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Pope Leo XIV Inaugurated with rites rooted in centuries-old tradition.

Written by kazofm.admin on May 18, 2025. Posted in World.

In a historic and deeply symbolic celebration, Bishop of Rome Leo XIV officially commenced his Petrine Ministry today during a solemn Eucharistic liturgy held in St. Peter’s Basilica and Square. The event marked his succession as the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church succeeding his predecessors with rites rooted in centuries-old tradition.

The celebration began inside the basilica where the new Pope paused in prayer at the tomb of Saint Peter accompanied by Eastern Church Patriarchs. This moment underscored the unbreakable link between the papacy and the Apostle Peter, the church’s foundational figure. Following prayer and incense, the procession moved toward the square carrying the Bishop’s insignia: the Pallium, the Ring of the Fisherman and the Book of the Gospels.

As the Laudes Regiae hymns filled the air, a tapestry depicting the miraculous catch of fish originally crafted for the Sistine Chapel hung prominently at the basilica’s entrance symbolizing Peter’s role as a “fisher of men.” The scene was completed by the image of Our Lady of Good Counsel from the Marian Shrine of Genazzano.

The liturgical rites emphasized the symbolic importance of Peter’s role with the Pope receiving the Palliuma woolen vestment symbolizing Christ’s care for His flock and the Ring of the Fisherman representing the authority and seal of faith entrusted to Peter. These insignia are central to the papal office recalling the biblical and historical foundations of Peter’s leadership.

The Liturgy of the Word featured readings in multiple languages including Spanish, Italian, Latin and Greek, highlighting the universal nature of the Church. The passages from Acts, Psalms, and Peter’s First Letter reinforced the symbolism of Christ as the cornerstone and Peter’s unique role among the apostles. The Gospel from John recounted Jesus’ threefold question to Peter: “Do you love Me? Feed My sheep,” underscoring the pastoral mission conferred upon the new Pontiff.

Following the Gospel, three cardinals representing different continents approached the Pope to place the Pallium on his shoulders, offer prayers and present the Ring of the Fisherman. A prayer to the Holy Spirit was then led invoking strength and unity for the new Pope in his ministry.

The moment of public allegiance, known as the Rite of Obedience saw twelve representatives from around the world pledge their loyalty to Leo XIV. The celebration continued with a homily, the recitation of the Creed and intercessory prayers in multiple languages including Portuguese, French, Arabic, Polish, and Chinese reflecting the global reach of the Church.

The Eucharistic liturgy culminated in the Offertory chant “You are the Shepherd of the sheep,” and the Pope’s prayer over the bread and wine seeking the fruits of redemption for all nations. Pope Leo XIV then led the congregation through the First Eucharistic Prayer and the Communion Rite praying for unity, charity and protection for the Church.

Before concluding, the Holy Father addressed the assembly briefly offering a blessing inspired by biblical imagery of the vine and vineyard invoking divine protection and salvation for the Church. The celebration ended with the singing of the Regina Caeli and the Pope’s blessing marking the beginning of a new chapter in his leadership.

This solemn and richly symbolic celebration not only inaugurated Pope Leo XIV’s papacy but also reaffirmed the enduring traditions and spiritual foundations of the Catholic Church.

Peru’s Premier, Adrianzen resigns

Written by kazofm.admin on May 14, 2025. Posted in News, World.

Peru’s Prime Minister Gustavo Adrianzén has resigned hours before facing a no-confidence vote in Congress amid mounting political turmoil. The vote was prompted by the recent kidnapping and killing of 13 mine workers which shocked the nation.

Adrianzén’s departure marks the third prime minister under President Dina Boluarte who now faces the challenge of replacing her entire cabinet. According to Peru’s constitution, all ministers must resign if the prime minister steps down. While the president can reappoint the same ministers, she can only do so once a new prime minister is in place.

This resignation comes just after Boluarte shuffled her cabinet, appointing new ministers of finance, interior and transport who now also must step down hours after their swearing-in. Boluarte’s approval ratings have plummeted further amid rising crime rates and public frustration over her handling of security issues.

Protests have intensified in recent months with demonstrators demanding urgent action against extortion and targeted killings. Thousands dressed in white gathered to call for immediate measures to combat gang violence and protect small businesses and transport workers. The ongoing unrest reflects deep dissatisfaction with Boluarte’s leadership during a period of escalating political instability in Peru.

Mali’s Goita whips to crack dissent

Written by kazofm.admin on May 14, 2025. Posted in Africa, News.

Mali’s military junta has dissolved all political parties nationwide amid escalating crackdowns on dissent since seizing power. A presidential decree read on state TV on Tuesday announced the suspension of all political meetings and activities across the country. The order, signed by military leader Assimi Goïta—who took power after coups in 2020 and 2021 comes despite his pledge to hold elections with the junta remaining in control for at least another five years.

The move is likely to trigger increased resistance from opposition parties demanding a return to democracy. Last week, following a rare pro-democracy protest two opposition leaders were abducted by armed men claiming to be police but authorities have not commented on these arrests.

A national conference organized by the regime but boycotted by major opposition groups recommended extending Goïta’s rule until 2030 prompting widespread condemnation from critics and human rights organizations. The decree warned Malians against ignoring the dissolution but did not specify penalties. It stated that individuals in political or administrative roles could continue working without party affiliation.

This order follows the suspension of political activities, another recommendation from the conference which had already sparked protests that were later postponed. Opposition leaders condemned the crackdown; Nouhoum Togo of the Union for the Safeguarding of the Republic (USR) urged people to value their political voice despite suppression while Moussa Mara, a former prime minister called it a severe setback to reconciliation efforts.

Analysts suggest the junta aims to break away from old political elites associated with France shifting regional alliances toward Russia by forming partnerships with Burkina Faso and Niger. Mali has also withdrawn from ECOWAS, the regional bloc over its demands for democratic restoration with Burkina Faso and Niger following suit.

Uruguayan former leftist leader, Mujica dies at 89

Written by kazofm.admin on May 14, 2025. Posted in News, World.

Uruguay’s former president and renowned leftist leader, José “Pepe” Mujica has died at age 89. President Yamandu Orsi announced on Tuesday. Mujica, known for his humble lifestyle and progressive policies was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in May 2024 and was receiving palliative care.

Tributes poured in from Latin American leaders and beyond. Evo Morales called Mujica a “brother,” while Mexico’s Claudia Sheinbaum lauded him as an “example for Latin America.” Brazil’s Lula praised him as a “humanist of our time,” and Spain’s Pedro Sanchez highlighted his commitment to a better world.

Mujica gained worldwide fame as the “world’s poorest president” during his 2010-2015 term donating much of his salary to charity. An ex-guerrilla with Tupamaros, he was imprisoned and tortured during Uruguay’s dictatorship, later becoming a prominent political figure. Under his leadership, Uruguay legalized abortion, gay marriage and became the first country to fully legalize recreational cannabis in 2013.

He is survived by his wife, Lucia Topolansky also a former guerrilla. Mujica’s legacy remains as a symbol of humility, progressive reform, and dedication to social justice.

Electoral Commission urged to stop DP Delegates’ conference.

Written by kazofm.admin on May 14, 2025. Posted in National, News.

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) is currently reviewing a complaint against the Democratic Party’s Secretary General, Siranda Gerald Blacks amid allegations of subversion of electoral democracy within the party. The complaint comes as the IEC considers suspending the upcoming DP National Delegates Conference scheduled for May 30, 2025.

Julius Ddumba, a former contender for the party’s leadership who withdrew citing irregularities has petitioned the IEC to halt preparations for the conference. Ddumba alleges that Siranda who is also a candidate in the ongoing internal elections is involved in a conflict of interest that amounts to abuse of office, violating the legal principle of ‘nemo judex in causa sua’ (no one should judge their own case).

In his petition, Ddumba also challenges the alleged unlawful amendment of the DP constitution. He claims that Siranda’s attempt to alter the party’s rules which include resurrecting a rejected Management Committee and centralizing financial control in the Secretary General was done unconstitutionally and without proper delegates’ approval. Ddumba contends that these changes undermine the party’s democratic processes and violate the party’s internal rules.

Additionally, Hon. Richard Lumu, DP’s Deputy Legal Advisor filed a separate petition against what he describes as fraudulent amendments and abuse of the electoral process. He criticized the unilateral changes to the party’s constitution which he says were driven by narrow personal interests rather than democratic principles. Lumu also condemned the exclusion of youth provisions from the amendments.

Ddumba expressed concerns that Siranda’s actions aim to entrench himself in power citing clauses in the 2025 gazetted constitution that were not ratified at the 2020 delegates’ conference. He called for an investigation into Siranda’s conduct for breaching the party’s Code of Conduct and urged the Inspector General of Government (IGG) to investigate and potentially prosecute him for breaches of leadership and anti-corruption laws.

Attempts to contact Siranda for comment have so far been unsuccessful. It remains unclear whether the DP National Delegates Conference will proceed as scheduled amid the ongoing allegations and legal challenges.

Philippines Faces Political Crisis Amid Marcos-Duterte Rivalry

Written by kazofm.admin on May 13, 2025. Posted in Across Africa.

As the vibrant and contentious two-months election campaign concludes, the Philippines finds itself embroiled in a fierce political contest between its two most influential families—the Marcoses and the Dutertes. The ongoing mid-term elections have become a critical battleground revealing deep fractures within the country’s ruling dynasties and casting uncertainty over the future of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte.

Despite a history of electoral dominance, the Marcos camp faced disappointing results in this year’s senatorial race. Out of 12 successful candidates only six are aligned with Marcos, with one—Camille Villarreceiving endorsements from both Marcos and Duterte. Notably, four senators backing Duterte including President Marcos’s sister Imee Marcos secured top positions surpassing several Marcos-backed candidates. This outcome suggests a weakened grip on legislative power for the president and raises doubts about his ability to push through key agenda items in the final three years of his term.

Relations between President Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte have sharply deteriorated over the past year. Their alliance which helped Marcos clinch victory in 2022 has fractured amid accusations and personal insults. Marcos has accused Duterte of threatening his life, while Duterte has publicly expressed her disdain, claiming she dreamed of decapitating him. The situation worsened earlier this year with the impeachment proceedings initiated against Duterte by Marcos allies and Marcos’s decision to send Duterte’s father, former President Rodrigo Duterte to face charges at the International Criminal Court over his war on drugs—a move seen by the Duterte camp as a personal betrayal.

The impeachment effort against Duterte hinges on securing a two-thirds majority in the 24-seat Senate making the mid-term elections a pivotal moment. However, many senators drawn from influential political families and showbiz backgrounds are known to prioritize their own ambitions and public opinion. Expert Cleve Arguelles notes that senators often side with the populace to safeguard their political futures, complicating efforts to remove Duterte.

Public sentiment has been unfavorable towards Marcos recently, with his economic management and leadership style drawing criticism. Campaign speeches by Duterte, featuring emotional appeals about her father’s treatment and her own political aspirations, have resonated with voters, especially in Davao, her stronghold. Meanwhile, Marcos faces challenges in maintaining his authority amid declining popularity and internal dissent.

The upcoming impeachment trial slated to begin in July promises to be a turbulent chapter in Philippine politics. Both Marcos and Duterte’s allies are engaged in behind-the-scenes lobbying to sway senators but a successful impeachment remains historically unprecedented in the country.

Amid the chaos, some surprising electoral wins such as those of liberal candidates Bam Aquino and Francis Pangilinan indicate a possible shift in public mood favoring politicians outside the Marcos-Duterte feud. Their victories suggest that a segment of the electorate desires a different direction potentially influencing the impeachment proceedings.

As the country braces for a year of political upheaval, analysts warn that the Philippines has never experienced such a deep and personal rift between its top leaders making this one of the most turbulent periods in recent history. The coming months will reveal whether the Marcos-Duterte rivalry will reshape the nation’s political landscape or lead to further instability.

Heavy Rains Damage Homes and Crops in Kazo District

Written by kazofm.admin on May 13, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

Residents of Gabarungi ward in Kazo Town Council Kazo district have faced significant destruction after heavy rains and strong winds swept through the area yesterday. The severe weather damaged crops including cassava and banana plantations and destroyed several houses, leaving many residents displaced.

Davida Bitariho a resident of the same village who was severely affected has appealed to the government for assistance as he currently has nowhere to stay following the destruction of his home.

According to Justus Mugarura, the Kazo Town council Mayor revealed that residents of Gabarungi have suffered considerable property losses due to the adverse weather conditions. “Yesterday, heavy rains and strong winds caused extensive damage to crops, houses and belongings in Gabarungi,” he reported.

Mugarura assured that he would work closely with Members of Parliament to explore ways in which the government can support the affected residents and address their immediate needs. “We are coordinating efforts to find immediate assistance for those displaced and to assess the full extent of the damage,” he added.

Reaping big from four-acre model-Kyensheija

Written by kazofm.admin on May 12, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

Farmers in Kiruhura district are reaping benefits from four-acre model farm initiative inspired by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on land use for small-scale farmers. The president recommends dedicating one acre to coffee, another to fruits and a third to food crops, promoting agricultural commercialization and household wealth.

Mr. Kyensheija Fred Buraako, a model farmer from Rwakitura Cell in Rushere Town Council has successfully implemented the model. His farm includes grass for animal feed, coffee, apiary and indoor cattle rearing. He credits President Museveni’s teachings on poverty alleviation for inspiring his diversification efforts.

Kyensheija also grows bananas and coffee to generate income and calls on district leaders to support farmers in achieving their agricultural goals.

New Health Facilities Commissioned in Sheema District

Written by kazofm.admin on May 10, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

The State Minister for Health in charge of Primary Healthcare, Margaret Muhanga has urged parents to ensure their children receive the malaria vaccine emphasizing its critical role in protecting them from the serious health risks associated with the disease.

Before officiating at the commissioning of Migina Health Centre III in Kagango Division, Sheema Municipality, Muhanga visited Kabwohe Health Centre IV where the government is currently upgrading the facility. She commended the UPDF engineering brigade contracted to carry out the construction for their quality workmanship.

The UGX Shs 2.3 billion project at Kabwohe Health Centre IV will include outpatient and inpatient wards, a maternity ward, theatre and hospital laboratory. The upgrade is expected to be completed within six months enhancing healthcare delivery in the area.

During her visit, Muhanga also highlighted the ongoing fight against malaria noting that the disease remains a significant threat to children’s health. “Malaria can cause lifelong complications including brain damage if not prevented effectively,” she said.

Addressing the community at Migina Health Centre III, Muhanga emphasized the importance of vaccination and preventive measures to safeguard children’s health. “We must prioritize immunization especially the malaria vaccine to protect our children from preventable illnesses that can have lifelong impacts,” Muhanga revealed.

The newly commissioned health facility cost the government UGXShs916 million is well-equipped with a maternity ward, placenta pit, medical waste pit, outpatient department and inpatient and outpatient wards.

Sheema district leaders including the Woman Member of Parliament, Rosemary Nyakikongoro and Sheema Municipality lawmaker Dicksons Kateshumbwa praised the government for providing modern medical equipment to improve healthcare services. However, they appealed for the recruitment of more health workers to ensure the facility operates at full capacity and delivers quality services to the community. “We appreciate the support, but more health workers are needed to meet the increasing demand for services,” they said.

Muhanga also commended the dedicated health workers at Migina Health Centre III for their commitment to service delivery and safeguarding medical equipment. “I want to thank our health workers for their dedication. It is essential they remain committed and vigilant to serve our communities effectively, ” Muhanga said.

The Minister cautioned health workers nationwide against absenteeism urging them to remain devoted to their duties to improve health outcomes across the country.

Church must respond to digital revolution, Pope Leo XIV

Written by kazofm.admin on May 10, 2025. Posted in World.

Pope Leo XIV has revealed the profound inspiration behind his papal name emphasizing its significance in the Church’s ongoing mission to uphold human dignity and social justice.

Recalling Pope Leo XIII’s groundbreaking encyclical Rerum Novarum which addressed social issues during the dawn of the industrial revolution, the new Pope highlighted the relevance of this tradition in the modern era. “Today, the Church offers her treasure of social teaching in response to another industrial revolution—the developments of artificial intelligence,” Pope Leo stated. His choice of name, he explained is rooted in tradition but also looks forward confronting the challenges of a rapidly changing world and reaffirming the Church’s commitment to protecting the vulnerable.

Addressing the Cardinals whom he described as the “closest collaborators of the Pope,” Pope Leo XIV expressed deep gratitude and a humble awareness of the immense responsibilities ahead. “This yoke,” he acknowledged, “is clearly far beyond my strength—as it would be for anyone.”

The Holy Father reflected on the recent days marked by mourning as the Church bid farewell to Pope Francis. Viewing the death of his predecessor and the subsequent conclave as “a paschal event,” he described it as enveloped in the light of the Resurrection. He paid tribute to Pope Francis’ humility, dedication to service and peaceful transition to eternal life urging the Church to cherish this legacy and continue its mission with renewed hope grounded in faith.

The Pope emphasized the importance of encountering Christ in the stillness rather than in thunder or earthquake describing the “whisper of a gentle breeze” as a profound moment of divine presence. “It is in this quiet stillness,” he said, “that we encounter God most intimately and it is this encounter that must guide the Church today.”

He also spoke of the Church’s dual roles as “womb” and “flock,” “field” and “temple,” praising the unity and resilience of the faithful during recent times of mourning, which revealed the true greatness of the Church’s communal spirit.

Looking ahead, Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed the path set forth by the Second Vatican Council especially as renewed under Pope Francis. He highlighted themes from the Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium, including the primacy of Christ, synodality, the sensus fidei (faithful’s supernatural sense), popular piety, care for the poor and active engagement with the world.

“These principles reveal the merciful face of the Father, made manifest in the Son,” he affirmed.

Concluding his address, Pope Leo XIV called on the Cardinals and the entire Church to pursue this path with “prayer and commitment,” echoing Saint Paul VI’s prayer that “a great flame of faith and love” may once again ignite across the world, illuminating the way for all people of good will.

Author: kazofm.admin