Tag: Political Reform
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Crunch time for Najib Razak as Malaysia court rulings loom
High-stakes court decisions loom for Najib Razak Former Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak finds himself once again in the crosshairs of the nation’s legal and political theaters as two High Court rulings near. The outcomes, expected next week, could determine whether the jailed politician can mount a political comeback or whether his legal entanglements will…
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Fraser Urges Global Vigilance: Strong Institutions Are Key to Democratic Health
Overview: A Warning from Halifax Justice Minister Sean Fraser delivered a pointed message in Halifax, stressing that democracies cannot afford to let their guard down. Speaking to an audience gathered for the Halifax International Security Conference, Fraser warned that without robust institutions to constrain political power, democracy is weakened—not only in Canada but across the…
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Victoria Liberal Party Must Modernize to Stay Relevant
Introduction: A Turning Point or a Tempting Mirage? On the morning of Tuesday, November 18, at Victoria’s Parliament House, the political conversation shifted as leadership and legitimacy were foregrounded by a powerful quote from Desmond Tutu: “Hope is being able to see light despite all the darkness.” The moment felt like more than rhetoric; it…
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After the Unrest: How Prabowo Subianto Rebuilt Trust in Indonesia and Why It Might Not Last
Introduction: A moment of public reckoning When Prabowo Subianto took the oath of office in October 2024, Indonesia faced a delicate moment. A period of political tension and social strain had unsettled the country, challenging the perceived legitimacy of leadership and the public’s faith in future stability. The new administration framed its mandate as continuity…
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From dismal Jan Suraaj show to retirement rumours: Prashant Kishor’s first public address after Bihar poll drubbing
Prashant Kishor speaks out after Bihar setback In what marks his first public address since the Bihar poll drubbing, political strategist Prashant Kishor acknowledged a painful truth: the mission to transform Bihar’s political landscape did not succeed. Speaking to assembled supporters and observers, Kishor described the past three years in the state as a genuine…
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How Samuel Kivuitu’s Decision Helped Spark the ODM Movement
Introduction: A pivotal moment in Kenyan politics Two decades ago, a decision made by a beleaguered electoral commission chairman altered the trajectory of Kenya’s political landscape. Samuel Kivuitu, who led the defunct Electoral Commission of Kenya (ECK), presided over a referendum on a proposed constitution. That referendum, and the ECK’s handling of it, remains a…
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How Samuel Kivuitu’s Decision Helped Spawn Kenya’s ODM Movement
Introduction: A pivotal moment in Kenya’s political history The 2005 referendum season in Kenya is remembered for its intensity and its enduring political consequences. At the center of the debate was a controversial decision by the late Samuel Kivuitu, then chair of the Electoral Commission of Kenya (ECK). While charged with overseeing a fair referendum,…
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‘You’re all lying’: Is the US ready for a woman president? What Michelle Obama said
Introduction: A candid critique from a former first lady In a recent public appearance to promote her forthcoming book, former First Lady Michelle Obama openly challenged the notion that the United States is fully prepared to elect a woman to the highest office. Speaking with Ellis Ross, Obama framed the issue as less about the…
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Cross-Party Retirement Action for New Zealand Reform Now
A Call for Unified Action on New Zealand’s Retirement System The Retirement Commissioner has issued a clear and urgent plea: stop piecemeal policy changes to New Zealand’s retirement framework and pursue cross‑party action. With more New Zealanders living longer, working in new ways, and facing rising costs across health, housing, and living standards, the time…
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Vietnam Leadership at a Crossroads: Will the Top Two Roles Consolidate Power?
Overview: The 14th National Congress in Focus With the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) approaching, observers are scrutinizing whether Vietnam will consolidate its top two leadership positions—the General Secretary and the President—into a more cohesive power center. Traditionally, Vietnam’s political system has separated these roles, each held by senior figures…