According to prosecutors, during the 2012 presidential election campaign, Sarkozy’s team spent nearly 43 million euros (almost 50 million U.S. dollars) in campaign funds, far exceeding the legal limit of 22.5 million euros, and used methods such as falsifying accounts to conceal the excess spending.
In September 2021, Sarkozy was found guilty in the first trial and immediately appealed. In February last year, the Court of Appeal of Paris upheld the conviction for illegal campaign funding, sentencing Sarkozy to one year in prison, including six months suspended and six months to be served outside prison. Sarkozy promptly appealed to the highest court.
The court’s decision to uphold the verdict this time means Sarkozy has been definitively convicted.
Sarkozy, 70, served as French president from 2007 to 2012. He currently faces multiple legal cases.
On Sept. 25, Sarkozy was sentenced to five years in prison for allegedly accepting illegal campaign funding from former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi.
Last December, France’s highest court upheld Sarkozy’s conviction in another corruption and abuse-of-power case, sentencing him to three years in prison, two years suspended and one year to be served under house arrest.
He also said the United States would immediately halt all payments and subsidies to the country, citing its treatment of a U.S. government representative during this year’s G20 meeting in Johannesburg.
Trump, who did not send an official American delegation to the Johannesburg summit last weekend, argued that the United States had refused to participate because white Afrikaners in South Africa were being “violently persecuted,” a claim that the South African government has rejected as unfounded.
In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump said South Africa had refused to hand over its G20 hosting responsibilities to a senior U.S. Embassy official at the conclusion of the summit.
“Therefore, at my direction, South Africa will NOT be receiving an invitation to the 2026 G20, which will be hosted in the Great City of Miami, Florida next year,” he wrote. “South Africa has demonstrated to the World they are not a country worthy of Membership anywhere, and we are going to stop all payments and subsidies to them, effective immediately.”
South Africa’s presidency responded sharply, calling the U.S. decision an insult and rejecting Trump’s claims. The handover of the G20 presidency occurred at South Africa’s Foreign Ministry after the summit, as the United States was not represented at the closing ceremony.
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office said Trump’s statements were “regrettable” and criticised the Republican leader for relying on “misinformation and distortions” about the country. The statement stressed South Africa’s continued commitment to the G20, highlighting the successful Johannesburg summit and the participation of U.S. businesses and civil society organisations in related events.
This year’s Johannesburg summit was the first held on African soil. Washington, a founding G20 member and the world’s largest economy, opposed South Africa’s agenda, particularly proposals focusing on climate change, and did not sign the summit’s final declaration.
Trump has frequently targeted South Africa since returning to office, accusing the country of being anti-American due to its diplomatic ties with China, Russia, and Iran. His administration has also limited the number of refugees admitted from South Africa, prioritising mostly white applicants, and has suspended parts of the refugee programme that had been in place since January.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey claimed in a post on X that both members of the West Virginia National Guard have passed away from their injuries, but said in another post about 20 minutes later that he was “receiving conflicting reports” about the condition of the two National Guard members.
FBI Director Kash Patel told reporters that the two members are “in critical condition.”
In a social media post, U.S. President Donald Trump said the two guardsmen, “with both being critically wounded,” are in two separate hospitals.
Ishiba stated in a speech in Tokyo that since the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and China in 1972, successive administrations have understood and respected China’s position that Taiwan is a part of China, according to the report.
“It is something that must not be changed, and we have proceeded with tremendous caution,” he added.
Ishiba reiterated the importance of maintaining smooth diplomatic relations between Japan and China, noting that currently, Japan relies on a wide range of imports from China such as food, rare earths and pharmaceuticals, said the report.
Takaichi claimed at a Diet meeting on Nov. 7 that the Chinese mainland’s “use of force on Taiwan” could constitute a “survival-threatening situation” for Japan, which has drawn strong criticism at home immediately.
During a television program last Sunday, Ishiba criticized Takaichi for straining Japan-China relations by making the wrongful remarks, stating that successive Japanese governments have always managed bilateral relations very carefully and everyone has handled things with truly meticulous care and the current administration should fully understand Japan’s long-standing basic position and remain cautious in the implementation of policies in the future.
In a statement posted on its Facebook page, the presidency said Saied delivered a “strongly worded protest” to Perrone over conduct deemed outside the “official frameworks recognized in diplomatic practice.”
The move came after a meeting held on Monday between Perrone and Noureddine Taboubi, secretary-general of the Tunisian General Labour Union (UGTT), the country’s largest trade union.
Relations between the presidency and the UGTT have been strained in recent weeks after Taboubi announced that the union plans to organize a general strike to defend workers’ rights amid rising living pressures.
According to a separate statement posted by the EU delegation to Tunisia, Perrone reaffirmed during his meeting with Taboubi the EU’s readiness to continue dialogue with the UGTT and to support Tunisia socially and economically across various sectors.
He also praised the UGTT for its role in promoting social dialogue and contributing to the country’s economic development.
Rwanda and the DRC signed a peace agreement on June 27, 2025, with support from the United States. The agreement includes the neutralisation of the FDLR to enable Rwanda to lift its defensive measures along the border with the DRC. These operations are detailed in a project called “CONOPS”, approved in October 2024 during peace talks in Luanda, Angola.
In an interview with Radio France Internationale (RFI) on November 26, Minister Nduhungirehe said that, under the Washington Agreement, dismantling the FDLR is a prerequisite for Rwanda to lift its defensive measures.
“There will be no peace unless the FDLR genocidaires, supported and funded by Kinshasa and even integrated into the army, are neutralised, as required by the CONOPS signed under the Washington peace agreement. Neutralising these FDLR members will pave the way for lifting Rwanda’s defence measures,” he said.
The DRC has indicated that it has launched the process of dismantling the FDLR, referencing a communiqué of October 10 calling on its armed forces to break all collaboration with the group, as well as a “sensitisation campaign” in Walikale territory, North Kivu, aimed at persuading FDLR fighters to lay down their arms.
Minister Nduhungirehe, however, stated that the militia group linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda are still present and continue to receive support from Kinshasa.
“Technical teams are discussing in Washington, and we hope progress will be made. In any case, nothing will happen without Kinshasa’s good faith and political will on the FDLR issue. The FDLR remain integrated into the Congolese army and supported by Kinshasa,” he said.
The Minister stressed that the Washington peace agreement calls for concrete actions, including the effective neutralisation of the FDLR, not just mapping, communiqués, or calls to lay down arms. He assured that Rwanda will honour all its commitments under the U.S.-led process.
Speaking aboard Air Force One as he traveled to Florida for the holiday, Trump told reporters that U.S. negotiators are making “progress” in discussions with both Kyiv and Moscow. He confirmed that his special envoy Steve Witkoff will travel to Moscow next week for talks with Russian leaders.
That announcement comes amid scrutiny over reports that Witkoff allegedly advised Russian officials on how to present the deal to Trump.
Trump defended the move, saying such actions are part of standard negotiating practices.
Details on what Russia may have conceded remain vague. Trump said the concessions are unspecified, and he did not outline what Ukraine would have to give up, raising concern among critics that any agreement could be heavily skewed toward Moscow.
The diplomatic effort remains controversial: while some view it as a chance to end the war, others warn that pushing Ukraine into a deal without broader European and Ukrainian consent could undermine Kyiv’s position.
Chinese automakers delivered hundreds of vehicles to form part of the summit’s shuttle fleet, with Jetour contributing 70 units, the largest share among the Chinese brands.
The vehicle sponsorship was finalized early in February with South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
Jetour International’s President Ke Chuandeng recalled that the department sealed the deal quickly after reviewing their T2 SUV, a model that had not yet entered the market at the time. “It speaks to South Africa’s confidence in Chinese auto brands and in what our products can deliver,” Ke said.
Chinese cars have become an increasingly familiar sight on South Africa’s roads in recent years, with brands such as Jetour gaining popularity among urban buyers, especially younger consumers.
“Chinese automakers are gaining strong traction in South Africa by combining high-tech features, modern styling and competitive pricing in a way traditional brands struggle to match,” said Charmaine Spangenberg, a young South African consumer.
As an economic powerhouse on the African continent, South Africa is known as a country “built on wheels” for its well-established automotive industry. Since Chinese automakers entered the market more than a decade ago, a dozen Chinese brands have gained a foothold and posted solid sales.
According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa, the country’s automotive market continued to expand in 2024, with new-vehicle sales reaching 515,800 units, a 5.6 percent increase from 2023. Meanwhile, Chinese brands continued to show strong momentum, accounting for 12.8 percent of total market sales.
Marly Vivier, a young South African who previously owned a Chinese car, said she has always found Chinese models stylish and reliable. She has noticed that Chinese brands are gaining ground on long-established brands. “I really think they are going to take over, and I love that,” she said.
As part of the official escort fleet at the G20 Leaders’ Summit, Jetour deployed the T2 SUV, a model that combines comfort and safety and is well-suited to the demands of high-level diplomatic events.
Launched in South Africa in October, the T2 comes with L2 driving-assistance features and a 360-degree panoramic camera system, giving drivers a comprehensive view for easy maneuvering. Its spacious and quiet cabin, equipped with ergonomic seating and an infotainment system, provides a comfortable, composed ride for dignitaries.
The presence of Chinese automobiles in the G20 fleet signals a shift in the international perception of China’s carmakers, who are no longer seen just as market players but as reliable partners capable of supporting major global events.
“I think the G20 summit provides a favourable wind for China-South Africa relations. For Chinese automakers, the path to greater brand influence lies in complementing their successful sales strategies with deeper, more visible local investment and community integration,” said Spangenberg.
Ke said Jetour is proud to be part of the Chinese automakers providing vehicles for the G20 summit. “We hope this collaboration gives the world a clearer sense of our capability and confidence, and shows our ambition to keep raising the bar as we expand globally.”
The book, authored by Mireille Karera, Executive Chairperson of KORA Coaching & Business Academy (KCA), follows its [international debut in Lagos, Nigeria->https://en.igihe.com/social/article/africa-re-partners-with-rwanda-s-kora-academy-to-launch-mentorship-programme-on].
It is part of a pan-African initiative aimed at addressing the profound social impact of fatherlessness in Africa.
Speaking at the launch, Karera reflected on her personal journey and why she felt compelled to write the book.
“I had to tell my story because as a coach, this is the process I went through,” she explained. Although initially hesitant due to cultural perceptions around sharing personal stories, Karera realized her experience could empower others.
The book is not just a testimony of overcoming fatherlessness but also a self-coaching guide that helps readers navigate a 30-day healing journey.
The 30 chapters are designed to encourage introspection. Each chapter combines storytelling and research, allowing readers to reflect on their own experiences while offering practical tools for healing.
At the end of each chapter, guided questions prompt readers to reflect on their past, uncover hidden traumas, and move forward without being held back by past wounds.
“30 days are powerful. In psychology, 30 days can transform a mind,” Karera emphasized, highlighting the importance of this timeframe for self-reflection and renewal.
The book’s flexible structure allows readers to engage with it at their own pace; whether in the morning, at lunch, or before bed, providing a manageable approach that doesn’t require professional intervention unless necessary.
The book delves into the impact of fatherlessness, with Karera tracing the issue across generations.
“My story starts with my grandfather, who worked for the king, then my father, and now I am the third generation dealing with fatherlessness,” Karera shared.
Her narrative illustrates the crucial role fathers play in shaping a child’s identity and the harmful effects of their absence.
“The book focuses on fatherlessness because fathers are the pillar of a child’s identity,” she said, noting that while the book centers on fathers, it does not diminish the significance of mothers.
She added that no child comes into the world without a mother, emphasizing their essential role in nurturing and supporting a child’s development.
Karera also revealed that she is working on another book dedicated to women as part of her self-coaching trilogy, underscoring her commitment to highlighting the influence of both parents in shaping a child’s life.
This was a key motivation for her to write a book that addresses the needs of both women and men in Africa, acknowledging that fatherlessness profoundly affects society and future generations.
The event in Kigali also featured a mentoring program, where mothers and fathers shared their personal experiences with fatherlessness.
They discussed how the absence of fathers impacts children and explored strategies for overcoming these challenges through mentorship and self-awareness.
It was clear that maintaining strong communication and creating time for children, despite busy schedules, are essential for raising resilient individuals.
This program is part of the larger Forsaken for a Sake initiative by KCA and the Africa Re Foundation, which seeks to empower Africa’s youth and women, in alignment with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
The initiative focuses on providing solutions to the challenges of fatherlessness, especially through intergenerational mentorship.
Karera’s [book->https://forasake.com/#] is now available on platforms like Amazon and at the Kigali Public Library, offering a valuable resource for anyone looking to overcome the challenges of fatherlessness.
He made this statement on November 25, 2025, at the opening of Africa Energy Expo, which is taking place in Kigali.
The energy sector in Rwanda has visibly progressed. In 2000, only 2% of the population had access to electricity. By 2010, this had increased to 10%, and today, 85% of the population have access to electricity.
Rwanda is a member of the “Eastern Africa Power Pool” (EAPP), which consists of 13 countries from East Africa, working together in the energy sector.
The countries in the Eastern Africa Power Pool plan to connect their grids so they can share electricity as needed, and Rwanda has made significant progress in this initiative.
Currently, Rwanda is connected to Uganda, Tanzania, the DRC, and Burundi at three points. These connections include the Rusizi II hydroelectric plant, which provides 36 megawatts of electricity to Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Burundi, with each country receiving 12 megawatts.
Rwanda is also connected to Burundi through the Rusumo Hydro Plant, which has a capacity of 80 megawatts, serving Rwanda, Tanzania, and Burundi. Each country receives 26.6 megawatts, powering over 1 million citizens, including 520,000 Burundians, 467,000 Rwandans, and 159,000 Tanzanians.
Minister Dr. Gasore also mentioned that work is ongoing on the power line connecting Rwanda and Burundi through Huye District.
“We are also building a third line connecting us with Burundi. […] The project is nearing completion, connecting Rwanda and Burundi through the South. The line is complete. This way, if there are issues elsewhere, we will have this third option. […] This shows the willingness of the countries to connect their grids to ensure we have a unified power supply,” he said.
The new power line connecting Rwanda and Burundi will span 143 kilometers, starting from Kigoma in Rwanda, passing through Huye, and reaching Ngozi in the northern part of Burundi, ultimately reaching Gitega, the political capital of Burundi.
On Rwanda’s side, the line will be 62 kilometers long, while on Burundi’s side, it will be 81 kilometers long. The project, which started in 2022, is expected to be completed in 2024, with an estimated cost of $24.4 million.
This line is designed to transmit 220-kilovolt electricity, but initially, it will operate at 110 kilovolt.
In the next five years, Rwanda plans to invest over $1 billion in projects aimed at generating 1000 megawatts of electricity for various national activities.
Dr. Gasore mentioned projects such as the Nyabarongo II plant, which will provide 43.5 megawatts, scheduled for completion by the end of 2027 at a cost of over $214 million.
He also highlighted the upcoming Rusizi III hydroelectric project, which will provide electricity to over 300,000 people in Rwanda, DRC, and Burundi, with an estimated cost of $800 million.
Additionally, investments in methane gas energy projects are expected to generate 136 megawatts of electricity from methane gas over the next five years.
For solar power, Dr. Gasore also mentioned projects that will generate electricity from the Nyabarongo II hydroelectric plant, providing 43.5 megawatts, with water from the plant being used to create a reservoir that will supply the districts of Gakenke, Kamonyi, Muhanga, Nyabihu, and Ngororero.
This reservoir will also have solar panels to generate electricity, as part of a large-scale solar energy project in Rwanda, aiming for a total of 200 megawatts from solar energy.
Dr. Gasore further explained, “Floating solar panels on water is a new idea for Rwanda, but it’s being done in many places around the world. Rwanda has limited land due to the need for settlement and agriculture, and solar energy requires large areas. By using floating panels, we can generate power without taking up land used for other purposes, such as farming or construction. This provides a new opportunity to increase our solar energy capacity.”
Currently, Rwanda produces 406 megawatts of electricity, with 109.66 megawatts coming from hydroelectric plants, 85.79 megawatts from methane gas, which accounts for 18% of total energy production.
Electricity generated from peat is 85 megawatts, also 18%, while solar power accounts for 12 megawatts, or 3%.
Rwanda also receives 39 megawatts (8%) from joint projects with other countries, while it imports 106.1 megawatts (23%) of electricity, mainly from Uganda. However, the country is committed to various projects that will help provide electricity to 100% of its population.
