Category: The Maravi Post test

I am issuing out this statement to all Africans and friends of Africa in the global community, to formally confirm my acceptance of the position of Chairperson for the Pan African Reconstruction and Development Aid Fund (PARDAF), which came into existence on Saturday 8^th November, 2025 in Lagos State of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I am deeply honoured and humbled by the trust and confidence Africans have placed in me to lead this vital project for the good of our beloved mother continent.

It is an honour to serve the African continent in this capacity and any future capacity, to foster reconstruction and sustainable development in post neo-colonial Africa. I fully understand and will strive to prudently and carefully try to balance the need to garner both local and international support for African countries that have decided to break away from the yoke of neo-colonialism in all forms and manifestations. In the discharge of the duties and responsibilities associated with this position, I will do everything God-willing to accompany the project to achieve its target goals.

My priority now is to constitute a powerhouse team of patriotic Africans to push for the success of this project. I will start by identifying and building relationships with donors who are interested in helping the reconstruction and construction of Africa after more than six decades of neo-colonial manipulation, destruction and devastation, and self-betrayal. I am committed also to working diligently with my team to achieve strategic objectives and contribute to the socio-economic development of Africa.

The sovereignty of the African continent has been overtly and covertly transformed into a slaughter house and a region for foreign economic and financial adventurism. Through its post-independence period, Africa has suffered brutal environmental injustice, degrading conflict that gave rise to hatreds and division; making peace and stability a pipedream; while using the media tools to create distrust amongst neighbours and endless blame games. The result has been the unstopped violence, proxy wars and terrorism, degradation and dehumanisation. This must change and Africa must arise with or without former slave lords, former colonial masters, imperialist powers or the Deep State.

Africa is a continent richly blessed with natural resources ranging from every mineral imaginable to vast tracts of fertile and arable land, water, flora and fauna not found anywhere else. Despite the immense wealth and possession of vast mineral deposits, the countries on the continent remain deplete by brutal poverty, economic doldrums, social paralysis, cultural depletion, unlimited social vices and degeneracy, where the mass of the population lives in rural areas and dependent on agriculture, while facing severe challenges like lack of clean water, food, and infrastructure.

The continent is dependent on foreign aid, which robs it of its independent sovereignty and dignity. This is contrary to the suffering and misery created by climate change, and environmental degradation due to ill-conceived economic activities in the mineral, forests and water areas, inequality in the urban slums and isolation of the rural communities. 

Africa does not need the very architects of its current predicaments as middlemen to garner real development partners to the continent. What we need, and are trying to do is to mobilise the continent’s sons, daughters and not the children of former slave lords, former colonial oppressors, war-mongering imperialists, neo-colonial aggressors or the Deep State to determine Africa’s future direction.

Africa continues to be labelled with derogatory phrases like-the Wretched of the Earth; the Whiteman’s Graveyard; or the Dark Continent-to define its traitorous leadership and backwardness. The idea of the Pan African Reconstruction and Development Aid Fund (PARDAF), is the first of its kind to emerge from Africa to grasp the reality of the changes taking place in the continent. The idea is a wakeup call for Africa to identify its own path, bury old wounds and prepare the future for succeeding generations of African peoples. PARDAF’s mission is to provide the platform to bring together real development partners, donors and good investors to share views and ideas with leaders and other stakeholders in the continent.

There have been lots of post-world war holocaust fund raising projects to rehabilitate the Jews race after the Nazis criminal war in Europe. There are also post wars or conflicts fund raising activities for Africa, ostensibly to aid the reconstruction of war affected territories, lands and communities in the continent. Unfortunately, those campaigns were not held on the ground in Africa, but on foreign lands and spearheaded by the very people that are behind the underdevelopment and backwardness in Africa. Which country in Africa has seen reconstruction in the post-war era? Where are the billions collected from those campaigns gone? Where are the infrastructures on the ground, for sustaining the environment, where we all live together as human beings?

There has never been for instance, a time when a programme for post-slavery, or post-colonial or post-neo-colonial reconstruction of Africa ever launched anywhere in the world. The idea of PARDAF fits in here, to complement efforts by progressive African leaders, who have decided to do away with anything that is linked to neo-colonial agenda in the continent.  The news of PARDAF coming into effect has been received across the continent with hope and enthusiasm.

PARDAF is not about making money in the name of Africa to line individual pockets or to obtain power or to ridicule anyone whose thinking is at variance with the goals of Pan-Africanism. On the contrary, PARDAF exists to aid socio-economic development in Africa, by encouraging real donors and other stakeholders to support the reconstruction of the continent in a post neo-colonial era. To PARDAF, breaking away from the yoke of neo-colonialism means African governments ready to achieve genuine economic and political sovereignty by dismantling the structures that maintain the control and dependency syndrome imposed on African governments and leaders by outsiders.

I wish to express my sincere gratitude to all our African brothers and sisters from across the continent, who mooted out this idea of the African virtual project-PARDAF. I also want to acknowledge the progress that is taking place in the Sahel region, Madagascar and other progressive countries in the continent that are determined to reinvent the destiny of Africa, for all Africans, both at home and abroad.

Right from the word go, I am committed to help create an environment that will help PARDAF project achieve stated goals, by working closely with all stakeholders, including government institutions, the private sector, and international partners, donors and business community. My vision is to ensure that the reconstruction of Africa in a post neocolonial era becomes not only achievable, but also inclusive and sustainable.

And finally, I want to take this opportunity to call on all African countries that are at war against each other, either for power grabbing, tribal superiority or regional domination to start a process of reconciliation, peaceful and comprehensive political settlement. I call on all foreign terrorist groups to stop their heinous and genocide campaign against poor Africans in the Sahel region, Nigeria, Libya, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), The Sudan, Somalia, Ethiopia, Eritrea and Mozambique. The activities of these proxy terrorist groups are condemnable and undermine humanity.

Again, I thank all our African brothers and sisters for entrusting me the power to lead the reconstruction and development advocacy movement in a post neo-colonial Africa. I look forward to doing a noble service to the African continent.

Long live Africa!
Sender:
ALimamy Bakarr Sankoh

Email contacts: absankoh@gmail.com

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The Sahel Solidarity Campaign Network (SaS-CaN) is deeply concerned over recent reports of criminal attacks on fuel and other convoys’ containing essential goods along the Malian roads leading to the Capital city, Bamako. These are only the most recent incidents of terrorism in a campaign of genocide and race purification against Africans in the Sahel region.

SaS-CaN acknowledges the willingness and commitment of the Russian Government not only to respond to the humanitarian needs of the people of the Sahel, but also to avert a humanitarian crisis in Africa. Russia has also demonstrated its willingness to help provide full and unhindered access for humanitarian actors to operate in all parts of the Sahel region. We know these terrorists were created by Western political leaders, acting on behalf of the deep state to have control over the region’s rich natural resources and wealth.

We call on France and its allies to end the criminal war against innocent Africans in the Sahel region. SaS-CaN urges France in particular, to abandon its neo-colonial agenda in Africa, immediately cease all military operations and support for the criminal proxy terrorist groups in the Sahel, respect Africa’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and respect its obligations under international humanitarian law.

Terrorism in the Sahel is mostly fuelled by the inaction and complicity of the African Union (AU), which instead of seeking to protect Africans, it opts to promote the neo-colonial agenda of foreign powers in the continent. The position of the AU in the terrorism against Africans in the Sahel region is one of betrayal to the conscience of the continent, and subservient to the wills and caprices of France’s neo-colonialism.

Given that the AU has abandoned the Sahel region throughout these painful years of terrorism and genocide, we call on the continent’s body not to do anything to accelerate the untold suffering of the African people. Already, Africans in the Sahel feel abandoned, insecure and can no longer trust the AU as the august body is acting as a proxima to France ill-intended designs and tastes in Africa.

This is why the call recently by the AU, for international intervention in Mali should be seen as a deliberate act of betrayal. By calling for international intervention in Mali is to extend an invitation to France and its allies to invade the Sahel and destabilise the AES, overthrow the governments and assassinate the leaders of Mali, Burkina Faso and the Republic of Niger. This is France’s neo-colonial agenda and is being bought by some willing African countries, sharing colonial borders with the Sahel region.

SaS-CaN is compelled to express its strongest condemnation of the AU’s call for international intervention in Mali, which in fact posed dangerous threats to peace, stability and ongoing development activities of member-states of the AES (Alliance of Sahel States). The AU has suspended AES member-states in its activities and supported heinous sanctions to punish Africans in the Sahel region for rallying their support behind their leaders. The interventionist AU’s call, far from being a humanitarian necessity, it is a grave misstep that further harms Africans in the Sahel.

SaS-CaN has concluded that, the interventionist AU’s call offers France and its proxy terrorist outfits on the ground, a dangerous façade of false recognition at a time when these evil, satanic terrorist groups are hell-bent on pursuing a heinous and genocidal campaign against the Sahel region. This latest attack on the Sahel by the AU does not serve the interests of peace, security or justice for African people. Instead, the continent’s august body encourages France and its allies in and outside Africa to subject Africans to collective punishment.

The interventionist AU’s call is not an isolated error, but a signal that the continent’s august body has abandon its vision and mission, and exposes its broader failure since the genocide campaign in Libya in 2011. We note that any attempts by the AU to implement its stated agenda for the continent will only end to naught. One would ask what the AU done to have resolved the proxy genocide campaigns in Libya, The Sudan, Somalia, The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Mozambique, Ethiopia, Eritrea or Nigeria. The AU takes action only when the neo-colonial agenda of foreign powers is under attack, and this is total betrayal to the conscience of Africans everywhere in the global village.

In light of these grave realities, SaS-CaN is urgently calling upon the AU to exercise the courageous and principled leadership that Africa demands this moment. The AU must immediately and unequivocally sever all ties with all those powers that are fanning the embers of terrorism in Africa. We expect that the AU recognizes the gravity of this call and will ensure no foreign military establishments to any of the countries neighbouring the Sahel region.

The AU must recognize and engage with the AES. The AES is the genuine representative of the Sahel states and has demonstrated its commitment to accompany the AU achieving stated goals that best serve the interests of the African people. The AU must come out plainly to reject and condemn France’s neo-colonial aggression in Africa, and must stop clinging to empty rhetoric and prove its sincerity to stand for Africa. Anything less will only prolong the AU’s complicity in the genocide campaign in the Sahel region.

Furthermore, the criminal activities of the terrorist groups in the Sahel region demand urgent and principled response, particularly this time that the terrorist groups have changed their strategies, by launching attacks to starve whole population. The AU can repair its image and restore its continental relevance by responding to the threats posed by terrorism in the Sahel region. History will judge the AU, at this most critical moment for Africa, by making the right decision without compromising its original vision and mission. Above all, we urge the AU to reject the path of hypocrisy and complicity, and instead chart a course grounded in humanity, solidarity, and respect for the rights and dignity of the African people.

In solidarity with the AES!
Signed:
Alimamy Bakarr Sankoh
Co-founder and President
The Sahel Solidarity Campaign Network (SaS-CaN)

Notes: The crises in the Sahel region are driven by a “toxic mix” of armed conflict, political instability, and extreme poverty, all exacerbated by climate change. The region, which includes countries like Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, faces escalating violence from groups like al-Qaeda and ISIS affiliates, leading to massive displacement, food insecurity, and a desperate need for humanitarian aid. Inadequate responses that focus on security over development have worsened the situation, and many countries are experiencing political upheaval, including recent military coups. 

The post CALL FOR THE AFRICAN UNION TO OFFER RESPONSIBLE SOLUTIONS TO THE CRISES IN THE SAHEL REGION appeared first on The Maravi Post.

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The National Advocacy Platform (NAP) has strongly condemned alarming remarks by former Member of Parliament Kamlepo Kalua, who publicly threatened to use violenc⁷e to disrupt citizen-led demonstrations in Malawi.

In a statement signed by NAP Chairperson Benedicto Kondowe and National Coordinator Baxton Nkhoma, the organization said Kalua claimed to possess military uniforms and equipment he has “hidden for years,” warned of a “blood bath,” and threatened to invade Parliament and the judiciary to “throw them out” and incite chaos.

He also singled out individual human rights defenders (HRDs), placing them at heightened risk of intimidation and harm.

NAP described these statements as reckless, irresponsible and dangerous, emphasizing that they pose a direct threat to national security, constitutional order, and democratic governance.

“Malawi’s Constitution guarantees the right to peacefully assemble and demonstrate under Section 38. By threatening violence, Mr. Kalua has openly defied the Constitution and violated Sections 12 and 15, which uphold human rights and the rule of law,” the statement read.

The organization also noted that the alleged possession of military equipment by a civilian is illegal under the Defence Act and the Penal Code.

NAP called on the Malawi Police Service and the Malawi Defence Force to urgently investigate these claims, stressing that they cannot be dismissed as political rhetoric.

Kalua’s threats, NAP added, also contravene international and regional human rights obligations, including Article 20 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 11 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

“Such statements tarnish Malawi’s reputation as a democracy grounded in respect for human rights and the rule of law. Violent rhetoric of this nature risks undermining these efforts and destabilizing the nation’s democratic progress,” the organization warned.

NAP urged law enforcement agencies to act decisively to ensure accountability, including probing the alleged illegal military equipment.

The organization further called on the Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) to unequivocally condemn these threats and uphold democratic values and human rights.

The post NAP condemns Kamlepo Kalua’s violent threats appeared first on The Maravi Post.

…….Government confirms receipt of all three investigative reports into the tragic military plane crash that killed Vice President Saulos Chilima and eight others.

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Charles Mhango has confirmed that his office has officially received all three reports related to the military plane crash that claimed the lives of Vice President Dr. Saulos Chilima and eight others.

Mhango made the announcement on Monday, stating that the reports are now under review by the Ministry of Justice to determine the next steps in accordance with legal and constitutional procedures.

He, however, ruled out any conspiracy theories or claims of foul play, stressing that there is no credible evidence in the reports to support such allegations.

“The reports have been received and are being analyzed by my office,” Mhango said. “At this stage, I wish to clarify that the information contained therein does not point to any conspiracy. Speculation at this point is unnecessary and unhelpful.”

The minister’s remarks come amid growing public speculation and debate surrounding the true cause of the crash, which occurred in June 2024, killing Malawi’s vice president and eight military officers.

The tragedy shocked the nation and triggered widespread mourning, with many Malawians calling for transparency and accountability in the investigation process.

According to Mhango, the three reports were compiled separately by the Malawi Defence Force (MDF), the Civil Aviation Authority, and an independent international investigation team that was brought in to ensure objectivity and technical accuracy.

He emphasized that the government remains committed to full disclosure, but that any information released to the public must be factual and verified to avoid fueling unnecessary controversy.

“The loss of Dr. Chilima and his team remains one of the darkest moments in our national history,” Mhango said. “We owe it to their memory and to the Malawian people to handle this matter with the utmost care, transparency, and integrity.”

He also urged citizens and the media to exercise restraint and avoid spreading unverified information on social media, noting that such actions undermine public trust and disrupt the ongoing review process.

The Justice Minister said once his office completes the review, a consolidated report will be presented to President Peter Mutharika and then shared with the public through appropriate channels.

Meanwhile, families of the victims continue to seek closure and assurance that the government will take necessary measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The final findings of the review are expected to clarify outstanding questions about the cause of the crash and the recommendations for improving the safety of government and military flights in Malawi.

The post Justice Minister Charles Mhango reviewing Chilima plane crash reports for action appeared first on The Maravi Post.

….Lilongwe court releases accused on strict conditions, including new sureties and mandatory police reporting

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Lilongwe Senior Resident Magistrate Court has granted bail to eight suspects accused of disturbing peaceful demonstrations by civil servants at Area 18 Memorial Tower on March 19, 2025.

The accused were reportedly involved in acts that disrupted the ongoing demonstrations, which were organized by civil servants demanding improved working conditions and timely salary adjustments.

According to court records, the suspects denied the charges leveled against them, maintaining their innocence and asserting that they were wrongfully accused.

It has been established that the same individuals are already on bail in three other separate cases currently pending before different courts.

Despite their previous bail status, the suspects were re-arrested last week shortly after being granted bail by Magistrate Wanangwa Nyirenda in one of their other ongoing matters.

Presiding over the case, Resident Magistrate Precious Kondowe granted the suspects bail upon fulfilling specific financial and procedural conditions.

Each suspect was released on a bail bond of K200,000, while two new sureties — different from those in their other three cases — were each bonded at K2 million.

Magistrate Kondowe emphasized that the sureties must be reliable individuals of good standing who can ensure that the accused comply with all bail conditions and attend all future court proceedings.

As part of the bail conditions, the suspects are required to report to Area 30 Police Headquarters every fortnight on Fridays.

They have also been strictly warned against interfering with witnesses or engaging in any activities that might jeopardize ongoing investigations.

The court further cautioned that any violation of these conditions would result in an immediate revocation of bail and possible remand pending trial.

Observers have noted that the case continues to attract public interest, given the repeated court appearances of the accused and their involvement in multiple ongoing legal proceedings.

The matter has since been adjourned to a later date for further hearing, with prosecutors expected to present witness testimonies and additional evidence.

The development marks yet another chapter in the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to maintain order and uphold justice following a series of demonstrations in the capital earlier this year.

The post Eight suspected MCP regime’s panga-wielding thugs granted bail appeared first on The Maravi Post.

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Film Association of Malawi (Fama) has roped in filmmakers from Nigeria and Ghana for the Malawi Film Awards & Gala.

The Gala awards are slated for December 19, 2025 at Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in the capital Lilongwe.

Among the confirmed guests including Ghanaian actress Juliet Ibrahim and Nigerian actors Ada Kilikili and Osuagu Victor.

According to Fama, the filmmakers will be accompanied by the Nigerian president of the Actors Guild, Emeka Rollas. South African actor Zolisa Xaluva was also recently announced as a confirmed guest.

Fama President Dorothy Kingston said, “The event is designed to celebrate Malawian talent while providing a platform for interaction with accomplished regional and international film personalities”

Kingston add, “The event is for all Malawians. It is an opportunity for local filmmakers, actors, and enthusiasts to meet people who inspire them and learn from their experiences.”

The gala will also feature film screenings, masterclasses, and awards to recognise contributions in the local film industry.

This is a special occasion as Malawians will have a glimpse of what it takes to watch these famous international actors this time around on the local stage.

The post FAMA ropes in Nigerian, Ghanaian movies makers for Dec 19 Gala Awards appeared first on The Maravi Post.

ANKARA-(MaraviPost)-The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has taken unprecedented action, suspending 1,024 players across all levels of the country’s football system amid an ongoing investigation into illegal betting and match-fixing.

According to a statement released by the TFF on Tuesday night the suspensions come after weeks of intelligence gathering in cooperation with the Turkish National Police and the Ministry of Sports.

The investigation reportedly uncovered extensive evidence linking several players, club officials and betting syndicates to suspicious betting activities that influenced match outcomes.

Among those suspended are 27 players from the Turkish Süper Lig, the country’s top flight, who have now been referred to the Professional Football Disciplinary Board (PFDK) for further hearings.

The federation confirmed that the players face possible lifetime bans if found guilty of manipulating games for financial gain.

TFF President Mehmet Büyükekşi described the revelations as “the darkest moment in Turkish football in decades,” promising full transparency and zero tolerance for corruption.

The TFF has postponed all matches in the 3rd and 4th divisions for two weeks, citing the need to protect the integrity of the sport while investigations continue.

Clubs affected by the suspensions are expected to face serious disruptions, as many teams in the lower leagues have lost key players overnight.

Reports from indicate that investigators are also scrutinizing betting patterns connected to online platforms based in Cyprus, Eastern Europe and Asia, where large sums were wagered on low-tier Turkish games.

Meanwhile, the Turkish government has announced plans to tighten anti betting laws and expand the Sports Integrity Unit, which will now monitor all professional and semi professional competitions in real time.

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House Republicans say they have the votes to end the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, a vote today could send the bill to President Trump’s desk by nightfall. The FAA warns that flight disruptions will continue even after the government reopens, as air traffic controller shortages strain the nation’s aviation system. And the U.S. deploys its largest aircraft carrier to the Caribbean, escalating tensions with Venezuela.

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…..Former HRDC activist turns political ally, emphasizing commitment to governance over street activism.

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Former rights activist and now Alliance for Democracy (AFORD) Vice President Timothy Mtambo has issued a fiery statement that is sending shockwaves through both critics and allies.

In the statement, Mtambo declared his unwavering loyalty to AFORD and the current Mutharika administration, signaling a clear political alignment.

He also moved to distance himself from alleged plans for nationwide protests, emphasizing that he will not support actions that could destabilize the country.

Mtambo, who was once the face of Malawi’s street activism through the Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC), acknowledged his past role in mobilizing citizens for civic causes.

However, he said that he is now fully committed to working within the political system, helping President Arthur Peter Mutharika and the government achieve their policy goals.

The former activist stressed that constructive engagement within government structures is more effective than demonstrations and confrontational tactics.

Mtambo’s statement underscores a broader shift in his political trajectory, from grassroots activism to formal participation in political leadership and governance.

Observers note that this move could strengthen AFORD’s influence in national politics while signaling to citizens that Mtambo intends to support stability rather than street-based protest.

Critics, however, may view his alignment with the Mutharika administration as a departure from his earlier activist principles, raising questions about the independence of former HRDC leaders now in politics.

Supporters argue that Mtambo’s transition reflects maturity in political strategy, focusing on delivering tangible results for the nation rather than relying on demonstrations.

By publicly rejecting plans for nationwide protests, Mtambo is also sending a message to fellow activists that dialogue and cooperation with government are the preferred channels for change.

This development marks a new chapter in Malawi’s political landscape, where former activists are increasingly integrating into formal political structures while maintaining influence over civic discourse.

Mtambo concluded his statement by reaffirming his dedication to AFORD’s values and promising to work diligently in collaboration with the government to advance national development.

The announcement has generated intense discussion among political analysts, civil society, and the general public, highlighting the evolving role of former HRDC leaders in shaping Malawi’s governance and political stability.

The post Timothy Mtambo pledges loyalty to AFORD Mutharika Govt, rejects nationwide protests appeared first on The Maravi Post.

Tom Bergeron made his long-awaited return to the Dancing With the Stars ballroom to mark the 20th anniversary of the show.

Bergeron, 70, served as a guest judge during the Tuesday, November 11, episode of the ABC reality competition series, joining Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough at the judges table to score the remaining couples’ dances.

Current host Alfonso Ribeiro kicked off the night by asking his dear friend Bergeron to introduce the show.

“I’d love too,” he said, shortly before new cohost Julianne Hough started tearing up when they all walked down the ballroom steps.  The veteran host added, “I am thrilled to be here, it’s such a rush. So great to see you all, and we have a number of familiar faces in the audiences.”

‘Dancing With the Stars’ Hosts Through the Years

Before taking a seat at the judge’s table, Bergeron revealed just what he was looking for from the remaining competitors.

“You’e a week away from the semifinals, so I’m looking for the type of dance that induces goosebumps,” he said. “But since I’m sitting next to Bruno, I’m also trying to avoid a concussion.”

Tonioli, for his part, showed off his signature hand gestures.

The 20th anniversary episode of Dancing With the Stars also included first round dances set to music from iconic freestyles throughout the show’s run and, for the first time ever, competitive dances by the celebrity contestants without their pro partners for bonus points.

As for Bergeron, he hosted Dancing With the Stars for its first 28 seasons. Over the years, he was joined by cohosts Lisa Canning in season 1, Samantha Harris for seasons 2 through 9, Brooke Burke for seasons 10 through 17 and Erin Andrews for seasons 18 through 28.

After serving as the main host since the June 2005 premiere, Bergeron and his then-cohost, Andrews, now 47, were axed in July 2020. Tyra Banks replaced the pair as the host of season 29, while current hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough took over in season 32.

Biggest ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Controversies Through the Years

“I think it’s all about evolution. I think any show like this that has been on many, many seasons needs to continue to evolve,” executive producer Andrew Llinares told reporters in September 2020 of the decision to part ways with Bergeron and Andrews. “I think changing the host was all about evolution, it was about making the show feel fresh, making it feel new [and] kind of make it reach out — maybe to a new audience as well, as well as the audience that’s been there for years.”

Bergeron’s exit came after he publicly criticized Dancing With the Stars for casting former White House press secretary Sean Spicer for season 28. He later confirmed the mounting tensions behind the scenes of the show factored into his departure.

“In all candor, the show that I left was not the show that I loved,” he said during an October 2021 episode of the “Bob Saget’s Here for You” podcast. “So, the end of the season that turned out to be my last season [in 2019], I kind of knew. So I took everything out of my dressing room that I really wanted. … It was kind of obvious that we were kind of butting heads.”

Despite lingering disappointment about his dismissal from the show, Bergeron looked back on his time there fondly.

Every ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Pro Who Has Left and Why

“I look at the math and 95 percent of my experience was really quite wonderful,” he noted during an October 2023 episode of Cheryl Burke’s “Sex, Lies and Spray Tans” podcast.

Bergeron is not the only familiar face to return to Dancing With the Stars during its milestone 20th year. Burke, 41, stopped by Halloween Night on October 28 to serve as a guest judge after concluding her lengthy tenure as a pro in 2022.

Dancing With the Stars’ Most Shocking Eliminations Over the Years

“It’s so special to go back home, I guess, to a place where I have spent most of my life in that ballroom,” Burke exclusively told Us Weekly on October 23.

Burke also reflected on her “heartbreaking” exit, describing it as “the hardest decision of my life.”

“I mean, I’ve spent most of my life on that show, so I think the umbilical cord is still attached,” she explained. “Like, I love the show, and I have so many great memories, and it’s changed my life. It helped me find my voice in general, like, when I look back at my audition, it’s just insanity. I would say that I am the woman I am today because of the show, and I am grateful to just even be asked back and to also bring another perspective.”

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