Brittany Cartwright Offers Health Update After ‘Mommy Makeover’ Surgery

Brittany Cartwright offered fans a health update following her recent plastic surgery.

Taking to her Instagram Stories on Sunday, October 12, to share a glimpse of her fit physique after Us Weekly exclusively confirmed a tummy tuck and new breast implants via an exclusive source on Monday, October 6, the Valley star, 36, said she had reached a recovery milestone.

“I’m still recovering from a huge surgery even though I’m feeling better every day. I had my tubes removed today and it went so much better than I thought. It was, like, hardly any pain, I barely felt anything at all,” the reality TV star said with a smile. “So, I feel so free, and I feel so much better. It’s crazy how much better I instantly felt with having the tubes removed. So, still very swollen but, oh my Gosh, I’m feeling amazing.”

Us confirmed via a statement from Cartwright’s rep Lori Krebs last week that Cartwright had undergone a “mommy makeover” to launch “an empowering new chapter in her journey of self-confidence, healing and growth.”

See Brittany Cartwright’s Before and After AirSculpt Photos

Cartwright’s Instagram Story update was filmed by herself in a mirror inside her home, capturing a full-length look at her recovering frame in figure-hugging activewear that accentuated her tiny waistline.

Krebs’ statement to Us confirmed that the surgery was “something Brittany had wanted to do for herself for quite some time, and she finally took the step.” The procedures were performed by the Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Group’s Dr. Payman Danielpour and Dr. John Layke.

The insider who confirmed which procedures Cartwright had done also noted that “she removed the [breast] implants she had, and got new ones.”

Brittany Cartwright Says She’d ‘Go Smaller’ For Next Breast Augmentation

Cartwright’s surgery initially came to light after she shared a mysterious post via Instagram on October 6. “When they said ‘remove what no longer serves you,’ I took it literally 💅,” Cartwright wrote at the time alongside a photo of herself wrapped in compression bandages with two surgical drains hanging off them. “In all seriousness, y’all know I always keep it real — and sooo…I did a thing💕 Something I’ve wanted to do for years and I finally took the step for me. I couldn’t be happier.”

The post continued, “Still recovering, but feeling stronger (and lighter) every day. Can’t wait to share more with you soon!”

Krebs’ statement to Us confirmed that Cartwright will share “more about the experience and her recovery” on her “When Reality Hits With Brittany Cartwright” podcast.

Several of Cartwright’s famous friends offered their support when she first revealed that she’d gone under the knife. Taking to her initial post’s comments section, Kristen Doute wrote, “My gorgeous girl! Dropping that dead weight and went for the upgrade!!” while Scheana Shay commented, “I see a sparkle.”

The recent surgery comes after Cartwright documented her first breast augmentation surgery, letting the cameras capture her journey for season 4 of Vanderpump Rules and revealing that her estranged husband, Jax Taylor, financed the past surgery.

Cartwright, who shares son Cruz, 4, with Taylor, 46, filed for divorce in August 2024.

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Sister Wives’ Robyn Says She Was in a ‘Deep Depression’ in Arizona Amid Splits

Robyn Brown reflected on the troubling times she and Kody Brown faced in Flagstaff, Arizona, before selling their tainted home on the latest episode of Sister Wives.

“The new home for me is like a new beginning,” Robyn, 47, said during the Sunday, October 12, episode of the TLC series. “I see a lot of future there, which is really great.”

While Robyn and Kody, 56, decided to stay in Arizona, they both agreed that selling the home where their family broke up was the ideal way to “start over” with their family unit.

“I was in a deep, deep depression in this house while the splits were happening, while the divorces were happening,” Robyn confessed, referring to Meri BrownJanelle Brown and Christine Brown all leaving Kody over a three-year period. “Every split happened when … we were living in this [house].”

Sister Wives’ Kody Admits He and Robyn Aren’t ‘Synced Up’ About Coyote Pass

Christine, 53, announced her split from Kody in November 2021 after more than 25 years of marriage. Janelle, 56, confirmed her separation from Kody in December 2022 nearly 30 years after they began their spiritual marriage.

Meri, 54, released a joint statement with Kody in January 2023, confirming that they had parted ways after more than three decades together. Robyn has remained committed to Kody through it all, despite having their own issues with becoming monogamous.

Sister Wives Recap Robyn Recalls Being in a Deep Depression in Flagstaff House Amid Kody Divorces Inline
Meri, Christine, Janelle and Robyn Brown. Bryant Livingston/TLC/Everett Collection

“This house had a series of sad events. First of all, I start breaking up with my family, I get covid, you know, Christine leaves,” Kody recalled of the series of unfortunate events they had to endure at their Flagstaff house. “We [had] kind of a nasty Christmas and then Christmas that we [didn’t] even do together.

He noted it was “just one thing after another,” including getting their news that his and Janelle’s son Garrison had died in March 2024. (Garrison died by suicide at the age of 25.)

“This place has pain in it,” Kody said. He later told the cameras, “This is where my heart broke right here,” pointing to the house. “We want a new beginning, something different, something new,” Kody added.

Sister Wives’ Kody and Robyn Brown’s Relationship From the Start

While Christine claimed she “found out from a random stranger online” that Kody and Robyn were selling their house, she applauded them for moving forward.

“Kody probably has a lot of hard memories in that house. He had three wives leave him while he lived in that house,” she explained. “I think it’s a good idea for him to move. Move and be done with that. Close that door [and] start another chapter, a whole other life with Robyn.”

Kody and Robyn share two biological children, Solomon, 13, and Ariella, 9. Kody is also the stepfather of Robyn’s three eldest children from her first marriage: Dayton, 25, Aurora, 23, and Breanna, 21.

In April 2024, the couple listed their five-bedroom, four-bathroom home in Flagstaff for $1.65 million, per the listing site. According to Sunday’s Sister Wives episode, the house sold quickly, and the family moved into their new home nearby shortly thereafter.

“We’ll be leaving a lot of pain and hard memories behind,” Robyn said on the episode. “I think too, just the space itself is going to be really, really conducive to some of the things that we want to do with our future.”

Everything the ‘Sister Wives’ Stars Have Said About Coyote Pass

One year after their move, Kody, Robyn, Meri and Janelle sold their Coyote Pass property in Arizona for $1.5 million. The 14-acre property was purchased by the Browns in 2018 and became a point of contention after Kody’s respective splits.

Christine was the only one of Kody’s exes who didn’t get money from the sale, as she gave her shares to Kody and Robyn when she left him in 2021. Christine, however, kept the money from the sale of her Arizona home before moving to Utah and marrying David Woolley in October 2023.

Sister Wives airs on TLC Sundays at 10 p.m. ET.

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Hostages Released, Trump In The Middle East, Shutdown Layoffs

Phase one of the Gaza ceasefire is underway as Hamas releases Israeli hostages and thousands of Palestinians held by Israel are being reunited with their families. President Trump addresses Israel’s parliament ahead of his trip to Egypt to sign the deal he brokered. And the government shutdown enters its second week, with multiple agencies sending layoff notices and growing pressure on the military payroll.

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How ‘Matlock’ Addressed Billy’s Paternity Scare Before David Del Rio Firing

David Del Rio’s character Billy was a major player in the Matlock season 2 premiere courtesy of a paternity scare story line that aired days after he was fired for allegedly sexually assaulting costar Leah Lewis.

During the Sunday, October 12, episode of the hit CBS series, Billy was trying to come to terms with his ex Claudia’s (Bella Wholey Ortiz) shocking pregnancy, telling Sarah (Lewis), “She’s not sure yet. Which means I am just waiting to see which way my life goes.”

Billy admitted to Matty (Kathy Bates) and Olympia (Skye P. Marshall) that he would support “whatever Claudia” decided to do — but he had concerns.

“I guess I feel like Claudia broke my heart. Then I got over her,” he noted. “Sure, I was responding to her booty calls but she was on the pill so how did this happen when all I want to do is go out on hot dates with other people?”

‘Matlock’ Scandal Explained After David Del Rio’s Exit Over Sexual Assault

While considering the possibility of a baby, Billy said he did “not want to be a father,” adding, “I want to unsubscribe from this baby.” The premiere ultimately ended with Billy meeting Claudia in an offscreen scene where they made a decision about the pregnancy and their shared future.

“We chose the third option,” Billy shared. “We are having the baby and getting back together.”

Matlock David Del Rio Fired After Sexual Assault Allegation Investigation Season 1
Sonja Flemming/CBS

After the season 1 finale aired in April, showrunner Jennie Snyder Urman discussed whether Claudia’s pregnancy meant Billy would go back to pleasing other people over himself, telling Us Weekly exclusively, “You’re asking the questions that we ask in the writers’ room. But I can’t give it away because it’s all in the season 2 premiere.”

Del Rio, 38, spoke to Us in May about committing to the paternity twist. “I’m really excited to see how Billy handles the work balance with the personal balance of it all,” he shared.

Lewis, 28, also weighed in on what was awaiting Sarah in season 2 during the joint interview.

“I remember reading the finale and hoping at the end that Sarah was going to get away scot free with this wonderful victory. Of course the thing happens with Simone and she might need to take accountability,” Lewis hinted. “To be honest, this is where we really get to see if Sarah can step up to the plate for the thing that she has been begging for, asking for and working so hard for. You want to get treated like a big dog. We’ll start acting like a big dog. I feel like this season we’ll definitely probably get to see her mature a bit more on that aspect. Her professional win is not over yet.”

Where Was David Del Rio’s ‘Matlock’ Story Line Going Before Firing?

Shortly before the season 2 premiere on Sunday, news broke that Del Rio was fired following an investigation into sexual assault accusations.

An alleged incident involving Del Rio and Lewis took place in late September, which was reported by the actress to CBS days later. Del Rio was “fired and escorted off the lot the same day the alleged assault was reported,” according to Deadline. Billy is expected to be written off in the second half of the season.

Del Rio has yet to address his firing, but Lewis broke her silence via social media on Thursday, October 9.

“Mom is here, we’re moving forward in love and strength. I’m in good hands,” she wrote via Instagram at the time. “Thank you to everybody for any kind of support and care. Truly, we’re moving forward in strength. Key word, strength. Please, let that be the take away.”

Matlock airs on CBS Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET.

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Taylor Swift Hugs Ed Kelce at Kansas City Chiefs Game

Taylor Swift heard fiancé Travis Kelce calling on the megaphone and pledged allegiance to his hands, team and vibes — by attending his latest Kansas City Chiefs football game.

Swift, 35, stepped out at the Chiefs’ Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday, October 12, to watch the team’s home game against the Detroit Lions, dressed in her signature flair.

Spotted walking up to her future father-in-law, Ed Kelce, and hugging him inside the family’s Arrowhead suite, per fan footage shared via X that evening, Swift wore a Chiefs jersey paired with gold earrings, a gold necklace and a high ponytail.

Swift was also seen chatting to WNBA star Caitlin Clark after she hugged Ed, 74.

Every Time Taylor Swift References Travis Kelce on Her ‘Showgirl’ Album

The pop star, who has come off a jam-packed promotional tour after the release of her 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, has been a fixture at Kelce’s NFL games ever since they started dating in 2023.

Her romance with Travis, 36, inspired several songs on her new album, which was released on October 3 and sparked a worldwide press tour.

GettyImages-2240667086-Taylor.jpg
Taylor Swift Jamie Squire/Getty Images

“[I’m] trying to soak in this moment [because] I feel pride and joy for what I made,” Swift told radio host Bru on a Monday, October 6 broadcast of Audacy Check In. “I don’t necessarily know if I’ve ever been so happy about a record before. It’s kind of a foreign feeling for me to feel so joyful because usually there’s just a lot of stress in an album release week.”

She continued, “This week, I just feel very uncomplicated feelings about this record. That’s new. So, I’m like let’s just ride out this feeling for a second.”

Taylor Swift Rocks Miniskirt and Crop Top as She Cozies Up to Travis Kelce

In addition to sharing the inspiration for Showgirl in her respective interviews, Swift also gushed about her engagement to Travis (The Chiefs tight end proposed in August after two years of dating.)

“It’s crazy, and he had it for a really long time before he gave it to me, too,” Swift told Jimmy Fallon during Monday’s episode of The Tonight Show, gazing at her old mine brilliant cut diamond ring. “I look at it constantly, like, it doesn’t feel in any way normal for me. I’m just sort of like, ‘Oh, man!’”

Swift further mused that the custom bauble, designed by Kindred Lubbock at Artifex Fine Jewelry, is a special symbol of her connection with Travis.

Travis Kelce Says He’s ‘Proud’ That Taylor Swift Is His ‘Lady’ 

“He’s just my favorite person I’ve ever met — no offense to everyone else,” the “Fate of Ophelia” singer said. “The fact that this is the person that I get to hang out with every day forever … that’s the whole thing of it. You look at [the ring] and you’re like, ‘I get to hang out with him forever,’ and this represents that.”

Swift’s feelings for Travis shone through on Showgirl, with songs “The Fate of Ophelia,” “Elizabeth Taylor,” “Opalite,” “Wish List,” “Honey” and “Wood” detailing the engaged couple’s love story. “Wood,” in particular, has gone viral for its racy double entendres about Travis.

“I love that girl, so … [I’d like] any song that she would reference me,” Travis said on the Wednesday, October 8, episode of his “New Heights” podcast, jokingly telling brother Jason Kelce that he surely misinterpreted the lyrics. “It’s a great song.”

Despite the references to Travis’ appendages, Jason, 37, and his wife, Kylie Kelce, both found “Wood” to have infectious beats.

“There are some bops on there, I think everybody knows,” Kylie, 33, said on her “Not Gonna Lie” podcast on Thursday, October 9, calling “Opalite” and “Wish List” her top picks. “And who are we kidding? ‘Wood.’ Here’s the deal. Do I need that much detail, specifically about my brother-in-law? Probably not. But also … Good job, Trav. That’s it.”

While the entire Kelce crew are loving The Life of a Showgirl, there is a fan contingent who were less than impressed. Swift, however, hasn’t been bothered by any mixed reviews.

“I welcome the chaos. The rule of show business is, if it’s the first week of my album release and you are saying either my name or my album title, you’re helping,” Swift told Apple Music’s Zane Lowe in a Thursday interview. “I’m not the art police. It’s, like, everybody is allowed to feel exactly how they want, and what our goal is as entertainers is to be a mirror.”

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Ghana secures spot in 2026 World Cup qualifiers

Ghana has officially booked its place in the qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The Black Stars’ recent victory over Comoros has injected renewed hope among fans.

The decisive moment came in the second half when Ghanaian midfielder Muhamad Kudus scored a spectacular goal, giving the team a 1-0 win. Kudus’ performance was praised for his creativity and composure under pressure.

This win is particularly significant as Ghana has struggled in recent years, including failing to qualify for the last Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The team’s resurgence in qualifiers signals a renewed determination to compete at the highest level.

Historically, Ghana has been one of Africa’s most consistent performers in World Cups.

Their 2010 campaign in South Africa remains memorable, as they became only the third African team to reach the quarterfinals.

The 2010 run was highlighted by standout performances from stars like Asamoah Gyan and Michael Essien, who helped Ghana earn a reputation as a powerhouse in international football.

For the 2026 World Cup, African teams face a unique opportunity as the tournament will expand to 48 teams, giving more nations a chance to compete on the global stage.

Ghana is keen to be among those representing the continent.

Other African teams are also actively pursuing qualification.

Morocco, with their disciplined defense and tactical strength, remains a top contender, while Senegal is building on their 2022 World Cup success.

Nigeria, another traditional African giant, is blending experienced players with young talents in an effort to secure a spot in North America.

The Super Eagles are determined to return to the World Cup after some recent disappointments in qualifiers.

Egypt, led by a new generation of players alongside veterans like Mohamed Salah, is also in the hunt. The Pharaohs aim to maintain their legacy as one of Africa’s most successful football nations.

Ghana’s coach has emphasized team cohesion and tactical discipline, recognizing that qualification is only the first step. Preparing for the challenges in the USA, Mexico, and Canada will require consistent performances.

Beyond Ghana, the African qualifiers are expected to be fiercely competitive with teams like Cameroon, Algeria, and Tunisia also pushing for World Cup spots.

The tournament promises to showcase some of the continent’s best talent.

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Miraculous breakthrough: Israel’s Ambassador Yechiel leiter attributes hostage release to divine intervention and strategic diplomacy

GAZA-(MaraviPost)-In a remarkable and unprecedented development, Israel is on the brink of securing the release of all remaining Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, an outcome that has left many observers both amazed and hopeful.

This breakthrough, described by Israel’s ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, as “the hand of God,” comes after more than two years of relentless conflict, diplomatic maneuvering, and intense negotiations.

Ambassador Leiter, a devout Orthodox Jew and a trained rabbi, spoke exclusively with ALL ISRAEL NEWS in a phone interview from Washington, D.C., just as he was en route to the airport to catch flights back to Israel before Shabbat.

His long-standing relationship with Israeli leadership, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and his deep religious conviction, provide a unique lens through which to view this extraordinary moment.

Leiter’s reflections convey not only a profound sense of relief but also a deep faith-infused understanding of the events that have unfolded.

“I think that it really is the hand of God that we’re seeing here,” he said, echoing a sentiment that resonates strongly within many Israeli and Jewish communities worldwide.

The situation has been fraught with tension and heartbreak for 733 days, with 48 Israeli hostages still held in Gaza until this latest announcement.

The hostages include 20 who are known to be alive, and their imminent return is a source of immense hope.

According to Leiter, this outcome has been made possible by a combination of resolute military pressure, diplomatic firmness, and strategic pressure on regional actors who have historically supported Hamas.

One of the most significant elements in this puzzle is the role of U.S. President Donald J. Trump. Leiter expressed profound gratitude for Trump’s leadership, which he described as “courageous and decisive.”

He highlighted Trump’s decision to confront and challenge Qatar and Turkey—two American allies that have, for years, provided support to Hamas in various capacities.

“President Trump decided that it was time to lay down the law with the countries that are hosting Hamas leaders,” Leiter explained.

Trump’s approach was clear and uncompromising: either these countries pressure Hamas into accelerating the release of hostages, or they risk expelling Hamas leaders from their territories.

This ultimatum, described by Leiter as “a very, very effective threat,” appears to have shifted the dynamics significantly.

Leiter’s account illuminates a diplomatic strategy that combined pressure, persuasion, and the leveraging of alliances to produce results where previous efforts had stalled.

The ambassador’s praise extended to Prime Minister Netanyahu, whose decision to intensify military operations against Hamas was seen as an essential factor in bringing Hamas to the negotiating table.

The ambassador also spoke highly of the cooperation between Israeli and American officials, particularly highlighting the work of U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee. Leiter, himself a devout religious man, found a kindred spirit in Huckabee, a committed Evangelical Christian, describing their working relationship as a “blessing.”

This interfaith partnership underscores a broader alliance that transcends politics and is rooted in shared values and mutual respect.

This development follows closely on the heels of a historic meeting at the White House, where Netanyahu, Leiter, and senior U.S. officials unveiled a 20-point peace plan aimed at addressing the long-standing conflict between Israel and Palestine.

This plan, publicly released and widely discussed, represents a comprehensive framework for future negotiations and potential reconciliation.

The timing of Trump’s upcoming visit to Israel adds another layer of significance to this diplomatic breakthrough.

The American president’s trip, described by Leiter as historic and highly consequential, is expected to reinforce bilateral ties and support ongoing efforts to stabilize the region.

Leiter’s interview, which was given under tight time constraints but rich in detail, offers an insider’s perspective on the confluence of faith, diplomacy, and strategy that has brought Israel to this hopeful juncture.

His optimism is tempered by the reality of the challenges ahead, but the imminent release of the hostages stands as a testament to the perseverance and resolve of those involved.

For many Israelis and their supporters worldwide, this moment is more than a political victory; it is a profound affirmation of hope, faith, and the power of determined leadership.

As the hostages prepare to return home, the nation stands united in gratitude to all who contributed to this outcome and hopeful that this breakthrough will pave the way for lasting peace in a region long marked by conflict and suffering.

Ambassador Yechiel Leiter’s insights reveal a story of miraculous deliverance shaped by divine providence and human determination.

The combined efforts of Israeli leadership, American diplomacy, and regional pressure have created a pathway to freedom for those held captive, shining a light on the possibilities that emerge when courage, faith, and strategy converge.

As the world watches the unfolding events with bated breath, this chapter in Israel’s history reminds us that even in the darkest of times, hope and resilience can prevail.

The coming days promise to be historic not only for Israel but for all who believe in the power of peace and the sanctity of human life.

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CDEDI accuses Khato Civils of allegedly forex externalisation in Salima-Lilongwe Water Project

…Pushes for project suspension…

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The country’s civil rights group Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiative (CDEDI) has accused Khato Civils for allegedly externalisation much needed forex in Salima-Lilongwe Water Project.

CDEDI therefore has written Minister of Finance to suspend the project for forensic audit.

Addressing the news conference on Monday, October 13, 2025, CDEDI alleges that there is forex externalisation and money-laundering at Salima-Lilongwe-Water Supply project.

“There are traits of money-laundering and forex externalisation owing to the huge salary disparity
between locals and expatriates. Expatriates fly out for a holiday once every six weeks.

“Importation of products such as safety boots, vests, reflectors, aluminium windows, cement and even bricks amid acute forex shortage in the country”, exposes CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa.

Namiwa therefore challenged Khato Civils to dispute the claims in the public arguing that CDEDI has “enough evidence on the allegations”..

Here is CDEDI full statement on calls for suspension of Salima-Lilongwe Water Supply project…

SUSPEND OPERATIONS AT SALIMA-LILONGWE WATER SUPPLY COMPANY, AND AUDIT THEM

At his inauguration on October 4, 2025 as 7th President of Malawi, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, APM as he is fondly called, declared that “Malawians
voted out corruption, blatant theft, heartless looting, State terrorism and wanton destruction”.

It is our considered view at the Centre for Democracy and EconomicDevelopment Initiative (CDEDI) that the aforementioned quote best describes the pitiful regime of the Malawi Congress Party under former president Dr. Lazarus Chakwera.

To validate President Mutharika’s assessment of the MCP regime, CDEDI hereby implores the newly-appointed Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs
Hon. Joseph Mwanamvekha to immediately suspend operations at SalimaLilongwe Water Supply Company, pending a forensic audit.

The audit should focus on due diligence in the main contract, subcontracting, financial prudence and management, labour and compliance to prevailing laws
and regulations governing the construction industry.

Thus far, CDEDI would like to categorically state that it is in full support of the project that was hatched during APM’s first-term of office to, among others, address water shortage in Lilongwe, Salima and Dowa districts.
But it is important to highlight that the MCP regime adopted the project implemented through what is known as the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) leading to the formation of the Salima-Lilongwe Water Company (SLWC) to extract water from Lake Malawi in Salima and sell it to Lilongwe and Central Region water boards.

Initially, the contractor, Khato Civils was responsible for securing funding where the Malawi Government would be a guarantor. After a number of twists and turns, the MCP regime decided to burden Malawians even further, as financiers of the project through government sovereign guarantee loans.

In august 2024, the former Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Minister Hon Simplex Chithyola-Banda moved a motion which led to Parliament nodding to SPV to borrow K150 billion from NBS Bank, National Bank of Malawi and CDH Investment Bank.
In the spirit of transparency and accountability, Malawians may wish to recall that the Chief Secretary to Government and the Secretary to the Treasury are
the SPV shareholders.

Bringing this K150 billion bill in Parliament simply means that if SLWC, as the borrower, fails to pay, Malawians will be burdened to foot the bill through their hard-earned taxes.

At this juncture, Malawians may wish to know that Khato Civils presents its funding requisition to SPV which in turn borrows from commercial banks.

Given the above financing mechanism, any serious administration ought to put in place stringent measures to enhance prudence, transparency and
accountability in the implementation of the project to ensure public trust and confidence.

It is against this background that CDEDI has written Hon Mwanamvekha to immediately suspend operations at the Salima-Lilongwe Water Supply project, pending an audit.

It is only through this process that Malawians will exercise their right to know the status of the project and how much has been pumped into it through loans
so far!

The implementation of the project has been marred with serious allegations
that include the following;Lack of transparency and accountability: Malawians don’t know if funds
disbursed so far match with the works on the ground in the two-year project expected to be completed by September 2026.

Alleged lack of due diligence in subcontracting: Outsourcing of products and services that can be easily and cheaply sourced locally—accommodation,
labour, plant and vehicle hire, procurement of quarry stone.

Alleged Forex externalisation and money-laundering; There are traits of money-laundering and forex externalisation owing to the huge salary disparity
between locals and expatriates. Expatriates fly out for a holiday once every six weeks. Importation of products such as safety boots, vests, reflectors,
aluminium windows, cement and even bricks amid acute forex shortage in the country.

Abuse of the immigration law; Importation of skills that are locally available such as guards, health and safety, electricians, fuel attendants and plant operators. In so doing, they have failed to recruit interns to ensure skills
transfer amid high unemployment among the youth.

Total disregard for occupational health and workplace safety: Between April and September 2025, seven productive citizens, including a teacher, have died
due to accidents involving the contractor.

Violation of labour laws and discrimination: Locals are treated with contempt, working long hours and during odd hours at no pay. Local guards getting K600,000 gross salary while foreigners are getting ZAR 20,000 (about K4 million) per month. Foreigners enjoy medical insurance while the locals don’t.

Locals are accorded 18 days annual leave while foreigners go on leave for 30 days. The company’s employees are not on pension, which contravenes the
country’s Pension Act.

Lack of compliance with construction industry regulations; There is only one local engineer at Mvera site while Lifu, Katengedza and Dowa/Chezi sites are
managed by foreigners.

As a nation riddled with unsustainable public debts, coupled with acute forex shortage and unemployment crisis, we cannot afford to bury our heads in the
sand from such serious allegations, at least not now when we have a new government that has promised change.

It is, therefore, CDEDI’s expectation
that authorities will act on our demand as a matter of urgency.

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Israeli hostages poised for release ahead of president Trump’s historic visit to Israel

In a significant development that has captured global attention, Israeli authorities are preparing for the release of the remaining Israeli hostages today morning, coinciding with the anticipated visit of former U.S. President Donald Trump to Israel.

The hostage release, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to resolve one of the most harrowing hostage crises faced by Israel in recent years.

The news comes after weeks of intense negotiations and international diplomatic pressure, with many hoping this release will bring a measure of closure to families and communities devastated by the prolonged captivity of their loved ones.

According to reports from Hebrew media and statements from officials involved in the process, the Israeli government is optimistic that Hamas will comply fully with the terms of the agreement, facilitated by international actors including the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

Gal Hirsch, the coordinator for Hostages and Missing Persons in Israel, communicated to families on Saturday night that the government expects the release to be completed on Monday morning(today).

Hirsch emphasized the importance of a full and comprehensive effort to ensure not only the safe return of living hostages but also the recovery and repatriation of the remains of deceased captives.

“We demand, expect, and are working to ensure that Hamas, with the assistance of the international force, makes a full (100%) effort to complete the mission and return all deceased hostages so they may be laid to rest in Israel,” Hirsch stated, highlighting the emotional and symbolic weight carried by this operation.

The Red Cross has been closely involved in coordinating logistics, with the organization reportedly preparing to deploy six to eight vehicles to facilitate the transfer of hostages.

This coordination underscores the complexity and delicacy of the operation, which requires meticulous planning to guarantee the hostages’ safety and dignity throughout the process.

The involvement of the Red Cross also lends an important neutral humanitarian dimension to the proceedings, ensuring that international standards are upheld.

While Monday morning is the targeted timeframe for the release, government officials remain cautious and are preparing for the possibility that the handover could commence late Sunday evening or overnight.

A senior Hamas official confirmed to AFP that the release process would begin Monday morning, reaffirming the group’s commitment to the timeline.

Hamas has also publicly stated that 20 living hostages will be freed, a figure that has been a source of concern and hope in equal measure.

Recent weeks have seen mounting anxiety over the fate of additional hostages, with fears that some may have perished during captivity.

The timing of the release appears to be strategically aligned with the arrival of former President Trump in Israel, suggesting that Hamas aims to demonstrate goodwill and possibly leverage the event to influence international perceptions.

The release is set to occur following the Israel Defense Forces’ (IDF) recent withdrawal to a pre-agreed line, as stipulated under the Trump peace plan.

This plan allows Hamas a 72-hour window to complete the hostage release, a deadline that adds urgency and a clear framework to the operation.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Sheba Medical Center on Friday underscored the readiness of Israeli medical facilities to receive and care for the returning hostages.

Sheba Medical Center, one of Israel’s leading hospitals, has been preparing intensively to address the complex medical needs of those who have endured severe malnutrition and trauma.

The condition of the released hostages has been a matter of grave concern, with previous releases revealing individuals in severely weakened and malnourished states, drawing stark comparisons to survivors of some of history’s darkest periods.

Hamas reportedly is attempting to locate the remains of hostages who have died during captivity, a grim task complicated by the conditions in Gaza and the passage of time.

Israeli media reports suggest that Hamas has recently increased food provisions to the remaining hostages, a move likely intended to improve their physical condition prior to the release.

However, Israel has cautioned Hamas against overfeeding the captives, warning that such actions could pose significant health risks given their fragile states.

The hostages who are still alive are believed to be held together in a single location as preparations for their release advance.

This consolidation is likely intended to streamline the transfer and reduce the risk of complications during the handover.

The shock and emotional impact of the hostages’ appearances upon previous releases have been profound. Former President Trump notably compared one group of released hostages to Holocaust survivors, highlighting the severity of their condition and the suffering endured.

Similarly, the severely malnourished appearance of hostages shown in Hamas propaganda videos has further galvanized international sympathy and calls for their safe return.

Reports from the Wall Street Journal and Arab media have suggested that Hamas may initiate the release as early as Sunday evening or as early as 6 a.m. on Monday, indicating a degree of flexibility possibly influenced by the complex logistics and ongoing negotiations.

Israeli officials have reportedly requested a “closure order” around specific areas in Gaza believed to contain the remains of deceased hostages.

This order aims to prevent reconstruction or other activities in these zones until thorough searches can be conducted, ensuring that all possible remains are recovered.

Hamas has reportedly agreed to this request, an important concession given the sensitive nature of the sites involved.

Despite these preparations, concerns remain that not all remains may be found by the Monday deadline.

U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, who has maintained close contact with hostage families, has expressed doubts about Hamas’ ability to locate all deceased hostages within the specified timeframe.

Such uncertainties underscore the emotional complexities and logistical challenges that continue to surround this operation.

In the aftermath of the hostage release, Israel plans to fulfill its commitments under the agreement by releasing a significant number of Palestinian prisoners.

These include 250 Palestinian security prisoners serving life sentences for involvement in terror attacks, as well as an additional 1,700 prisoners, among them women and children.

This prisoner release is a contentious and highly sensitive component of the broader peace plan, reflecting the difficult compromises involved in hostage negotiations and conflict resolution.

The impending release of Israeli hostages marks a crucial step in a conflict that has inflicted deep wounds on both sides.

While it cannot undo the pain and trauma endured, it offers a glimmer of hope for healing and the possibility of renewed dialogue.

The international community watches closely as these events unfold, hopeful that this moment might pave the way for greater stability and peace in the region.

As Israel prepares to welcome back its citizens held captive, the world stands united in anticipation of their safe return and the pursuit of lasting peace.

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