Today's Voice Africa - Page eight

In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is experiencing unexpected setbacks, trailing in 15 of its historically stronghold constituencies despite leading in 79 out of the 94 seats it had secured in the last three elections. Key states affected include Maharashtra and Rajasthan.

Claudia Sheinbaum, former mayor of Mexico City, is on track to make history as Mexico's first female president. Preliminary results indicate she secured a significant majority, riding the popularity of outgoing President López Obrador and the Morena party. Sheinbaum aims to continue López Obrador's policies amidst significant challenges, including high crime rates and political violence.

Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham emerge as leading contenders for the Ballon d'Or 2024 following their exceptional performances in Real Madrid's Champions League victory. The rankings also feature Kylian Mbappe, Phil Foden, and Harry Kane as top candidates. Upcoming Euro championships and Copa America to play a crucial role in the final vote.

Chelsea appears to be in pole position to sign Fulham center-back Tosin Adarabioyo on a free transfer. The Blues have outbid Newcastle, appealing to Adarabioyo's aspirations and securing European football for next season. This move comes as Chelsea addresses their need for a new central defender after Thiago Silva's departure, aligning with new coach Enzo Maresca’s football philosophy.

In a thrilling warm-up match before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, the West Indies secured a 35-run victory over Australia in Port of Spain. Nicholas Pooran and Rovman Powell's explosive batting helped post a massive 257 for four. Despite Josh Inglis's efforts, Australia couldn't chase the target. Meanwhile, Namibia narrowly defeated Papua New Guinea by three runs in another rain-affected warm-up match.

Former Roma manager Jose Mourinho has signed a two-year deal with Turkish football club Fenerbahce. Following his departure from Roma in January, Mourinho attracted several offers from Turkish teams but ultimately chose Fenerbahce. The negotiations between Mourinho's agent and Fenerbahce's sporting director, both Portuguese, led to a deal that extends until 2026, with an official announcement expected shortly.

An unfounded claim on social media suggested the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has been ordered to disqualify the African National Congress (ANC) from the upcoming 2024 general elections due to alleged wrongdoings. The IEC refuted the claim, stating it adheres strictly to the Electoral Code of Conduct and legal processes for any breaches.

Indiana Pacers face a crucial Game 4 against the Boston Celtics in the NBA playoffs, aiming to avoid a sweep. Despite trailing 3-0, the Pacers are determined to delay their elimination and prevent the Celtics from celebrating on their home court.

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has dismissed allegations of vote rigging in KwaZulu-Natal and condemned threats toward its officials ahead of the National and Provincial Elections. The IEC assured the security of its logistical arrangements and emphasized that unauthorized persons are strictly prohibited from election storage sites.

The West Indies clinched the T20I series victory against South Africa, led by Roston Chase's maiden T20I half-century. Despite the absence of several key players, the West Indies showcased their depth and resilience, posting a formidable total and sealing the series with impressive performances across the board.

Morgan Spurlock, the acclaimed director behind the eye-opening documentary 'Super Size Me,' has passed away at the age of 53 due to cancer complications. His work significantly contributed to public discourse on nutrition and the fast food industry. Spurlock's career, although marred by personal controversies, leaves behind a lasting impact on documentary filmmaking.

Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti of Tennessee is investigating Naussany Investments and Private Lending LLC for allegedly attempting to fraudulently foreclose on Graceland. This comes after a lawsuit from Elvis Presley's granddaughter, Riley Keough, claimed the loan documents were forged. The foreclosure sale has been stopped, and concerns about the authenticity of the documents are being scrutinized.