IPOA police watchdog blames deaths on ‘disproportionate force’

The treason trial of former Democratic Republic of Congo President Joseph Kabila has commenced in Kinshasa, where he faces charges including murder and rape for allegedly supporting M23 rebels; he denies all accusations and is being tried in absentia. Kabila's immunity was stripped by fellow senators to facilitate prosecution, with accusations of conspiring with Rwanda to destabilize the current government led by President Félix Tshisekedi. Want More Context? 🔎

Morocco, returning to Wafcon for the first time since 2000, has shown resilience despite inconsistent performances, trailing in matches against Zambia and Ghana. Under controversial coach Jorge Vilda, the team aims for a historic win, with captain Ghizlane Chebbak as a key player, while support for Vilda remains divided among fans. Want More Context? 🔎

Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, a Liverpool native, is proudly representing her West African heritage as part of Ghana's team in the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, helping the Black Queens advance to the semi-finals. In addition to her on-field contributions, she is also making a notable impact off the pitch. Want More Context? 🔎

A selection of the week's best photos from across the African continent and beyond:Highlights include a mural in Somalia, a swimmer at the World Aquatics Championships, and celebrations at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations. Other notable events feature protests in The Gambia, cultural festivals in Morocco, and a mural unveiling in Cape Town for Nelson Mandela Day. Want More Context? 🔎

Benin has appointed American filmmaker Spike Lee and his wife, Tonya Lewis Lee, as ambassadors to strengthen ties with the African diaspora, promoting cultural tourism and heritage reclamation. This initiative includes a citizenship law for descendants of enslaved Africans, aiming to reconnect them with their roots, amidst positive local reception in Cotonou. Want More Context? 🔎

African Players in Premier League TeamsVarious Premier League teams feature African players, including Bournemouth's Dango Ouattara and Hamed Traore, Brentford's Yoane Wissa and Frank Onyeka, and Liverpool's Mohamed Salah. Notably, Arsenal, Aston Villa, Leeds, and Newcastle currently have no African players in their first-team squads. Want More Context? 🔎