Muyiwa Ademola hails Funke, Toyin on box office wins
Muyiwa Ademola hails Funke Akindele & Toyin Abraham’s box office triumphs! He celebrates their success & encourages fans to support Nigerian cinema. Funke Akindele’s landmark achievement Funke Akindele’s latest film, Everybody Loves Jenifa, has grossed over 500 million Naira, solidifying her position as the fourth-highest-grossing film on the Nigerian box office rankings. This milestone marks a significant achievement for Funke, who has become a household name in Nollywood. On social media, Muyiwa Ademola shared his pride, offering sincere prayers for her continued success. In his congratulatory message, Ademola wrote: “Congratulations to you Lafunky. I rejoice with you on this milestone, @funkejenifaakindele. Bigger you in all spheres! What a time to be alive! May you never stumble, sis. Hey peeps! Everybody Loves Jenifa is still showing at cinemas worldwide—don’t miss it! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in advance.” Toyin Abraham’s groundbreaking success Ademola also congratulated Toyin Abraham for the impressive success of her film Alakada Bad and Boujee. The film has made waves, breaking box office records and earning widespread acclaim. Ademola praised Toyin’s efforts, calling her achievement “huge and worthy of celebration.” In his message, he wrote: “Congratulations, OluwaToyin. This is huge and worthy of celebration. Continue to break those barriers, @toyin_abraham. Cheers to a bigger you! Guys, Alakada Bad & Boujee is still showing at cinemas nationwide. Don’t sleep on it, guys. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in advance.” Encouraging support for Nigerian cinema Muyiwa Ademola emphasized the importance of supporting Nigerian films, urging fans to watch both Everybody Loves Jenifa and Alakada Bad and Boujee. His messages reflect a deep sense of pride in Nollywood and a call to action for audiences to continue celebrating and promoting homegrown talent. Ademola’s words resonate not just as congratulations but as a testament to the growth and success of Nigerian cinema, inspiring both actors and audiences to push boundaries and support local stories. Read Also: Funke Akindele’s ‘Everybody Loves Jenifa’ is highest-grossing Nollywood film of 2024Funke Akindele’s Jenifa legacy: A global phenomenonNollywood movies set for December release
Bruno Mars: Spotify’s most listened artiste
Bruno Mars has shattered the record for the highest number of monthly listeners on Spotify, marking a major achievement on the global music streaming platform. His holiday-themed tracks, including “White Christmas,” “24k Christmas,” and “That’s Why I Like Christmas,” have seen a significant surge in streams, particularly during the festive season. This boost in popularity has propelled Mars’ Spotify monthly listeners to an impressive 140 million, setting a new benchmark for male artists on the platform. Mars’ success is a testament to the enduring appeal of holiday music. His Christmas songs have resonated with listeners, especially during the holiday rush, helping him secure the top spot in Spotify’s listener rankings. The new record highlights Mars’ continued influence in the music industry, showcasing his ability to connect with audiences year after year. Ariana Grande breaks female artiste record Alongside Mars, Ariana Grande has made headlines by breaking the record for the most monthly listeners for a female artist on Spotify. Grande’s numbers surged to 117.319 million during the holiday season, surpassing Taylor Swift’s previous record. This significant rise in streams reflects Grande’s sustained popularity and dominance on the platform. Grande’s holiday-themed tracks, such as “Santa Tell Me” and “Last Christmas,” have contributed to her impressive streaming numbers. Her ability to reinvent and adapt to seasonal trends has further solidified her status as a leading artist. Grande’s success serves as a reminder of her talent and relevance in today’s music landscape. Burna Boy leads as Spotify’s most streamed African artiste In addition to Mars and Grande, Burna Boy has emerged as the most streamed African artist on Spotify in 2024. His hit songs, such as “Last Last” and “Kilometer,” have resonated with global audiences, contributing to his record-breaking streaming numbers. Burna Boy’s rise underscores the growing influence of African artists on the global music scene. Burna Boy’s success is part of a broader trend of African artists gaining recognition on Spotify. Other top-streamed African artists this year include South Africa’s Tyla, Ayra Starr, Rema, and Tems. These artists have seen significant growth in their streaming numbers, further establishing the prominence of African music on the platform. African artistes shine on a global scale The rise of artists like Tyla, Ayra Starr, Rema, and Tems reflects a broader trend of African music gaining international recognition. Tyla’s hit track “Getting Late” has contributed to her increasing streams, while Ayra Starr’s “Away” and Rema’s “Calm Down” have become global favourites. Tems, known for her soulful voice, has also made significant gains, showcasing the diversity and talent emerging from Africa. These artists are not just breaking records but also redefining the global music landscape. Their success on Spotify highlights the growing influence of African culture in the world of music. With streaming platforms like Spotify providing a global stage, African artists are reaching new audiences and achieving unprecedented success. The holiday season boosts music streaming The holiday season has played a pivotal role in boosting streaming numbers for many artists. Both Bruno Mars and Ariana Grande experienced significant surges in listeners as listeners flocked to festive tunes. This trend isn’t limited to just holiday music, however. Seasonal events consistently have a profound impact on music consumption. Spotify’s data shows that holiday-themed tracks often experience a rise in streams, with listeners seeking out seasonal favorites. These trends highlight how music streaming platforms respond to seasonal consumption patterns, making it essential for artists to adapt their releases to capitalize on these trends. In conclusion, Bruno Mars, Ariana Grande, and artists from Africa like Burna Boy, Tyla, Ayra Starr, Rema, and Tems have all set remarkable records on Spotify in 2024. The holiday season has played a crucial role in driving these streaming successes, showcasing the evolving nature of the music industry in the digital age. These achievements underscore the growing influence of both established and emerging artists on a global scale. Read Also: Kendrick Lamar: Billboard’s 2024 pop star
Wiz Khalifa: “10-year dates before marriage”
Wiz Khalifa believes couples should date for at least 10 years before marriage to build deep understanding and lasting relationships. His comments come from personal experiences and observations about relationships, offering insights into why extended periods of dating can contribute to healthier and more successful marriages. In a recent episode of the Club Shay Shay podcast, Khalifa, a father of two, emphasized that dating for a decade allows partners to fully understand each other, including their habits, family dynamics, and what life together might look like. “People should date for 10 years before getting married because that’s enough time to know the person inside and out—how they interact with their family, and who you’ll be dealing with when you move in together,” Khalifa explained. Khalifa’s own relationship history serves as a backdrop for his views. He was married to model Amber Rose on July 8, 2013, shortly after welcoming a son together. However, their union ended in divorce in 2016, following irreconcilable differences. This experience, he says, has shaped his perspective on what it takes to sustain a marriage. When asked whether couples should live together before marriage or wait, Khalifa offered a thoughtful response. “It depends on the situation and circumstances. Some people move in right away and still take time to figure things out,” he said. “By not moving in immediately, you’ll see different versions of a person. There’s the version when you aren’t sharing everything, and then the one when you are.” Khalifa’s insight highlights how important it is for couples to have a clear understanding of one another’s habits, preferences, and family dynamics before making the commitment to marriage. Long-term dating, he argues, fosters a deeper connection and helps avoid unrealistic expectations once the couple begins living together. The rapper’s divorce from Amber Rose offers a cautionary tale about the complexities of relationships and the need for compatibility. While Khalifa doesn’t dismiss the idea of love or the potential for lasting connections, he suggests that marrying after a shorter period of dating might not allow for the depth of understanding necessary for a lifetime commitment. “People tend to change over time,” Khalifa said. “During those 10 years, you’re bound to encounter various challenges, and you’ll learn how to navigate them together.” Khalifa’s current relationship with Aimee Aguilar, who he has been dating for five years, further reflects his belief in the importance of long-term connections. The couple recently welcomed a daughter, further solidifying their commitment to each other. Khalifa sees his relationship with Aguilar as a prime example of how extended dating can strengthen a partnership. “I’m at a point now where I feel confident in my relationship with Aimee because we’ve been through so much together,” Khalifa explained. “We’ve faced challenges, supported one another, and learned how to grow as a couple. That’s the kind of foundation I believe is essential for marriage.” Khalifa’s approach stands in contrast to modern dating trends, where shorter relationships often lead to rushed decisions about marriage. He suggests that this impatience can result in unrealistic expectations, especially when couples move in together or tie the knot without fully understanding each other. In a world where the idea of long-term commitment can seem less appealing to some, Khalifa’s perspective offers a grounded approach. His views encourage couples to build trust, communication, and mutual respect before rushing into marriage. Khalifa’s advice has resonated with many fans and listeners who see value in taking the time to understand their partners thoroughly. In today’s fast-paced world, where instant gratification often dominates, his thoughts offer a reminder of the importance of patience and long-term connection. In conclusion, Wiz Khalifa’s belief that couples should date for at least 10 years before getting married reflects his personal experiences and insights into relationships. By emphasizing the value of understanding each other’s families, habits, and lifestyles, Khalifa encourages a more thoughtful and deliberate approach to marriage. His perspective serves as a reminder that taking the time to build strong foundations can lead to healthier and more enduring relationships. Read Also: Kiitan Bukola: Marriage fears
Kendrick Lamar: Billboard’s 2024 pop star
Kendrick Lamar named Billboard’s “Greatest Pop Star of 2024,” marking a historic milestone and cementing his dominance in the music industry. His achievements this year have been nothing short of extraordinary, largely driven by his consistent success on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Lamar’s chart-topping year Lamar’s rise to this honour came through a combination of hit records, a high-profile rivalry, and an unmatched ability to connect with audiences. His much-publicized hip-hop feud with Canadian superstar Drake became a cultural phenomenon, fueling conversations across social media and the music industry. The tension between the two artists sparked creativity on both sides, but Lamar’s musical output stood out. During this rivalry, Lamar released a string of successful singles. Among them was the standout track, “Not Like Us,” which quickly climbed to the top of the Billboard Hot 100. This song not only dominated the airwaves but also resonated deeply with fans, showcasing Lamar’s sharp lyricism and ability to craft unforgettable hooks. His other releases further solidified his presence on the charts, making 2024 a landmark year for his career. Breaking barriers in pop music Billboard’s recognition of Lamar as the “Greatest Pop Star” carries significant weight. He is the first rapper to earn this title since Drake achieved it in 2018. This milestone highlights Lamar’s ability to transcend genres and redefine what it means to be a pop star. While he remains firmly rooted in hip-hop, his music appeals to a global audience, breaking barriers and setting new standards for artists in the industry. This achievement underscores a broader trend in music, where the lines between genres continue to blur. Lamar’s success demonstrates that pop music is no longer confined to a specific sound or style. Instead, it reflects the cultural impact and widespread appeal of an artist, both of which Lamar has in abundance. Historic moment on the hot 100 In another notable development on the Billboard Hot 100, Mariah Carey’s holiday classic, “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” has tied the record for the longest-running number-one song in chart history. The festive hit now shares this honor with Lil Nas X’s genre-defying “Old Town Road” and Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy).” Each of these songs has spent an impressive 17 weeks at the top of the chart. This milestone is particularly significant because all three record-holding songs are by Black lead artists. This achievement highlights the enduring influence and creativity of Black musicians in shaping the music landscape. From holiday anthems to hip-hop crossovers, their contributions continue to define the soundtracks of our lives. A year to remember 2024 has been a remarkable year for music, with Kendrick Lamar at the forefront. His recognition as Billboard’s “Greatest Pop Star” serves as a testament to his talent, hard work, and cultural impact. Meanwhile, the historic achievements on the Hot 100 chart underscore the diversity and vibrancy of today’s music scene. As the year comes to a close, fans and industry insiders alike are left reflecting on the power of music to bring people together and create lasting memories. For Kendrick Lamar, this year’s success is not just a personal victory but also a moment of inspiration for artists everywhere. The music world will undoubtedly watch closely to see what he does next. Read Also: Kendrick Lamar Crowned Apple Music’s rap artist of the yearDrake sues UMG, Spotify over Kendrick Lamar’s diss song
Kiitan Bukola: Marriage fears
Nollywood actress Kiitan Bukola has shared her deeply personal story, revealing how her childhood experiences shaped her views on marriage and family. Speaking candidly in an interview with Biola Bayo, Bukola discussed her love for marriage while admitting her fears about its challenges. Her honesty provided a glimpse into the emotional struggles she continues to face as she works toward building a stable and loving home for her future children. The impact of a Father’s absence Bukola attributed her apprehension about marriage to her upbringing, which was marked by the absence of her father. Growing up without the consistent presence of a father left a profound mark on her perspective. The actress disclosed that her father had several children, some of whom she has never met. Connections with a few siblings were made only through online platforms, highlighting the fragmented nature of her family ties. Reflecting on her childhood, she shared, “The absence of paternal love and care has left a lasting impact on me. I didn’t have the kind of fatherly attention I needed. That sense of a complete home, with both parents present, was something I missed.” These early experiences have greatly influenced her hopes and fears regarding family life. Bukola explained that while she desires to experience the joy of marriage, she is also determined to break the cycle of instability she witnessed as a child. Balancing love and fear Despite her fears, Bukola expressed a strong belief in the institution of marriage. “I love marriage, but at the same time, I am scared of it. I don’t want a situation where I will have my kids outside wedlock,” she confessed. Her concerns go beyond the personal. She is motivated by a desire to create a nurturing and stable environment for her future children, one free from the emotional challenges she endured. “It hurts me most of the time because I didn’t really enjoy that parental love – father and mother together. I want my kids to have what I didn’t have,” she explained. Bukola’s openness highlights the complexity of her emotions. On one hand, she longs for the stability and love of a traditional family structure. On the other hand, her past experiences have made her cautious and protective of her future. A journey of resilience In addition to her reflections on family life, Bukola spoke about her humble beginnings. She recounted her childhood struggles, including the years she spent hawking food to support her family. “I used to hawk pounded yam and efo back in the days,” she revealed. “I would wake up at 3:30 a.m. because we had to take it to Sabo in Ondo town.” This early experience of hardship shaped her work ethic and resilience. Despite the challenges, Bukola has risen to become a celebrated figure in the Nigerian film industry. Her journey from those humble beginnings to her current success serves as an inspiration to many. Breaking the cycle Bukola’s story is one of courage and determination. She is not only navigating her fears but also striving to ensure that her future family experiences the love and stability she craved as a child. Her revelations underscore the importance of addressing generational challenges and breaking cycles of emotional pain. As she continues to shine in Nollywood, Bukola’s candid reflections resonate with fans who admire her vulnerability and strength. By sharing her story, she has opened the door for conversations about the impact of childhood experiences on adult relationships and the importance of creating a loving home. Through her journey, Bukola embodies resilience, reminding us all that our past does not have to define our future. Her message is clear: while the scars of the past may linger, they can also fuel the determination to create a brighter tomorrow. Read Also: I make more money from car washing business than music – Jason Derulo
Adeniyi Johnson shows support for Naomi
Nollywood’s Adeniyi Johnson supports Naomi Silekunola after an Ibadan stampede at her charity event tragically claimed over 30 children’s lives. The heartbreaking incident occurred during a charity event organized by Naomi to help the less privileged, turning a well-intentioned gesture into an unforeseen tragedy. In a heartfelt message shared on his Instagram page, Adeniyi expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims and offered prayers for Naomi. He recognized her genuine intentions and commended her for her charitable spirit. His words reflected compassion and a call for understanding, highlighting the tragedy’s profound impact on all involved. Condolences to the families Addressing the grieving families, Adeniyi’s message was empathetic and reassuring. He wrote, “First and foremost, condolences to the family of lost ones; no family deserves this kind of pain at this time or any other. I pray the good Lord gives you the fortitude to bear the loss and comfort the family!! Amen.” His words resonated with many, emphasizing that such loss is a shared pain felt by the community. The actor’s message reinforced the need for solidarity and comfort during this difficult time. Acknowledging Naomi’s intentions Adeniyi turned his attention to Naomi, expressing his belief in her good intentions. He stated, “My heart and prayers go to @queen_silekunolanaomi_ogunwusi, whose intentions were not to hurt or kill but to give and feed! This time, too, shall pass, and the God of your good deeds will speak for you, restore you, and bring you back stronger!” Naomi’s charity event, designed to feed the less privileged, was a reflection of her caring nature. Adeniyi’s message reminded the public of her efforts to give back to the community, despite the unfortunate outcome. Praising Ondo state’s generosity The actor also highlighted the values of the Ondo State community, which he believes were embodied in Naomi’s actions. He said, “We, the people of Ondo State, are known for our kind-heartedness and generosity, which is clearly your motive for putting the program together. I pray God to see you through this in time and bring you back stronger!” His words served as a reminder of the compassionate culture that defines Ondo State and its people. Adeniyi’s praise for Naomi and her charitable work aimed to shift focus to the goodwill behind the event rather than the tragedy itself. A plea for leniency In addition to his condolences and support, Adeniyi appealed to authorities to show leniency in their handling of the incident. He wrote, “Lastly, I know for a fact that the law must be upheld, but we beseech the authorities in charge to temper justice with mercies and look beyond the tragic incident! GOD BLESS NIGERIA.” Adeniyi’s plea reflected his understanding of the need for accountability while also urging compassion for Naomi, whose intentions were pure. His call for mercy underscored the human side of the tragedy, reminding authorities and the public of the complexities surrounding the event. Community in mourning The Ibadan stampede has left the nation in mourning. Over 30 children lost their lives during what was supposed to be a joyous occasion. As investigations into the incident continue, many are grappling with questions about safety measures and the challenges of organizing large-scale charity events. Naomi Silekunola, known for her charitable work, has faced immense public scrutiny since the tragedy. However, Adeniyi Johnson’s message offers a different perspective, focusing on her good intentions and the community’s shared grief. The way forward This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of planning and safety in public events. It also highlights the need for empathy and understanding in the face of adversity. Adeniyi’s heartfelt message has sparked conversations about balancing accountability with compassion. As the nation processes this tragedy, voices like Adeniyi’s remind us of the need for unity and support. His words resonate with those seeking solace and a way forward, emphasizing that even in the darkest moments, kindness and humanity must prevail. In times like these, it is essential to remember that tragedies, though painful, can bring communities together. Adeniyi Johnson’s message reflects a call for healing, urging everyone to stand together and support one another through this period of sorrow. This moment in history will not only mark a painful loss but also serve as a lesson in compassion, responsibility, and resilience. The families affected, Naomi Silekunola, and the entire community remain in the thoughts and prayers of many, as the journey to healing begins. Read Also: Support pours in for Naomi after tragedyIbadan Stampede: Obi urges release of ex-queen Naomi
Postecoglou calls for January reinforcements as Spurs struggle
Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou has called for reinforcements in the January transfer window, admitting the squad is “short in a couple of areas” amid a challenging run of form. Spurs have slipped to 11th in the Premier League after losing three of their last four games, including a 6-3 home defeat to Liverpool. Key injuries to goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario and defenders Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero have compounded their struggles. Speaking ahead of their Boxing Day clash with fourth-placed Nottingham Forest, Postecoglou emphasized the importance of careful planning for January. “We’ve been planning for a while,” said the Australian. “It’s fair to say we’re still short in a couple of areas and need to reinforce. January is tricky, but we need players who will make us stronger.” Despite domestic struggles, Spurs remain competitive in cup competitions, reaching the Carabao Cup semi-finals after a dramatic 4-3 win over Manchester United and staying in the hunt for Europa League progression. They also face Tamworth in the FA Cup third round on January 12. Postecoglou defended his players’ effort and dismissed criticism of his tactics, stating: “The players are giving maximum effort and doing what I’m asking of them. How can I be critical of that?” The Spurs boss also addressed his fiery exchange with a reporter after the Liverpool loss, attributing his reaction to repeated questions about defensive injuries. “I wasn’t angry, but it’s tiring to hear the same things after every defeat,” he said. With a busy schedule ahead, Postecoglou is determined to bolster his squad and navigate the demanding second half of the season.
Carlos Corberan appointed Valencia head coach amid relegation battle
La Liga strugglers Valencia have appointed Carlos Corberan as their new head coach, bringing the Spaniard back to his homeland after an impressive stint with West Bromwich Albion. Corberan, 41, has signed a contract until the end of the 2026-27 season, taking over from Ruben Baraja, who was sacked following Valencia’s poor start to the campaign, with just two wins in 17 league matches. Valencia triggered Corberan’s release clause, reportedly between £3-4 million, to secure his services. The appointment comes as the club sits second-bottom in La Liga, four points from safety, and prepares to face reigning champions Real Madrid on January 3. A Difficult Departure In a heartfelt message, Corberan described leaving Albion as “the hardest decision of my life,” expressing gratitude to the club and its supporters. “There will always be a place in my heart for this special club, and I hope one day I can return to thank you all for your incredible support,” he said on social media. Corberan transformed West Brom during his tenure, taking them from relegation candidates to consistent play-off contenders despite severe financial restrictions. This season, Albion sit seventh in the Championship, just outside the play-off places, despite a reduced budget. A Risky Move for Valencia Corberan faces a daunting challenge at Valencia. The club has been plagued by financial instability and managerial turnover, with only one head coach lasting more than two years since Unai Emery’s departure in 2012. Still, Corberan brings a track record of overachievement. During his time at West Brom, he revived the careers of overlooked players and turned the team into a competitive force despite limited resources. His tactical acumen and ability to adapt will be critical as Valencia fight for survival in La Liga. Reaction from West Brom West Brom will now search for a new manager as they navigate a busy festive schedule, with three games in six days. Coaches Chris Brunt, Damia Abella, and Boaz Myhill will take caretaker charge. While some fans had grown critical of Corberan’s style, his achievements during a tumultuous period at the club have been widely recognized. BBC Radio WM’s Steve Hermon noted, “The job he has done in stabilizing the club on the field during a period of utter turmoil cannot be understated.” As Corberan embarks on a new chapter with Valencia, he leaves a lasting legacy at West Brom and the gratitude of supporters who witnessed his transformative impact on the team.
Embiid ejected after heated clash with referee in 76ers win over Spurs
Philadelphia, PA — In a dramatic turn of events, Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid was ejected during his team’s 111-106 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Christmas Eve. The reigning NBA MVP found himself at the center of controversy after a heated confrontation with referee Jenna Schroeder in the second quarter. The incident unfolded when Embiid was called for a third personal foul following a charge on Spurs rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama, who was sent sprawling to the court with 2:59 remaining in the first half. Embiid, visibly frustrated, confronted Schroeder, ripping off his protective face mask in protest. The exchange escalated, leading to two technical fouls and an early dismissal for the 76ers’ star center. Referee Schroeder had already drawn attention earlier in the game when she ejected Philadelphia’s Andre Drummond for a challenge on Wembanyama. However, that decision was later overturned, further fueling tensions on the court. “It was a wild first half,” said 76ers head coach Nick Nurse, reflecting on the emotionally charged game. Despite the drama, the 76ers managed to rally behind guard Tyrese Maxey, who delivered an outstanding performance with 32 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists, securing the win for Philadelphia. On the opposing side, Wembanyama showcased his rising-star potential with an impressive stat line of 26 points, nine rebounds, and eight blocked shots. However, his efforts were not enough to carry San Antonio past a resilient Philadelphia squad. Celtics Stunned by Magic In other NBA action, the reigning champions Boston Celtics suffered a surprising 108-104 defeat to the Orlando Magic. Despite leading by 15 points at halftime, the Celtics faltered without the presence of Jayson Tatum, who missed the game due to illness. Tristan da Silva led Orlando with a team-high 18 points in the upset victory. Thunder Shine Behind Gilgeous-Alexander Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder, Western Conference leaders, continued their dominant season with a convincing 123-105 win over the Washington Wizards. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a standout performance, pouring in 41 points to guide his team to yet another victory. As the NBA season heats up, the spotlight remains firmly on the league’s brightest stars, with each game delivering excitement and surprises for fans worldwide.
33 inmates killed, 1,500 escape in Mozambique jailbreak
Groups of protesters approached the penitentiary, triggering unrest inside and prompting inmates to knock down a wall and flee More than 1,500 prisoners escaped from a Maputo prison on Wednesday, taking advantage of the third day of unrest triggered by the controversial confirmation of the long-ruling Frelimo party as the winner of recent elections. A total of 1,534 detainees escaped the high-security prison located about 15km (nine miles) from the capital, national police chief, Bernardino Rafael said at a press conference. Among those attempting to escape, 33 were killed and 15 wounded in clashes with prison staff, he added. A search operation, backed by the army, led to the arrest of about 150 fugitives, he said. Around 30 of the prisoners were linked to armed groups that have been behind unrest and attacks in the northern province of Cabo Delgado for the past seven years. “We are particularly concerned about this situation,” Rafael said. The Portuguese-speaking African country’s highest court had confirmed on Monday that Frelimo, in power since 1975, won the October 9 presidential election that had already triggered weeks of unrest. A protester gestures near a burning barricade during a “national shutdown” against the election outcome in Maputo, Mozambique, in November. Photo: Reuters Groups of protesters had approached the penitentiary on Wednesday, creating confusion and triggering unrest inside the prison, where inmates ended up knocking down a wall through which they escaped, he explained. Barricades remained erected in several areas of the capital on Wednesday, limiting movements, as acts of vandalism continued. In addition to stores and public buildings that were already ransacked on Monday, ambulances were set ablaze along with a pharmacy and other businesses. Some demonstrators also set up tables in the streets to occupy the space while celebrating Christmas with family or neighbours in several working-class districts of Maputo. Monday’s confirmation of the election result came despite claims of irregularities from many observers. Frelimo leader, Daniel Chapo won 65.17 per cent of the vote, about five points less than the initial results declared by the country’s electoral commission. Chapo’s main challenger, exiled opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, has claimed the election was rigged, sparking fears of violence between rival party supporters. The unrest has claimed the lives of at least 150 people, according to several NGO reports.
