This week's biggest stories from the Global South: Mozambique's post-election violence, Malaysian flogged over Islamic crime, Panama Canal dispute
We present a roundup of this week's most significant stories from across the Global South.
Africa
Mozambicans flee to neighbouring Malawi amid post-election unrest
Over the week, more than 2,000 Mozambican families have sought refuge in Malawi, according to Malawian authorities. This comes as dozens of people have been reported killed amid escalating unrest following a disputed election in October. Read more here.
Senegal Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko announces plan to repeal amnesty law: Video
On December 27, Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko announced plans to repeal an amnesty law granted to former President Macky Sall. The law passed on March 6, 2024, provided amnesty for Sall and his administration for political violence that resulted in dozens of deaths. Read more here.
Chad holds parliamentary election likely to cement president's grip on power
On December 29, Chadians voted in a parliamentary election boycotted by the opposition. This election is expected to consolidate President Mahamat Idriss Deby's power and complete the transition to constitutional rule. Deby was elected in May, three years after seizing power following his father's death in battle. Read more here.
Asia
Malaysian man publicly caned for Islamic crime of proximity
A Malaysian man was caned at a mosque in Terengganu for the Islamic crime of proximity with a non-family member of the opposite sex. Mohd Affendi Awang, 42, was sentenced to six strokes of the cane and a fine after pleading guilty. This was his third conviction for the crime. Read more here.
Azerbaijan's president says crashed plane was shot at by Russia
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev stated that a passenger plane crash last week, killing 38 people, was caused by an accidental shooting from the ground in Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin apologized for the incident, which occurred when Russian air defences engaged Ukrainian attack drones. Read more here.
North Korea launches 'toughest' U.S. strategy in key party meeting
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un held a key policy meeting last week, state media reported on December 29. Officials decided to launch the 'toughest' strategy against the United States to protect national interests. Read more here.
Latin America
Venezuela opposition adviser holed up in Argentine residence calls it 'prison'
The Argentine diplomatic residence in Caracas, where five Venezuelan opposition members are staying to avoid arrest, has become a 'prison,' according to one member. The residence has been without power for over a month, said Magalli Meda, adviser to opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. Read more here.
Brazil probes risks from chemicals after tankers plunged off collapsed bridge
Brazilian authorities are assessing water contamination risks after trucks carrying sulfuric acid and pesticides plunged into a river during a deadly bridge collapse. The 533-meter bridge linking Estreito and Aguiarnopolis gave way on Sunday, December 29. Read more here.
After Trump threat, Mexican president says Panama Canal belongs to Panamanians
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed support for Panama's government after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump threatened to reassert U.S. control over the Panama Canal. Read more here.
