Officials of a state department are decrying cash
constraints, which have affected their operations. The officers complain that
they have been turned into fundraisers to facilitate some of their critical
operations. They say their engagements with the private sector, international
organisations and donor organisations have turned into a begging spree, which
is undignifying. In some events, they have to put up roll-up banners with
messages seeking financial support, especially those in which they engage corporate
organisations, especially banks. This, they say, is affecting the independence
of the department.
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A high-ranking aide of a top political figure is being criticised in low tones over what critics say are his alleged “own goal” remarks in a do-or-die race in one of the by-elections, heavily affecting their campaigns. Party members say the untouchable individual has supposedly made remarks that do more harm than good, particularly when addressing the rivals. They also complain that his micromanaging of the campaign is self-destructive, as he has purportedly gone to the extent of directing the messaging in the campaign and who speaks. They now fear their chances of winning in the election are shrinking by the day.
***
A group of activists are lamenting exclusion by individuals they call back office activism leaders. The issue, which has been ongoing for a while, came up once again during a recent protest, where they lamented the lack of support and financing. While they do the most in terms of mobilisation, credit, they argue, is going to their colleagues who have more media access and presence. This led to them calling off a key demonstration that was intended to compel duty bearers to act on a current problem they have been pursuing.
Has a popular politician who had expressed interest in a top elective position in the 2027 election already given up on the bid? Well, the man had announced his interest in the seat and launched a series of activities to lay the ground for the run, but has suddenly gone mute. The race is getting crowded, although it is widely seen as a two-horse race. Those around him say he is mobilising resources, but even so, his chances are realistically low. Could he have realised that as well? Only time will tell.
