Rorisang Modiba delivers daily updates from around the world
Nigeria – A nationwide strike in Nigeria has caused widespread disruptions, grounding air travel and leaving millions without power. The strike, led by the Nigerian Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress, began after negotiations with the government over a minimum wage increase and electricity tariff hike failed. The unions are demanding a significant raise in the minimum wage from 30,000 naira (R377) to 494,000 naira (R6,218), which the government has deemed “unreasonable”. The strike has turned violent, with union workers storming the national grid, injuring operators, and forcing tax agency personnel out of their offices. The government has offered a 100% increase to 60,000 naira (R755), but the unions have rejected the offer.
Mexico – Claudia Sheinbaum, a climate scientist and former mayor of Mexico City, has made history by winning the presidential election and becoming Mexico’s first female and Jewish president. She will take office in October, facing significant challenges like lawlessness and the violent drug cartels. Despite her mentor, outgoing President Andres Manuel López Obrador’s controversial legacy, Sheinbaum promises to govern for all, promote investment, and tackle corruption. She aims to build a fair and prosperous Mexico, striking a conciliatory tone after a highly partisan race. Her priorities include financial discipline and autonomy for the Bank of Mexico.
India – India is expected to announce the results of the world’s largest election today, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi likely to secure a historic third term. Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) aims to win a majority of at least 400 seats out of 543 in the lower house of parliament. The election, which saw 642 million votes cast over six weeks, comes as India battles a deadly heat wave. Under Modi’s decade-long rule, India has grown economically and globally but also faces increasing religious polarisation. The outcome will have significant implications for Asia and the world, given India’s strategic position and booming economy.
US – A recent ABC News/Ipsos poll suggests that former president Donald Trump’s guilty verdict in his hush-money trial may have significant implications for his 2024 presidential campaign. The poll found that:
- 52% of independents and 67% of “double haters” (those who dislike both Trump and President Joe Biden) believe Trump should end his bid for the White House.
- 49% of Americans think Trump should end his campaign due to the verdict.
- 16% of Republicans and 79% of Democrats share this view.
- 50% of Americans agree with the verdict, while 27% disagree and 23% are unsure.
These findings could significantly influence the November election, particularly in highly contested states, where independents and undecided voters may play a crucial role.
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