Lee-Yandra Paulsen

Over the weekend, the United States (U.S.) President Donald Trump announced that no American officials would attend the upcoming Group of 20 (G20) summit in South Africa, claiming the decision was due to the country’s alleged mistreatment of white farmers. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has strongly dismissed the allegations, calling them “totally unsubstantiated.” Speaking to VOC News, veteran US diplomat, political analyst, and founding associate editor […]

The African Union (AU) has strongly condemned Tanzania’s recent general elections, citing widespread irregularities, including ballot stuffing, internet blackouts, politically motivated abductions, and excessive military force that undermined democratic standards. The AU’s observer mission reported that the elections failed to meet regional and international principles for free and fair polls, warning that the political environment was “not conducive to peaceful conduct and acceptance of electoral outcomes.” Protests erupted across the […]

Zohran Mamdani has made history as New York City’s youngest mayor since 1892, becoming the first Muslim and first African-born leader of the city. His victory over former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa is being hailed as a major win for the Democratic left. Mamdani’s rise was notable for overcoming low name recognition, limited funding, and minimal party support, proving that grassroots campaigning can resonate with voters. The […]

The Israeli military’s top legal officer, Major-General Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, has resigned after admitting to leaking disturbing footage showing the gang rape of a Palestinian prisoner at the Sde Teiman detention facility. The shocking revelation has ignited international outrage and renewed scrutiny over Israel’s treatment of detainees. Reports indicate that Tomer-Yerushalmi, who had initially gone missing amid the investigation, was later detained alongside another senior legal official. The situation has sparked […]