Benin’s National Assembly has approved a constitutional amendment extending the presidential term from five to seven years, with a senate to be established as the country’s new upper house.
The amendment, passed with 90 votes for and 19 against, maintains the two-term limit for presidents, meaning incumbent Patrice Talon won’t be eligible for re-election.
The new senate will comprise at least 25 members, including appointed and ex-officio members, such as former presidents and military chiefs of staff. Its role will be to regulate political life, safeguard national unity, and promote democracy.
The changes are expected to impact the upcoming 2026 presidential election, with Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni seen as a leading candidate to succeed Talon.
The opposition has raised concerns about the amendment, citing potential risks to democracy and stability.
The amendment introduces 15 new articles and amends 18 existing ones, aiming to promote national unity, development, and stability.
The Constitutional Court will review the changes before they take effect.
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Netball Association of Malawi (NAM) has received a significant boost to its development plans, thanks to a MK60 million sponsorship deal with Mukuru.
The announcement was made at Don Bosco College Court in Lilongwe, where NAM’s General Secretary, Yamikani Kauma, expressed gratitude for Mukuru’s support, saying it will greatly promote the sport.
Mukuru’s Marketing and Partner Lead, Taleeta Jussab, emphasized that the sponsorship aims to help young girls develop skills, ensuring Malawi’s continued success in netball.
This partnership is part of Mukuru’s broader commitment to empowering the girl child and promoting sports development.
The sponsorship deal is reportedly part of a larger K675 million, three-year agreement between Mukuru and NAM, focusing on the Under-21 national netball team and league.
This partnership is expected to enhance netball development, provide opportunities for young players, and strengthen the national team.
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LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-A routine parliamentary session on Friday took a tense turn when Member of Parliament (MP) Steve Malondera alleged that Nkhotakota Chia legislator Grezelder Jeffrey had been attacked by unidentified individuals travelling in a Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) vehicle.
According to Malondera, the alleged attackers confronted Jeffrey over her supposed failure to return a government vehicle she used during the previous administration.
The allegation immediately raised questions in the chamber, particularly from Deputy Leader of the House Shadric Namalomba, who challenged whether it was procedurally appropriate for Malondera to introduce the matter on the parliamentary floor.
Namalomba argued that such accusations required verification and should follow established reporting channels before being debated in Parliament.
Speaker of Parliament Sameer Suleman intervened, advising Jeffrey to formally report the incident to the police if she believed her safety had been compromised.
Suleman reminded the House that law enforcement authorities—not Parliament—are mandated to investigate and act on criminal allegations.
Defence Minister Chimwemwe Chipungu later commented on the issue, downplaying its political significance and framing it as a personal matter rather than a partisan attack.
Chipungu drew parallels with his own experiences, recounting past confrontations allegedly involving Malawi Congress Party (MCP) supporters who had targeted him personally.
He also referenced a previous incident in which unknown individuals damaged property belonging to his family, which he suggested reflected a recurring cycle of political retaliation.
The exchange highlighted persistent political tensions and underscored the growing concerns about safety, accountability, and the role of political symbols—such as party vehicles—in alleged acts of intimidation.
As lawmakers await a possible police investigation, the matter continues to draw attention within political circles and among the public.
“I feel like I cleared the air a little bit,” de Lesseps, 60, exclusively told Us Weekly on Friday, November 14, at BravoCon 2025 in Las Vegas.
The trio faced off during a special Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen taping on Thursday, November 13, where host Andy Cohen brought them on stage for a round of the popular “Squash the Beef” game. Cohen mentioned that de Lesseps seemingly shaded the RHOBH duo at a recent cabaret concert, when she called Jayne, 54, a “bitch” and claimed Kemsley, 49, was “not the nicest person either.”
“I don’t have to explain,” de Lesseps insisted on stage. “Erika and I really don’t know each other that well, from the few times we have seen each other. ‘Bitch’ was a term of endearment.”
Cohen stepped in to explain that de Lesseps’s comments may actually have been complimentary if she was referring to Jayne and Kemsley as “bad bitches.” While de Lesseps and Kemsley were able to squash their beef, Jayne shot down Cohen’s attempt to reconcile her with the Countess.
“No, I’m good,” Jayne reportedly said.
When Us caught up with de Lesseps and fellow RHONY alum Sonja Morgan after the WWHL taping, the Countess reiterated that she did not mean to offend Jayne or Kemsley.
“Andy was great, [saying], ‘She meant bad bitch.’ It’s a term of endearment,” de Lesseps told Us. “[Erika] did not [accept it] but that’s fine. You see, it goes to show you — she’s not that friendly!”
The “Money Can’t Buy You Class” singer added, “Dorit and I are cool. I have not seen Erika since then but I’m always supportive of women. I love women. ‘Bad Bitch’ is really kind of what it was.”
Morgan then jumped in to clarify that the ladies from RHONY and RHOBH have always been cordial with each other over the years.
Luann de Lesseps at BravoCon 2025.Nicole Weingart/Bravo
“I went to Erika’s first show for [the Broadway musical] Chicago right after I had my face lifted underneath [my chin], and it was blown up like a soccer ball, and she goes, ‘Sonja, you’re so nice,’” Morgan, 61, added. “That’s what Luann does, too. We show up for each other, and I can see why Luann thought she was being rude, because she’s very standoffish when she’s not dressed [up] and she’s off [stage].”
Morgan went on, “[Erika is] kind of like me, very reclusive and quiet, and sometimes I don’t even know when she’s on stage. That’s a different story. It takes a lot to get up there. I’m very quiet when I’m not doing [those shows.]”
Elsewhere at BravoCon 2025, Cohen addressed rumors that Bravo was working on a hybrid RHONY reboot that would bring back classic members de Lesseps, Morgan, Dorinda Medley and Carole Radziwill to mix with current cast members Jessel Taank, Sai De Silva and Erin Lichy for a new season.
As the live crowd booed, the Watch What Happens host insisted: “The original New York had 13 incredible seasons. Half of them have moved to Florida. We’ll always be in business with these guys. We always want to work with them. You know what? 13 years of a great series is — be happy that it happened.”
Old episodes of both The Real Housewives of New York City and The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills are available to stream anytime on Peacock. RHOBH season 15 premieres on Bravo Thursday, December 4, at 8 p.m. ET, with new episodes available to stream the next day on Peacock.
Meghan Markle is getting into the holiday spirit a little bit early this year.
Her lifestyle brand As Ever shared an Instagram video on Saturday, November 15, with a first look at the Duchess of Sussex, 44, putting up her Christmas decorations. In the footage, Meghan beams with delight in a shimmering brown ensemble while hanging up a white stocking.
“Oh, we see you! Not even Thanksgiving yet and you’ve already got this in the bag,” As Ever wrote in the Instagram caption.
As Ever officially unveiled its 2025 holiday collection on October 25 and promised its products were perfect for “giving and gathering, thoughtfully curated to elevate every occasion.”
As Ever has a true festive miracle for anyone still stewing over missing out on its limited edition honey earlier this year, as shoppers can add a honey duo gift box — with wildflower and orange blossom varieties— to their wishlists $62 or pick up an individual pack of sage honey with honeycomb for $32.00.
Other items curated especially for As Ever’s 2025 holiday collection include some more affordable options, like the spiced cider mulling kit for $16 and a range of flavored teas for $14.00 each.
“From elegant, hand-poured candles and artisanal fruit spreads to golden California honey and celebratory wines, these items are practical and truly irresistible, offering something special for everyone on your list,” As Ever teased in a statement.
The Sussexes are also gearing up for the release of their upcoming Netflix special With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration, a spinoff of Meghan’s lifestyle series. Debuting December 3, the episode will invite viewers into Meghan and Harry’s Montecito, California, home to see how they commemorate the festive season.
“This December, join Meghan in Montecito for a magical holiday celebration,” their production company Archewell Productions announced. “Together, friends and family deck the halls, create holiday feasts, craft heartfelt gifts, and share lots of laughs — with simple how-tos to follow at home. It’s a holiday wonder with warmth, tradition, and a generous dose of joy.”
Meanwhile, Meghan and Harry’s sister-in-law Princess Kate Middleton announced some of her own holiday plans earlier this week. Kate will host celebrities and special guests at the historic Westminster Abbey on December 5 for her Together at Christmas carol service. Kate Winslet, Hannah Waddingham, Dan Smith and Chiwetel Ejiofor are set to join Kate and her husband, Prince William, to deliver festive readings at the fifth annual event, where the princess will also deliver a speech on the theme of “The Power of Love and Togetherness.”
“This year, the Service will bring people together to celebrate love in all its forms — whether it’s love within families, through friendships, across communities or even through powerful moments of connection with strangers. In a world that can often feel fragmented and disconnected, love is the force that reconnects us all – spanning generations, communities, cultures and faiths,” a statement read.
Prince Harry, Serena Williams and Meghan Markle in November 2025.Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for Baby2Baby
Meghan and her husband Prince Harry were most recently spotted at two separate high-profile L.A. events on November 8. The Sussexes supported their friend Serena Williams at the Baby2Baby Gala in West Hollywood, where the tennis star was given the Giving Tree Award “for her fierce commitment to uplifting children and families and her powerful advocacy for maternal health,” per the organization.
Meghan and Harry, 41, also joined A-listers such as Justin Bieber, Mariah Carey, Kyle Richards, Kathy Hilton and Gayle King by making an appearance at Kris Jenner’s James Bond-themed 70th birthday party. Jenner and her daughter Kim Kardashian originally shared photos with Meghan on Instagram, but any trace of those pictures were later removed from the family’s social media.
Royal expert Tom Sykeslater reported that Harry and Meghan had reportedly checked “no” on a photo consent form they received before the party, and thus apparently did not want any pictures taken of them to be shared.
The royal expert clarified that Harry and Meghan were not “particularly bothered” by the pictures ending up on social media, though the Jenner-Kardashian family still took them down out of respect.
….Ntcheu lawmaker vows to continue defending the nation’s leader amid calls for accountability
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Norman Chisale, a Member of Parliament for the central region under Ntcheu District, has pledged that he will never stop defending President Peter Mutharika.
Chisale said people should stop questioning why he holds ministerial and parliamentary positions, stressing that these roles are separate from his commitment to protecting the President.
He insisted that while he might consider stepping down from other positions, his dedication to defending President Mutharika remains unwavering.
According to Chisale, there is no failure in his responsibilities when it comes to supporting the President, and he will continue to stand by him regardless of public criticism.
His remarks come amid increasing scrutiny from citizens and political observers who have questioned the loyalty of some government officials.
Chisale emphasized that defending the head of state is a duty he holds with utmost seriousness and is independent of any other political roles he occupies.
He also encouraged others who serve in government to demonstrate similar loyalty and commitment to national leadership.
The Ntcheu lawmaker’s statements underline a broader narrative of political solidarity within certain factions of the ruling administration.
Chisale concluded by reaffirming his position that while other responsibilities may change, his defense of President Mutharika is a constant that will not waver.
……Education Minister says the initiative will boost long-term university financing and expand access to higher education in Malawi.
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Minister of Education, Science and Technology, Bright Msaka, has applauded the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS) for establishing an Endowment Fund.
He described the initiative as a bold and visionary step towards strengthening long-term university financing.
Speaking during the launch and fundraising golf tournament in Blantyre on Saturday, he said the development marks a significant milestone in building a sustainable and inclusive learning environment for future generations.
Msaka emphasised that the Endowment Fund goes beyond being a financial tool.
He said it stands as a symbol of trust, faith, and commitment to the youth of Malawi.
The minister commended MUBAS for its leadership, innovation, and strategic foresight in conceptualising the fund.
He added that the event was a celebration of resilience and strong partnerships within the higher education sector.
Msaka also linked the initiative to Malawi’s ambition of attaining upper-middle-income status by 2063.
He highlighted ongoing government reforms aimed at strengthening higher education infrastructure, digital learning, and policy frameworks.
He urged stakeholders including alumni, the private sector, and development partners to support the Endowment Fund.
Msaka described every contribution as an investment in Malawi’s most valuable asset: its people.
In her remarks, MUBAS Vice-Chancellor Professor Nancy Chitera said the Endowment Fund is a long-term and sustainable mechanism designed to support needy students.
She noted that the fund will complement existing government loan programmes.
Chitera said the university management has committed to injecting MK200 million into the fund annually.
She further stated that the target is to grow the fund to MK5 billion within three years.
Currently, the Endowment Fund has already reached approximately MK800 million.
Although Alfred Gangata and Norman Chisale have questionable Malawi School Certificate of Education, President Mutharika appointed them as Minister of State and Deputy Minister of Homeland security respectively.
It is frustrating that this is happening at a time when jobless university graduates who spent a minimum of 8 years in the primary school, 4 years in secondary school and 4 years in the university are languishing.
It is contradictory for APM, a professor of law to introduce free secondary school education when he doesn’t value education at all by appointing semi-illiterate people.
Recently, another semi-illiterate person, Isaac Jomo Osman was promoted by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) to hold a prestigious position of Mayor of the Blantyre city.
It is unfortunate to appreciate that appointing semi-illiterate individuals to public positions has several negative effects.
Firstly, individuals with limited literacy usually struggle to understand complex policies, regulations, and legal documents, leading to poor decision-making and ineffective governance.
Osman now Blantyre City Mayor
Furthermore, semi-illiterate individuals oftentimes have difficulty communicating effectively with constituents, colleagues, and other stakeholders, which can hinder transparency and accountability.
Additionally, lack of understanding of legal and ethical standards can potentially make semi-illiterate individuals more susceptible to corruption, bribery, and exploitation.
As if this is not enough, inability to comprehend financial documents or reports by a semi-literate officer can lead to mismanagement of public funds and resources, resulting in waste and inefficiency.
Moreover, appointing individuals who are perceived as unqualified erodes public trust in government institutions and officials, leading to disillusionment and disengagement from the political process.
Furthermore, semi-illiterate individuals such as Jomo Osman usually struggle to engage in critical analysis and research, limiting their ability to develop effective policies that address the needs of the community.
It is unfortunate that appointing individuals based on factors other than merit, such as political connections or social status, perpetuates inequality and discrimination within public service.
The resultant effect is that the quality of public services usually declines if those in charge lack the necessary skills to implement programs effectively, leading to dissatisfaction among citizens.
In times of crisis, effective leadership and quick decision-making are crucial. Semi-illiterate individuals oftentimes struggle to assess situations accurately and respond appropriately.
Most importantly, overall community and economic development is potentially stunted if public officials cannot engage with modern technologies, data analysis, and strategic planning.
In conclusion, much as APM is advised to appoint people based on merit, he also encouraged address these issues by focusing on education, training, and capacity-building initiatives to ensure that individuals in public positions are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to serve effectively.
