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Chad last month ended military cooperation with its former colonial power, and French troops began leaving the country last week. France has handed over its first military base as part of the withdrawal of its military forces from Chad, the French and Chadian militaries say. Chad’s chief of military staff on Thursday said the base at Faya-Largeau in the north of the country had been handed over and the army would inform the public about progress concerning the withdrawal of French forces from bases in the eastern city of Abeche and the capital, N’Djamena. Chad’s military said French troops had left in vehicles for N’Djamena, 780km (480 miles) to the south, without providing a precise figure. The French army had about 1,000 personnel in the country. “The handover took place in accordance with the calendar and the conditions agreed with Chad,” the French military chief of staff said separately. Chad last month ended military cooperation with its former colonial power, and French troops began leaving the country on Friday, 10 days after French warplanes left. The move came as Chad prepares to hold parliamentary and local elections on Sunday. Chad’s military said an Antonov 124 took off on Thursday with 70 tonnes of cargo on board as part of the withdrawal. French authorities said military vehicles would leave by January and be repatriated via the Cameroonian port of Douala. Chad had been a key link in France’s military presence in Africa and its last foothold in the wider Sahel region after the withdrawal of French troops from Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger in the wake of a series of military coups. The military authorities in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger have pivoted towards Russia in recent years. Landlocked Chad borders the Central African Republic, Sudan, Libya and Niger, all of which host paramilitary forces from Russia’s Africa Corps, which took over the operations of the Wagner mercenary group on the continent. Chad’s leader, General Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, has also sought closer ties with Moscow in recent months, but talks to strengthen economic cooperation have yet to bear concrete results. French soldiers and fighter aircraft have been stationed in Chad almost continuously since the country’s independence in 1960. They have helped train the Chadian military. The planes provided air support that proved crucial on several occasions in stopping rebels moving to seize power. The election of Deby in May brought an end to a three-year political transition triggered by his father’s death in fighting with rebels in 2021. Longtime ruler Idriss Deby Itno had received support from the French army to quell rebel offensives in 2008 and 2019.

A multi-agency operation targeting small businesses and cross-border transporters involved in smuggling and unethical practices has led to the impounding of dozens of vehicles, including buses and haulage trucks, and the confiscation of illicit goods such as foodstuffs and second-hand clothes. The operation, spearheaded by a high-level task force established by the Cabinet, is a response to the growing threat smuggling poses to local industries, consumer welfare, and government revenue. The task force, led by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, includes the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra), the Zimbabwe Republic Police, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ), and the Consumer Protection Commission, among others. The crackdown has seen the establishment of 24-hour roadblocks along major highways leading to cities. Teams comprising law enforcement and regulatory bodies are inspecting vehicles suspected of carrying smuggled goods, while retail outlets are undergoing surprise inspections to verify the legality of their stock. Businesses unable to provide proper documentation risk hefty fines and the seizure of goods. The operation is set to intensify during the festive season, a period notorious for increased smuggling activities. Returning expatriates, often bringing undeclared goods, have been identified as a significant factor exacerbating challenges faced by local manufacturers. Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Professor Mthuli Ncube, emphasized the importance of the operation in protecting Zimbabwe's economy and local businesses. "This is a critical issue, and we want to deal with the smuggling which is negatively impacting local businesses. The government is losing revenue, and this cannot be allowed to continue," he said. Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the operation's role in promoting ethical business practices and safeguarding the local manufacturing industry. "Business malpractices, including smuggling, currency manipulation, and the sale of counterfeit goods, undermine consumer welfare and threaten job creation. This task force is a proactive measure to restore order and ensure compliance with laws and regulations," said Minister Ndlovu. Zimra has warned that all travellers and cross-border traders must declare goods at ports of entry, stressing that failure to comply could lead to severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and confiscation of goods. "The roadblocks are part of a post-clearance audit process to ensure customs compliance. Non-declaration contributes to revenue losses and disrupts market stability," Zimra said in a statement. In his 2025 National Budget presentation, Prof Ncube decried the prevalence of smuggling, noting its impact on public health, safety, and the economy. "Smuggling undermines local production, discourages investment, and creates an uneven playing field. The government is committed to reviewing anti-smuggling strategies, including the introduction of drones at ports of entry and complementary measures to curb this illicit activity," he said. Authorities have also raised concerns over the safety of smuggled goods, particularly food items, medicines, and alcohol, which evade health and safety checks. The government has pledged to enforce strict measures to protect consumer welfare, including confiscating expired and fake products during inspections. The multi-agency task force plans to sustain its momentum to ensure long-term compliance. Businesses are urged to adhere to established laws and regulations to avoid disruptions, while consumers are encouraged to report any unethical practices to the authorities. "Forewarned is forearmed," Minister Ndlovu emphasized, urging all stakeholders to treat the matter with the seriousness it deserves.Equity Bancshares, Inc. Will Announce Fourth Quarter 2024 Results on January 22, 2025

After 149 shows, an estimated US$2 billion in revenue and countless outfit changes, Taylor Swift takes to the stage tonight in Vancouver for the final show of her record-smashing Eras Tour. It’s the superstar’s third sold-out night at BC Place, where she has received a delirious welcome from Swifties both local and international. Swift has reciprocated the feeling, telling the audience on Friday night that she chose Canada and Vancouver to close out the tour because the fans not only know the lyrics, they “scream them.” Swifties have been planning something special to end the tour, with Swift forums abuzz with suggestions to surprise her by singing “Happy Birthday” at tonight’s show, ahead of Swift’s 35th birthday on Dec. 13. Fan projects like this have been a big part of the Eras Tour, with chants and patterned clapping breaking out during various songs. University of Kansas sociology professor and “Swiftologist” Brian Donovan says such moments of joyous social solidarity are known as “collective effervescence.” “What is interesting about the Eras Tour is that it also brought about unique cultural things like the trading of friendship bracelets,” he said, noting such practices were fan-driven and were not organized by Swift or her team. Swiftie Jenny Fox got tickets to Saturday’s show after seeing daughter Avery’s reaction to the Eras Tour movie. “I texted my husband in the theatre and said that if this is how it is in a movie theatre, I can’t even imagine what it would be like to see and experience this in real life in a massive stadium and to see the joy on Avery’s face,” she said. University of British Columbia philosophy professor Kimberley Brownlee said Swift’s concerts and the fans’ involvement have provided something “glorious,” and a “joy we get to share in collectively.” Before Swift’s Vancouver dates, she performed six shows in Toronto last month. Canada was announced as a late addition to the tour last year. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had previously pleaded with the star on social media to visit Canada, telling her “don’t make it another cruel summer.” Trudeau and family members were among Swifties at the Toronto shows, as were former U.S. president Bill Clinton and wife Hillary. For Fox, attending the tour in Vancouver with her daughter has special meaning. Fox is the primary caretaker for her own mother, who has late-stage Alzheimer’s. Music, she said, has become the last connection to the person her mom once was. “As soon as we put certain music on, mom comes back,” she said. “So music is very near and dear to us. We play a lot of music, and a lot of Taylor Swift with her, so there is that love and memory and special tie to it.” She says music endures, and attending The Eras Tour together will be something she and Avery can hold on to. “It’s something that we will forever remember,” she said.Friday, December 27, 2024 Facebook Instagram Twitter WhatsApp Youtube Personal Finance Education Entertainment Jobs Alert Sports Hindi Technology Complaint Redressal. Fact-Checking Policy Correction policy Authors and Team DNPA Code of Ethics Onwership and Funding Cookie Policy Terms of Service Disclaimer Contact US About Us More Search Home Personal Finance PF New Rules: 5 new rules of EPFO ​​will be implemented in... Personal Finance PF New Rules: 5 new rules of EPFO ​​will be implemented in the new year, know what will be the effect on the employees By Shyamu Maurya December 27, 2024 0 20 Share Facebook Twitter Pinterest WhatsApp Telegram PF New Rules: 5 new rules of EPFO ​​will be implemented in the new year, know what will be the effect on the employees EPFO is making important changes for pensioners. Under the new rules, pensioners will be able to withdraw their pension from any bank in the country without any additional verification. PF New Rules: The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has announced some major changes in guidelines and policies for its crores of subscribers. Most of these changes are likely to come into effect from the new year. The retirement fund body is preparing to launch many new facilities for its subscribers. The purpose of these new rules is to provide more convenience to PF account holders and help them manage their retirement fund in a better way. These changes will benefit both private sector employees and government employees. Let’s know about these new rules. 5 new rules for PF account Facility to withdraw PF money from ATM EPFO has decided to issue an ATM card to provide more convenience to the members, which will provide 24/7 fund withdrawal facility to the subscribers. This ATM withdrawal facility is expected to start in the financial year 2025-26. With the implementation of the new guidelines, subscribers will be able to easily withdraw funds anytime in 24 hours. This will also save a lot of time for the subscribers. Currently, they have to wait for about 7 to 10 days to receive PF money in their bank account. Employee contribution limit may change Another major change coming next year is the change in EPF contribution limit for employees. Currently, employees contribute 12% of their basic salary to the EPF account every month. However, the government is considering allowing employees to contribute based on their actual salary instead of the Rs 15,000 fixed by the EPFO. Once this policy is implemented, employees will be able to accumulate a larger fund till their retirement and receive more pension every month. EPFO IT system upgrade EPFO is upgrading its IT infrastructure, which will allow PF claimants and beneficiaries to easily withdraw their deposits. It is expected that this upgrade will be completed by June 2025. Once the IT infrastructure is upgraded, members’ claims will be settled faster than before. Besides, this will increase transparency and reduce cases of fraud. Facility to invest in equity EPFO is considering allowing its members to invest in equity. This will give PF account holders the option to manage their funds more effectively. If the retirement fund body allows direct equity investment, members can expect high returns. Easy pension withdrawal EPFO is making important changes for pensioners. Under the new rule, pensioners will be able to withdraw their pension from any bank in the country without any additional verification. This move will be very convenient for the members and will also save a lot of their time as they will be able to withdraw their pension from any bank. Tags PF New Rules Share Facebook Twitter Pinterest WhatsApp Telegram Previous article Banking System: Now bank will fine you Rs 100 per day if the transaction fails; Know RBI rules Next article Tax Free Salary: There will be no tax on salary up to ₹ 10,50,000? preparations are being made to give relief to middle class taxpayers Shyamu Maurya Shyamu has done Degree in Fine Arts and has knowledge about bollywood industry. He started writing in 2018. Since then he has been associated with Informalnewz. 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Mention the FBI, and many older Americans will likely think of a time when the agency was run by J. Edgar Hoover , who spent much of his nearly half-century tenure at the agency harassing political dissidents and abusing his power. But as former FBI counterterrorism expert Javed Ali explains, the role of both the FBI and its leader have dramatically shifted over time. The Conversation’s politics editor Naomi Schalit asked Ali, who now teaches courses in national security and intelligence at the University of Michigan, to explain just what a modern FBI director does as President-elect Donald Trump aims to name his own director to replace current FBI head Christopher Wray, whom Trump appointed in 2017 . Wray has said he will resign in January 2025. Naomi Schalit : Let’s start with FBI 101. What does the agency do? Javed Ali : The FBI began as the country’s lead federal criminal investigative agency in 1909, then named the Bureau of Investigation , or BOI. Previously, organizations like the Secret Service and the U.S. Marshall’s Service had responsibility for investigating federal crimes, but the introduction of the BOI began the tenure for what became the Federal Bureau of Investigation in 1935 to now. Over this 100-plus-year stretch, the FBI has focused on investigating federal crimes on matters like racketeering, fraud, public corruption, illegal financial schemes and organized crime, to name a few. But despite the general public perceptions of the FBI as the nation’s premier crime-fighting organization, as revealed in the iconic FBI badge, logo and early depictions of “G-men,” the FBI has always focused on national security threats to the nation. That focus was evident as early as the 1910s – before World War I – as the FBI investigated suspected saboteurs and spies . During the 1930s and 1940s, the FBI focused on individuals linked to the Axis powers of Germany, Italy and Japan, and communists and Bolsheviks as the Soviet Union grew in power. During the Cold War, in the FBI’s zeal to root out and prevent Soviet influence in the United States, it began arguably the darkest chapter in the organization’s history. Beginning in the mid-1950s and called COINTELPRO , these efforts through the 1960s included domestic surveillance, intelligence collection and disinformation campaigns without court-ordered approvals against Americans suspected of receiving money or other forms of support from the Soviet Union – even though the factual bases for these concerns were often flimsy, at best. The FBI’s focus on terrorists and spies continued for decades after and intensified in the 1990s with the emergence of jihadist threats in the United States and abroad. Despite the warning signs of attacks in the run-up to 9/11, a number of gaps and challenges remained within the FBI, which contributed to those attacks and led to major reforms within the organization. While counterterrorism and counterintelligence have remained significant priorities since 9/11, the FBI also increased its efforts on cybersecurity , demonstrating the continuing evolution of the organization’s national security focus as new threats emerge and legacy threats recede. Schalit : What is the role of the head of the FBI? Ali : The FBI director is presidentially appointed and Senate-confirmed, but is not a member of the cabinet. The FBI is a subagency within the Department of Justice , whose head, the attorney general, is a cabinet member. The FBI director is appointed to serve a full 10-year term that theoretically insulates the director from political pressure. There’s no one-size-fits-all background for the FBI director. Some have been chosen because of their familiarity and knowledge of federal law enforcement from the legal side or from the eyes of an agent. After Hoover, some have been former judges like William Webster , or former prosecutors or Department of Justice attorneys like James Comey , Robert Mueller , Christopher Wray or President Trump’s current nominee-designate, Kash Patel . One – Louis Freeh – was a former FBI special agent . Schalit : You were at the FBI working in the headquarters between 2007 and 2010. During this time, Robert Mueller was the director, and you worked closely enough that you were able to see how he ran the organization. What are the actual tasks that an FBI director undertakes? Ali : Mueller was very much focused on pulling the FBI as an organization into a different mindset, but also organizationally and bureaucratically, to face the terrorist threat landscape that the country was confronting after 9/11. Part of that entailed transforming the FBI into an intelligence-driven organization that used information to prevent national security threats from occurring, or disrupt them, rather than responding to and investigating crimes after they occurred. At times he would stay at the 50,000-foot level and think big picture thoughts and try to make sure that the bureau was moving in the direction that he had set forth, or doing what Congress and the White House wanted him to do. On the flip side, there were moments when Director Mueller would dive into the details of specific counterterrorism investigations and cases, and ask questions of his senior team in order to ensure he had a good understanding of what was happening in the field. These were the kind of questions any FBI director would ask of his staff about such investigations, such as: how many FBI resources were involved in conducting a particular operation, the value of any intelligence being collected, the ability of an individual or group under investigation to carry out an attack, and what, if any, legal basis existed to conduct an arrest on a federal criminal charge to prevent an attack from occurring. These kinds of high-stakes deliberations happened on a routine basis, underscoring the depth of the responsibilities an FBI director carries with the position. And knowing what is happening in the field is important, since the FBI is not just a Washington, D.C.-based organization. There are 55 field offices throughout the United States and Puerto Rico , and the bulk of the FBI workforce is distributed across those – with Washington, D.C., New York City and Los Angeles the three biggest – in addition to FBI personnel posted overseas as part of the legal attache program or on temporary assignments around the world. Schalit : Who sets the agenda of the FBI? Ali : The FBI director has to manage multiple relationships in order to carry out the duties of the position effectively. The director reports both to the attorney general and the president, is overseen by judiciary and intelligence committees in Congress, and likewise has to maintain the trust and confidence of the American people to investigate crimes and prevent national security threats. In some administrations, the relationship between the president and the FBI director has been lukewarm. In those cases, the attorney general is the one setting the course for the FBI. That’s where the president or other senior White House staff, for the most part, either have confidence in the FBI director and the attorney general and what they’re doing or it’s just not as much of a priority for them. And then there are other times where the president really wants to know what the FBI director is doing, making sure that they are moving on the priorities that the president sets. But again, that has to be confined to staying within the Constitution and staying within the FBI internal guidelines . This story is part of a series of profiles of Cabinet and high-level administration positions.