Trump launches sharp attacks on democratic rivals during White House Thanksgiving Turkey Pardon

Trump to speak with Putin, then Zelenskyy, to push for Ukraine ceasefire

WASHINGTON DC-(MaraviPost)-During the traditional Thanksgiving turkey pardon ceremony at the White House on Tuesday, former President Donald Trump targeted his political opponents.

Trump’s remarks took aim at several prominent Democrats, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, President Joe Biden, and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker.

The former president used the occasion to criticize their policies and leadership in a series of pointed comments.

Observers noted that Trump’s attacks were unusually direct and combative for a ceremonial event that is typically light-hearted and symbolic.

The turkey pardon, a longstanding White House tradition, involves sparing one or more turkeys from being slaughtered for Thanksgiving.

Despite the festive setting, Trump’s speech turned political, highlighting the ongoing tension between him and the Democratic Party.

Political analysts suggest that such remarks are likely intended to energize his base ahead of upcoming election cycles.

Democratic leaders have not yet formally responded to the former president’s comments from the ceremony.

The event drew media attention both for the traditional turkey pardon and for the unusually aggressive political rhetoric.

Trump’s appearance underscores his continued prominence in American political discourse and his readiness to publicly challenge Democratic figures.

The White House ceremony, typically a light-hearted celebration, was overshadowed by partisan attacks and pointed commentary.

As the holiday season continues, political observers anticipate that Trump’s rhetoric may influence public debate and media coverage in the weeks to come.


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Thabo Mbeki’s foundation questions Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration legitimacy

PRETORIA-(MaraviPost)-In a statement that has sent ripples across East African political circles, the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, representing South Africa’s former President Thabo Mbeki, has publicly declared that Tanzania currently lacks a legitimate government.

The foundation contends that the administration led by President Samia Suluhu Hassan was “imposed upon the people through a combination of force and fraudulent means,” raising urgent questions about governance and democracy in the East African nation.

The pronouncement comes amidst ongoing regional concerns about political transparency and democratic processes in several African countries.

Thabo Mbeki, a respected elder statesman known for his diplomatic approach to conflict resolution and governance issues, has through his foundation urged Tanzanians to reflect critically on the trajectory their country is taking.

The foundation’s statement calls for a collective examination of what has gone wrong and what corrective measures are necessary to restore Tanzania on a path that respects the will of its people.

Tanzania, under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who assumed office in March 2021 following the sudden death of her predecessor John Magufuli, has experienced significant political shifts. President Hassan’s administration has been marked by efforts to open the political space, improve relations with international partners, and stimulate economic reforms.

However, the foundation’s assertion challenges the legitimacy of the current government’s ascent and tenure, suggesting that these changes may have been engineered through undemocratic practices.

The foundation’s statement reflects deep concerns about the electoral processes and political freedoms in Tanzania. Over recent years, international observers and local opposition groups have reported incidents of political repression, restrictions on media freedoms, and limitations on civil society activities.

These factors have contributed to a climate of suspicion and distrust among segments of the Tanzanian population and the wider international community.

Thabo Mbeki’s foundation emphasized the need for open dialogue and inclusive participation to address the critical questions facing Tanzania. “What went wrong, and what must be done to put the beloved country back on course?” the foundation asked, implying that the current situation threatens the social contract between the government and the people.

Such a call for introspection and reform is significant given Mbeki’s reputation for advocating peaceful solutions and democratic governance across the continent.

The implications of the foundation’s statement are profound for Tanzania’s political landscape. It signals a potential shift in regional perspectives about the legitimacy of governments and the respect for democratic norms.

Neighboring countries and regional blocs such as the East African Community (EAC) may find themselves pressured to engage more critically with governance issues in Tanzania.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Tanzania’s first female president, has faced numerous challenges since taking office.

She inherited a nation grappling with economic difficulties, international isolation due to the previous administration’s policies, and internal political tensions. Her administration has attempted several reforms, including re-engaging with international financial institutions and promoting a more open political dialogue.

However, the allegations from the Mbeki Foundation suggest that these efforts may not fully address underlying governance concerns.

Political analysts note that the foundation’s critique may stem from wider regional anxieties about governance and legitimacy in Africa.

The continent has witnessed a complex interplay of democratic transitions, electoral disputes, and governance challenges in recent decades.

South Africa, under Mbeki’s presidency, played a significant role in promoting peace and democratic governance in Africa, which adds weight to the foundation’s pronouncement.

Locally, Tanzanian political actors have responded with mixed reactions.

Supporters of President Hassan’s government have dismissed the foundation’s statement as interference in Tanzania’s internal affairs, emphasizing the legitimacy conferred by the constitutional processes following President Magufuli’s death.

Opposition parties and civil society activists, however, have expressed cautious optimism that such international attention could foster greater accountability and political reform.

The broader African community is watching closely how Tanzania will respond to these criticisms.

The country’s stability and democratic health are vital not only for its citizens but also for the region’s economic integration and security.

East Africa’s development agenda heavily depends on political stability and good governance, making Tanzania’s situation a matter of regional interest.

The statement from the Thabo Mbeki Foundation brings to the forefront critical questions about governance legitimacy in Tanzania under President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

It challenges the narrative of a smooth political transition and calls for a collective reckoning with the country’s current political trajectory.

As Tanzania navigates these challenges, the eyes of the continent remain firmly fixed on how its leaders and people will respond to restore trust, uphold democratic principles, and ensure a future that reflects the will of its citizens.

The call for dialogue and reform echoes beyond Tanzania’s borders, resonating with broader struggles for democracy and good governance across Africa.


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UTM criticizes DPP’s mid-year budget, warns against continued economic mismanagement

UTM president Dalitso Kabambe
UTM president Dalitso Kabambe

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The United Transformation Movement (UTM) party has strongly criticized the 2025/26 Mid-Year Budget, accusing the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government of continuing what it describes as a “failed economic path” left behind by the former Malawi Congress Party (MCP) administration.

In a statement released today and signed by UTM Director of Finance and Economic Affairs Simon Mwayang’ana, the party highlighted the fragility of Malawi’s economy, citing rising food prices, foreign exchange shortages, growing public debt, increasing unemployment, and deepening poverty that continues to keep the country among the poorest in the world.

UTM acknowledged that the DPP inherited these challenges from the previous MCP government but stressed that the new administration must now take full responsibility for addressing them.

The party criticized the mid-year budget for failing to deliver solutions, arguing that the measures outlined fail to respond to the country’s urgent economic needs.

“Malawi needed discipline – it received consumption. Malawi needed a production revolution – it received tax hikes. Malawi needed liquidity control – it received expansion. Malawi needed a credible foreign exchange plan – it received administrative controls,” the statement reads in part.

UTM further noted that the budget does not adequately address structural issues and risks perpetuating fiscal mismanagement, worsening inflation, and further burdening citizens already struggling with high living costs.

The party also raised concerns about the overestimation of Gross Domestic Product projections, the inflation outlook that is not aligned with prevailing economic realities, and ongoing foreign exchange challenges that threaten to destabilize trade and business activities.

Additionally, UTM warned that fiscal deficits and domestic borrowing remain unchecked, and criticized the newly introduced tax measures as heavy, inflationary, and counterproductive, potentially undermining economic growth and development.

The statement concludes with a call for the government to implement policies that prioritize production, fiscal discipline, and sustainable economic reforms to alleviate poverty and restore public confidence in national economic management.

UTM’s critique underscores growing public concern over Malawi’s economic trajectory and highlights the pressure on the DPP to adopt bold measures to address the country’s persistent financial and structural challenges.


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Malawi School of Government faces allegations of sabotaging DPP agenda amid staffing concerns

Dzimbiri under fire for flouting procedure in hiring DPP cadet Asiyati Chiweza as MSG Director General

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-An anonymous lecturer at the Malawi School of Government (MSG) has raised serious concerns over the current management and operations of the institution.

The lecturer, who has served at MSG for over eight years, spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the claims.

According to the source, the current MSG management was appointed by the previous MCP administration and appears to be undermining government programs, including initiatives under President Arthur Peter Mutharika’s agenda.

The lecturer alleged that the Director General (DG) was appointed without following a competitive recruitment process, in contravention of the MSG Act.

It is believed that the DG’s appointment was influenced by her husband, a pastor with strong ties to the former “pastor president,” raising concerns about her impartiality.

The seven directors currently serving at MSG were reportedly chosen based on connections to the DG, the former SPC Zamba, and MCP leadership, rather than merit.

For instance, one Head of Department, an Assemblies of God pastor with an agricultural background, was appointed to lead the Business and Management Department despite lacking relevant qualifications.

The lecturer claims this director has a history of dishonesty and misleadingly represents himself as a “PhD Fellow,” although he has not completed such studies.

When MCP assumed power, several experienced and competent MSG staff members were removed, according to the source.

This was allegedly done through a controversial “Placement Exercise,” which the lecturer says was designed to eliminate individuals perceived as DPP sympathizers.

Positions were reportedly given to candidates aligned with the DG and MCP, even if they failed interviews or lacked qualifications, while qualified staff were ignored.

Among those displaced were the former Acting Executive Director, Mr. Sikelo, and his capable team, who had previously run the institution efficiently without government subvention.

Currently, MSG receives government funding but is described as “top-heavy,” with eight directors earning substantial salaries and benefits despite limited output.

Meanwhile, junior staff reportedly continue to face significant challenges, including low pay and minimal support.

The anonymous lecturer also noted that most of the government subvention is spent on vehicles, travel allowances, and other perks for the DG and directors.

While the DG claims credit for clearing pension arrears, the lecturer argues that these achievements were the work of previous management.

The source called for a comprehensive review of all MSG recruitments since the restructuring, including the Placement Exercise.

Financial and staffing audits, similar to those conducted at NEEF, were recommended to restore accountability.

The lecturer expressed concern that capable professionals were displaced for political reasons, while individuals brought in by the MCP administration continue to benefit.

The situation at MSG highlights the urgent need for corrective action to ensure that government training institutions serve national interests rather than partisan agendas.


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French Navy clarifies: No confirmation of Pakistani Air superiority or Rafale shootdowns

The French Navy has formally denied recent claims made by some Pakistani media outlets regarding the purported statements of a French officer on regional air engagements.

Reports had suggested that Captain Yvan Launay confirmed Pakistan’s air superiority and the downing of Indian Rafale jets, a claim that quickly circulated online.

In a statement, the French Navy clarified that Captain Launay never made any such remarks.

The Navy emphasized that Captain Launay’s role is purely technical and he did not comment on operational aerial engagements or the capabilities of foreign systems, including Chinese aircraft.

The clarification comes amid heightened tensions in the South Asian region, where misinformation and speculative reports can rapidly influence public perception.

Officials noted that attributing statements to military personnel without verification can create diplomatic misunderstandings and undermine regional stability.

The French Navy’s statement reinforces the importance of relying on verified sources when reporting on sensitive defense matters.

Captain Launay himself has remained neutral, focusing on technical expertise rather than operational or strategic assessments of foreign air forces.

This development serves as a reminder of the need for caution in media reporting on military affairs, especially in conflict-prone regions.


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South Africa’s G20 Presidency highlights Africa’s growth and global cooperation

PRETORIA-(MaraviPost)-President Cyril Ramaphosa has delivered the closing remarks at the G20 Leaders Summit, reflecting on South Africa’s historic tenure as the first African nation to host the forum.

In his address, President Ramaphosa extended his gratitude to G20 member states, invited countries, international organisations, and all participants for their support during South Africa’s Presidency.

He emphasised that the commitment of participating nations had been crucial in reaffirming the G20’s role as the premier platform for international economic cooperation and in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges.

President Ramaphosa noted that the summit occurred during a period of significant global difficulties, yet member states demonstrated the ability to unite and pursue a better world collectively.

South Africa’s leadership of the G20 placed Africa’s growth and development at the centre of the agenda, highlighting the continent’s potential as a key driver of 21st-century prosperity.

He stressed that realising this potential requires strong partnerships between Africa and the G20, and more broadly, between Africa and the global community.

President Ramaphosa also addressed the urgent need for global peace, calling for the cessation of conflicts and wars, and advocating for comprehensive and lasting resolutions.

The summit, he said, coincided with growing worldwide demands to tackle poverty, reduce inequality, and combat climate change.

Particular attention was given to the mounting debt burden in developing economies, which hampers their progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

The G20 pledged to provide support to low- and middle-income countries facing debt vulnerabilities, with the aim of creating a virtuous cycle of reduced debt, higher public investment, and inclusive economic growth.

Disaster resilience and climate adaptation were central themes, with President Ramaphosa noting that climate-induced natural disasters disproportionately affect nations with limited capacity to recover.

South Africa introduced the High-Level Voluntary Principles for Investing in Disaster Risk Reduction, encouraging international collaboration to enhance investment in both prevention and post-disaster recovery.

The summit also advanced discussions on the just energy transition, emphasising the need for climate finance, support for developing economies, and the mobilisation of private capital to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions.

President Ramaphosa highlighted the G20 Critical Minerals Framework as a key initiative to ensure that mineral resources contribute to sustainable development worldwide.

The South African Presidency also marked the conclusion of the first cycle of G20 Presidencies, during which the G20@20 Review was undertaken to gather perspectives from all participating members and guest countries.

Overall, the summit underscored the G20’s commitment to inclusive global cooperation, sustainable development, and Africa’s growing role on the international stage.


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