Author: shuiyaoinns.com

In an exclusive interview, Milpitas mayoral candidate and current city council member Hon Lien, who brings a rich cultural heritage from both Chinese and Vietnamese backgrounds, expressed her desire to enhance the city’s visibility, highlighting its remarkable progress and growth.

Born in a small coastal town in southern Vietnam, Lien comes from a large family—her father is Chinese, and her mother is Vietnamese, with a total of 11 siblings. In 1978, Lien’s family fled Vietnam, which was then under the rule of the communist government, and spent 13 months in a refugee camp in Malaysia before settling in the United States on December 26, 1979. After relocating to Milpitas in 1999, she became an active member of the Rotary Club and served on the city’s Planning Commission from 2014 to 2017, followed by a tenure on the Milpitas Unified School District Committee from 2017 to 2022, where she held various leadership roles including committee member, clerk, vice-chair, and chair.

“This beautiful country has welcomed many people with open arms, and I’ve been given a second chance at a good life,” Lien said. She expressed her wish to give back to America and the community, stating, “I’m thrilled to see more individuals stepping up to run for office and serve the public because we want to keep this country beautiful.”

Before venturing into politics, Lien enjoyed success as an entrepreneur, founding several businesses including Sunnyvale Seafood Corp, which reported over $60 million in revenue as early as 2003, and L&D Enterprise, which specializes in international food export. Throughout this journey, she honed her leadership skills and gained insights into how American governance contributes globally.

Lien believes her business experience has greatly informed her public service. “Managing a business requires a commitment to financial responsibility, ensuring balanced budgets, and avoiding debt. Similarly, as a city council member or potential mayor, it’s crucial to maintain a balanced budget and identify areas for improvement over the next five or ten years, whether through revenue generation or budget cuts.”

She pointed out that Milpitas is thriving and rapidly developing, with landmarks like the Great Mall attracting visitors. Many families are relocating to the area for its excellent public schools, and the city has committed to responding to all emergency calls within three minutes, reinforcing public safety. “We are at the gateway to Silicon Valley, yet conversations about Milpitas often overlook its significance. I hope we can achieve at least some recognition for our existence.”

Lien also highlighted the diversity within Milpitas. During her six years on the school district committee, she advocated for cultural events held at the nearby Bay Area Chinese Education Center, just a block away from Milpitas City Hall. “Just last month, I attended a Confucius ceremony, which is a rich tradition that has persisted for centuries. This isn’t just about Chinese culture; it encompasses all cultures here. Milpitas is incredibly diverse, and we come together to embrace each other’s differences, respecting and learning from one another.”

Among Lien’s priorities are ensuring the safety of businesses and residents, securing federal funding for city projects, rebuilding transparency and trust in local government, and developing and maintaining the infrastructure of city parks.

On July 23, tensions escalated at a protest against the construction of a homeless shelter on Brooklyn’s 86th Street. Witnesses reported that around noon, a male homeless individual entered the protest area, disturbing both Chinese demonstrators and volunteers. Although no injuries were reported, the incident has raised concerns among residents regarding the potential safety issues that could arise once the shelter is operational.

According to onlookers, around 12:30 p.m., the man approached the intersection of 25th Avenue and 86th Street, asking protestors sitting near the proposed shelter site for food provided by local businesses. When he did not receive a favorable response, he began rummaging through nearby trash bags for something to eat. He then moved toward a voter registration area, angrily throwing his plastic bag and loose change onto a table while questioning the volunteers about their anti-shelter efforts. He quickly made his way to a tent set up for collecting supplies, attempting to grab bottled water from underneath a table.

Despite the efforts of several older volunteers to deter him, the homeless man continued his actions. The situation escalated to the point where a protestor raised a stick in an attempt to drive him away. After a brief standoff, the man quickly grabbed some water and coffee from the table and left the scene. Many of the volunteers approached by the homeless man were women, and one expressed that just the presence of a single homeless individual created a sense of unease, fearing that if the shelter opens, such encounters could become more frequent.

Dai, one of the volunteers present, highlighted that the protestors usually maintain a peaceful demeanor and only express their opinions through action. She noted that the gradual decline in police presence contributed to the situation, as officers were not able to assist immediately during the incident. Dai also pointed out that the impacts of the proposed shelter have prompted even those who were previously politically indifferent to register as voters, hoping to express their concerns through the electoral process.

Mr. Li, another protester, shared that most of the crowd consisted of community residents, including many elderly individuals. He emphasized their fear when faced with aggressive begging or homeless individuals. He mentioned that this particular man was seen at the protest for the second time, likely drawn by the free food and water provided to volunteers by local businesses, targeting the elderly who may struggle to defend themselves.

As Commonwealth leaders gather in Samoa, the call for justice regarding colonialism, slavery, and the increasing impact of climate change is intensifying. Campaigners, lawmakers, and representatives from Caribbean and African nations are urging the UK government to consider reparatory justice.

In a striking report last year, UN judge Patrick Robinson estimated that the UK owes over £18 trillion in reparations for its historical role in slavery across 14 countries. However, Downing Street has made it clear that reparations will not be discussed during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). Labour leader Keir Starmer expressed a desire to focus on moving forward instead of engaging in lengthy discussions about historical reparations.

Campaigners emphasize that many Commonwealth nations are still dealing with the generational consequences of crimes against humanity, compounded by a modern debt system favoring Western interests and exacerbated by climate-related disasters, often linked to the carbon emissions of affluent countries. The push for reparations transcends the Commonwealth; the African Union and the Caribbean Community (Caricom) have united in their efforts to hold former colonial powers accountable.

Organizations in the UK, including the Guardian, the Bank of England, and the Church of England, have issued apologies for their connections to slavery, but the government has yet to follow suit. King Charles, addressing Commonwealth nations in 2022, spoke about the need to “acknowledge our past,” referring to slavery as an “appalling atrocity,” but he has not offered a formal apology.

Experts and activists weigh in on why reparations encompass more than just financial compensation and share their visions of what reparations should entail.

Bell Ribeiro-Addy MP, who leads the parliamentary group focused on African reparations, likens the Commonwealth to an unequal family. She advocates for addressing issues like debt relief, climate resilience, and the return of cultural artifacts. “An apology is free,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging historical injustices, particularly in the face of worsening climate conditions in Caribbean and small island states. She criticized the current reliance on aid, which often comes with strings attached, claiming that it merely maintains the status quo of poverty instead of fostering genuine reparative justice.

Washington Alcott, a reparations activist from Manchester, calls for initiatives that enhance skills and employment opportunities in affected regions. “In Jamaica, many people are starting their own businesses but require training in packaging and marketing to compete internationally,” he explained. Alcott argues that reparations should also address the long-term economic damage inflicted by colonialism and its legacy through systems of neocolonial debt.

Clive Baldwin, a senior legal advisor at Human Rights Watch, argues that reparations must engage directly with affected communities rather than be confined to intergovernmental discussions. He highlighted the recent UK agreement to return the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, which includes a right of return for the Chagossian people, reflecting an acknowledgment of past wrongs.

Clive Lewis MP, who hosts the Heirs of Enslavement podcast, stresses that without addressing the root causes of structural racism through formal apologies, efforts to create a fairer Britain for Black individuals may come off as mere rhetoric. He believes the UK’s reparations framework should align with the 10-point plan put forth by Caricom, which advocates for an official apology and debt cancellation.

Irish billionaire Denis O’Brien has proposed that reparations frameworks for Caribbean nations could draw inspiration from the European Union’s European Regional Development Fund, which aims to reduce inequalities within Europe. He envisions a collaboration with the University of the West Indies to finance social and development projects in 15 Caribbean countries based on the Caricom model, spreading the funding over 25 years.

Michelle Charters, head of the International Slavery Museum, argues for a comprehensive approach to reparations that includes financial, educational, cultural, and technological elements to honor those affected by the legacies of transatlantic slavery. She cautions against assigning a monetary value to human life and suffering, as this commodification was central to the dehumanizing nature of slavery.

Ngozi Fulani, founder of the domestic abuse charity Sistah Space, pointed out that government reluctance to accept responsibility stems from a fear of the financial implications. “When engaging with those who know they bear guilt but refuse to listen, it indicates we have a long fight ahead,” she declared. “We won’t cease our struggle for reparations.”

On October 25, the State Council Information Office held a press conference regarding the agricultural and rural economic performance in the first three quarters of 2024. During the event, Zhang Xingwang, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, emphasized that China’s grain production has remained stable at over 1.3 trillion jin for nine consecutive years. This year, it is expected to surpass 1.4 trillion jin for the first time.

Zhang reported that as of yesterday, over 80% of the autumn grain harvest has been completed, transitioning from optimistic forecasts to tangible results. He highlighted that throughout the year, agricultural and rural departments have fully implemented the spirit of the 20th National Congress and the key decisions from the Second and Third Plenary Sessions. They have adopted the successful “Ten Million Project” experiences, ensuring the performance of tasks outlined in the central document No. 1, which focuses on “two guarantees, three improvements, and two reinforcements.” This has further consolidated the supply of grain and other key agricultural products while making positive strides in rural revitalization and advancing the goal of building a strong agricultural nation.

Zhang pointed out several key achievements:

First, grain production has once again seen a bumper harvest. The summer grain yield has already been secured, with summer grain production reaching 2.9956 trillion jin—an increase of 725 billion jin, marking the highest uptick in nearly a decade. Early rice production was recorded at 563.5 billion jin, maintaining stability above 560 billion jin for four consecutive years. The area planted for autumn grain has increased steadily, contributing to significant improvements in yield per acre. As of yesterday, 82.5% of the autumn harvest has been collected, indicating another successful harvest season. This year’s grain production is projected to surpass the 1.4 trillion jin mark for the first time.

Second, there is a sufficient supply of “vegetable basket” products, which are characterized by their ample quantity, high quality, and diverse variety. The pig farming sector is being effectively regulated, with the national breeding sow population standing at 40.62 million by the end of September, supporting steady development in pig farming. Production of meat, eggs, and milk remains stable, with pork, beef, mutton, and poultry production reaching 70.44 million tons in the first three quarters—an increase of 1% over last year. Additionally, domestic aquatic product output saw a 4.5% rise, and the supply of vegetables and fruits is abundant.

Third, the achievements in poverty alleviation are being maintained and expanded. The targeted assistance measures are being effectively implemented, and by the end of September, over 60% of monitored individuals in 25 provinces had mitigated the risk of falling back into poverty. Furthermore, credit support has been provided to develop industries, with new microloans totaling 41.473 billion yuan benefiting 933,900 households. The employment rate for previously impoverished individuals remains robust, with over 33.01 million people engaged in work.

Fourth, the level of agricultural technology and equipment has continued to improve. Key seed enterprises are being cultivated, and efforts to understand and preserve crop and animal genetic resources are advancing. Major agricultural science and technology projects are being implemented, yielding high-yield and high-oil soybeans among other urgently needed varieties. The construction of high-standard farmland is on the rise, with protective farming practices in Northeast China covering over 11.2 million acres.

Fifth, the integration of rural industries has yielded positive results. The agricultural product processing industry is improving its efficiency, and new industries and business models are thriving, particularly in rural tourism. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, rural residents’ per capita disposable income reached 16,740 yuan in the first three quarters, reflecting a real increase of 6.3% after adjusting for price factors. The income ratio between urban and rural residents has narrowed to 2.46.

Sixth, progress has been made in building livable and workable rural areas. The rural living environment is improving, with about 75% of rural households now having access to sanitary toilets and over 90% of administrative villages managing municipal waste effectively. Public infrastructure in rural areas is being enhanced, and levels of education, healthcare, and elderly care services are gradually improving.

Seventh, rural reforms and opening-up are deepening. Key reforms are advancing steadily, with pilot extensions of land contracts in places like Anhui, Hunan, and Guangxi, and significant actions are addressing issues surrounding the management of rural collective assets.

Looking ahead, Zhang concluded by stating that the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs will continue to implement the decisions of the Central Government, focus on key areas, and proactively address existing policies. They will pursue new initiatives to boost agricultural efficiency, increase farmer incomes, and enliven rural areas, all while striving to meet the annual goals for agricultural and rural economic development—contributing positively to the overall economic and social objectives for the year.

Reporter: Yuhan Zhao

“September and October have always been peak months for automotive sales. This year, local vehicle exchange subsidy policies have further fueled the market. However, some new automakers’ models are struggling with production capacity amid skyrocketing demand, leading to delayed deliveries that have caused complaints from consumers who risk losing out on these subsidies.

At the same time, order scalpers, who have been almost non-existent since the price wars in the new energy sector, have resurfaced. Some popular models’ orders are being sold online for inflated prices ranging from $500 to $1,000.

In the heated new energy market, the competition has expanded beyond price, technology, and model offerings to include production capacity, which is putting a strain on new entrants in the industry.

Production Capacity Issues

Consumers Face ‘Delivery Anxiety’

“I’m really worried about not getting my car in time to take advantage of this year’s exchange subsidies,” said Mr. Wang, a resident of Beijing who locked in an order just last month.

On September 25, he secured an order for the new MONA M03 model from Xiaopeng Motors, which he was supposed to pick up in November. However, he has been informed that there might now be a delay. He reached out to the sales team multiple times, only to receive conflicting information; first, they assured him there would be no delay, but later said delivery might be pushed back to early December. “I’m anxious that I won’t get the car this year, and I’ll miss the subsidy,” Mr. Wang expressed.

Mr. Wang’s situation isn’t isolated. Many other owners waiting for the M03 have taken to social media to voice their frustrations over delivery delays. Some have even been informed they won’t receive their vehicles at all this year, clearly missing out on local exchange subsidies.

In response, a representative from Xiaopeng confirmed to our reporter that some orders are indeed facing delays, acknowledging that “Order demand for MONA has exceeded expectations, and this has impacted our delivery capabilities.” The company has reportedly already expanded production three times to meet demand and is offering compensation in the form of points redeemable in their store, although many customers feel that these points, worth between $2,000 and $3,000, pale in comparison to the subsidies being offered.

The pressure from subsidies has not only affected Xiaopeng but also other newcomers like Xiaomi, which recently launched its first model to great success, and NIO, which is seeing strong orders for its new sub-brand. Sales staff in some regions from these brands have expressed that current orders may not meet this year’s subsidy timelines.

Risks of Buying Scalped Orders

The delivery delays that threaten subsidies have led to a reactivation of order scalpers in the new energy market.

A few years back, rising material costs prompted numerous electric vehicle brands to raise prices, leading to scalpers hoarding orders to sell later at a profit. However, as prices eased and competition heated up, many of these scalpers suffered losses and exited the market.

Now, a few models’ production difficulties have led to the re-emergence of scalpers. Searches on second-hand platforms reveal offers for earlier delivery orders for popular models like the MONA M03 and Xiaomi SU7, some fetching prices between $500 and $1,000. One scalper I spoke with mentioned they have an order for the M03 with a delivery date at the end of November, asking for $500. Although purchasing a scalped order means paying an extra fee, some consumers are willing to do so just to secure the subsidy. “Paying $500 to get an order and still enjoy a $2,200 subsidy is worth it,” said Mr. Liu, another M03 buyer who has confirmed he won’t get his vehicle in time for this year’s subsidy and is now looking at scalpers for a quicker solution.

However, buying from scalpers presents risks, as companies like Xiaomi require proof of a familial relationship for order transfers. Additionally, there have been reports of scams involving scalpers. Xiaomi’s sales staff recommend that consumers refrain from trusting scalpers and suggest placing orders through official channels only.

Intense Competition

Market Penetration Must Consider Production Capacity

Tesla, NIO, Li Auto… every new player has faced production challenges at the start. Traditional automakers were slow to adapt, which allowed new companies to carve out their niche. However, the landscape has shifted, with many traditional automakers deeply pivoting toward electric vehicles, making the production capacity challenges for new brands even more pressing.

Unlike newer brands facing strain, traditional automakers’ new electric models seem to be navigating delivery timelines with more ease. For example, Geely’s new brand Zeekr has a delivery timeline of just 2 to 4 weeks for its newly launched 7X model, significantly outpacing the 10+ week timelines faced by some newcomers. Meanwhile, Changan’s new brand Deep Blue has recently introduced a new model priced at $1,600, directly competing with the already popular $1,400 M03. Deep Blue’s CEO has even promised that if any delays cause consumers to miss their exchange subsidies, the company will cover the full amount.

In the new energy era, many new brands have faced delayed deliveries. According to industry expert Wang Meng, new energy companies often “jump the gun” by announcing new models even before they’re officially available, increasing the likelihood of delivery setbacks. It’s essential for these companies to have appropriate compensation strategies in place for consumers affected by these delays to build trust. Simultaneously, new brands should carefully consider their production capabilities while rapidly iterating new models to capture market share.

On October 16, we celebrated the 44th World Food Day, marking an important milestone in global food security. The internationally recognized threshold for food security is an average of 400 kilograms of grain per person. In 2023, China’s per capita grain availability reached 493 kilograms, surpassing this safety line by nearly 100 kilograms. Additionally, the total grain production in the country has shown consistent growth over recent years. Looking ahead, how can we further promote grain production and ensure food security? Moreover, some key grain-producing regions contribute significantly to national food security but face challenges such as lower per capita financial resources and underdeveloped social services compared to major grain-consuming areas. What measures is the government currently taking, and what strategies are planned for the future?

Let’s take a closer look at the impressive achievements of China’s grain production system. For the past nine consecutive years, the total grain output has remained stable at over 1.3 trillion pounds. Grain reserves are abundant, far exceeding the international food security warning line of 17% to 18%. Stocks of wheat and rice are sufficient to meet over a year’s worth of consumption for the entire population, ensuring a steady and reliable domestic grain market.

Currently, the nation boasts over 700 million tons of grain storage capacity in standard warehouses, marking a 36% increase since 2014. The loss rate for state-owned grain storage facilities is kept within 1% over the retention period. Looking ahead, the National Grain and Oil Information Center has projected that the three major cereals will continue to show stability in the 2024–2025 period, with over 70% of staple supplies from wheat and rice ensuring absolute safety.

The goal for 2030 is to increase grain production capacity by over 100 billion pounds. This year marks the first implementation phase of the “New Round of 100 Billion Pound Grain Production Capacity Enhancement Action Plan.” To achieve this ambitious goal, what additional measures can be taken to bolster grain production and security? Let’s hear insights from experts.

Zhang Hongyu, President of the China Agricultural Risk Management Society, emphasizes the need for continued stable and increased grain production. The central government has released a series of policies in recent years to support this goal. Efforts should be made in soil quality improvement, comprehensive investment in various aspects, and a strategic focus on high-standard farmland construction. It’s essential to not only enhance the yield levels but also effectively promote high-yield varieties of corn, soybeans, wheat, rice, and rapeseed across larger areas. This integrated approach involves using superior seeds, land, timing, methods, and systems. By employing innovative production techniques, we can strengthen our capacity for stable production against natural disasters.

Moreover, there’s a need to explore the establishment of an interprovincial horizontal compensation mechanism for grain production and sales areas. Key grain-producing regions play a crucial role in enhancing capacity and ensuring supply. However, these areas often forgo certain development opportunities to maintain food safety and protect arable land. As a result, we are witnessing an imbalance in development opportunities between major grain-producing and consuming regions. This year’s central government document suggests exploring a compensation mechanism for these disparities. Zhang further evaluates that, aside from Shandong and Jiangsu, the farmers in the other 11 major grain-producing provinces earn less than the national average. The government has been increasingly investing in these regions, yielding positive results. However, it’s also crucial to amplify responsibilities in major grain-consuming areas and to find innovative ways to enhance self-sufficiency in grain production among balanced supply and demand provinces. The central government is currently formulating concrete implementation measures for this horizontal compensation mechanism, which is expected to bolster the foundation of China’s food security even further.

On Friday, President Joe Biden made historic remarks at the Gila Crossing community school near Phoenix, Arizona, where he issued a formal apology for the federal government’s role in operating over 523 Indian boarding schools. This event marks his first visit to Indian country as president.

“After 150 years, the United States government eventually stopped the program,” Biden stated. “But the federal government has never, never formally apologized for what happened—until today. I formally apologize, as president of the United States of America, for what we did. I formally apologize. That’s long overdue.”

Biden emphasized the impact of the federal Indian boarding school policy, describing it as a “significant mark of shame” in American history that has received little public attention. “For too long, this all happened with virtually no public attention,” he noted.

The intention behind Indian boarding schools, as articulated by Richard Henry Pratt, an army officer and founder of the Carlisle Indian boarding school, was to “kill the Indian in him, and save the man.” From 1819 to 1969, Biden referred to this period as “one of the most horrific chapters in American history,” during which the government managed or funded schools in almost 40 states. These institutions often stripped Indigenous children of their culture, removing them from their families, prohibiting their languages, and subjecting them to harsh punishment for any form of resistance.

A recent report from the US Department of the Interior revealed that nearly 1,000 Indigenous children died in these schools, where sexual violence was rampant. Dr. Denise K. Lajimodiere, an enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa and a co-founder of the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition, condemned the boarding school era as a policy of “ethnocide and cultural genocide.”

Stephen Roe Lewis, governor of the Gila River Indian Community, expressed deep appreciation for Biden’s acknowledgment, stating, “Some of our elders who are boarding school survivors have been waiting all of their lives for this moment. For at least a moment on Friday, the most powerful person in the world, our president, is shining a light on this dark history that’s been hidden.”

No other president has issued an apology for the suffering endured by Indigenous children in these schools. Joining Biden was Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, the first Indigenous person to hold that position and a descendant of ancestors who were forced into boarding schools. In her address, she stressed the need for recognition of the trauma these institutions caused, saying, “For Indigenous peoples, they served as places of trauma and terror for more than 100 years.”

Haaland also remarked on the failure of the federal government’s attempts at cultural assimilation. “It failed to annihilate our languages, our traditions, our life ways. It failed to destroy us because we persevered,” she said.

Dr. Ramona Klein, a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa, previously testified about her abusive experiences at Fort Totten Indian Boarding School and urged Congress to help heal the wounds inflicted by boarding school policies. “I want resources to teach all Americans how boarding schools impacted and destroyed lives,” she implored.

The final boarding school report included eight recommendations from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, beginning with a call for an official apology. Chuck Hoskin Jr., principal chief of the Cherokee Nation, described the apology as “a profound moment for Native people across this country.” He acknowledged the Biden administration’s efforts while stressing that true healing demands action and resources.

Cyrus Ben, tribal chief of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, called the apology a “vital first step,” highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by Native students and their identities. “This apology marks a vital first step toward a broader dialogue about Native Americans and a recognition that we are still here, thriving despite the historical injustices,” Ben said. “I’m hopeful that these conversations will pave the way for meaningful change and a deeper appreciation of Native peoples and their invaluable contributions to our society.”

By Reuben Abati

On October 22, the Supreme Court of Nigeria is set to hear a significant case concerning the legality of several key anti-corruption agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU). The suit has been initiated by the Attorney General of Kogi State and joined by 15 other states, with 13 states questioning the constitutionality of the EFCC and similar organizations. They argue that these agencies were established outside the constitutional framework and are therefore invalid. Meanwhile, Ogun and Cross River States are challenging the NFIU’s authority to regulate how states withdraw funds allocated by their local assemblies.

A panel of seven justices, led by Justice Uwani Abba-Aji, will review the case. This legal battle resonates with both public interest and the ongoing discourse regarding the strength and interpretation of Nigeria’s institutions and laws. The challenges the states present could reshape the landscape of anti-corruption efforts in the country.

At the heart of the plaintiffs’ argument is the claim that the EFCC Act, developed in line with a United Nations Convention against corruption, is unconstitutional as it wasn’t ratified by the required majority in the state assemblies, as outlined in Section 12 of the 1999 Constitution. They assert that because the states were not signatories to the EFCC Act, the agency lacks the authority to investigate cases of public fund misallocation. The Attorney General of the Federation counters that the states’ consent is unnecessary for the act’s validity.

Some states also contend that the NFIU should not have the power to regulate withdrawals from their accounts. They maintain that as a federation, each state should have the autonomy to form its own anti-corruption bodies without federal oversight.

Interest in this case extends beyond legal circles, capturing the attention of the public as well as lawyers. Many are cautious about predicting the outcome, given that this is not the first time the constitutionality of these agencies has been questioned. Previous rulings, such as in Olafisoye v. FRN (2004) and AG Ondo State v. AG Federation (2002), upheld the authority of the National Assembly to legislate on matters of corruption, reinforcing the claims made by the federal government.

The legal contention surrounding the NFIU stems from a contentious history of financial autonomy for local councils. In 2019, the NFIU issued directives restricting state governments from interfering with local council funds, igniting legal disputes that have escalated to the Supreme Court.

Prominent legal figures, Senior Advocates of Nigeria Dr. Olisa Agbakoba and Mr. Femi Falana, have weighed in on the issue. Agbakoba argues that the EFCC was “unconstitutionally established” and that its creation has led to an overlap with the Nigeria Police Force, suggesting a need for definitive reform and clearer mandates. On a recent news program, he expressed his concerns about the agency’s effectiveness, stating, “These guys are terrorists; they use their might to terrorize us.”

Falana, while acknowledging the need for reform, asserts that the Supreme Court has consistently upheld the legality of the EFCC and ICPC. He insists that the states’ legal actions are attempts to obstruct corruption enforcement efforts, urging legislative measures to solidify the agencies’ legal standing within the constitution.

As the Supreme Court prepares to issue its ruling, the case has broader implications for Nigeria’s governance and public policy, especially in the context of the country’s ongoing struggles with corruption and financial governance. With Nigeria’s debt situation worsening and the FATF recently grey-listing the country again, there’s a pressing need to maintain robust anti-corruption frameworks rather than dismantle them.

Both Agbakoba and Falana emphasize the urgency for reform within the EFCC to enhance its professionalism and effectiveness. The agency has faced criticism for its methods, leading to public skepticism and allegations of selective justice. Addressing these concerns may be vital as Nigeria continues to navigate the complexities of governance and accountability amid an ongoing battle against corruption. The upcoming Supreme Court ruling could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of these institutions and their capacity to uphold the rule of law in Nigeria.

**Interviewer:** Let’s talk about the recent announcement regarding Inter Miami’s participation in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in 2025. It seems to have raised some eyebrows, particularly with the idea that they were granted the host nation spot. What are your thoughts on this decision?

**Barry Glendenning:** That’s right! It was quite a surprise to many when it was announced that Inter Miami would take the host slot for next summer’s FIFA Club World Cup, especially with a minimum of 25 matches still to be played to determine the 2024 champions of American men’s soccer. Initially, it caught people off guard, but the reasoning soon became clear: this was a decision by the tournament organizers.

**Interviewer:** It sounds like there’s some skepticism surrounding this move, particularly regarding FIFA’s motivations. Can you elaborate?

**Barry Glendenning:** Absolutely. Many fans are feeling a bit cynical about this. Gianni Infantino’s declaration that Miami “qualified” for the tournament, with seemingly no criteria other than having Lionel Messi on their roster, certainly raised some eyebrows. It’s a classic case of commercial opportunism on FIFA’s part. Infantino always seems to be looking for ways to leverage personal advancement, and in this instance, having Messi in Miami is likely a significant factor for business.

**Interviewer:** Messi’s influence is undeniable. How has his presence impacted the sentiment around Inter Miami’s achievement?

**Barry Glendenning:** Well, Infantino was actually in Fort Lauderdale when Inter Miami received the MLS Supporters Shield—a trophy that, while it represents the best team across the regular season, doesn’t mean much in the grand playoff scheme. Inter Miami is celebrated as the best in the Eastern Conference right now, but winning this accolade doesn’t guarantee them the championship. Yet, despite that, they still get to claim their nation’s spot in the Club World Cup. The logic here is hard to ignore: Messi’s participation next summer would undoubtedly be good for business, both for FIFA and the event itself.

**Interviewer:** Infantino’s comments during the trophy presentation seem quite bold. How did he address the team’s success?

**Barry Glendenning:** He didn’t hold back! Infantino congratulated the players and fans while effectively hijacking their moment. He announced that, as one of the best clubs in the world, they are deserved participants in the new FIFA Club World Cup 2025. While it’s exciting for Miami to be recognized, it feels very much like a calculated move on FIFA’s part, especially considering the ongoing commercial dynamics in soccer today.

**Interviewer:** It’s certainly an interesting time for soccer in the U.S. as it continues to grow. Any final thoughts on what this means for Inter Miami and the league as a whole?

**Barry Glendenning:** It’s a pivotal moment. While the decision has sparked discussion and even controversy, it does place Inter Miami in the spotlight as they continue to build their reputation in the MLS and internationally. As for the league, moments like these could help enhance its visibility on a global stage, even if it comes with a bit of controversy attached. The implications of Messi’s presence will be fascinating to watch in the seasons ahead.

The 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) is set to take place in Shanghai, and the Singapore Pavilion is gearing up for an active participation. I recently spoke with representatives from the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) who shared their commitment to enhancing high-quality collaboration in both traditional and emerging sectors, further solidifying partnerships between businesses.

Leading a delegation of nearly 400 representatives from 44 Singaporean companies, the Singapore Pavilion will showcase its theme this year: “New Singapore-China Cooperation, High-Quality Partnerships.” Impressively, 70% of the participating companies have prior experience at the expo, underscoring the platform’s value; 30% are first-time exhibitors. Spanning nearly 912 square meters, the Singapore Pavilion will encompass three major sectors: consumer goods, food and agricultural products, and service trade, featuring a variety of innovative, high-quality, and reliable products and services.

Interest in the Chinese market remains strong among Singaporean companies. According to the SBF’s 2023/2024 National Business Survey, China ranks as one of the top three countries for Singaporean businesses (accounting for 50%) and is also among their main targets for expansion in Asia. Additionally, 41% of surveyed companies view overseas expansion as crucial. Despite a slowdown in global economic growth, Singaporean enterprises have maintained stable overseas operations, particularly in China. The ongoing economic reforms and foreign investment strategies in China have further stoked enthusiasm among Singaporean companies to participate in the expo.

From the SBF’s perspective, the CIIE is a vital multi-faceted trade platform. It not only offers Singaporean businesses an opportunity to conduct transactions but also facilitates deeper market penetration and the exploration of new business prospects in China.

Last year, during the CIIE, Singaporean companies signed 13 memorandums of understanding with their Chinese counterparts, with a total estimated value exceeding SGD 87 million (approximately RMB 464 million), which is about 20 times the total from 2022.

Guo Bingxun, the Executive Director of SBF, emphasized, “The CIIE serves as an essential platform for Singaporean businesses seeking to expand in the Chinese market. We will fully support these enterprises in their growth efforts in China, leveraging our strong bilateral relationship to drive innovation and achieve sustainable growth.”

In conjunction with the CIIE, the SBF is also set to host the Singapore-China Economic and Trade Investment Forum in Shanghai on November 6. This high-level bilateral business platform aims to provide valuable opportunities for business leaders, government officials, and policymakers from both nations to engage in meaningful dialogue, promoting trade cooperation between Singapore and China.