to submit documentary proof of citizenship and eligibility to vote in state elections. The Federal Post Card Application form is used by voters in the military or living abroad to register to vote in federal elections. Federal law unequivocally grants them the ability to register and cast a ballot “in the last place in which the person was domiciled before leaving the United States.” There is no requirement that this form demand documentary proof of citizenship or proof of current eligibility to vote in a particular state.
Threatening to withhold various streams of federal funding to the states for purported noncompliance with the challenged provisions. In so doing, the Elections Executive Order seeks to control plaintiff states’ exercise of their sovereign powers through executive domination, contrary to the U.S. Constitution and its underlying principles of the separation of powers.
The state of Hawaiʻi is represented in this litigation by Special Assistant to the Attorney General Dave Day and Solicitor General Kalikoʻonālani Fernandes.
In filing today’s lawsuit, Attorney General Lopez joins the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont and Wisconsin. The litigation was led by California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford.
A copy of the complaint can be found here.
# # #
Media contacts:
Dave Day
Special Assistant to the Attorney General
Office: 808-586-1284
Email:[email protected]
Web:http://ag.hawaii.gov
Toni Schwartz Public Information Officer Hawai‘i Department of the Attorney General Office: 808-586-1252 Cell: 808-379-9249 Email:[email protected]
Office of the Governor — News Release — Governor Green Appoints New Chief Judge for Intermediate Court of Appeals
Posted on Apr 3, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom, Office of the Governor Press Releases
STATE OF HAWAIʻI KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI JOSH GREEN, M.D. GOVERNOR KE KIAʻĀINA
GOVERNOR GREEN APPOINTS NEW CHIEF JUDGE FOR INTERMEDIATE COURT OF APPEALS Hawai‘i’s Female Judges will Outnumber Males by Summertime
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 3, 2025
HONOLULU — Governor Josh Green, M.D., today announced the appointment of Karen T. Nakasone as the new Chief Judge of the Intermediate Court of Appeals (ICA). Nakasone will fill the vacancy left by the elevation of Judge Lisa M. Ginoza to Associate Justice of the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court.
“It is my pleasure to name Karen as Chief Judge of the ICA. Her hard work and stellar track record demonstrate that she has earned the appointment, and the comments of profound support submitted by her peers confirm that she is the right choice,” said Governor Green.
Nakasone has served on the ICA as an associate judge since she was sworn in on November 2, 2020. Initially appointed to the Circuit Court on O‘ahu by former Governor Neil Abercrombie on November 1, 2011, she served as a trial judge for nine years, in both the Civil and Criminal Divisions.
Earlier in her career Nakasone served as law clerk to ICA Judge Simeon R. Acoba Jr., then worked for 15 years as a criminal trial and appellate lawyer for the State Office of the Public Defender.
Judge Nakasone is a Pacific Century Fellow, class of 2008, and was named among the Best Lawyers Under 40 by the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association in 2009.
A graduate of the Boston University School of Law and Bryn Mawr College, Nakasone also attended the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and studied abroad at the University of the Ryukyus in Okinawa, Japan, on an Okinawan Prefectural Government scholarship from the Hawai‘i United Okinawa Association. Her high school alma mater is Hawai‘i Baptist Academy.
“Serving as Chief Judge on the second highest court of the state of Hawaiʻi is a tremendous honor, challenge and responsibility,” Nakasone said. “I am grateful for this opportunity to continue serving the people of Hawaiʻi on a court that I care very deeply about. I thank Governor Green for this appointment and look forward to the Senate confirmation process.”
Based on the gender totals on the bench today, the Governor’s four newest appointments will have 41 women and 38 men seated in the Judiciary.
According to the American Bar Association, there is widespread disparity across state and federal courts. “It has always been my priority to achieve male and female balance on the bench — and to get there with great attention to each appointee’s qualifications and careful deliberation, much the same way a judge makes decisions,” the Governor said. “Hawai‘i can be proud that we have so many well-qualified female judges. Young women who aspire to legal careers can see clearly in our courts, the heights that can be attained.”
A photo of Judge Nakasone can be found here.
# # #
Media Contacts: Erika Engle Press Secretary Office of the Governor, State of Hawai‘i Office: 808-586-0120 Email: [email protected]
Makana McClellan Director of Communications Office of the Governor, State of Hawaiʻi Cell: 808-265-0083 Email: [email protected]
PRESS RELEASES FROM CABINET: JANUARY TO BEGINNING OF FEBRUARY 2025
1: MINISTRY OF CUSTOMS AND REVENUE SEPARATED
Cabinet has approved the separation of the Ministry of Customs and Revenue into two Ministries. This includes;
i. Ministry of Customs.
ii. Ministry of Revenue.
Border protection remains a significant component of national efforts to combat transnational organized crimes such as illicit drugs and arms smuggling and trafficking, and all other unlawful activities targeted to penetrate our national borders. This requires effective customs monitoring of all goods entering our borders.
At the same time, revenue collection through compliance with Samoa’s taxation laws is important. These functional responsibilities are currently undertaken by the Ministry for Customs and Revenue. However, the separation will enable demarcation of Customs functions from Revenue collection functions, with emphasis on effective compliance and border protection.
Relevant preparations are currently underway for implementation including legislative, staffing, and budgetary requirements. The separation will be effective from the next Financial Year 2025-2026.
2: MINISTRY OF POLICE, PRISONS AND CORRECTIONS SERVICE SEPARATED
Cabinet has approved the demarcation of the Ministry of Police from Prisons and Corrections Service. The two agencies were initially seceded in January 2015 as a result of government organisational reforms and departmental arrangements. The Samoa Prisons and Corrections Service operated for four years until 2020 when Parliament passed a legislative amendment to the Prisons and Corrections Service Act, signaling to re-merger of the Ministry of Police, Prisons and Corrections Service. This was in response to ongoing systemic and operational challenges which impacted the Samoa Prisons and Corrections Service.
The distinct functions of the Police and Prisons and Corrections Services are critical, but separate in priorities and legislative focus. This separation will enable the Police to focus on law enforcement and security, and the Prisons and Corrections Service to prioritize prisons and corrections rehabilitation and reintegration programmes for inmates, and improved prison and access services such as medical support.
Preparations are in progress to ensure the separation takes effect as scheduled for the 2025-2026 financial year.
3: MOU SIGNED FOR MEDICAL TREATMENTS IN INDIA
Cabinet has approved the signing of two Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Samoa’s Ministry of Health and the Medican Services Company, to coordinate medical treatments for Samoan patients referred under the Samoa Medical Treatment Scheme for treatments in India. The two hospitals included in these MOU are the Artemis Medicare Services Limited and Fortis Hospital Limited, which are based in India. This expands the existing network of hospitals supporting Samoa’s Overseas Medical Treatment Scheme.
The inclusion of the two hospitals will provide more options for Samoa to effectively place Samoan patients in facilities that not only offer the required treatment, but also ensure cost-effectiveness.
4: TELECOMMUNICATION LICENSE FOR SPACEX TO OPERATE IN SAMOA
Approval has been granted to issue telecommunication license to an American Company ‘Space Exploration Technologies Corp’ or SpaceX to operate in Samoa, following thorough assessment conducted by the Office of the Regulator. This license allows Starlink Samoa Ltd, a subsidiary of SpaceX registered in Samoa, to provide Internet services and relevant equipment for Samoa. Starlink Samoa Limited is a new venture added to current Internet service providers in Samoa including the Computer Services Limited, Digicel, and Vodafone.
Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) is critical to improving telecommunication, online systemic support, timely and effective service delivery, boosting support for education and health, science and research, and business and innovation. Government is committed to bolstering ICT services for Samoa that are reliable, consistent and affordable.
Negotiation with Starlink led by the Office of the Regulator has completed, which now enables users in Samoa to purchase equipment and to pay monthly subscriptions in Samoan Tala. An alternative is also available to those who prefer to pay their subscriptions in cash, if they do not have the means to do online purchase.
5: EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT (ECD) FRAMEWORK APPROVED
Cabinet has approved the Framework for Early Childhood Development. This framework, has been designed in a multi-sectoral approach, laying the groundwork for a coordinated effort to improve early childhood development throughout Samoa.
The ECD Framework provides for the creation of a National ECD Advisory Board, responsible for overseeing the ongoing implementation and evaluation of the framework. This board will include representatives from key ministries, such as the Ministry of Women, Community, and Social Development (MWCSD), the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. Their collaborative efforts will ensure a unified strategy that integrates health, education, and social services for young children.
The ECD Framework establishes a transformative pathway forward, ensuring that the youngest members of Samoa’s society have access to the necessary resources and support to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
6: NATIONAL SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION POLICY APPROVED
The first National Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy for Samoa was approved by Cabinet this week. The Policy aims to leverage science and technology through research and innovation.
It is designed to enhance students’ access to scientific equipment and technology to advance scientific research and innovation. It seeks to create more opportunities for Samoa through strong scientific methodologies, technology and innovation to support national development priorities.
The Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa (SROS) and the National University of Samoa (NUS) co-lead the implementation of this policy in partnership with other government, private and civil society organistions in Samoa.
7: NATIONAL CRIME PREVENTION POLICY APPROVED
Cabinet at its meeting this week approved the National Crime Prevention Policy. The policy is being developed to strengthen strategic areas and measures, systems and programmes designed to prevent crimes. The Ministry of Justice and Courts Administration is the lead agency working closely with government, private and non government organisations in the Law and Justice Sector.
The Policy requires review of current legislation in view of enforcement and statutory penalites. It also targets counseling and educational programmes customized for crime prevention, public awareness, assistance for victims, and repercussions for perpetrators.
The policy calls for national participation and commitment to address crime prevalence in Samoa. Partnerships among government, private, civil society, churhces and village councils is central to the successful implementation of this policy.
In accordance with section 3(b) of the Parliamentary Under Secretaries Act 1988, appointments as Associate Ministers for the Members of Parliament provided hereunder, have been terminated with immediate effect. This emanates from the issue of confidence in the Prime Minister to continue to work with the Associate Ministers, and the Associate Ministers’ expression of no confidence in the Prime Minister’s leadership.
These include;
i. Tagaloatele Pasi Poloa, Associate Minister Commerce, Industry and Labour.
ii. Fuiono Tenina Crichton, Associate Minister Communications and Information Technology.
iii. Maiava Fuimaono Tito Asafo, Associate Minister Agriculture and Fisheries.
iv. Seuamuli Fasi Toma, Associate Minister Women, Community and Social Development.
v. Hon. Tu’u’u Anasi’i Leota, Associate Minister Police, Prisons and Corrections.
vi. Agaseata Valelilo Tanuvasa Peto, Associate Minister Education and Culture.
vii. Tea Tooala Peato, Associate Minister Health.
viii. Magele Sekati Fiaui, Associate Minister of Finance, initially appointed as Associate Minister of Communication and Information Technology.
ix. Fo’isala Lilo Tu’u Ioane, Associate Minister Health.
x. Fesola’i Apulu Tusiupu Tuigamala, Associate Minister Justice and Courts Administration.
xi. Ale Vena Ale, Associate Minister Customs and Revenue.
xii. Masinalupe Makesi Masinalupe, Associate Minister Customs and Revenue.
xiii. Manuleleua Paletasala Tovale, Associate Minister Prime Minister and Cabinet.
The termination of Fepuleai Faasavalu Faimata Su’a’s appointment as Associate Minister for Police, Prisons and Corrections was issued and made effective from 24th November 2023.
The functions and responsibilities of the Executive Arm of Government continue under the leadership of the Prime Minister – Hon Fiame Naomi Mataafa, and Cabinet.
The issue of confidence in the Prime Minister’s leadership rests with Parliament. It is not a responsibility of a political party.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025: An overview of the Act vs Bill
Posted On: 04 APR 2025 4:03PM by PIB Delhi
Introduction
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 aims to update the Waqf Act, 1995 to fix issues in the management of Waqf properties. The proposed changes focus on:
Overcoming the shortcomings of the previous act and enhancing the efficiency of Waqf boards
Updating the definitions of waqf
Improving the registration process
Increasing the role of technology in managing Waqf records.
The Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2025 seeks to remove the outdated Mussalman Wakf Act, 1923, which is no longer effective for modern India. The repeal will:
Ensure uniform rules for managing Waqf properties under the Waqf Act, 1995.
Improve transparency and accountability in Waqf management.
Eliminate confusion and legal contradictions caused by the old law.
Major issues:
Irrevocability of Waqf Properties
The principle “once a waqf, always a waqf” has led to disputes, such as claims over islands in Bet Dwarka, which have been deemed perplexing by courts as well.
Legal Disputes & Poor Management: The Waqf Act, 1995, and its 2013 amendment have not been effective. Some problems include:
Illegal occupation of Waqf land
Mismanagement and ownership disputes
Delays in property registration and surveys
Large-scale litigation cases and complaints to the Ministry
No Judicial Oversight
Decisions by Waqf Tribunals cannot be challenged in higher courts.
This reduces transparency and accountability in Waqf management.
Incomplete Survey of Waqf Properties
The Survey Commissioner’s work has been poor, leading to delays.
In states like Gujarat and Uttarakhand, surveys have not even started.
In Uttar Pradesh, a survey ordered in 2014 is still pending.
Lack of expertise and poor coordination with the Revenue Department have slowed the registration process.
Misuse of Waqf Laws
Some State Waqf Boards have misused their powers, leading to community tensions.
Section 40 of the Waqf Act has been widely misused to declare private properties as Waqf properties, causing legal battles and unrest.
As per information out of 30 States/UTs, data was given only by 8 States where 515 properties have been declared as Waqf under Section 40.
Constitutional Validity of the Waqf Act
The Waqf Act applies only to one religion, while no similar law exists for others.
A PIL (Public Interest Litigation) has been filed in the Delhi High Court, questioning whether the Waqf Act is constitutional. The Delhi High Court has asked the Central Government to respond to this issue.
Key Features of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025
Feature
Waqf Act, 1995
Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025
Name of the Act
Waqf Act, 1995
Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development Act, 2025.
Formation of Waqf
Waqf could be formed by declaration, user, or endowment (waqf-alal-aulad).
Removes waqf by user and allows formation only through declaration or endowment.
Donors must be practicing Muslims for at least five years and must own the property.
Waqf-alal-aulad cannot deny inheritance rights to female heirs.
Government Property as Waqf
No clear provision.
Any government property identified as Waqf will cease to be Waqf. Ownership disputes will be resolved by the Collector, who will submit a report to the state government.
Power to Determine Waqf Property
The Waqf Board previously had the power to inquire and determine waqf property.
Provision removed.
Survey of Waqf
Assigned survey commissioners and additional commissioners to conduct Waqf surveys.
Empowers Collectors to conduct surveys and mandates pending surveys to be conducted as per state revenue laws.
Central Waqf Council Composition
Constituted the Central Waqf Council to advise the central and state governments and Waqf Boards.
All members of the Central Waqf Council had to be Muslims, including at least two women members.
Two members must be non-Muslims.
MPs, former judges, and eminent persons appointed to the Council as per the Act need not be Muslims.
The following members must be Muslims: Representatives of Muslim organisations, Scholars in Islamic law, Chairpersons of Waqf Boards
Of the Muslim members, two members must be women.
Waqf Boards Composition
Provides for election of up to two members each from electoral colleges of Muslim: (i) MPs, (ii) MLAs and MLCs, and (iii) Bar Council members, from the state to the Board.
At least two members must be women
The Bill empowers the state government to nominate one person from each background to the Board. They need not be Muslims. It adds that the Board must have:
Two non-Muslim members
At least one member each from Shias, Sunnis, and Backward classes of Muslims
One member each from Bohra and Agakhani communities (if there is Waqf in the state)
Two Muslim members must be women.
Tribunal Composition
Required state-level Tribunals for Waqf disputes, led by a judge (Class-1, District, Sessions, or Civil Judge), and included:
A state officer (Additional District Magistrate rank)
A Muslim law expert
The amendment removes the Muslim law expert and instead includes:
A current or former District Court judge as chairman
A current or former joint secretary to the state government
Appeal on Tribunal Orders
Decision of the Tribunal are final and appeals against its decisions in Courts are prohibited.
Only High Courts could intervene under special circumstances
The Bill omits provisions deeming finality to Tribunal’s decisions.
Allows appeals to the High Court within 90 days
Powers of Central Government
State governments could audit Waqf accounts at any time.
The Bill empowers the central government to make rules regarding registration, publication of accounts of waqf and publication of proceedings of Waqf Boards.
The Bill empowers the central government to get these audited by the CAG (Comptroller and Auditor General) or a designated officer.
Separate Waqf Boards for Sects
Separate Waqf Boards for Sunni and Shia sects if Shia waqf constitute more than 15% of all waqf properties or waqf income in the state.
Separate Waqf boards allowed for Bohra and Agakhani sects, along with Shia and Sunni sects.
Inclusion of non-Muslim members in the Waqf Board and Central Waqf Council
Conclusion:
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, introduces significant reforms aimed at enhancing the governance, transparency, and efficiency of waqf property management in India. By addressing long-standing issues such as litigation and the lack of judicial oversight, the Bill seeks to create a more structured and accountable framework. Key changes include redefining the formation of waqf, improving the survey and registration process, empowering government oversight, ensuring inclusivity by incorporating non-Muslim members and women into waqf-related bodies. These provisions mark a crucial step toward modernizing Waqf property management in India.
The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, has expressed its disappointment with the acquittal of Timothy Omotoso and his co-accused from 32 serious charges, which include rape and human trafficking.
“While the department respects the independence of the judiciary, a clarion call by the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence, Pillar Number Three (Justice Safety and Protection), emphasises the importance of strengthened capacity within the criminal justice system to address all impunity and effectively respond to femicide and facilitate justice for GBV survivors.
“The department stands firmly with both victims and survivors of the prolonged case. The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities acknowledges and recognises the emotional toll and the potential secondary trauma that may be experienced by survivors,” the department said in a statement on Thursday.
The department said the acquittal of Omotoso serves as a judicial turning point for the many women who came forward to testify as both victims and survivors.
The department, together with other sister departments, has called for essential services, including psychosocial support and counselling, to navigate the emotional and psychological impact of these traumatic experiences.
The department maintained that GBV and femicide is a multifaceted and complex phenomenon that needs urgent and comprehensive attention.
The department called on all sectors of society to unite in action, solidarity and support for survivors to continue with the fight against all forms of gender-based violence.
“To combat gender-based violence, accountability, coordination and strong leadership are crucial for effective prevention, response and support for survivors, which will require a multi-sectoral approach with clear roles and responsibilities.
“This ruling will not dampen our fight; it will only fuel our intention to build a South Africa that is safe, just, and empowering for women, youth, and persons with disabilities,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), Advocate Shamila Batohi, has requested a report from the Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Barry Madolo, on the judgement in the Timothy Omotoso case.
Timothy Omotoso and his co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zukiswa Sitho, were acquitted by the Gqeberha High Court of 32 serious charges, including allegations of rape, racketeering and human trafficking, on Wednesday.
In a stinging judgement, Judge Irma Schoeman noted that the prosecution’s cross-examination of the accused was “shallow and lacking the intention to uncover the truth” – leading to the acquittal as the prosecution did not prove their case beyond reasonable doubt.
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga said Batohi would “carefully study the judgment when it is made available to the parties”.
“In the meantime, she has expressed her serious concerns about adverse findings made by the judge against the prosecution team, relating to the manner in which the prosecution was conducted.
“The NDPP has called for a transcript of the proceedings and will consider it in order to determine whether the criticism of the prosecution team is warranted. Depending on the outcome of this process, the NDPP, together with the DPP: EC [Eastern Cape], will decide on appropriate action,” Mhaga explained.
He added that the DPP in the Eastern Cape has also “indicated that the team will study the judgement and decide on whether to bring an application to appeal the judgement”.
Mhaga emphasised that the NPA has demonstrated commitment to the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) and sexual offences.
“The NPA has a world-class special unit called the Sexual Offences and Community Affairs Unit which is dedicated to dealing with sexual violence and related cases. The NDPP appreciates the public outrage expressed by many in response to the judgment in view of its devastating impact on the victims in this case, and the fight against the scourge of gender-based violence in the country.
“The NDPP is proud of the NPA’s track record in providing victim-centred and professional support to victims of gender-based violence, including through the national rollout of Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs) that for the past eight years have provided specialised support in almost 280 000 matters (or 34,600 matters per year).
“This recent judgement represents a travesty of justice that we cannot accept. The NDPP awaits the report from the DPP EC and will consider the next steps to ensure that this tragic outcome is dealt with swiftly and appropriately, based on the facts and the legal dimensions relevant to the judgement,” Mhaga concluded.
Meanwhile, Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi, has expressed her deep concern regarding the manner in which the case of Timothy Omotoso and his co-accused was handled by the prosecuting team.
Police in KwaZulu-Natal have arrested 11 780 suspects for various crimes while also recovering 341 firearms and 3 562 rounds of ammunition.
“The highest number of arrests was for contact crimes where 3 872 suspects were nabbed, with 219 of them arrested for murder, 222 for attempted murder and 160 for robberies including robbery with aggravating circumstances, house and business robbery, carjacking and cash in transit robbery,” the South African Police Service (SAPS) said of the arrests made in March.
In its statement on Thursday, the SAPS said the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) detectives arrested 248 suspects for rape while 49 suspects were also arrested for sexual assault.
Additionally, 1 817 suspects were arrested for cases of assault with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm, whilst 891 more suspects were nabbed for common assault. On property related crimes, 268 suspects were arrested for burglary at residential premises and 55 suspects were arrested for stock theft with 33 cattle and 80 goats recovered in the process.
Seventeen suspects were also arrested for theft of motor vehicles.
On drug related crimes, 1 599 suspects were arrested.
“Police visibility on the roads was maintained and 512 suspects were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and 41 people were arrested for reckless and negligent driving.
“Stop and search operations resulted in the recovery of 791dangerous weapons, of which 716 were knives. These operations will be amplified during the month of April and high police visibility will be maintained, especially during the Easter weekend,” said the police. –SAnews.gov.za
Police are investigating a break-in and theft at Paradise earlier this week and are looking for a white ute that was involved.
About 7.15am on Monday 31 March, two men gained access to a garage in Darcy Court, Paradise through an open roller door. They accessed cupboards and stole tools.
The occupants of the house, about to leave for work, disturbed the intruders and chased them off.
The men left in a white Mitsubishi ute, that had been parked in the street. The ute had a red cage on the back.
Anyone recognises the vehicle or who has any information, CCTV or dashcam footage that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au
The Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025 was introduced to fix problems in the management and governance of Waqf properties. The aim is to make rules clearer, include more people in decision-making, and improve how Waqf assets are used.
On August 8, 2024, two bills were introduced in the Lok Sabha; Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 and Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024. These bills aim to make Waqf Boards work more smoothly and ensure Waqf properties are managed well.
The Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2025seeks to repeal the Mussalman Wakf Act, 1923, which was created during British rule and is now outdated. Removing this old law will help create a more consistent, transparent, and accountable system under the Waqf Act, 1995, removing confusion caused by the old law.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025aims to update the Waqf Act, 1995, to solve problems in managing Waqf properties. It proposes several improvements, such as:
Overcome the shortcomings of the previous act and enhance the efficiency of Waqf boards by introducing changes such as renaming the Act
Updating the definitions of Waqf
Improving the registration process
Increasing the role of technology in managing Waqf records.
Distinctive aspects of this Bill:
On August 9, 2024, both Houses of Parliament agreed through separate motions to send the Bill to a Joint Committee for review and a report. This Joint Committee included 21 Members from the Lok Sabha and 10 Members from the Rajya Sabha.
Since the Bill is important and has a broad impact, the Committee decided to gather opinions from the public, experts, stakeholders, and other relevant organizations on its provisions.
The first sitting took place on August 22, 2024 and the key organizations/ stakeholders consulted during the sittings were:
All India Sunni Jamiyatul Ulama, Mumbai;
Indian Muslims of Civil Rights (IMCR), New Delhi
Muttaheda Majlis-e- Ulema, J&K (Mirwaiz Umar Farooq)
Zakat Foundation of India
Anjuman E Shiteali Dawoodi Bohra Community
Chanakya National Law University, Patna
All India Pasmanda Muslim Mahaaz, Delhi
All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), Delhi
All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council (AISSC), Ajmer
Muslim Rashtriya Manch, Delhi
Muslim Women Intellectual Group – Dr. Shalini Ali, National Convener
Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, Delhi
Shia Muslim Dharamguru and Intellectual Group
Darul Uloom Deoband
The Joint Parliamentary Committee held 36 meetings, where they listened to the opinions and suggestions of representatives from different Ministries, Departments, State Governments, State Waqf Boards, and experts/stakeholders. In total, they received 97,27,772 memoranda through both physical and digital modes.
To thoroughly review the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, the Committee conducted detailed study visits across multiple cities in India. The details of the study visits in 10 cities are as under:
26.09.2024 to 010.2024: Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Chennai and Bengaluru
09.11.2024 to 11.11.2024: Guwahati, Bhubaneshwar
18.01.2025 to 21.01.2025: Patna, Kolkata and Lucknow
The Committee had in-depth discussions, interacting with 284 stakeholders, 25 State Waqf Boards, 15 State Governments, 5 Minorities Commissions, and 20 Ministers/MPs/MLAs/MLCs. These visits helped Committee members understand the situation on the ground and collect region-specific insights.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill has 44 Clauses and the Joint Committee on Waqf Amendment Bill (JCWAB) has recommended changes in 19 Clauses.
The Joint Committee submitted its report to the Hon’ble Speaker of Lok Sabha on 31 January 2025, and the report was laid before both Houses of Parliament on 13 February 2025.
An example of recommendations submitted:
The All India Pasmanda Muslim Mahaaz, an organization working for their upliftment, presented its suggestions before the Joint Committee on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024.
Introduction of an Appellate System
Better Management of Waqf Records
Stricter Penalties for Encroachment and Misuse
Disqualification of Board Members Involved in Irregularities
Proper Utilization of Waqf Property Revenue
Empowering Senior Revenue Officials for Fair Inquiry
Conclusion
The Joint Parliamentary Committee Report on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 highlights the effort to make Waqf property management fair, transparent, and efficient. The Committee listened to different viewpoints, conducted study visits, and had detailed discussions to address the concerns of stakeholders. The proposed changes in the Bill aim to create a more inclusive and responsible system that meets the changing needs of society.
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Peter Vale, Senior Research Fellow, Centre for the Advancement of Scholarship, University of Pretoria., University of Pretoria
In a rare move, the Trump administration expelled Ebrahim Rasool, South Africa’s ambassador to Washington, in mid-March 2025. In a post on X, US secretary of state Marco Rubio accused Rasool of hating the US and President Donald Trump, and said the ambassador was “no longer welcome in our great country”. The expulsion came after comments Rasool had made during a webinar organised by a South African think-tank, the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Studies. Rasool had said he thought that Trump was “mobilising a supremacism” and trying to “project white victimhood as a dog whistle” as the white population faced becoming a minority in the US.
Relations between the two countries had reached a new low in the first weeks of the Trump administration. Trump had lashed out at South Africa for taking Israel to the International Court of Justice on accusations of genocide in Gaza; frozen all funding to South Africa; and offered asylum to white Afrikaners from South Africa, emboldening fringe far-right groups in the country. Peter Vale, regarded as an authority on South Africa’s place in the world, answers questions about the ambassador’s expulsion.
What was your initial reaction to the Rasool appointment?
I know and respect Ebrahim Rasool – we worked together at the University of the Western Cape 30 years ago – and I also thought he had done a fine job as ambassador to the US during the Obama years.
Remember, his appointment under the Trump administration was announced a week after the November poll. Preparations for this would have been months in the making. So, one question was, did the South African government think Joe Biden would win? If so, they were not following the polls very closely. South Africa’s relations with the US under Biden, although at times testy, were managable and Rasool was familiar with the individuals responsible for their making.
Never step into the same river twice, for it is not the same river, and he is not the same man.
Politics in the US has changed in paradigmatic proportions since Obama.
Then there was the fact that Rasool’s politics are rooted at the sharpest edge of the African National Congress: the United Democratic Front faction. Speaking plainly in the language of the country’s streets was the gift the United Democratic Front gave national politics. It was the most important internal anti-apartheid movement in the 1980s, bringing together youth, student and civic organisations.
Nevertheless, this, the language of the heart (as we might call it), has been eclipsed by the rise of techno-speak of the 2020s – a language that consists of buzzwords, esoteric language, or technical jargon and has become a kind of diplo-speak: diplomatic language in which the careful use of euphemism and noncontroversial language obscures points that might cause contention. Both bedevil South Africa’s domestic politics and mute the country’s foreign policy because racial justice, gender equality and compensation for colonialism seemingly have no place in everyday political discourse.
What happened at the Mapungubwe seminar?
The fracas arose during a virtual seminar organised by a leading South African think-tank which discussed the deepening tension in the relations between Pretoria and Washington.
I think that Rasool was confounded by the audience to which he spoke – was it local or was it local and foreign?
If there was deceit in the gathering itself, this was not to Rasool’s account. This points instead to a journalist looking to trip up any position South Africa took in the matter seemingly to advance his career. This is said to be the Breitbart journalist Joel Pollack, who made no secret of his desire to be the US ambassador in South Africa. He was registered as “Anonymous” on the webinar call. He did not disclose his name, or profession, when he asked Rasool a question.
In my opinion, disclosure is a professional responsibility.
Interestingly, there is no indication that the meeting was operating under the well-known Chatham House Rule by which
participants are free to use the information received, but neither the identity nor the affiliation of the speaker(s), nor any other participant, may be revealed.
Although not without its critics, myself included, this rule binds participants to non-disclosure by creating a safe space for candid and honest discussion.
Where does the responsibility of an ambassador lie?
The consensus among observers and commentators that’s emerged since the expulsion is that it was Rasool’s responsibility to hold his tongue – a kind of golden rule in diplomacy.
There is another way of thinking about this.
There have been many cases where the professional responsibility of diplomatic representation should follow a higher standard than that set by the incumbent government.
This choice faced diplomats in the country during apartheid. So, for instance, in 1986, the apartheid government expelled the Swedish ambassador following that country’s strong opposition to apartheid. There were other expulsions, too. These moves were part of the broader international pressure surrounding apartheid, where responsibility of the diplomats shifted from the minority incumbent government to the country’s people.
However, most famously, this understanding emerged in the writing of Thomas Paine, the American pamphleteer, that Benjamin Franklin (then the ambassador of the fledgling United States to Paris) was “not the diplomat of a Court, but (that the Ambassador) represented MAN (KIND)”.
This intervention is regarded as the first recognition that human – as opposed to state – rights enjoyed currency in international relations.
The age of turbulence through which we live has further muddied this water.
What do you make of the reaction to Rasool’s explusion?
A cacophony of voices, both within and without the country, have debated the pros and cons of the American decision.
Of concern to those with an ethical interest in international relations was that the trope “the national interest” appeared again and again and that, as it did so, the form it took was economic. So, it is in the national interest that South Africa “grow the economy”, “create jobs” and “fight HIV” with American money.
Nevertheless, le affaire Rasool has reminded South Africans that the country also has other “national interests” like fighting climate change and defending human rights worldwide.
– Why was South Africa’s ambassador to the US expelled? A view of the Ebrahim Rasool affair – https://theconversation.com/why-was-south-africas-ambassador-to-the-us-expelled-a-view-of-the-ebrahim-rasool-affair-253640
Briefing by Volker Türk, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.
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UN human rights chief Volker Türk called for “an independent, prompt and thorough investigation” into the killings of 15 medical personnel and humanitarian aid workers in Gaza, stating that “those responsible for any violation of international law must be held to account.”
High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk today (03 Apr) told Council members that he is “appalled” by the recent killings of 15 medical personnel and humanitarian aid workers, “which raise further concerns over the commission of war crimes by the Israeli military.”
Türk said, “The Israeli military continues to strike camps for people who have been displaced numerous times, who have nowhere safe to go. The Israeli military also continues to force civilians to move.”
“Half of Gaza is now under mandatory evacuation orders or has been declared a no-go zone,” the UN human rights chief added.
He reiterated, “these orders fail to comply with the requirements of international humanitarian law.
Türk also highlighted, “Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups continue to launch indiscriminate rockets from Gaza into Israel, in breach of international humanitarian law.”
He said, “I am also deeply concerned about the fate and wellbeing of Israeli hostages still held in Gaza.”
The High Commissioner is also “alarmed by the inflammatory rhetoric by senior Israeli officials around seizing, annexing and dividing territory, and about transferring Palestinians outside Gaza.”
“This raises grave concerns about the commission of international crimes and runs counter to the fundamental principle of international law against the acquisition of territory by force,” he added.
Türk highlighted, “in Resolution 2735 passed last June, this Council rejected any attempt at demographic or territorial change in the Gaza Strip, including any actions that reduce the territory of Gaza.”
The High Commissioner urged “the immediate restoration of the ceasefire and unimpeded humanitarian access throughout Gaza.”
He warned again that “there is a high and increasing risk that atrocity crimes are being committed in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.”
The human rights chief stressed, “Under the Geneva Conventions, States have an obligation to act when a serious violation of international humanitarian law has been committed.”
Under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, he continued, “State parties have the responsibility to act to prevent such a crime, when risk becomes apparent.”
Türk urged all those with influence to “ensure the protection of civilians as a matter of absolute priority,” adding that “it is essential that there is full accountability for all violations of international humanitarian and human rights law.”
“All hostages must be released immediately and unconditionally. All those arbitrarily detained must also be released. Israel must refrain from any acts amounting to forcible transfer of Gaza’s population,” he concluded.
Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has taken following initiative to strengthen India’s coastal security:
ICG deploys 18-20 ships, 30-35 crafts and 10-12 aircraft for surveillance on a daily basis. ICG assets ensure maritime law enforcement to strengthen coastal security and maintain rule based order at sea. Surveillance efforts also focus on Offshore Development Area (ODA) and seas adjoining Island groups (Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep). Surveillance of coastal areas through Coastal Surveillance Network (CSN) and investigation by Remote Operating Station (ROS) and Remote Operating Centres (ROCs) are undertaken. During the last 10 years, ICG has conducted 3,00,296 Boarding Operations for deterrence and to establish identity of personnel, 153 Coastal Security Exercises, 451 Coastal Security Operations, 458 Security Drills and 3,645 Joint Coastal Patrol Sorties.
A total number of 179 boats have been seized and 1,683 personnel arrested over the last 10 years for illegally entering Indian waters. These boats were engaged in various illegal activities like poaching, narcotics smuggling, illegal immigration etc.
Funds utilised towards acquisition of ships and aircraft by ICG towards coastal security (Pan India) is Rs 12,201 crore. Fund utilised for CSN (Pan India) is Rs 1,583.8 crore.
Coastal Security Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Coastal States/Union Territories have been promulgated. These SOPs highlight responsibility of various stakeholder agencies, conduct of operations and response management for various coastal security States.
ICG interactions are focused on maritime safety and security. ICG conducts regular Community Interaction Programmes involving fisher folks. During the interactions, various maritime safety and security aspects are deliberated. A toll free number 1554 has also been promulgated for reporting of any eventuality at sea. Further, fishermen watch groups have been created by States for reporting of any suspicious activities along the coast. Training is imparted to ICG personnel and Marine Police personnel towards effective Coastal Security and performing their laid down role and functions.
This information was given by Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth in a written reply to Shri Krishna Prasad Tenneti in the Lok Sabha today.
[PRESS RELEASE – 24th March 2025] – The Samoa Bureau of Statistics through its Census, Survey and Demography Division will be hosting an official opening of the Samoa DHS-MICS 2025 main training for enumerators on Monday 24th March, 2025 at the DBS Conference room level 6 at 9:00am.
The main aim of the training is to assist and equip the enumerators with the necessary skills and knowledge required for the DHS-MICS 2025 data collection activity.
The training will be officially opened by the Government Statistician (GS) followed by official remarks from the respected partners namely Australian High Commissioner in Samoa, UNICEF Chief Fieldwork Officer in Samoa and UNPFA Assistant Representative in Samoa. Other invited guests are Senior Government Officials and members of the DHS-MICS Steering Committee from the Nuanua O le Alofa (NOLA), Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education and Culture, Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development and Ministry of Finance.
The Samoa DHS-MICS 2025 will collect information in the areas of population, health and nutrition targeting women and men of 15-49 years of age and children. The overall objective of the DHS-MICS 2025 is to provide data and information that will enhance the monitoring of most of the indicators under the Social Sectors of the economy namely Health, Education, Community, Law and Justice, as well as Water and Sanitation and Environment Sectors. The updated data will guide in the prioritization of most of the social sector programs and activities to be implemented in the next 5 years
Throughout the duration of the training, resource persons from key sectors will be invited to clarify some of the concepts in the questionnaires to better inform the enumerators before they start the data collection activity.
The training has been made possible by the support of our development partners namely UNICEF, UNFPA and the Tautua program under the Government of Australia DFAT. The Main fieldwork is scheduled to be started from May 5th -July 5th 2025 and we kindly request the public and communities support when the survey fieldwork starts.
For more information, please contact Kaisarina Moananu at email kaisarina.moananu@sbs.gov.ws or Victoria Tuivaiti at email victoria.tuivaiti@sbs.gov.ws or phone number 23033.
LEGISLATIVE DRAFTING IS SOUL OF ANY LAW, CLARITY AND SIMPLICITY IN LEGISLATION VERY IMPORTANT: LOK SABHA SPEAKER IT IS IMPORTANT FOR LEGISLATORS AND OFFICIALS TO BE WELL VERSED WITH LEGISLATIVE DRAFTING: LOK SABHA SPEAKER
FOREIGN PARTICIPANTS FROM 13 COUNTRIES ATTENDING 36TH INTERNATIONAL LEGISLATIVE DRAFTING TRAINING PROGRAMME CALL ON LOK SABHA SPEAKER
PARTICIPANTS PRAISED THE LEGISLATIVE PROCESSES AND THE USE OF TECHNOLOGY IN PARLIAMENT OF WORLD’S LARGEST DEMOCRACY
Posted On: 03 APR 2025 9:05PM by PIB Delhi
New Delhi; 03 April, 2025:Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla today observed that Legislative Drafting is the soul of any law. Stressing on clarity and simplicity in legislation, he highlighted that as laws impact society and people for a long time, they must be clear and simple for understanding of the common people. This will lead to less litigations in courts and in turn save the resources. In the context of the dynamic socio-economic transformation of the world, he stated that it is very important for Legislators and officials to be well versed with Legislative Drafting in order to ensure that the needs of the public are fulfilled. This also results in meaningful debate and discussion on draft bills in the Parliament, he said.
Shri Birla made the remarks during an interaction with a group of 28 foreign participants from 13 countries attending the 36th International Legislative Drafting Training Programme being organized by the Parliamentary Research and Training Institute for Democracies (PRIDE) of Lok Sabha Secretariat in Parliament House, today.
भारतीय संसद के प्रशिक्षण संस्थान @LokSabha_PRIDE द्वारा आयोजित किए जा रहे 36वें अंतर्राष्ट्रीय लेजिस्लेटिव ड्राफ्टिंग प्रशिक्षण कार्यक्रम के प्रतिभागियों के साथ आज संसद भवन स्थित कार्यालय में वार्ता की।
The participants praised the legislative processes adopted in world’s largest democracy and the use of technology in simultaneous interpretation in 22 Indian languages and 6 foreign languages.
The programme is being conducted from March 26 to April 22, 2025 in coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs (Government of India) as part of the ITEC (Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation) scheme.
Highlighting India’s growing stature as the world’s largest democracy, Shri Birla highlighted that PRIDE is playing a vital role in capacity building of legislatures from around the world. He observed that good Legislative Drafting is the core of proper legislation and hoped that this training programmes would be very helpful for all participants.
During the programme, participants are being trained on several themes, including the Constitution of India, the legislative process, parliamentary privileges, administrative law, consumer protection, and the new criminal laws. The participants will also have attachments with the Ministry of Law and Justice and State Legislatures.
The Commission is closely monitoring Greece’s compliance with the relevant Directives[1]. Should the Commission identify any shortcomings in the transposition or implementation thereof, will initiate further action to address them.
In particular, Directive (EU) 2021/2167 on credit servicers and credit purchasers aims to support the development of secondary markets for non-performing loans in the EU, by providing a harmonised framework for their sale from banks to credit purchaser and servicers. At the same time, the directive ensures that the sale of such loans does not undermine borrowers’ rights.
Furthermore, to protect consumers and prevent them from losing their homes, the Mortgage Credit Directive 2014/17/EU[2] provides safeguards[3].
The same Directive enables Member States to introduce, in line with EU law, more stringent provisions in order to protect consumers[4].
Regarding individual disputes, national authorities and courts ensure the rights of consumers granted under EU law.
Regarding the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, everyone has the right to respect for his/her private and family life, home and communications. Within its scope of competence, the Commission remains committed to ensuring this right.
In addition, to help tackle the housing crisis, the Commission has appointed the first-ever Commissioner responsible for housing and established a Task Force for Housing.
The Commission will put forward a European Affordable Housing Plan and conduct an analysis of the impact of housing speculations and its economic consequences. During these activities, the Commission will give due consideration to the matters described by the Honourable Member.
[1] Directive 2009/65/EC concerning undertakings for collective investment in transferable securities (UCITS) OJ L 302, 17.11.2009, p. 32-96. Directive 2011/61/EU on Alternative Investment Fund Managers, OJ L 174, 1.7.2011, p. 1-73 Council Directive 93/13/EEC of 5 April 1993 on unfair terms in consumer contracts, OJ L 95, 21.4.1993, p. 29-34. Directive (EU) 2021/2167 on credit servicers and credit purchasers, OJ L 438, 8.12.2021, p. 1-37.
[3] Such as ensuring that the creditworthiness of a borrower is assessed before a mortgage can be granted as well as obliging creditors to have adequate policies and procedures so that they make efforts to exercise, where appropriate, reasonable forbearance before foreclosure proceedings are initiated. Such measures may consist of a total or partial refinancing of a credit agreement, or of a modification of the existing terms and conditions of a credit agreement.
[4] For example, the Greek insolvency code already establishes a safety net for vulnerable debtors, with a temporary subsidy of their loan instalment in out-of-court restructuring and a sale-and-leaseback regime in case of insolvency or if their primary residence is about to be auctioned: Law 4738/2020 transposing Directive (EU) 2019/1023, as amended by law 4818/2021 and law 5024/2023. The new sale-and-leaseback regime aims to avoid past moral hazard behaviour and the adverse impact it has had in the cost of credit in Greece. Until said mechanism becomes operational, Law 4916/2022 provides for the protection of the primary residence of eligible vulnerable debtors by means of a state subsidy and the suspension of liquidation measures.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Environment Agency secures proceeds of crime award for £313,382
The Environment Agency has secured a proceeds of crime judgment for £313,382.45 against men from Northampton who ran an illegal waste tyre site.
Multiple piles of used tyres
A pair of Northampton men are to pay for their role in an illegal tyre waste site in Daventry.
At Northampton crown court on Friday 28 March, a confiscation hearing concluded against Nimesh Patel, aged 52, of Jasper Walk, Thorplands Brook, and Andrew Eyre, aged 55, of Poppyfield Road, Wootton.
Patel was ordered to pay £175,013.93 and a £122 surcharge, while Eyre received an order for £138,368.52 and £140 surcharge.
Both men have been given 3 months to pay or will face 3 and 2 years in prison respectively. Eyre was also fined £250 for breach of his first suspended sentence of imprisonment he received in January 2020.
The duo had been prosecuted for their part in running a waste tyre site, Synergy Tyres (Midland) Ltd., at Broad March Industrial Estate in Daventry.
In September 2024, Eyre, a director of the company, had received an 18-week prison sentence that was suspended for 12 months, on condition that he completed 30 days of rehabilitation activities.
Patel, who had been operations manager, was sentenced to 14 weeks’ imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, on condition that he perform 80 hours of unpaid work.
The Daventry site operated without an environmental permit and tyres were stored in an unsafe manner, creating a significant fire-risk and, therefore, a high-pollution risk.
From February 2020, Environment Agency officers inspected the site multiple times over the course of a year, and each time witnessed huge amounts of tyres that exceeded the legal limit.
Paperwork obtained showed that waste tyres were continuously delivered to the site throughout the year, with Eyre being the sole director, and Patel having day-to-day control of the site.
The investigation found that the 40-tonne weekly limit for the storage or treatment of waste tyres was exceeded in 52 out of the 59 weeks analysed.
This probe followed a court case in January 2020 for the same nature of offending, when Synergy Tyres (Midland) Ltd. had been fined £11,250. Eyre received a suspended 12-month sentence, suspended for 24 months, on condition that he stayed out of trouble and performed 150 hours of unpaid work.
At that hearing, John Mullen, then 59, of Frankston Avenue, Milton Keynes, received a 6-month community order with a requirement that he completed 15 days of rehabilitation activities.
At the confiscation hearing on Friday 28 March, Mullen received an order for £1 and a surcharge of £85.
Eyre and Mullen had been joint directors of a company called IN4 Ltd until February 2017, when Eyre retired, leaving Mullen as the sole director.
That company was found by investigators in March 2017 to be storing more than 1,300 tonnes of tyres – more than 15 times the amount allowed under its environmental permit.
Peter Stark, enforcement leader for the Environment Agency in Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire, said:
“The case shows that we’re not just content to prosecute those who run illegal waste sites, we’ll also come after them to get back the profits they made from their illegal activities and to recoup taxpayers’ money spent on pursuing them.
“Waste crime can have a serious environmental impact that puts communities at risk and undermines legitimate business and the investment and economic growth that go with it.
“We support legitimate businesses and we are proactively supporting them by disrupting and stopping the criminal element backed up by the threat of tough enforcement as in this case.
“We continue to use intelligence-led approaches to target the most serious crimes and evaluate which interventions are most effective.
“If you see or suspect waste crime is being committed we urge you to report it immediately to CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.”
A joint Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Staffordshire Police crackdown on nuisance bikes will hit the streets again in the coming weeks.
Operation Transom targets riders who damage green spaces and put the public at risk through the use of off-road motorbikes.
The operation is a partnership between Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Team and Staffordshire Police. It will see increased patrols in hotspot areas, with officers seizing bikes that are used to commit anti-social behaviour.
The increased council and police presence will also serve as a visible deterrent to those causing a nuisance in the community.
This crackdown is strategically timed with the start of the warmer months, as reports of nuisance bikes often increase as the weather improves.
Signage is displayed in hot spot areas, warning offenders of the laws that give Staffordshire Police the power to seize vehicles that are being driven in a way that causes – or is likely to cause – nuisance, alarm or distress.
The ASB Team will take enforcement action against anyone who is found to be a Stoke-on Trent City Council tenant or in any way linked to a tenancy.
Councillor Majid Khan, cabinet member for community resilience for Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “We are continuing to work closely with colleagues at Staffordshire Police to tackle, deter and educate those who continue to blight our communities with anti-social behaviour.
“I want to reassure residents that we hear you, and action is being taken.
“We are so fortunate to have so many green spaces in the city. We will not let people ruin them with mindless, arrogant behaviour.
“Every one of us has the right to live in a cleaner, greener and safer city.”
In 2024, over 350 reports were received concerning nuisance bikes.
The local policing and ASB teams jointly investigated and took enforcement action including home visits, issuing Community Protection Warnings, and taking action against city council tenants.
Since October 2024, the Roads Policing Team has conducted 12 proactive operations across the city, leading to three arrests, the seizure of two stolen quad bikes, and the recovery of six off-road pit bikes.
Chief Inspector Dave Barrow, from the Stoke South local policing team, said: “Tackling reports of anti-social behaviour remains a neighbourhood priority for the team, and nuisance bikers are no different.
“They can be a constant source of concern within our communities and can put both the public and themselves in danger. We simply will not tolerate that.”
Alongside enforcement activity, a new programme of education will ensure potential riders – and their parents – know it is illegal to ride off-road bikes in any public space in Stoke-on-Trent. This includes parks, pavements, waste grounds and parkways.
It was announced in February 2025 that, under the Crime and Policing Bill, new powers will mean police officers no longer need to issue a warning before seizing off-road bikes.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper recently met with Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Ellison, Staffordshire Police and Fire Commissioner Ben Adams, and officers from the ASB Team and Road Crime Team at Staffordshire Police Headquarters.
The Home Secretary heard how Operation Transom had been jointly launched by Staffordshire Police and Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s ASB Team in 2021 – and that the work had seen increased patrols, along with regular operations in hotspot areas of the city.
To report nuisance bikes in your area to Operation Transom, please email operationtransom@stoke.gov.uk. You can also ring 01782 233400. Please provide as much detail as possible.
Incidents that are happening live should be reported directly to Staffordshire Police through the live chat on the website www.staffordshire.police.uk or by calling 101.
Following a ruling by a district judge, a council tenant has been evicted this morning, Thursday 3 April, after drug-related activities and anti-social behaviour caused misery for her neighbours.
The council was granted a possession order by York County Court to end the tenancy of Mandy Livesey, of 20 St Stephen’s Square, Acomb, York. This follows reports from neighbours to the council and police about drug-taking and dealing, loud noise and arguments at the apartment, and an endless succession of visitors. The anti-social behaviour in the home and area was a continual source of disruption and concern for local people who were worried about its impact on their families.
City of York Council officers served a legal warning of eviction (a Notice of Intention to Seek Possession) on Ms Livesey, which she breached.
Following complaints from neighbours and evidence of loud noise, drink and drug-taking and numerous anti-social visitors, the council returned the case to York County Court. After considering evidence, the judge granted the council permission to apply for a warrant of eviction.
Council officers then evicted Ms Livesey today, advising her where she could get information on her housing options, should she need it.
Cllr Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Housing at City of York Council, said:
Thank you to all the neighbours and officers involved in ending this anti-social behaviour. This much-needed home will be re-let as quickly as possible.
“This case proves that together, we can tackle this kind of disruption and so improve the quality of life of those affected. Please report your concerns and work with us so we can take appropriate and effective action.”
Ben Ambler, Acting Sergeant of North Yorkshire Police, added:
Drug use and anti-social behaviour has a detrimental impact on the quality of life for local people. It’s unacceptable and we’ll use all the powers and resources available to us to take action against those who make other people’s lives a misery.
“This result is evidence of our joint working with City of York Council and my thanks go to them for their work that has culminated in this eviction. I hope local residents are reassured that we will take action to tackle issues relating to drugs and anti-social behaviour and the impact these have on our communities.”
Find information on how to report anti-social noise levels, or telephone 01904 551525 Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5.00pm. From 9.00pm on Friday to 3.00am on Saturday and between 9.00pm on Saturday to 3.00am on Sunday, please call the Noise Patrol on telephone 01904 551555.
Young people – predominantly males – are being urged to ‘belt up in the back’, as new data highlights the staggering number killed in car crashes not wearing their seatbelts.
Recent analysis by The AA Charitable Trust shows almost half (43%) of young passengers (17-29) who die in car crashes are not belted up.
Young, male car passengers are twice as likely to die in a car crash than their female peers due to being unbelted. The research, based on five years of car crash data where seatbelt wearing status was known, shows 68% of young passengers who die unbelted are male.
These crashes are also more likely to happen at night, with 74% of young, unbelted, passenger fatalities happening after dark.
Provisional figures show that in 2024 across Merseyside there were 14 casualties killed or seriously injured who were not wearing their seatbelt at the time of the collision.
Six of those were vehicle drivers (43%) and eight were vehicle passengers (57%). Also six of the casualties were 17–29-year-olds (43) and eight were 30+ year old (57%).
Wearing a seatbelt reduces the risk of death by around 50%, meaning up to around one quarter of all young car passenger deaths could be avoided if all young passengers put their belts on.
Every week, four young people aged 17 to 29 were either killed or seriously injured on our roads when not wearing a seat belt. (Data on latest year of full data – 2023).
In 2024, Merseyside Police issued 3,066 tickets for drivers and or passengers not wearing their seat belt.
THE FACTS:
• In a crash, you’re twice as likely to killed or seriously injured if you don’t wear a seat belt. • Younger drivers and passengers have the lowest seat belt-wearing rates, combined with the highest accident rate. • People are less likely to use seat belts on short or familiar journeys – putting them at serious risk of injury in a crash.
THE LAW:
• Drivers and passengers who fail to wear seat belts in the front and back of vehicles are breaking the law. • For those aged 14 and over, failure to wear a seat belt could result in an on-the-spot fine of £100. If prosecuted, the maximum fine is £500.
Cllr Dan Barrington, Liverpool City Council Cabinet Member for Transport and Connectivity, said: “It is an utter tragedy that young people are dying as passengers and drivers because they have failed to put their seatbelt on. It’s such a quick and easy thing to do – and it could save your own life or the lives of the people around you.”
Inspector Gavin Dixon of Merseyside Police, Roads Policing Department, said: “Merseyside Police work really hard to try and encourage everyone to wear their seatbelts in all forms of transport.
“The figures speak for themselves; you are more likely to die in a collision if you don’t wear a seatbelt. As with mobile phone enforcement, we are constantly using new and innovative ways to catch people who choose not to wear their seatbelt and risk their own and their passengers’ lives.”
This photo shows a scene during a session for the ruling on the impeachment against President Yoon Suk-yeol at South Korea’s constitutional court in Seoul, South Korea, April 4, 2025. (James Lee/Pool via Xinhua)
South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol was ousted from office Friday as the constitutional court upheld a motion by the parliament to impeach Yoon over his short-lived martial law imposition last December.
Moon Hyung-bae, acting chief of the court, read a ruling on Yoon’s impeachment, which was broadcast live nationwide, saying it was a unanimous decision of eight justices.
Moon said Yoon broke his duty of protecting the constitution as he damaged the constitutional institutions, such as the National Assembly, and violated the basic rights of people by mobilizing the military and the police.
Moon stressed that the benefit of protecting the constitution through Yoon’s dismissal will overwhelmingly exceed the national loss from his dismissal.
Yoon declared an emergency martial law on the night of Dec. 3 last year, but it was revoked by the opposition-led National Assembly hours later.
Throughout the midnight hours of the botched martial law attempt, military helicopters landed at the National Assembly and hundreds of armed special forces troops broke into the parliamentary building.
By law, the ruling comes into force immediately after the reading, and a snap presidential election is required to be held within 60 days. The election is expected to fall in late May or early June.
The conservative leader officially lost all presidential power, becoming the country’s second sitting president to be forcibly removed from power following former conservative President Park Geun-hye’s ouster through impeachment in 2017.
Yoon also became the third leader to be impeached by the National Assembly in the country’s constitutional history. Late liberal President Roh Moo-hyun was reinstated in the presidency after impeachment in 2004.
Since the passage of Yoon’s impeachment motion on Dec. 14 last year, a total of 11 hearings have been held in the constitutional court until Feb. 25.
It took 111 days before the court’s final verdict, compared to 92 days for Park’s impeachment and 64 days for Roh’s impeachment.
Yoon was apprehended in the presidential office on Jan. 15 and was indicted under detention on Jan. 26 as a suspected ringleader of insurrection, becoming the country’s first sitting president to be arrested and prosecuted.
If convicted of the insurrection ringleader, Yoon could face the death penalty or life imprisonment.
He was released on March 8 as the prosecution decided not to appeal against a court’s release approval.
Yoon will be stripped of most privileges granted to a former president, including a monthly pension, one chauffeur and three secretaries. Free medicine and the cost of a personal office will not be given to him.
For the forcibly ousted president, the period during which the presidential security service provides guards will be reduced from 10 years to five years. After the five-year period, police officers will guard Yoon and his wife.
Kwon young-se, interim chief of the ruling People Power Party, apologized to people over the constitutional court’s decision, saying his party will take it seriously and humbly accept it.
He emphasized that there should never be violence or extreme action in any case, calling on supporters to overcome the current crisis in peace and order.
Lee Jae-myung, chief of the main liberal opposition Democratic Party, expressed his sincere respect for and gratitude to ordinary people who stood against soldiers and armored vehicles at the time of martial law imposition.
The most-favored presidential hopeful added that the unarmed people dramatically revived democracy by peacefully confronting the armed forces, vowing to do his best to prevent the repeated tragedy of the constitution’s destruction.
Following the impeachment verdict, anti-Yoon demonstrators were seen crying tears of joy, hugging each other and cheering in celebration near the constitutional court, with some holding signs that read “Immediately dismiss Yoon, the ringleader of insurrection.”
Yoon’s supporters, who rallied just hundreds of meters away on the street, reacted furiously. A man wearing a helmet and a gas mask was caught red-handed after breaking the window of a police bus, parked for a police line along the court, with a club.
Hemmed in by police officers, other supporters burst into tears, rocked barricades and even swore at riot policemen.
A recent Gallup Korea survey showed that almost six out of 10 South Koreans consented to Yoon’s ouster while 37 percent objected to his impeachment.
It was based on a poll of 1,001 voters conducted from Tuesday to Thursday. It had a plus and minus 3.1 percentage points in margin of error with a 95 percent confidence level.
Security was ramped up nationwide. The police issued the highest level of emergency order to deploy about 20,000 riot policemen across the country for expected protests and crowd control.
Of the total, some 14,000 riot policemen were deployed in Seoul to prevent possible conflicts near the constitutional court, the presidential residence and the parliament.
Police commandos, as well as paramedics and ambulances, were on standby around the court to respond to possible emergencies.
A new Chair has been appointed to lead the independent review of Creative Scotland, Culture Secretary Angus Robertson has announced.
Angela Leitch CBE will replace Dame Sue Bruce, who withdrew from the role on health grounds in March.
In a letter to the Constitution, Europe, External Affairs & Culture Committee, Mr Robertson said Ms Leitch would be supported in the role by Stuart Currie as Vice Chair.
The Culture Secretary also confirmed that the timeframe to publish recommendations would be extended until November, to allow the new Review team sufficient time to gather and consider evidence from the sector.
Mr Robertson said:
“I am delighted to report that Angela Leitch CBE has agreed to lead the independent review, supported by Stuart Currie as Vice Chair. Both Angela and Stuart bring a wealth of local government and public sector experience.
“With the 2025-26 Scottish Budget including a record £34 million uplift for culture, including an additional £20 million for Creative Scotland’s multi-year funding programme, the review will consider Creative Scotland’s functions and remit to maximise the impact of this increase and ensure it can meet the culture sector’s needs.
“In the meantime, I welcome the fact that our survey seeking the culture sector’s views on how culture and the arts are currently supported and areas for change, received more than 750 responses from individuals and organisations across Scotland. This feedback, which will be published later this Spring, will no doubt inform the independent Creative Scotland review.”
Ms Leitch said:
“Culture and the arts provide us with a sense of belonging, preserving our history and traditions, and promoting an understanding of different perspectives. It’s well recognised that the sector and the people who work within it contribute significantly to Scotland’s society, our communities, and the economy.
“It’s also recognised that the context cultural organisations and artists are now operating in has changed considerably since Creative Scotland was established in 2010. I welcome the opportunity to work with colleagues in Creative Scotland and across the sector to review its remit and functions with a view to ensuring it continues to be relevant today.”
Background:
Angela Leitch has more than thirty years’ experience in local government, having worked in West Lothian and the City of Edinburgh councils before becoming Chief Executive firstly in Clackmannanshire Council and then East Lothian Council. In 2019 Angela was appointed as the Chief Executive of the newly formed Public Health Scotland, which amongst other responsibilities, played a crucial role in producing data, evidence and advice throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. She stepped down from this role in April 2023.
Angela was Convenor of the Board of the Scottish Local Authority Remuneration Committee which presented its report on changes to the payments to elected members, in December 2023, to the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA) and Scottish Government Ministers.
She is a member of the Accounts Committee and the Scottish Police Authority. She is also Chair of YouthLink Scotland and is a Trustee of the homelessness prevention charity Cyrenians.
The independent review into Creative Scotland was first announced in the 2024-25 Programme for Government, as the first review of Creative Scotland since its establishment in 2010. The Scottish Budget 2025-26 provides an increase of £34 million to culture in Scotland, including £20 million for Creative Scotland’s multi-year funding programme.
Following Dame Sue Bruce’s withdrawal on health grounds, and the appointment of Angela Leitch CBE as the new Chair, the independent review is now expected to publish recommendations in November 2025. Further details on the review process, including the terms of reference, will be set out to Parliament in due course.
The full text of the Culture Secretary’s letter to update the CEEAC Committee on the appointment of Angela Leitch CBE as Chair of the independent review of Creative Scotland is as follows:
2 April, 2025
Dear Clare,
INDEPENDENT REVIEW OF CREATIVE SCOTLAND
As I shared in my previous letter of 4 March 2025, unfortunately Dame Sue Bruce has had to withdraw from leading the Review of Creative Scotland on health grounds.
The process for appointing a successor to chair the Review of Creative Scotland has now concluded and I am delighted to report that Angela Leitch CBE has agreed to lead the Review. Angela brings a wealth of public sector experience having worked at senior level in local authorities for over two decades and served as Chief Executive for Public Health Scotland for four years. I am also pleased to confirm that the Chair will be supported by Stuart Currie who has agreed to act as Vice Chair. Stuart brings a wide range of skills and knowledge in both local government and the public sector.
I know the Committee shares my view that the Review will be immensely valuable work and should be completed without undue delay. Unfortunately Dame Sue’s withdrawal means that the timescale for completion will be longer than originally anticipated. I am sure you will agree that whilst the delay is unfortunate it is important that the Chair has time to undertake an evidence led Review of Creative Scotland. I have therefore asked the Chair to provide the Scottish Ministers with recommendations and a written report in November. I can also confirm that good progress is being made with consideration of the responses to the sector wide survey which took place earlier this year and the analysis of the consultation responses will be published later this Spring.
The key objectives of the Review will be to:
consider Creative Scotland’s functions and remit, as set out in the Public Services Reform (Scotland) Act 2010, to ensure they continue to be relevant for the culture sector and meet Ministers’ aspirations;
evaluate how Creative Scotland delivers its functions including appropriateness of existing governance arrangements; and
maximise the impact of the funding Creative Scotland provide to the culture sector by ensuring Creative Scotland use and distribute funding appropriately and effectively.
I appreciate the Committee’s continued interest and involvement in the work to date and I would like to thank you for your patience whilst the appointment process has been underway. I know that the Chair will be keen to meet with you to discuss the final remit of the Review. The Secretariat of the Creative Scotland Review would be happy to help in arranging a meeting and can be contacted at creativescotlandreview@gov.scot
Dr Eva RubinovaThe impact of AI and other emerging technologies on modern policing will be investigated during an annual psychology event taking place in Aberdeen later this month.
Organised jointly by the University of Aberdeen, Abertay University and the Scottish Institute for Policing Research, the Applied Psychology in Policing Settings conference will focus on the use of new technology to support and work with vulnerable groups, as well as the impact of AI and other emerging technologies on policing research and practice.
Academics from the Universities of Aberdeen, Stirling and Birmingham City will give presentations on a range of topics, including the effects of alcohol on memory recall in investigative interviews, using virtual reality to improve eyewitness testimony and how facial recognition assists police investigations.
Dr Eva Rubinova, Lecturer at the University of Aberdeen’s School of Psychology, co-organised the event with Dr Penny Woolnough, Reader in Forensic and Investigative Psychology at Abertay University and Associate Director of the Scottish Institute for Policing Research; and Dr Julie Gawrylowicz, Reader in Applied Cognitive Psychology at Abertay University.
Dr Rubinova will give a presentation on her research exploring strategies for interviewing witnesses in domestic abuse cases. Her project aims to collect information about practices currently used by Police Scotland officers when collecting witness statements in these cases, to inform future research.
“We are excited to host the fourth networking conference of the Evidence and Investigation Network of the Scottish Institute for Policing Research at the University of Aberdeen,” said Dr Rubinova. “The lineup of speakers includes Aberdeen, Scottish and UK academics, all experts in their fields who will share their cutting-edge research focused on innovative technologies and evidence gathering in cases involving vulnerable groups.
“Delegates will have opportunities to network and develop new collaborations focused on solving issues in everyday policing practice. We hope the conference will educate and inform our audience and inspire the development of new ideas and knowledge exchange.”
Dr Clare Sutherland and Dr Travis Seale-Carlisle, from the University of Aberdeen’s School of Psychology, will also give talks at the event on hyperrealistic AI and improving eyewitness identifications respectively.
Free to attend, Applied Psychology in Policing Settings 2025 will take place on 16 April, 10am to 4pm, at the University of Aberdeen King’s College Conference Centre. You can book your place and find out more here.
GOLDEN, COLORADO—U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright received strong support from the Department of Energy’s (DOE) National Lab and nuclear weapons assembly plant directors after he announced expedited permitting reforms for construction projects on Energy Department lands. These common sense reforms will save at least hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars and rapidly accelerate project completion dates, helping better unleash American innovation, restore energy dominance, and modernize America’s nuclear stockpiles.
What America’s National Lab Directors Are Saying:
“The recent guidance issued by the Department of Energy related to how the Laboratory executes our construction activities is intended to provide new tools to improve our operations and increase our effectiveness. This guidance will have positive impacts on our construction scheduling, budgeting, work execution and safety. We believe this guidance will have a net positive impact on most of our construction activities now costing less than $300,000,000 including, Energetic Materials Characterization modular facilities and Pajarito Corridor Office Complexes (PCOCs). The new guidance will save the federal government tens of millions of dollars on projects at LANL like these by reducing costs and avoiding overruns due to delays. In addition, allowing the Laboratory to better utilize existing Occupational Health and Safety Administration standards (OHSA) will increase the number of construction companies that can bid on work at LANL and provide a more competitive bidding process that will assist in lowing the costs of construction.” —Los Alamos National Laboratory Director Thom Mason
“I appreciate Secretary Wright’s bold action to empower the National Laboratories to more efficiently deliver transformative scientific and technological outcomes that will benefit American taxpayers. This is the most substantive and quickest change in improving lab operations that I have seen in my many years with DOE.” —Pacific Northwest National Laboratory Director Dr. Steven Ashby
“Secretary Wright’s decisive actions in easing permitting rules and regulations for construction projects at the Department of Energy’s National Labs are welcome progress. These reforms are a significant step forward in accelerating critical infrastructure improvements, ensuring that our National Labs can continue their vital work. Ames National Laboratory is soon to launch several major infrastructure improvement projects across its campus, projects that are necessary to continue to meet our scientific mission and the mission of the Department of Energy. These reforms will expedite our ability to meet the needs of our researchers and engineers, and continue our pursuit of delivering critical materials solutions to the nation.”—Ames National Laboratory Director Adam Schwartz
“Sandia National Laboratories welcomes the Department of Energy’s move to simplify permitting for critical infrastructure upgrades. These improvements will help us respond faster to national security threats and technology challenges. One clear example of where streamlined permitting has the potential to benefit Sandia is the planned Power Sources Capability project. This new $400 million facility will replace a 75-year-old structure that serves as the primary research, design, surveillance and production location for power sources within the Nuclear Security Enterprise. That includes a range of advanced technologies such as primary batteries, thermal batteries, and energy conversion systems. Streamlined permitting processes could accelerate construction timelines, allowing us to quickly consolidate operations, improve efficiency and better support our employees with a modern and reliable workspace. Ultimately, this new facility ensures Sandia can continue providing innovative, reliable power source solutions essential to national defense and security.”— Sandia National Laboratories Director James Peery
“I’m excited to see Energy Secretary Wright taking significant early action to help the National Labs — including Brookhaven — operate more effectively. In particular, the changes announced last week will help us build America’s next collider, the Electron-Ion Collider, faster and more efficiently. His ongoing engagement with the national lab directors is greatly appreciated and will help us all achieve our — and DOE’s — crucial missions.”—Brookhaven National Laboratory Director JoAnne Hewett
“As the Chair of the National Laboratory Directors’ Council, I want to thank Secretary Wright and his team for acting quicky to remove bureaucratic barriers and create operational flexibility for the DOE National Labs. These decisive actions will have immediate and long-lasting positive impacts on operations, accelerating the delivery of the research and development infrastructure needed to ensure global leadership in energy, science and technology. I applaud Secretary Wright’s bias for action and look forward to continuing to partner with him and DOE staff to identify and develop further actions to enhance efficiency.”—Idaho National Laboratory Director John Wagner
“Pantex anticipates receiving contractual direction associated with the implementation of the recent DOE Secretarial Order released on March 21, 2025 regarding strengthening efficiency and mission execution throughout the department. We anticipate a number of benefits that will improve our ability to deliver the mission at Pantex once the changes are incorporated.”— Pantex Nuclear Weapons Assembly Plant PresidentDr. Kelly Beierschmitt
“Because of the transformative updates to DOE Order 413.3B and the culture of efficiency it drives, Jefferson Lab will be able to more quickly occupy the Applied Research Center – a request for proposal approval that would normally take 6 months only took a few days. Similarly, revising the compensation clauses affords Jefferson Lab the flexibility needed to attract and retain top-tier talent. This could result in up to 40% time savings in onboarding key personnel critical to our mission at Jefferson Lab. These recent actions reflect a commitment to innovation and operational excellence, and position Jefferson Lab to more effectively deliver the scientific and technological advancements essential to the nation.”—Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility Director Kimberly Sawyer
“NETL is a proud member of the DOE National Laboratory system and excited to be a part of Secretary Wright’s reform activities that will strengthen the efficiency and mission execution of the national labs. We look forward to pursuing the opportunity to expand the delegated project authority at DOE’s fossil energy government-owned and government-operated research lab. Streamlining the strategic partnership projects/cooperative research and development agreement process will accelerate America’s energy innovation.” —National Energy Technology Laboratory Director Marianne Walck
“As the energy systems laboratory, NREL stands ready to support the Secretary of Energy and the administration in shaping our nation’s energy future. Reducing barriers to innovation will enable us to move faster, increase value, and accelerate science and engineering for advanced energy solutions. This will unleash America’s energy innovation—making energy more abundant, reliable, secure, and affordable for all Americans”—National Renewable Energy Laboratory Director Dr. Martin Keller
“Thank you Secretary Wright for your efforts to ease burdensome rules and regulations at our country’s 17 National Labs. These reforms are vital to helping the Labs more efficiently and effectively fulfill the national labs’ missions and ensure the U.S. remains the world leader in advanced science and technology. As the Secretary has said, ‘We must protect and accelerate the work of the Department’s national laboratory network to secure America’s competitive edge and security.’”— Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Director Mike Witherell
“Argonne National Laboratory strongly supports Secretary Chris Wright’s actions to streamline permitting and modernize project delivery across the DOE National Laboratories. These reforms will enhance Argonne’s ability to advance cutting-edge science and technology with greater agility and impact—accelerating innovation, reducing delays, and focusing resources on mission execution. By lifting these administrative rules, the Department is empowering Argonne and its peers to more effectively contribute to national priorities in energy, security, and scientific leadership. We appreciate Secretary Wright’s vision and commitment to helping drive this new era of innovation and operational excellence.”— Argonne National Laboratory Director Paul Kearns
“Thank you to U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright for taking action to help the labs more efficiently and effectively fulfill our critical missions. I greatly appreciate his early and active engagement with the national lab system.” — Oak Ridge National Laboratory Director Stephen Streiffer
“The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory extends appreciation for the construction-related reforms outlined in Secretary Wright’s March 21 memo. Thanks to the Department of Energy’s support through initiatives like the Science Laboratories Infrastructure (SLI) program, we have been able to upgrade our facilities, enabling world-class science that benefi ts the U.S. and humanity. As we embark on the construction of the Princeton Plasma Innovation Center — our first new building in almost 50 years — we’re excited to establish a state-of-the-art hub for fusion research and plasma science that will drive scientific innovation and uphold U.S. leadership in critical industries. We are eager to see how reforms implemented under Secretary Wright’s leadership will accelerate construction processes, enabling us to deliver on mission critical facilities as we enter a new era at PPPL. We are thankful for Secretary Wright’s commitment to advancing energy abundance and for being a strong advocate for the national labs. As a longstanding leader in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion, a potentially limitless energy source, PPPL looks forward to collaborating with Secretary Wright and the DOE staff to ensure energy resiliency. Secretary Wright’s leadership is instrumental and will allow the National Labs to continue producing groundbreaking research.”—Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory Director Steve Cowley
“At Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, we are grateful for Secretary Wright’s early and active engagement with the national lab system. These decisive actions will strengthen the national labs with greater efficiency and effectiveness to fulfill their critical missions. These reforms will provide increased productivities for Fermilab’s construction projects in support of the lab’s growth in particle physics and breakthroughs in emerging fields such as quantum science and AI. As a global leader in fundamental research, Fermilab depends on the kind of forward-thinking leadership shown by Secretary Wright to remain at the cutting-edge of discovery. We look forward to building on this momentum in partnership with DOE to keep Fermilab as the country’s premier particle physics laboratory delivering transformative science.”— Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory Interim Director Young-Kee Kim
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Peter Vale, Senior Research Fellow, Centre for the Advancement of Scholarship, University of Pretoria., University of Pretoria
In a rare move, the Trump administration expelled Ebrahim Rasool, South Africa’s ambassador to Washington, in mid-March 2025. In a post on X, US secretary of state Marco Rubio accused Rasool of hating the US and President Donald Trump, and said the ambassador was “no longer welcome in our great country”. The expulsion came after comments Rasool had made during a webinar organised by a South African think-tank, the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Studies. Rasool had said he thought that Trump was “mobilising a supremacism” and trying to “project white victimhood as a dog whistle” as the white population faced becoming a minority in the US.
Relations between the two countries had reached a new low in the first weeks of the Trump administration. Trump had lashed out at South Africa for taking Israel to the International Court of Justice on accusations of genocide in Gaza; frozen all funding to South Africa; and offered asylum to white Afrikaners from South Africa, emboldening fringe far-right groups in the country. Peter Vale, regarded as an authority on South Africa’s place in the world, answers questions about the ambassador’s expulsion.
What was your initial reaction to the Rasool appointment?
I know and respect Ebrahim Rasool – we worked together at the University of the Western Cape 30 years ago – and I also thought he had done a fine job as ambassador to the US during the Obama years.
Remember, his appointment under the Trump administration was announced a week after the November poll. Preparations for this would have been months in the making. So, one question was, did the South African government think Joe Biden would win? If so, they were not following the polls very closely. South Africa’s relations with the US under Biden, although at times testy, were managable and Rasool was familiar with the individuals responsible for their making.
Never step into the same river twice, for it is not the same river, and he is not the same man.
Politics in the US has changed in paradigmatic proportions since Obama.
Then there was the fact that Rasool’s politics are rooted at the sharpest edge of the African National Congress: the United Democratic Front faction. Speaking plainly in the language of the country’s streets was the gift the United Democratic Front gave national politics. It was the most important internal anti-apartheid movement in the 1980s, bringing together youth, student and civic organisations.
Nevertheless, this, the language of the heart (as we might call it), has been eclipsed by the rise of techno-speak of the 2020s – a language that consists of buzzwords, esoteric language, or technical jargon and has become a kind of diplo-speak: diplomatic language in which the careful use of euphemism and noncontroversial language obscures points that might cause contention. Both bedevil South Africa’s domestic politics and mute the country’s foreign policy because racial justice, gender equality and compensation for colonialism seemingly have no place in everyday political discourse.
What happened at the Mapungubwe seminar?
The fracas arose during a virtual seminar organised by a leading South African think-tank which discussed the deepening tension in the relations between Pretoria and Washington.
I think that Rasool was confounded by the audience to which he spoke – was it local or was it local and foreign?
If there was deceit in the gathering itself, this was not to Rasool’s account. This points instead to a journalist looking to trip up any position South Africa took in the matter seemingly to advance his career. This is said to be the Breitbart journalist Joel Pollack, who made no secret of his desire to be the US ambassador in South Africa. He was registered as “Anonymous” on the webinar call. He did not disclose his name, or profession, when he asked Rasool a question.
In my opinion, disclosure is a professional responsibility.
Interestingly, there is no indication that the meeting was operating under the well-known Chatham House Rule by which
participants are free to use the information received, but neither the identity nor the affiliation of the speaker(s), nor any other participant, may be revealed.
Although not without its critics, myself included, this rule binds participants to non-disclosure by creating a safe space for candid and honest discussion.
Where does the responsibility of an ambassador lie?
The consensus among observers and commentators that’s emerged since the expulsion is that it was Rasool’s responsibility to hold his tongue – a kind of golden rule in diplomacy.
There is another way of thinking about this.
There have been many cases where the professional responsibility of diplomatic representation should follow a higher standard than that set by the incumbent government.
This choice faced diplomats in the country during apartheid. So, for instance, in 1986, the apartheid government expelled the Swedish ambassador following that country’s strong opposition to apartheid. There were other expulsions, too. These moves were part of the broader international pressure surrounding apartheid, where responsibility of the diplomats shifted from the minority incumbent government to the country’s people.
However, most famously, this understanding emerged in the writing of Thomas Paine, the American pamphleteer, that Benjamin Franklin (then the ambassador of the fledgling United States to Paris) was “not the diplomat of a Court, but (that the Ambassador) represented MAN (KIND)”.
This intervention is regarded as the first recognition that human – as opposed to state – rights enjoyed currency in international relations.
The age of turbulence through which we live has further muddied this water.
What do you make of the reaction to Rasool’s explusion?
A cacophony of voices, both within and without the country, have debated the pros and cons of the American decision.
Of concern to those with an ethical interest in international relations was that the trope “the national interest” appeared again and again and that, as it did so, the form it took was economic. So, it is in the national interest that South Africa “grow the economy”, “create jobs” and “fight HIV” with American money.
Nevertheless, le affaire Rasool has reminded South Africans that the country also has other “national interests” like fighting climate change and defending human rights worldwide.
Peter Vale does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Please attribute to Acting Detective Sergeant Konrad Tamati:
A man has been arrested and charged after an assault involving a parking warden in Palmerston North recently.
Police were made aware of an incident on 26 March where a warden on duty reported that a man had thrown an unidentified liquid at him, staining his skin, clothing and work equipment.
Enquiries led to Police arresting the man today.
He has been charged with assault and is due to appear in the Palmerston North District Court on 10 April.
This type of unprovoked attack on someone simply going about their daily work is unacceptable, and Police are pleased to have made an arrest and put someone before the courts to be held to account.
As the matter is now before the courts, Police will not comment further.