Daily Focus Bothma Africa

After a significant win in the general election, Sir Keir Starmer is set to become the UK's first Labour prime minister in over a decade. Labour secured a substantial parliamentary majority, marking a notable decline for the Conservatives. Starmer will commence forming his new cabinet soon and aims to address the UK's sluggish economic growth among other challenges.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has introduced the new Cabinet for the seventh provincial administration, highlighting an inclusive Government of Provincial Unity (GPU). The Cabinet features MECs from multiple political parties, focusing on enhancing governance and fighting crime with innovative strategies.

At a tribute show for comedian Fred Omondi, Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba defended the Finance Bill, 2024 amid hostile reactions. Despite boos and chants, Ababu stressed the bill’s importance for initiatives benefiting the creative economy, urging unity in nation-building.

The Supreme Court of Kenya has upheld the nullification of the election of Harrison Kombe, the ODM MP for Magarini Constituency. The decision, initiated by a petition from UDA's Stanley Kenga Karisa, cited irregularities that substantially influenced the election outcome. Kombe has been ordered to compensate Kenga with Sh2 million, bringing an end to his tenure.

President Bola Tinubu has signed the National Anthem Bill into law, bringing back Nigeria's original national anthem from 1960, 'Nigeria we hail thee.' The original anthem replaces 'Arise oh compatriots,' which had been in use for 46 years following its adoption by the military in 1978. The change was announced during a joint session of the National Assembly, highlighting 25 years of continuous democracy.

Nhlamulo Ndlhela, spokesperson for the MK Party, recently criticized ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula, branding him as 'delusional' and 'disingenuous.' The altercation stems from accusations of election rigging aimed at the ANC, which Mbalula dismissed as unfounded. As tension escalates, the Independent Electoral Commission clarified that circulating videos only showed lawful election preparations.

The Limuru III conference kicked off with a high turnout from the Mt. Kenya region, but the absence of an organizer, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria, was a profound talking point. His last-minute no-show has left many questioning his commitment to the conference, which attracted professionals and leaders such as Martha Karua and Jeremiah Kioni.