This week's biggest stories from the Global South: South Africa protest, clean hydrogen boom, money laundering
This article brings together the key highlights from this week's most significant events and news stories.
Africa
Tunisians vote in election, with main rival to President Saied in prison
On Sunday, October 6, Tunisians voted in an election where President Kais Saied seeks a second term. His main rival was jailed last month, and most opponents are either imprisoned or barred from running. Saied faces two rivals: former ally and Chaab Party leader Zouhair Maghzaoui, and Ayachi Zammel, who was jailed last month. Read more here.
Protests erupt in Cape Town in solidarity with Palestinians: Video
On Saturday, October 5, thousands of South Africans marched through Cape Town in a show of solidarity with Palestinians. The demonstrators carried placards and chanted, urging the South African government to sever diplomatic ties with Israel. Read more here.
IMF and Ghana reach staff-level deal on $3 billion loan-programme review
IMF staff and Ghanaian officials have agreed on the third review of Ghana's $3 billion loan programme. The country is nearing the end of its debt-restructuring process under the G20's Common Framework, following its 2022 default on $30 billion in international debt.
Asia
Singapore tightens anti-money laundering measures
On Friday, October 4, Singapore authorities unveiled new measures to combat money laundering. These include inter-agency data-sharing, striking off inactive companies, and initiatives to encourage businesses to report suspicious activities. Read more here.
More than 200 Chinese citizens evacuated from Lebanon, foreign ministry says
China's foreign ministry announced on Saturday, October 5, that over 200 Chinese citizens have been safely evacuated from Lebanon. "These people, who have been evacuated in two batches, include three Hong Kong residents and one Taiwan compatriot," the ministry said in a statement. Read more here.
Meet the young Bangladeshi artist redefining the woman’s body image with art
In a world where societal and cultural standards often judge women's bodies and appearances, a young Bangladeshi artist is changing the narrative. Anusha Alamgir draws inspiration from her daily experiences, blending creativity and innovation across architecture, painting, and film to challenge public perceptions of women and their bodies. Read more here.
Latin America
Latin America gears up for clean hydrogen boom but the road is not smooth
Latin America's abundant hydroelectric and renewable energy resources position the region as a potential leader in clean hydrogen production. However, significant challenges remain as the world seeks alternatives to fossil fuels to combat the climate crisis. Read more here.
Mexico's top court accepts constitutional challenge to judicial overhaul
On Thursday, October 3, Mexico's Supreme Court agreed to review a constitutional challenge against the recent judicial overhaul. This controversial reform aims to transition the country to a system of popularly elected judges over the next few years. Read more here.
Brazil votes in local elections with eyes on 2026 presidential showdown
On Sunday, October 6, Brazilians voted for mayors and city councillors in over 5,500 municipal elections. Polls indicate strong performances by conservative candidates in several major cities, shaping the political landscape ahead of the 2026 presidential race. Read more here.
