Hezbollah launched a rocket salvo targeting two kibbutzim in Israel's Western Galilee, causing no injuries. The attack occurred shortly before 2:30 a.m., following an earlier barrage. The incident underscores ongoing tensions and conflict in the region, with the IDF responding to the attacks.

Liberia's president, Joseph Boakai, has signed an executive order to establish a war crimes court, marking a significant step towards justice for victims of the country's civil wars that claimed around 250,000 lives between 1989 and 2003. The move follows a resolution passed by Parliament, which includes members who may face prosecution. The court aims to address the atrocities committed during the wars, including massacres, rape, torture, and the conscription of child soldiers. Additionally, the order sets the stage for an economic crimes court to prosecute those who funded the war factions, pending further legislation.

Joseph Boakai, Liberia's president-elect, faces the challenge of fulfilling his campaign promise to address corruption and establish a special war crimes tribunal in Liberia. Despite previous attempts at accountability for civil war crimes, including the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's recommendations, efforts have been largely unsuccessful. Boakai's alliance with Senator Prince Yormie Johnson, a vocal opponent of the tribunal, raises questions about the commitment to justice. The article suggests alternative steps for reconciliation, such as expanding the Palava Hut Program, setting up a reparation program, supporting foreign courts prosecuting Liberian war criminals, and documenting war crimes for future generations.

Joseph N. Boakai has won the Liberian presidency in a runoff election, leading with 50.89% of the votes against incumbent president George Weah's 49.11%. Weah conceded, acknowledging the deep division within the country and calling for unity. The election, seen as free and fair, marks Liberia's closest since the end of its civil war in 2003 and its third democratic transition of power since 2005. Minor voter tensions were reported, with a rerun scheduled in specific polling places due to irregularities. Boakai is focused on national reconciliation following the elections.

Liberia's former vice president Joseph Boakai has formed an alliance with ex-warlord Prince Yormie Johnson to challenge President George Weah in the upcoming election. The election will focus on Weah's record on the economy, corruption, and security. Boakai, who has chosen Senator Jeremiah Koung as his running mate, is leveraging anti-Weah sentiments and recent scandals to bolster his campaign. Despite his age and health rumors, Boakai's clean image and Johnson's influence in Nimba County are key assets. The election is expected to be close, potentially leading to a second round where Boakai's ability to secure additional opposition support will be crucial.

Liberians will vote in presidential and parliamentary elections on October 10, with President George Weah seeking a second term against 19 candidates. Key issues include increased drug use, the 20th anniversary of the civil war's end, widespread corruption, and economic challenges. The election is seen as a referendum on the ruling party's policies. Candidates have addressed the drug crisis, with some promising to treat it as a national health emergency. Corruption scandals have marred Weah's first term, and economic concerns, such as inflation and informal employment, are pivotal for voters.

Liberia's former vice president Joseph Boakai has allied with ex-warlord Prince Yormie Johnson to form a strong opposition against President George Weah's re-election. Boakai's Unity party and Johnson's MDR party, influential in Nimba County, have united amidst public discontent over Weah's economic and security policies. Weah faces corruption allegations and concerns over Liberia's role in narcotics transit. Boakai, seen as an honest politician, confronts challenges due to his age and health rumors. The election is expected to proceed to a second round, with Boakai and Weah as the main contenders, and Johnson's support could be pivotal for Boakai's success.

Liberian women and activists question the effectiveness of a recently announced three-year suspension of female genital mutilation (FGM) by the National Traditional Council of Liberia. Critics argue that the temporary ban does not address the root causes or provide a permanent solution to the harmful practice. Despite previous short-term bans, FGM continues in some areas, highlighting the need for stronger enforcement and permanent legislation. The practice is deeply rooted in cultural traditions and political influence, complicating efforts to eradicate it. Activists call for comprehensive measures, including education, economic support for practitioners, and social protection mechanisms, to ensure a permanent end to FGM.

Convicted Russian arms smuggler Viktor Bout, recently released by the United States in exchange for basketball star Brittney Griner, has never been held accountable for numerous crimes documented by United Nations experts over the years. Arrested in 2008 during a DEA operation in Bangkok, Bout was convicted of conspiracy to kill Americans. Despite being welcomed back to Russia as a 'wonderful person,' many Africans affected by conflicts he supplied with arms still suffer trauma and await justice. Hassan Bility, director of the Global Justice and Research Project in Liberia, holds Bout indirectly responsible for thousands of deaths.

CO.Z Kamikazee, a prominent figure in the Liberian Hip-hop scene, has over a decade of experience in music. Growing up between Liberia and the U.S., he began his music career with the group AKH. After returning to Liberia in 2009, he continued to make influential music, including his notable 'The Geez' series. CO.Z emphasizes the importance of understanding the business side of music to maximize revenue and advocates for the evolution of Hip-hop by infusing it with local culture. He views storytelling as a crucial element of Hip-hop and aims to leave a legacy of inspirational music.

In Liberia, opposition parties are forming alliances ahead of elections. Alexander Cummings of the Alternative National Congress chose Charlyne Brumskine as his running mate, strengthening ties with the Liberty Party. The Unity Party allied with Senator Jeremiah Koung of the Movement for Democratic Reconstruction. Coalitions are crucial in Liberian politics, as no party has won the presidency outright since 2006. Six opposition parties recently joined the ruling Coalition of Democratic Change, while other alliances are expected. Factionalism within alliances presents challenges, as seen with the Liberty Party and the Movement for Democracy and Reconstruction. Despite the opposition's efforts, President George Weah is considered the frontrunner due to his coalition's strength and incumbency.

Liberia's referendum on dual citizenship, held on December 8, 2020, has sparked debate over its citizenship laws, which currently restrict citizenship to Black people and prohibit dual citizenship for adults. The law's origins trace back to the country's formation by freed slaves and natives, aiming to protect against exploitation. President George Weah supports constitutional change to allow dual citizenship, which would affect his son, Timothy, an American citizen. Critics like PhD student Tennen Dalieh Tehoungue argue that without stronger institutions, opening citizenship could lead to exploitation. The 2015 Constitutional Review Conference voted to maintain the current citizenship status quo. Concerns also revolve around land ownership laws, which restrict land ownership to citizens, potentially disadvantaging Liberians economically. The referendum's outcome is uncertain, as preliminary results do not indicate the required two-thirds majority for passage. The article also includes a correction regarding the misstated preliminary results of the referendum.

In Gbapolu County, Liberia, the senatorial elections were disrupted when the town chief seized ballot boxes to prevent women from voting, leading to violence against female candidate Botoe Kanneh and her supporters. This incident underscores the challenges women face in Liberian politics, where they have been historically underrepresented. Despite former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's efforts, women's representation remains low under President George Weah. Cultural traditions and violence against women in elections are barriers to political office. The article also discusses the lack of enforcement of laws intended to increase women's political participation, such as the Affirmative Action for Equitable Participation and Representation bill, which was not passed. The recent events have sparked investigations and condemnation, with hopes that Kanneh's projected victory may signal a positive change for women's representation in Liberia.

In Gbapolu County, Liberia, the senatorial elections were disrupted when the town chief seized ballot boxes to prevent women from voting, leading to violence against female candidate Botoe Kanneh and her supporters. This incident underscores the challenges women face in Liberian politics, where they have been historically underrepresented. Despite former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's efforts, women's representation remains low under President George Weah. Cultural traditions and violence against women in elections are barriers to political office. The article also discusses the lack of enforcement of laws intended to increase women's political participation, such as the Affirmative Action for Equitable Participation and Representation bill, which was not passed. The recent events have sparked investigations and condemnation, with hopes that Kanneh's projected victory may signal a positive change for women's representation in Liberia.

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has declared an indefinite strike due to unpaid wages, insufficient hazard pay, and unmet demands for better working conditions. Despite the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and vaccine rollout, the strike commenced on April 1st. NARD's president, Dr. Uyilawa Ikhuaihesuyi, expressed disappointment over the government's failure to fulfill past promises. The strike is a response to months of unpaid salaries, poor working conditions, and the government's neglect of the healthcare system, which is understaffed and underfunded. The Nigerian healthcare system faces challenges, including a doctor-to-patient ratio far below WHO recommendations, inadequate facilities, and significant financial losses due to medical tourism. President Muhammadu Buhari's continued medical trips abroad have also been criticized, especially as he left for a check-up just before the strike. The strike is not expected to impact the Covid-19 vaccination campaign significantly. NARD is in talks with the government to resolve the issues, but many Nigerian doctors are emigrating to other countries, exacerbating the healthcare crisis.

The article discusses the absence of war crimes prosecutions in Liberia despite the estimated 250,000 deaths during the civil wars between 1989 and 2003. It highlights a Finnish court's special session in Monrovia to try Gibril Massaquoi, a resident of Finland accused of war crimes in Liberia, which underscores the inaction of Liberian courts. Survivors like Arthur Bondo, a former child soldier, and campaigners like Adama Dempster advocate for a Liberian war crimes court to provide justice and prevent future atrocities. The article also touches on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's recommendations, the political controversies surrounding them, and the current government's mixed messages on establishing a war crimes court. It mentions other cases where Liberian warlords were tried abroad, such as Mohammed Jabateh and Thomas Woewiyu in the US, and Alieu Kosiah in Switzerland. The article concludes with differing perspectives on the need for a war crimes court among Liberians.

In northern Nigeria, 317 schoolgirls were kidnapped from the Government Girls School in Jangebe, Zamfara state. The abduction was carried out by gunmen who arrived on motorbikes and on foot. This incident is part of a series of kidnappings in the region, which have raised concerns about the safety of schools and may lead to lower school enrollment. The Nigerian government has been criticized for allegedly paying ransoms, which may incentivize further kidnappings. Dr. Olamide Samuel of SOAS University of London attributes the insecurity to the proliferation of unregistered firearms and the reliance on military responses. President Buhari has called for a reconsideration of ransom policies and emphasized the government's commitment to rescuing hostages without resorting to force that could endanger lives. The frequency of kidnappings has led to a desensitization towards the issue among the population, contrasting with the massive outcry during the 2014 Chibok kidnappings.

In Liberia, significant shifts are occurring in political alliances as the country approaches elections. Senator Prince Johnson and his party, the Movement for Democratic Reconstruction, have withdrawn their support for President George Weah and the ruling Congress for Democratic Change party. This move is attributed to Weah's failure to honour an agreement regarding the employment of more citizens from Nimba in top government positions.

Viktor Bout, a convicted Russian arms smuggler recently released in a prisoner exchange, has left a lasting impact on Africa, particularly in Liberia, Angola, and Congo. Despite his arrest and conviction for conspiring to kill Americans, Bout was never held accountable for his extensive arms trafficking that fueled conflicts across Africa. His network of over 50 planes facilitated the delivery of weapons to war zones, causing widespread devastation. African victims continue to suffer from the trauma of these conflicts, with organizations like the Global Justice and Research Project documenting the atrocities. Bout's return to Russia was met with praise, contrasting sharply with the ongoing quest for justice by his victims.

In Liberia, a community-led 'palaver hut' programme facilitates reconciliation between victims and alleged perpetrators of lesser war crimes, such as arson and looting, from the 14-year civil war. Despite international calls for a war crimes court, no one has been prosecuted for the atrocities. The palaver huts allow for truth telling and apologies but do not address grave human rights violations. Human rights advocates and researchers argue that without higher-level war criminals being held accountable, the cycle of violence may not be deterred. Meanwhile, foreign countries have pursued litigation under universal jurisdiction, but only against lower-level perpetrators. The Liberian government's National Palaver Hut Programme has resolved over 277 war-related cases, providing some victims with closure.

Liberia's new dual citizenship law, signed by President George Weah, allows Liberians to retain their citizenship after acquiring a second nationality and enables individuals to claim citizenship through their mothers. This change follows extensive campaigning by diaspora Liberians and aims to foster return, brotherhood, and tourism. The law maintains the 'Negro clause' and restricts dual citizens from holding certain high-level positions. Reactions are mixed, with some seeing it as a victory for diaspora Liberians and others concerned about potential economic domination and elite entrenchment.

During the first Liberian civil war, Alieu Kosiah, a commander of the rebel group United Liberation Movement of Liberia, was spared prosecution by the state. Years later, he was arrested in Switzerland and sentenced to 20 years in prison for war crimes, thanks to efforts by the Swiss NGO Civitas Maxima and the Liberia-based Global Justice and Research Project. The article highlights the challenges of prosecuting war crimes, the role of civil society in seeking justice, and the failure of the Liberian government to implement recommendations from the Liberian Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Despite threats, the Global Justice and Research Project continues its work, contributing to the prosecution of war criminals in various countries.

Liberia faces significant electricity challenges, with load shedding impacting businesses and increasing operational costs. The Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) has been criticized for poor management and lack of investment, while the Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC) and international bodies like the IMF and World Bank highlight the need for substantial reforms. The war in Ukraine has exacerbated fuel costs, further straining businesses. Despite efforts to improve infrastructure and regional cooperation, financial and logistical issues persist, threatening the stability and growth of Liberia's power supply.

Liberia has implemented free education policies to alleviate financial burdens on students and increase accessibility. A new scholarship program exempts high school students in three counties from paying tuition fees. This follows a 2018 policy providing free undergraduate education at public universities. However, these policies have led to funding challenges, with the University of Liberia losing $2.9 million annually and facing protests over poor conditions and unpaid wages. The Liberian Ministry of Education did not comment on these issues. Critics argue that the government must prioritize education funding and redirect money from other budget areas. A proposed bill to fund education through taxes on tobacco and alcohol failed to pass. Students are divided on the effectiveness of free education policies, with some grateful for the financial relief and others skeptical due to funding shortfalls.

The article discusses the structural challenges faced by Liberian artists in the music industry, particularly focusing on the low earnings from live performances due to piracy, expensive mobile data, and lack of streaming culture. It highlights the case of Bucky Raw, a prominent Liberian artist, and the leaked chat about his management's fee demands. The article outlines the financial struggles of artists, the high costs of production, and the disparity in payment between local and foreign artists performing in Liberia. It also touches on the role of corporate sponsors like MTN in funding music events. The writer, Dounard Bondo, calls for structural changes to improve the monetization of music and provide better income opportunities for Liberian artists, while also addressing issues like music piracy and the need for better performance venues.

The article discusses the challenges faced by Liberian health workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, drawing parallels with the 2015 Ebola epidemic. Health workers, represented by the National Health Workers Union of Liberia (NAHWUL), struggled with inadequate equipment, delayed salaries, and poor working conditions. Despite legal restrictions on union activities, NAHWUL, with support from Public Services International (PSI), has been advocating for better pay, working conditions, and recognition of health workers' rights. The union has also been involved in training and capacity-building initiatives, including virtual communication and sexual harassment awareness. The government's response to union demands has been largely uncooperative, leading to strikes and stay-at-home actions. The article also touches on the issues of pension rights and the government's reluctance to engage with the union. The piece is part of a collaboration with PSI and supported by Union to Union and Swedish trade union Kommunal.

The article by Dounard Bondo focuses on the plight of disadvantaged individuals in Liberia, known derogatorily as 'zogos'. These individuals, predominantly men, struggle with homelessness, violence, drug addiction, and lack of access to basic amenities. The article highlights the stories of two such men, Mohammed Saliba (Pacon) and Prince Barclay (Fifty), who live on the streets of Monrovia and face daily discrimination and the stigma of being labeled as criminals. The article also touches on the false perception that all zogos are former child soldiers from Liberia's civil war, which exacerbates their marginalization. Despite some outreach efforts, there is a lack of follow-up and adequate mental healthcare for these individuals. The Carter Center is mentioned as working with the Liberian government on mental healthcare policy, but it does not work directly with zogos. Local NGOs try to assist, but their efforts are hampered by insufficient funding and resources. The article concludes with the men's desire to leave the streets but acknowledges the challenges they face without proper support and rehabilitation.

The article discusses the complexities of Liberian citizenship laws, particularly the prohibition of dual citizenship for adults. It highlights the case of Sarah and Alvin Jalloh, who faced challenges due to these laws. The Liberian supreme court's 2019 ruling allowed naturalized citizens abroad to retain their Liberian citizenship until a court trial decides otherwise. President George Weah welcomed this decision, which aligns with his support for dual citizenship. The Liberian senate, however, believes a constitutional referendum is needed to resolve the issue permanently. The article also explores the societal divide on dual citizenship in Liberia, the economic implications, and the fears and hopes associated with it. It mentions the potential economic benefits, citing Ghana's success with its 'Year of Return' initiative, and concludes with Sarah's optimistic outlook despite the unresolved status of dual citizenship in Liberia.

The article discusses the sentencing of Alieu Kosiah by a Swiss court to 20 years in prison for his involvement in war crimes during Liberia's civil wars. This marks the first instance of a Swiss non-military court trying war crimes. The article also mentions that this follows a pattern where foreign courts have convicted several individuals associated with Liberia's civil war. Additionally, the article begins to mention Gibril Massaquoi, a Sierra Leonean, suggesting that his case might also be discussed in relation to war crimes and legal proceedings in Finland.

The article discusses the shift in President George Weah's stance regarding the establishment of a war and economic crimes court in Liberia. Initially supportive of the court's creation, President Weah has now deferred the decision to the Liberian legislature. This move has drawn attention to the legislative body, which includes members of parliament who are former warlords, such as Prince Johnson and George Boley. The presence of these individuals in the legislature raises questions about the potential for conflict of interest and the overall political will to establish the court.

The article discusses the failure to implement the 2009 recommendations of Liberia's Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which included prosecutions for war criminals and reparations for victims. It highlights a 2021 Swiss court ruling that awarded damages to plaintiffs against a Liberian warlord, marking a step towards reparations. The Liberian Senate's recent recommendations for a reparations trust fund and the challenges in defining victims and securing adequate funding are examined. The article also touches on foreign interventions, including prosecutions of Liberian war actors by foreign courts and the US's stance on Liberian warlords in government positions. It emphasizes the need for reparations to go hand in hand with justice and addresses the root causes of the war to prevent recurrence. President Weah has promised to consider the Senate's recommendations, which may offer some form of justice to war victims through reparations.

The article discusses the increased costs of air travel within West Africa, particularly highlighting the impact of Covid-19 on ticket prices and mandatory testing. It notes that a round trip from Lagos to Monrovia, which used to cost $450-$500, now costs $650-$700, with an additional $300 for Covid-19 tests. The article references the $7 billion loss faced by the African aviation industry in 2020 as reported by IATA. It also touches on the challenges of travel in West Africa due to poor infrastructure and high costs, exacerbated by the pandemic. The piece mentions the Yamoussoukro Decision and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) initiative by the African Union, aimed at opening up regional air markets, but notes their inadequate implementation. Efforts to reduce Covid-19 testing costs and the introduction of the African Union's Covid-19 passport 'travelstart' are also discussed. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for sovereign nations to make decisions to reduce costs to facilitate trade and travel in the region.

The article discusses the conflict between cultural practices and human rights in the context of two cases in Nigeria and Liberia. In Nigeria, a hospital was sued for performing a life-saving blood transfusion on a child against the wishes of his Jehovah's Witness mother, but the court ruled in favor of the hospital. In Liberia, the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) is examined. Despite being illegal in many countries, FGM is not banned in Liberia due to cultural traditions and political reluctance. The article highlights the case of Liberian journalist Mae Azango, who faced threats for her anti-FGM reporting. The author argues that cultural and religious beliefs should not override the right to life, and calls for the abolition of FGM and the protection of minors from such practices.

Despite the atrocities and estimated 250,000 deaths during Liberia's civil wars, no war crimes prosecutions have occurred in the country's courts. A Finnish court is set to hear a case in Monrovia against Gibril Massaquoi, raising questions about Liberia's judicial inaction. Campaigners like Arthur Bondo and Adama Dempster advocate for a war crimes court to address past human rights violations and provide closure for victims. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission's recommendations for prosecutions and reparations have been politically controversial, with figures like Ellen Johnson Sirleaf implicated. President George Weah's administration has given mixed signals on the issue, and some activists seek justice through foreign courts. The trial of Massaquoi may reignite discussions on justice for war victims.

Mc Caro, born Caroline Moore, is a prominent figure in the Liberian music scene, known for her rapid rise since her breakthrough in 2018. She is celebrated as the foremost female Hipco artist and has won several awards, including the Hipco/Trapco Artist of the Year and Female Artist of the Year at the MTN Liberian Music Awards. Mc Caro, who now goes by King Caro, emphasizes the importance of vibes in her music and discusses the challenges and opportunities within the Liberian music industry, including the need for better infrastructure and the potential for exporting Liberian music. She also addresses issues such as body shaming and the financial struggles faced by artists in Liberia.

Trademarks are exclusive rights to use specific words, names, symbols, or designs to identify and distinguish a business, product, or service. They help prevent consumer confusion and protect brand identity. In Liberia, trademarks are governed by the Intellectual Property Act of 2016, which outlines the criteria for trademark registration and infringement. The act also addresses the use of well-known distinctive signs and their protection. Liberia is a member of the Madrid Protocol and the World International Intellectual Property Office, allowing for international trademark registration.

Liberia held a constitutional referendum on December 8, 2020, to decide on repealing its dual citizenship prohibition. The debate also touches on the racial restriction in Liberian citizenship laws, which only allow Black people or those of Black descent to be citizens. President George Weah supports the change, citing the clause as unnecessary and racist. However, some Liberians, like Tennen Dalieh Tehoungue, argue that the restriction is necessary to protect the economy from foreign exploitation. The referendum's outcome remains uncertain, with broader implications for Liberia's approach to equality, equity, and social justice.

Liberia is experiencing a conflict between its telecommunications regulator and two major telecom companies, Orange and Lonestar Cell MTN, over pricing. The companies have raised prices citing new surcharges imposed by the government, which has led to a significant increase in the cost of voice calls and data for consumers. The Liberia Telecommunication Authority accused the companies of illegal price-fixing and profiteering, demanding a reversal of the price hike. The companies argue that the surcharges make their services unaffordable for many Liberians and threaten to reduce their operations or leave the market, which could impact Liberia's tax revenue and economic stability. This comes as Liberia is still recovering from the Ebola epidemic and the Covid-19 pandemic, with a significant portion of the population living below the poverty line.

The article discusses the Liberian Movie Union's efforts to combat piracy to foster growth in the local movie industry. In August 2020, a task force seized pirated movies and demanded the inclusion of Liberian films in shops. Despite these efforts, the Liberian market is dominated by foreign films, particularly from Nigeria, Ghana, Mexico, and the Philippines. The Union blames piracy and marketers for the low consumption of Liberian movies. A 2019 statement by the Union, the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism, and the Intellectual Property Office of Liberia banned the sale of discs with multiple movies and required legal authorization for film distribution. However, the article suggests that piracy is not the only issue; other factors include consumer preferences, movie quality, and the lack of distribution channels and online presence for Liberian films. The author, Dounard Bondo, argues that addressing these structural issues is crucial for the Liberian movie industry's growth.

Maurice Tosh Gayflor, known as Cralorboi CIC, is a prominent figure in the Liberian music scene with numerous hit songs and international collaborations. He emphasizes hard work, dedication, and maintaining a positive reputation as key factors in his success. Despite challenges in the Liberian music industry's structure and profitability, CIC has managed to secure endorsements and international recognition. He advocates for a revamp of the Music Union to better support upcoming artists. CIC also explores other entertainment avenues, such as acting, and plans to eventually step back to allow the next generation to shine.

During the pandemic, Liberians turned to music for solace, with Trille's 'Zombie dance' becoming a nationwide hit. Trille, born Shadrach Wisner, aims to put Liberia on the global music map. He attributes the song's success to its relatable lyrics and timing during the pandemic. Trille's career has been bolstered by his signing with KLW Entertainment, which eased many logistical challenges. Despite the pressures of fame and the need to produce another hit, Trille is optimistic about his future projects, including a potential EP.

Lyee Bility, a prominent figure in Liberia's media and entertainment industry, is known for his roles as the director-general of Renaissance Communications and CEO of Bilikon Entertainment. He has significantly contributed to the Liberian music scene by managing artists and promoting youth through entertainment. Despite challenges such as poverty and lack of structure in the industry, Bility remains committed to improving the music business in Liberia. He emphasizes the importance of money in artist promotion and the need for more job creation to support the industry. Bility's efforts include international collaborations, as seen with C-Jay's work with Nigerian artist Singah, aiming to elevate Liberian music on a global scale.

Liberia's Senate passed a bill to prevent sitting lawmakers from contesting other vacancies in the National Legislature, aiming to reduce the number of costly by-elections. Critics argue the bill infringes on lawmakers' rights and favors senators, as it doesn't restrict them from running for the presidency. The article suggests uniform terms and elections for the legislature and presidency to reduce election frequency and costs, and potentially improve the relationship between the presidency and the legislature. The bill awaits further action from the House of Representatives.