Politics Bound

West Africa’s New Rulers Use the Same Same Old Playbook of Their Predecessors

West Africa’s latest elections—including Guinea and Côte d’Ivoire—are marked by steep entry fees, stage-managed rallies, and entrenched support for incumbents. Despite the promise of fresh leadership, the region’s new faces continue delivering the same old politics.

Egypt Draws a Red Line on Nile Rights in GERD Dispute

Egypt has reiterated that the Nile River is an “existential issue” for his country, warning that Cairo will not compromise or tolerate unilateral measures over its water security. Egypt says it is relying on international law to defend its rights as tensions continue with Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.

France Signals a Thaw in Its Rift with Algeria

After months of diplomatic confrontation, France has taken steps to ease tensions with Algeria, directing its ambassador to attend a historic commemoration as a gesture of reconciliation. The move follows months of expulsions, sharp rhetoric, and disputes over migration and security, signaling Paris’s renewed interest in restoring dialogue with its former colony.

Algeria and Tunisia Expand Military Cooperation Amid Regional Security Tensions

Algeria and Tunisia signed a renewed defense cooperation agreement in Algiers on October 7, 2025, expanding their 2001 framework to include joint training, border operations, and intelligence exchange. The pact, confirmed by both defense ministries aims to strengthen coordination against terrorism, trafficking, and irregular migration along their shared frontier.