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Parliament NEW DELHI: Parliament is set to hold a discussion on the Constitution of India in the backdrop of the 75th anniversary of its adoption, but the landmark event may see the rivals using the stage to target each other instead. Leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi met Speaker Om Birla Wednesday and urged that the House should function and the December 13-14 discussion on Constitution should not fall prey to disruptions by BJP. The governing party said its intent was evident from the fact that dates were fixed in the two Houses with the idea of holding the discussion. PM, Shah to join Constitution debat It added that PM Modi would reply to the debate in Lok Sabha, and home minister Amit Shah would initiate the debate in Rajya Sabha on December 16. But the general belief is that the bitterness may result in the Constitution being reduced to a cover the rivals will use to corner each other with their political agenda. There was a hint of what is to come in Rahul's remarks to reporters on Wednesday when asked about disruptions and BJP's allegations about Congress's links to George Soros. "There is a commitment for debate on the Constitution on Dec 13. They can level any allegation against me, but it should happen. Govt does not want a discussion on Adani and they want to distract. But in the end, we will not spare them," Rahul said. With the two Houses having witnessed continuous disruption in the ongoing session in the wake of the govt's refusal to take up the Adani indictment, the debate on the Constitution presents the opposition with a readymade stage to try to embarrass govt and Modi. Issues such as caste census, removal of 50% cap on reservations, BJP's "controlling" of constitutional bodies, Manipur crisis, Places of Worship Act and incidents like Sambhal, communalism and bias against opposition-governed states are other subjects likely to dominate the speeches of Congress and the opposition. BJP is set to raise the issues of suspension of democracy by the Congress govt led by Indira Gandhi as well as efforts of non-BJP govts to roll out quotas for Muslims. It may retaliate against Congress's attack by creating openings to push its allegation that billionaire George Soros and Congress, including its representatives Sonia Gandhi and Rahul, had combined with "anti-India" forces. BJP has alleged Sonia had links to Forum of Democratic Leaders-Asia Pacific (FDL-AP) Foundation, an organisation financed by George Soros Foundation, which has backed the idea of Kashmir as an independent nation. Sources in Congress said the party's charge will be led by Rahul. It will also check with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra for second speaker, while it has the likes of Gaurav Gogoi, Shashi Tharoor, Manish Tewari among others. SP's Akhilesh Yadav is another major face in opposition camp who would use the national platform to send out a signal to the electorate in UP. Modi's reply to the debate will be designed to answer the opposition's political offensive and he is adept at cashing in on the privilege of having the last word. The 2024 LS poll results gave opposition a boost, but BJP's victories in Haryana and Maharashtra have neutralised much of anti-BJP camp's momentum. The debate may set the trajectory of the battle going forward. Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India . Don't miss daily games like Crossword , Sudoku , and Mini Crossword .The Price of Realism: Why AAA Games Are Struggling to Keep Up with Skyrocketing Graphics CostsDAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Corey McKeithan's 27 points helped La Salle defeat Stetson 92-77 on Saturday. McKeithan also added five rebounds for the Explorers (5-2). Andres Marrero added 13 points while shooting 5 for 11, including 3 for 6 from beyond the arc while they also had six rebounds. Jahlil White had 13 points and shot 4 of 9 from the field and 5 of 8 from the free-throw line. Mehki finished with 20 points and seven rebounds for the Hatters (1-6). Abramo Canka added 14 points for Stetson. Jamie Phillips Jr. had 12 points and seven rebounds. The Hatters extended their losing streak to six in a row. La Salle went on an 18-3 run to make it 69-48 with 11:22 left in the half. White scored 10 second-half points. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .
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MONROVIA – The Supreme Court of Liberia has issued a stay order directing the “Majority Bloc” of the House of Representatives to halt all actions and return to status quo ante while it reviews a petition filed by House Speaker J. Fonati Koffa and his allies. By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, [email protected] In a writ issued on Friday, the Court instructed the Minister of Justice and members of the House involved in the dispute to submit their responses by November 26, 2024. The Court also ordered the Majority Bloc, led by Montserrado County Representative Richard Koon, to cease all actions until the matter is adjudicated. The injunction mandated Brigadier General Amos B. Kesseh Dickson, Sr., Marshal of the Supreme Court, or his deputy, to notify the Minister of Justice and the referenced lawmakers to file their official responses. It said they must “appear and file returns on the side of the law before the Full Bench of the Honorable Supreme Court of the Republic of Liberia, Temple of Justice, on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at 9:00 a.m., as to whether or not the Petitioners’ Petition should be granted.” The order further instructed the parties to “Return to status quo ante and stay all further proceedings or actions pending the determination of the matter.” “You are commanded to read the original writ and leave a copy with them; and to file your official returns on the back of the original copy in the Office of the Clerk of this Honorable Court by November 26, 2024. Leadership Crisis Escalates The House of Representatives has been embroiled in a bitter leadership conflict, splitting into two factions. The Majority Bloc, citing allegations of corruption, conflict of interest, and poor leadership, accused Speaker Koffa of ignoring their concerns. The crisis escalated when the Majority Bloc, comprising a significant number of lawmakers, abandoned the main chamber and began holding sessions in the joint chamber. On November 21, 2024, the group controversially declared the Speaker’s seat vacant and elected Representative Koon as their new Speaker. They also dissolved committees formed under Speaker Koffa and appointed new ones. Speaker Koffa and members of the Minority Bloc condemned these actions, arguing that no legitimate vacancy existed in the Speaker’s office to justify such moves. The Speaker and his allies subsequently filed a petition to the Supreme Court, asserting that the actions of the Majority Bloc violated the procedural framework of the House. The court’s intervention marks a critical juncture in the ongoing leadership crisis, with the Supreme Court expected to determine the legality of the Majority Bloc’s actions. This dispute has further deepened divisions within the House, raising concerns about its ability to function effectively amid the political turmoil.Tulane QB Mensah transfers to Duke; Mississippi State’s Van Buren, Cal’s Mendoza enter portal
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The global economy is navigating uncharted waters. Geopolitical conflicts, supply chain disruptions and political uncertainties dominate headlines, casting a shadow over economic growth and stability. As policy-makers worldwide grapple with these challenges, a Donald Trump has re-entered the global stage as US president-elect. However, it would be short sighted to believe that the geopolitical landscape is being shaped by one leader. Across continents, governments are responding to their electorates’ concerns by embracing strategies like friendshoring and nearshoring. While these approaches address local anxieties about globalization, they also raise the spectre of trade wars, an often-ineffective solution to deeply rooted challenges. Local anxiety driving global decisions Globalization, once seen as a driver of prosperity, is increasingly viewed with suspicion by many, with electorates becoming more vocal about job security, fair trade and national sovereignty. These concerns have prompted leaders to pivot towards more domestically-oriented economic strategies. Policies encouraging companies to move production closer to home or to allied nations reflect this shift. While such moves may alleviate voter concerns in the short term, they often come at a high cost. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates that increasing trade restrictions could reduce global economic output by a staggering $7.4 trillion. The stakes are too high to let reactionary policies undermine long-term global growth. Trade wars: A misguided solution Trump’s imminent return to the White House now brings renewed attention to the topics of tariffs and trade wars as policy tools. Trump’s rhetoric on tariffs as a panacea for economic disparities resonates with segments of the electorate, but risks igniting economic conflicts that hurt all parties involved. During his first term as president, the US-China trade war disrupted supply chains, raised costs for businesses and imposed billions of dollars in economic damage on both sides. US farmers alone faced estimated losses exceeding $12 billion annually, prompting federal subsidies to offset the impact. Meanwhile, tariffs on Chinese goods drove up production costs for US manufacturers and consumer prices. The US Federal Reserve estimated the trade war reduced US GDP by 0.3% – equivalent to $62 billion – while global supply chain networks struggled to adapt, leading to higher prices and market volatility. Trump’s proposed trade policies for his second term, including broad tariffs on imports, could amplify these effects. While intended to protect US industries, such measures risk increasing inflation and hurting consumer spending power. The broader economic implications include heightened tensions with trade partners and potential retaliatory measures, exacerbating further global economic fragmentation. The question we face is this: Can we establish stronger frameworks to promote stability and sustainable growth in an era of rising protectionism? The answer lies in balance. We must heed the electorate’s concerns without dismantling the systems that underpin global prosperity. If we fail to address these issues, the consequences will be severe. Rising trade barriers and economic fragmentation could lead to a prolonged global recession. The IMF warns that reduced trade opportunities could hinder productivity, suppress wages and stifle technological advancement. For emerging economies, the impacts would be particularly devastating. Reduced trade opportunities could undermine industrialization efforts, exacerbate inequality and slow poverty reduction. Many developing nations rely heavily on export-led growth; disruptions to global supply chains would compromise their access to critical markets, increasing unemployment and social unrest. The broader implications are geopolitical as well as economic. Fragmented trade relationships risk deepening divides between nations, fostering mistrust and competition. In an interconnected world, such outcomes threaten the collective ability to address global challenges like climate change and energy transitions. To chart a sustainable path forward, we must embrace policies that strike a balance between local and global interests. Friendshoring and nearshoring can coexist with global cooperation if implemented thoughtfully. The goal should not be to isolate but to adapt – reshaping globalization to meet the needs of today’s interconnected world. Policy-makers must resist the allure of quick fixes. Instead, they should pursue policies that promote inclusivity, resilience and innovation. The global economy’s momentum can only be maintained through collaboration and shared responsibility. The current landscape is fraught with challenges, but it is also an opportunity to redefine the rules of engagement in the global economy. By addressing the root causes of voter anxieties and fostering international cooperation, we can build a more resilient and equitable system. As we navigate this era of uncertainty, let us remember that long-term growth is the ultimate prize. To secure it, we must better understand and navigate the interconnected nature of global shocks, electorate concerns and the need for cooperation. The path forward is complex, but with pragmatic leadership and a commitment to shared prosperity, it is within reach. Source: World Economic ForumDollar Tree Items Retirees Should Have at Home Before Winter ArrivesThe Deep Blue Sea Project and the Nigerian Navy’s efforts represent one of the most ambitious national initiatives aimed at combating piracy and maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea. Since its establishment in 1956, the Nigerian Navy has evolved significantly. Initially a small force under British colonial rule, it became a national institution after Nigeria’s independence in 1960, tasked with safeguarding its coastal waters and maritime borders. From the 1960s to the 1980s, the Navy expanded its fleet, improved training, and developed naval bases to address emerging security challenges, particularly offshore oil exploration. By the 1990s, the Navy modernized its fleet and extended its operations to tackle piracy and ensure oil security, particularly in the Niger Delta. In recent years, the Deep Blue Sea Project (2019) has further modernized the Navy, integrating advanced technology like satellites, drones, and surveillance systems, alongside specialized task forces dedicated to combatting piracy and maritime crimes. The Nigerian Navy has made significant progress in combating maritime crime and piracy, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea. Its proactive approach, involving enhanced patrols, surveillance, and intelligence-sharing, has effectively intercepted pirate attacks, reduced hijackings, and rescued kidnapped crew members. Operations like Dakatar Da Barawo have been instrumental in curbing piracy in high-risk areas. Specialized units, such as the Special Boat Service (SBS), have improved the Navy’s effectiveness in securing oil and gas installations and major shipping lanes. The Navy’s collaboration with regional and international organisations like ECOWAS, the Gulf of Guinea Commission, and the IMO has improved intelligence-sharing and joint operations against piracy. The Deep Blue Sea Project has equipped the Navy with advanced technologies, such as satellite surveillance, drones, and vessel tracking systems, enhancing its Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) and security capability. The Nigerian Navy has made significant strides in arrests and prosecutions of maritime criminals, with a record number of arrests in 2020. These efforts have led to a measurable reduction in piracy incidents, though challenges remain. Investment in specialised training for personnel has ensured that the Navy is well-prepared to respond to modern maritime threats. The leadership of the Nigerian Navy in maritime security, supported by advanced technology and strategic partnerships, has significantly reduced piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, setting a model for other nations facing similar challenges. The Deep Blue Sea Project has made Nigeria’s maritime security strategy a benchmark in the fight against maritime insecurity. The project’s integrated system combines air, sea, and land assets, offering a level of versatility not seen in traditional naval approaches. This integration allows Nigeria to respond swiftly and effectively to various maritime threats, ranging from piracy to illegal fishing and smuggling. By utilising cutting-edge technologies, including satellites, drones, and vessel tracking systems, the project provides a level of MDA that many navies, particularly those of smaller or less-resourced nations, cannot match. Unlike many other navies, which rely on limited assets, Nigeria integrates both sea-based responses with naval ships and air-based monitoring. Its ability to track vessels using real-time satellite data and drones places it ahead in effective detection and deterrence of maritime crime. The Nigerian Navy’s incorporation of high-tech surveillance equipment, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), surveillance aircraft, and advanced tracking systems, provides it with a superior edge in combating piracy. These technologies are unparalleled in the Gulf of Guinea, where traditional naval patrols can be slow and resource-intensive. While other navies in the region may struggle with outdated equipment or lack the resources to maintain such advanced systems, the Deep Blue Sea Project ensures Nigeria’s security forces are equipped with some of the best surveillance tools available. These assets are crucial in responding to dynamic piracy tactics, such as fast-moving, smaller vessels attempting to evade traditional security measures. The Nigerian Navy has also taken a unique approach by establishing specialised task forces dedicated to counter-piracy and maritime law enforcement. These task forces, trained in advanced anti-piracy and crisis management operations, enable Nigeria to deploy specialised forces quickly in high-risk areas like the Niger Delta. Unlike other navies that may lack such specialised anti-piracy units, the Nigerian Navy focuses directly on safeguarding oil platforms, securing shipping routes, and conducting real-time counter-piracy operations. This targeted strategy has been a key factor in the Navy’s operational success, especially in the piracy-prone waters of the Gulf of Guinea. A core element of the Deep Blue Sea Project is its focus on building the capacity of Nigerian naval personnel. Through extensive training in modern maritime security techniques, including counter-piracy tactics, intelligence gathering, and emergency response, the Nigerian Navy has not only become technologically advanced but also operationally skilled. In contrast to other global navies that focus on general-purpose training, Nigeria’s counter-piracy training is tailored to address the unique challenges of its waters, ensuring personnel can respond to complex maritime threats with greater efficiency and precision. The Nigerian Navy has played a leading role in regional collaborations with organisations such as ECOWAS, the Gulf of Guinea Commission (GGC), and international partners like the IMO and the United States. This cooperation has allowed for greater intelligence sharing and joint operations, cementing Nigeria as a pivotal force in Gulf of Guinea security. Nigeria’s leadership in regional maritime security initiatives, such as the Gulf of Guinea Maritime Security Strategy, has fostered cooperation among the littoral states, which is essential to countering the transnational nature of piracy. The Nigerian Navy’s proactive measures, supported by advanced surveillance systems, have enabled it to prevent piracy attacks before they occur. This includes tracking pirate vessels prior to strikes, coordinating intelligence with regional partners, and implementing rapid response measures. Unlike some navies, which may respond reactively to piracy, Nigeria’s approach ensures swift and efficient interventions. This proactive stance, coupled with its advanced technology, has significantly improved security along one of the world’s most dangerous maritime areas. While Nigeria’s efforts under the Deep Blue Sea Project have yielded impressive results, challenges persist. Resource constraints, sophisticated piracy operations, and corruption within certain maritime institutions remain obstacles. However, these challenges are being addressed through continuous international collaboration, further investment in technology, and enhanced training programs. Despite these challenges, the Deep Blue Sea Project has proven effective in reducing piracy incidents and enhancing maritime security. Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its naval forces and safeguarding its maritime domain is evident in the project’s success. The integration of advanced technologies, specialised task forces, and personnel training has made the project a model for other nations facing similar maritime security threats. The Deep Blue Sea Project, along with the Nigerian Navy’s comprehensive efforts, has positioned Nigeria as a global leader in combating piracy and maritime insecurity. With its cutting-edge technology, specialised forces, and robust regional collaborations, Nigeria’s maritime security strategy is among the most advanced in the world. Although challenges remain, the Deep Blue Sea Project stands as a testament to the power of a well-coordinated, technology-driven, and regionally focused naval strategy in the fight against maritime crime.
Brown 83, Canisius 76