In this video, journalist Mibenge Nsenduluka and Kenyan MP hopeful Makena Mwita delve into the escalating political crisis in Kenya, where President William Ruto faces mounting pressure to resign following his controversial finance bill. Initially proposed to raise an additional $2.7 billion USD to manage Kenya's heavy debt, the bill sparked widespread protests and international outrage. Despite President Ruto's unexpected decision not to sign the bill, the unrest continues, with critics labelling him a "puppet of the West." We'll explore: The details of the finance bill and the proposed tax increases. The deadly protests that have left at least 23 people dead and scores wounded. President Ruto's press briefing announcing his decision to withdraw the bill. Insightful commentary from Mwita, who shares his thoughts on the government's "extravagant" spending and perceived corruption. The youth-led protest movement that has grown from online discontent into mass rallies demanding a political overhaul. The role of international lenders like the IMF in Kenyan politics and financial policies. Join us as we unpack the complexities of this situation, including President Ruto's proposed austerity measures and dialogue with various groups to address the crisis. This video provides a comprehensive look at the most serious challenge of Ruto’s two-year-old presidency and what it means for Kenya’s future. Background: Kenya’s debt, estimated at upwards of $82 billion USD, has placed immense pressure on the nation, with interest payments consuming 37% of the annual revenue. The proposed finance bill aimed to generate additional funds but came at a time when Kenyans are already struggling with the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, consecutive droughts, and currency depreciation. Discussion Points: The impact of President Ruto’s decision on his political future and the Kenyan populace. The influence of external forces, such as the IMF, on Kenyan financial policies. The potential outcomes of the proposed dialogue and austerity measures.

Zimbabwean-born CALD community activist Tich Chingombe weighs in on the Australian government's proposed 'Trump-like' travel ban on some countries which do not cooperate with deportation efforts. In March, the Government introduced a Bill granting the Minister for Immigration expanded powers to compel cooperation with deportations from Australia. The Bill empowers the Minister to bar entry to people from specific countries. This move raises concerns of a potential broad travel ban affecting countries like Zimbabwe, South Sudan, Iran, Iraq, and Russia, which have resisted accepting involuntary returns. Critics including Greens Senator David Shoebridge says Labor’s proposed laws are too harsh. Protests against Labor’s deportation Bill were held in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane on Saturday amid concerns the proposed legislation, which could be voted on this week, is inhumane.

Melbourne mum Kathryn Ram has opened up about her painful grief journey after tragically losing her two-year-old son Isaiah when she was eight months pregnant with her second child. The usually healthy and happy toddler developed a mild fever on September 24, 2018 which became progressively worse and after multiple attempts to have him admitted to hospital, he died two days later. Ram and her husband called an ambulance when they first noticed the fever but were told to just give their son paracetamol. They called again the following day but were rejected, with paramedics refusing to take the sick little boy to the emergency room.