May 2024 News Archive – What Happened This Month
If you want a fast look at what mattered in May, you’re in the right spot. We’ve gathered the biggest headlines from politics, sports, entertainment and health that made waves across Africa and beyond.
Politics & Global Events
South Africa’s election season kicked into high gear. Helen Zille of the Democratic Alliance warned that ethnic identity voting is shaping the race, with new parties like the MK Party pulling in Zulu speakers and the Patriotic Alliance courting coloured voters. The ANC still led with over 1.5 million votes, but the competition felt tighter than ever.
On the world stage, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to keep the Gaza offensive alive despite global criticism after a deadly Rafah air strike. The UN and EU called for an immediate pause, but the conflict’s intensity showed no sign of easing.
Back in Kenya, six people convicted of murdering former Juja MP George Thuo are set to be sentenced on June 21. The case involved a club owner, an aide, two DJs, a waiter and a patron – all linked by a poison‑laden death that shocked the community.
Sports & Entertainment Buzz
Football fans got plenty of drama. Chelsea floated Enzo Maresca as a possible new manager while also splashing cash on 17‑year‑old Brazilian winger Estevao Willian, nicknamed “Messinho.” Meanwhile, Bayern Munich entered talks with former defender Vincent Kompany for the top job.
In MLS, Atlanta United beat Inter Miami 3‑1 thanks to Saba Lobjanidze’s Messi‑like two‑goal show. Even Lionel Messi scored for Miami, but it wasn’t enough to stop Atlanta’s surge.
Tennis eyes were on Rafael Nadal as he prepared to face Alexander Zverev in the first round of Roland Garros 2024. After a tough injury spell, Nadal hoped his experience could push him past the German star.
England announced its provisional Euro 2024 squad, dropping big names like Marcus Rashford and Jordan Henderson while promoting youngsters Jarell Quansah and Adam Wharton. The final list will be set by early June.
In entertainment news, DJ Cuppy was honored at Buckingham Palace and named a King’s Trust International Ambassador, highlighting her work empowering youth across Africa.
Religion saw a milestone as Blessed Carlo Acutis moved closer to sainthood after Pope Francis recognized a miracle linked to his intercession. The teen‑aged “cyber‑apostle” continues inspiring young Catholics worldwide.
Health & Investigative Stories
The UK’s historic blood scandal got renewed attention, with an inquiry exposing how contaminated blood led to thousands of hepatitis C and HIV cases in the 1970s‑80s. The report urged compensation and a formal apology, prompting government action.
Meanwhile, CNN mourned veteran political commentator Alice Stewart, who passed away at 58 after a sudden medical emergency. Her insights on Republican politics left a lasting mark on viewers.
That’s the snapshot of May 2024 on Africa Daily News – a mix of election tension, sports surprises, cultural honors and serious health reckonings. Stay tuned for more updates as stories develop.
Zille Highlights 'Ethnic Identity Vote' as Crucial in 2024 South African Elections
As early results for the 2024 South African elections come in, Helen Zille of the Democratic Alliance is confident of her party's strong performance in the Western Cape. Zille pointed out that new parties have gained traction through ethnic identity politics, with the MK Party drawing Zulu speakers and the Patriotic Alliance appealing to coloured voters. The ANC currently leads with over 1.5 million votes, ahead of the DA and other parties.
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Inter Miami Overwhelmed by Atlanta United: Saba Lobjanidze Shines Brightest with Messi-Like Brilliance
In a striking MLS match, Atlanta United emerged victorious over Inter Miami with a 3-1 scoreline at Chase Stadium. Saba Lobjanidze dazzled by netting two stunning goals, evoking Lionel Messi's signature style. Despite Messi scoring for Inter Miami, it was Atlanta's day, bolstered by Thiago Almada and a late clincher from Jamal Thiare.
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Juja Ex-MP George Thuo Murder: Sentencing of Six Convicts Set for June 21
Six individuals convicted of murdering former Juja MP George Thuo will be sentenced on June 21. Justice Roseline Korir will rule on the case involving a club owner, Thuo's aide, two DJs, a waiter, and a patron. Thuo's body was found with signs of poisoning, leading to their conviction.
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Netanyahu Pledges Ongoing Gaza Offensive Despite International Backlash Over Rafah Air Strike
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to continue the Gaza offensive despite international condemnation for a recent air strike on Rafah that resulted in 45 deaths and hundreds of injuries. The incident, termed a 'tragic mishap' by Netanyahu, has drawn criticism from global bodies including the EU and the UN. An emergency UN Security Council meeting was held to address the situation, urging an end to hostilities.
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Chelsea FC Considers Enzo Maresca as New Manager Amid Ongoing Uncertainty
Chelsea FC is reportedly eyeing Enzo Maresca for the managerial position to address uncertainty surrounding the current coaching staff. Maresca, known for his success with Under-23 teams, could bring a fresh approach to the struggling squad. The official decision is pending, keeping fans and the football community on edge.
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Rafael Nadal to Face Alexander Zverev in First Round at 2024 Roland Garros
Rafael Nadal, the 14-time Roland Garros champion, will start his 2024 campaign on May 27 against No. 4 seed Alexander Zverev. Despite injuries and missing the Australian Open, Nadal aims to make a strong comeback. With a 7-3 head-to-head lead over Zverev, this match marks the beginning of a challenging draw in Roland Garros for Nadal.
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DJ Cuppy Honored at Buckingham Palace as King's Trust International Ambassador
DJ Cuppy, a renowned Nigerian-British DJ and singer, has been honored at Buckingham Palace and appointed as an international ambassador for the King's Trust. This prestigious role underscores her dedication to empowering young people, especially girls, through education and entrepreneurship. Her tireless work with various charitable organizations has earned her this esteemed recognition.
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Blessed Carlo Acutis: From Cyber-Apostle to Future Saint
Blessed Carlo Acutis is on the path to becoming the first millennial saint after Pope Francis recognized a miracle attributed to his intercession. Carlo, who passed away at 15, used technology to spread knowledge about the Eucharist. His beatification in 2018 in Assisi drew thousands, and he's become an example of holiness for young Catholics worldwide. His canonisation date is yet to be announced.
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Bayern Munich Nears Agreement with Vincent Kompany for Manager Role
Bayern Munich is in advanced negotiations with Vincent Kompany for the managerial position after unsuccessful attempts to secure top targets like Thomas Tuchel. Kompany, admired for his style at Burnley, is poised to join Bayern, possibly by the week's end. This development follows discussions about compensation with Burnley's owner, Alan Pace.
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UK Blood Scandal: Impact, Compensation, and Inquiry Findings
The UK's infected blood scandal of the 1970s and 80s led to thousands contracting hepatitis C and HIV from unscreened foreign blood sources. The inquiry into this highlighted systemic failures and recommended compensation and a formal apology, which the government has committed to. Learn about the impacts, inquiry findings, and ongoing response efforts.
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England's Provisional Squad for Euro 2024: Bold Moves and Surprising Inclusions
England announces a provisional 33-man squad for Euro 2024 with significant names left out, including Marcus Rashford and Jordan Henderson, while youngsters like Jarell Quansah and Adam Wharton make the cut. Led by captain Harry Kane, the squad features a blend of seasoned players and fresh talent. The final selection of 26 players is to be announced by June 6.
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CNN Mourns Veteran Political Commentator Alice Stewart at 58
CNN is deeply saddened by the loss of political commentator Alice Stewart, who passed away at 58. Known for her extensive experience in Republican politics, Stewart joined CNN ahead of the 2016 election. Found in Belle View, Virginia, Stewart's death is believed to be due to a medical emergency.
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