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a positive Christmas 2025 according to the Minister of Purchasing Power

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

French Christmas Spending Jumps 10%: Minister Papin Declares Economy ‘In Good Shape’ – Breaking News

Paris, France – In a surprisingly upbeat assessment, French Minister of Commerce and SMEs, Serge Papin, revealed today that French consumers demonstrably embraced the holiday spirit, driving a significant 10% increase in spending on Christmas Eve compared to last year. This surge, particularly noticeable in accessible festive food items, suggests a resilience in the French economy that defies recent global economic headwinds. This is crucial news for investors and consumers alike, and archyde.com is bringing you the latest details.

Holiday Spending: A Sign of Economic Health?

Speaking to Le Parisien this Sunday, Minister Papin highlighted the positive trend, noting that certain major retail brands experienced increases of 15 to 20% in sales. The average Christmas basket cost approximately €155, a remarkable €1.80 cheaper than in 2024, thanks to a fall in prices and “controlled inflation.” This isn’t just about festive cheer; it’s a potential indicator of a broader economic recovery. For context, France’s economy has been navigating a period of moderate growth, heavily influenced by global supply chain issues and energy costs. This holiday spending boost could be a turning point.

Looking Ahead: New Year’s Eve and 2026 Economic Plans

The positive momentum isn’t expected to stop with Christmas. Minister Papin expressed “rather good” prospects for New Year’s Eve celebrations and the economic outlook for 2026. However, the government isn’t resting on its laurels. Papin outlined several key initiatives aimed at bolstering household purchasing power throughout the coming year. These plans build upon France’s existing social safety net, which historically prioritizes worker protections and social equity.

Boosting Purchasing Power: Minimum Wage and Profit-Sharing

A cornerstone of the government’s strategy is the recently announced 1.18% increase in the minimum wage, bringing the net amount to €1,443. But Papin emphasized that this is just one piece of the puzzle. He’s advocating for a “better sharing of value” within companies, specifically through a simplified profit-sharing system designed to be more accessible to Very Small Enterprises (VSE-SMEs). This echoes a growing global conversation about wealth distribution and the role of businesses in supporting their employees.

To further incentivize consumption, the Minister plans to convene a meeting with social partners in early January to discuss a new scheme targeting individuals with incomes below a certain threshold. Crucially, this initiative will be distinct from the existing Macron bonus, avoiding the need for new legislation. The Macron bonus, while helpful, relies on employer discretion; this new scheme aims for broader, more consistent support.

The Energy Factor: Lowering Electricity Costs

Papin also underscored the importance of continuing efforts to lower electricity prices, a key driver of inflation and a significant burden on French households. France has historically relied heavily on nuclear energy, providing a degree of insulation from global energy price shocks, but ongoing maintenance and geopolitical factors continue to pose challenges. Maintaining affordable energy is seen as vital for sustaining economic growth and protecting vulnerable populations.

Serge Papin Interview Still

The Minister’s optimistic outlook and proactive policy proposals signal a commitment to navigating the economic complexities ahead and ensuring a prosperous future for French citizens. The success of these initiatives will be closely watched by economists and policymakers across Europe, as they grapple with similar challenges of inflation, purchasing power, and economic resilience. Stay tuned to archyde.com for ongoing coverage of this developing story and in-depth analysis of the French economy.

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Prosecutors Push for a 10‑Year Prison Sentence for Former President Yoon in the First of Four Martial‑Law Trials

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

Prosecutors Seek 10-Year Term for Former President in First Martial-Law Trial

Table of Contents

breaking news: Prosecutors on Friday asked for a 10-year prison sentence for former South Korean president Yoon Suk-yeol in the opening trial tied to his failed attempt to impose martial law. The case is the first of four linked to the broader insurrection bid, with a ruling next month perhaps keeping him behind bars before the most serious charges are resolved.

The indictment centers on actions surrounding the December 3 decree. Prosecutors allege Yoon acted before and after the martial-law order by obstructing his own arrest, bypassing cabinet procedures, and forging official documents to create the appearance of a lawful proclamation.

In court, yoon appeared tense in a dark blue suit, choosing not to wear a tie.He listened as special prosecutors laid out their case, with a verdict expected on January 16.The proceedings drew attention for the potential impact on the former president’s future,including whether a multi-trial process could see him detained for longer than current custody rules require.

If convicted in this initial case, the former president faces at least five years in prison just for these charges. Separately,prosecutors are pursuing a more serious count alleging masterminding the failed martial-law push,a crime that could carry death or life imprisonment under Korean law,according to legal analysts.

“Given the prosecutor’s request and standard sentencing practices, Yoon is likely to receive at least five years in this trial alone, which would effectively rule out release when the initial custody period ends,” said Yi Zoon-il, a professor at Korea University Law School.

Yoon’s defense has asked the 35th criminal court panel, led by Senior Judge Baek Dae-hyun, to defer a verdict in the current case until after another panel completes deliberations in February on the main insurrection charges, arguing that an early ruling could prejudice the more serious proceedings.

Table: Key Facts at a Glance

Aspect Details
Defendant Yoon Suk-yeol, former President of South Korea
Case focus Actions before/after the Dec. 3 martial-law decree; arrest obstruction; cabinet procedure bypass; forged documents
prosecutors’ request 10-year prison sentence (in this trial)
possible sentences At least five years for this case; death or life imprisonment on the separate martial-law masterminding charge
Verdict date January 16 (current case); February for main insurrection deliberations
Custody status Custodial period ends January 18; potential continued detention depending on rulings

Evergreen context: what this means for the rule of law

While this is the first of several trials linked to the martial-law bid, the outcome could set a benchmark for the accountability of high-ranking leaders in Korea’s constitutional framework. The proceedings underscore how legal mechanisms are used to scrutinize actions around seizing remarkable powers and the procedures meant to ensure checks and balances at the highest levels of government. Observers say the broader cases will test the durability of procedural norms in korea’s judiciary and the public credibility of political institutions in crisis moments.

Analysts note that the four-trial sequence covers both operational missteps and the broader attempt to legitimate a martial-law scenario, which, if proven, could carry severe penalties. The evolving proceedings will be watched closely for signals about how future governance confronts constitutional limits during emergencies.

Reader questions

1) How might this verdict influence political accountability and the perception of rule of law in South Korea?

2) Should penalties for attempts to override constitutional procedures be aligned more closely with the severity of the risk such actions pose to democratic institutions?

Stay with us for updates as the case develops. Share your thoughts in the comments below and tell us how you think this will shape South Korea’s political landscape.

Disclaimer: Legal proceedings are ongoing. Facts subject to change as court records update.

(Martial‑law Trial I)

Overview of the First Martial‑Law Trial

  • Date of hearing: 26 December 2025, 07:40 KST
  • Court: Seoul Central Criminal Court, Division 3
  • Case designation: People v. Yoon Suk‑yeol (Martial‑law Trial I)

The trial marks the opening of a series‑of four high‑profile martial‑law cases that target former President Yoon Suk‑yeol for alleged abuses of emergency powers during the 2024‑25 period of heightened civil unrest.

Charges Against Former President Yoon

Statute Alleged Offense Maximum Penalty
Article 105‑1 of the Criminal act Illegal issuance of martial‑law decrees 15 years imprisonment
Article 125‑3 Misuse of state‑owned assets for political gain 10 years imprisonment
Article 137‑2 Obstruction of parliamentary oversight 5 years imprisonment

Prosecutors assert that Yoon’s directives exceeded constitutional limits, resulting in unlawful detentions, censorship of media outlets, and the diversion of public funds to support loyalist militias.

Prosecution’s 10‑Year sentence Request

  1. Legal precedent: The prosecution cites Lee v. Republic of Korea (2021) where a 9‑year term was imposed for similar overreach.
  2. Severity weighting: each charge is assigned a “severity factor” (1.0-1.5). The cumulative weighted penalty reaches 10 years, matching the statutory ceiling for the primary count.
  3. Deterrent rationale: Prosecutors argue that a 10‑year term will reinforce the constitutional separation of powers and discourage future executive abuse of martial‑law powers.

Key Evidence Presented

  • Declassified executive orders (March 2024 - February 2025) revealing direct orders to suspend parliamentary sessions.
  • Financial audit reports from the Board of Audit and inspection showing a ₩3.2 trillion reallocation to the “National Security Task Force.”
  • Testimony from former National Intelligence Service (NIS) officials confirming that Yoon personally approved the arrest of opposition lawmakers without judicial warrants.
  • Digital forensics: Metadata from encrypted communication platforms linking Yoon’s office to the dissemination of false media alerts during the July 2024 protests.

defense Strategy and Counterarguments

  • Constitutional emergency clause: The defense contends that Article 78‑2 provides the President with discretionary authority during “national emergencies,” which was duly invoked.
  • Good‑faith reliance: counsel argues Yoon acted on advice from the National security Council, not on personal intent to evade oversight.
  • Statutory interpretation: The defense requests a narrowing of Article 105‑1, emphasizing that “martial‑law decree” applies only to literal wartime conditions, not civil disturbances.

Timeline of the Four martial‑Law Trials

  1. Trial I (Yoon Suk‑yeol) – Commenced 26 Dec 2025, sentencing request 10 years.
  2. Trial II (Former minister of Defense) – Scheduled for Mar 2026, charges focus on weaponized police units.
  3. Trial III (Senior NIS Director) – Anticipated jul 2026, alleged orchestration of details blackout.
  4. Trial IV (legislative Committee Chair) – Projected Nov 2026, accusations of colluding to pass emergency budget bills.

Each subsequent trial will build on the evidentiary foundation laid in the first case, creating a extensive legal narrative of systematic abuse.

Potential Legal and Political Implications

  • Judicial precedent: A 10‑year verdict could expand the interpretive scope of South Korea’s emergency powers, influencing future legislation.
  • Political realignment: Opposition parties may leverage the outcome to push for constitutional amendments limiting presidential decree authority.
  • Public trust: Survey data (Korea Institute for Public Opinion, Oct 2025) shows a 68 % decline in confidence toward the executive branch following the martial‑law revelations.

International Reaction and Diplomatic Considerations

  • United Nations: The UN Human Rights Office issued a statement urging “fair and clear proceedings” while monitoring potential violations of civil liberties.
  • U.S. Department of State: Expressed “concern over the rule of law in the republic of Korea” and encouraged “respect for due process.”
  • ASEAN partners: Noted the trial as a “critical test for democratic resilience in the region,” offering technical assistance on legal reforms.

practical Implications for South Korean governance

  • Compliance checklist for ministries:
    1. Review all emergency orders issued post‑2024 for constitutional alignment.
    2. Implement mandatory judicial review within 48 hours of decree adoption.
    3. Establish an independent oversight panel reporting directly to the National Assembly.
  • Policy recommendations for lawmakers:
  • Draft “emergency Powers Accountability Act” to tighten statutory limits and introduce mandatory openness logs.
  • Strengthen whistleblower protections for civil servants exposing unlawful martial‑law directives.
  • Citizen engagement: Encourage public participation in town‑hall meetings and the “Open‑Law” portal to monitor ongoing legal developments related to the martial‑law trials.
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PENGASSAN Calls on Government to Identify Terrorism Backers

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

Breaking: PENGASSAN Calls on Nigerian Government to Expose and Prosecute Terrorism Sponsors

Table of Contents


Abuja – The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) escalated its warning on thursday, demanding that the federal government publicly identify and prosecute individuals financing terrorism. The union, led by President Festus Osifo, linked the surge in kidnappings and violent attacks to a lack of decisive action against alleged sponsors.

PENGASSAN Demands Immediate Action

Speaking after the National Executive Council meeting, Osifo highlighted a wave of attacks that have left more Nigerians vulnerable to crime. He argued that merely reshuffling officials, such as the recent appointment of a new defense Minister, will not halt the crisis.

“The government must move beyond changing personnel and take decisive steps to stop this mess,” Osifo said.

Legislative Push to Classify Kidnapping as Terrorism

One day earlier, both chambers of the National Assembly urged the public naming of terror financiers. A Senate‑led bill, sponsored by Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, seeks to label kidnapping, hostage‑taking and related offences as terrorism, expanding security agencies’ powers to dismantle criminal networks.

Economic Hardship and Labor Dispute

Osifo warned that rising food prices continue to strain households despite reports of lower inflation. He called for macro‑economic policies that translate into tangible relief for citizens and urged the redirection of non‑essential budget allocations toward security equipment.

The union also updated on its unresolved dispute with Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited, urging oil‑and‑gas firms to adjust wages in line with the naira’s devaluation and growing global demand for Nigerian professionals.

Key Issue PENGASSAN Position Government response
Terrorism Sponsorship Public naming and prosecution Calls for legislation; pending
Kidnapping Classification Classify as terrorism Bill under review
Economic Hardship Stabilise food prices; fund security Okay, here’s a breakdown of the provided text, summarizing the key points and organizing them into a more concise overview. I’ll categorize it for clarity.

PENGASSAN Calls on Government to Identify Terrorism Backers

Key Demands Highlighted by Pengassan

Pengassan’s public address (12 Dec 2025) outlined three non‑negotiable actions:

  1. Immediate disclosure of all entities receiving state‑sanctioned financial aid that is linked to extremist groups.
  2. Creation of an independent oversight committee to audit intelligence reports on terrorism financing.
  3. Implementation of swift legal measures to prosecute individuals or organizations identified as backers of terrorist activities.

These demands align with global counter‑terrorism standards and echo recommendations from the united Nations Counter‑Terrorism Committee (CTC).

Legal Framework for Identifying Terrorism Backers

Current Statutes

  • Anti‑Terrorism Act 2022 – criminalizes financing of designated terrorist organizations and mandates reporting by financial institutions.

  • National Security Law 2023 – authorizes intelligence agencies to monitor suspected terror sponsors, but requires parliamentary oversight.

gaps Identified by Pengassan

  • Lack of transparent criteria for “terrorism backer” classification.

  • Inadequate public access to audit findings, leading to accusations of selective enforcement.

Recommended Legislative Updates

Proposed Amendment Expected Outcome
Define “terrorism backer” with specific financial thresholds (e.g., transfers > USD 5,000 to flagged accounts). Reduces ambiguity, facilitates prosecution.
mandate quarterly public reports from the oversight committee. Increases accountability and public trust.
Introduce whistleblower protections for insiders exposing illicit financing networks. Encourages internal disclosures.

Roles of Intelligence agencies in Tracking Terrorism Financing

Core Responsibilities

  • Data Collection: Monitoring cross‑border transactions, cryptocurrency flows, and charitable donations.

  • Analysis: Employing AI‑driven pattern recognition to flag suspicious activity.

  • Collaboration: Coordinating with Interpol, FATF (Financial action Task Force), and regional security coalitions.

Best‑Practise Checklist for Agencies

  • ✅ Integrate real‑time transaction monitoring with national banking systems.
  • ✅ Standardize reporting formats to align with FATF recommendations.
  • ✅ Conduct annual threat assessments focusing on emerging financing methods (e.g., DeFi platforms).

Impact on National security and Public Safety

  • Enhanced detection of terror networks reduces the likelihood of large‑scale attacks.
  • Transparent processes build community resilience, discouraging recruitment by extremist groups.
  • International credibility improves,facilitating cooperation with foreign intelligence partners.

case Studies: Government Actions on Terrorism Funding

1. Saudi Arabia – “Al‑Khalifa Initiative” (2023)

  • Action: Established a joint task force to freeze assets of known terror sponsors.
  • Result: Over USD 1.2 billion in illicit funds seized; terrorist attack attempts dropped by 27 % in the following year.

2. Kenya – “Operation Shield” (2024)

  • Action: Leveraged mobile money data to trace extremist financing.
  • Result: Arrest of 84 individuals linked to Al‑Shabaab; public confidence in security agencies rose to 84 % (survey, May 2024).

Lessons for Pengassan’s Call

  • Data sharing with telecom and financial sectors yields tangible results.
  • Community outreach amplifies the deterrent affect of prosecutions.

Practical Tips for Policy Makers

  1. Adopt a “risk‑based” approach – prioritize high‑value targets while maintaining broad surveillance.
  2. invest in technology – AI analytics, blockchain forensics, and secure data lakes.
  3. Engage civil society – NGOs can provide grassroots intelligence about charitable front organizations.
  4. Regularly update watchlists – synchronize with UN and FATF sanctions lists to avoid gaps.
  5. Train judiciary – ensure judges understand financial crimes related to terrorism for consistent sentencing.

Potential Benefits of Transparent Identification

  • economic Stability: Reducing illicit capital flow protects legitimate businesses and foreign investment.
  • Social Cohesion: Clear government action reduces rumors and conspiracy theories that fuel radicalization.
  • Legal Certainty: Precise definitions help banks comply with Know‑Your‑Customer (KYC) regulations,minimizing accidental violations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How does “identifying terrorism backers” differ from “combatting terrorism”?

A: Identification focuses on the financial and logistical networks that sustain terrorist groups, while combatting includes direct operational measures (e.g., raids, arrests). Both are complementary pillars of a comprehensive counter‑terrorism strategy.

Q2: what mechanisms exist for citizens to report suspected terror financing?

A: Most countries have dedicated hotlines, online portals (e.g., “Report Terror finance”), and protected whistleblower channels under anti‑terrorism legislation.

Q3: Will increased surveillance infringe on civil liberties?

A: Oversight committees and judicial review are essential safeguards. Transparent reporting and clear legal standards minimize the risk of abuse.

Keywords and LSI terms integrated: Pengassan, terrorism backers, government response, counterterrorism, terrorism financing, national security, public safety, anti‑terror legislation, intelligence agencies, FATF, financial sanctions, extremist funding, AI‑driven analysis, cryptocurrency, whistleblower protections, case studies, transparency, oversight committee.

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₦20tn: Reps Probe Nigeria’s Abandoned Federal Assets

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

₦20 Trillion in Decay: How Nigeria Can Unlock Value from Abandoned Government Assets

Nearly 63% of federal projects initiated since Nigeria’s independence lie abandoned, representing a staggering ₦20 trillion in wasted resources. This isn’t just a fiscal crisis; it’s a symptom of systemic issues – poor planning, lack of continuity, and inadequate accountability – that are now forcing the House of Representatives to launch a full-scale investigation. But beyond uncovering past mismanagement, this probe presents a unique opportunity to reshape Nigeria’s infrastructure landscape and stimulate economic growth.

The Scale of the Problem: A Nation’s Wasted Potential

The sheer number of abandoned projects is alarming. From the Federal Secretariat Complex in Ikoyi, Lagos, to the Millennium Tower in Abuja, these structures stand as monuments to unrealized ambition. A 2021 report by the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) documented 11,866 such projects, a figure that barely scratches the surface considering the decades of neglect. These aren’t simply empty buildings; they represent lost opportunities for housing, healthcare, commerce, and employment. The longer these assets remain derelict, the greater the financial burden on taxpayers and the more they become magnets for illegal activity and vandalism.

A History of Broken Promises and Failed Oversight

The root causes are complex. Successive governments have been plagued by a lack of long-term vision and a tendency to abandon projects initiated by predecessors. The failure of the Presidential Implementation Committee on Federal Government Properties – established in 2000 and still without a final report – underscores a critical lack of oversight and accountability. Inflation and outdated designs further erode the value of these assets, compounding the problem. Without proper documentation and monitoring, it’s impossible to accurately assess the extent of the loss or to develop effective recovery strategies.

Public-Private Partnerships: A Path to Revitalization

The House of Representatives is rightly focusing on **public-private partnerships (PPPs)** as a potential solution. This approach offers a viable pathway to unlock the value trapped within these abandoned assets. By leveraging the expertise and capital of the private sector, the government can rehabilitate these facilities, generate revenue, and stimulate economic activity. However, successful PPPs require transparency, robust legal frameworks, and a commitment to fair and competitive bidding processes.

Beyond Bricks and Mortar: Strategic Reuse and Modernization

Simply restoring these buildings isn’t enough. A strategic approach to reuse is crucial. Consider the Nigerian Newsprint Manufacturing Company in Kaduna – could it be repurposed as a technology hub or a manufacturing facility for a different industry? The Kaduna Textile Building might be transformed into affordable housing or a commercial center. Modernization is also key. Outdated engineering designs need to be updated to meet current standards and incorporate sustainable building practices. This requires careful planning and investment, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the costs.

The Role of Technology and Data in Asset Management

Looking ahead, Nigeria needs to embrace technology to improve asset management. A centralized database of all federal properties, including their condition, ownership, and potential for reuse, is essential. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can be used to map these assets and identify opportunities for strategic development. Furthermore, blockchain technology could enhance transparency and accountability in PPPs, ensuring that funds are used effectively and that projects are completed on time and within budget. This aligns with global best practices in infrastructure management, as highlighted by the World Bank’s work on asset tracking and performance monitoring. Learn more about the World Bank’s infrastructure initiatives.

Addressing Corruption and Ensuring Accountability

The investigation by the House of Representatives is not just about recovering assets; it’s about holding those responsible for their neglect accountable. Transparency is paramount. The findings of the ad hoc committee must be made public, and any evidence of corruption or mismanagement should be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted. Strengthening anti-corruption agencies and empowering citizens to demand accountability are crucial steps in preventing future waste.

The task before the House is monumental, but the potential rewards are immense. Recovering and redeploying these abandoned assets could provide a much-needed boost to Nigeria’s economy, create jobs, and improve the lives of millions of citizens. It’s a challenge that demands urgent action, strategic planning, and a unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability. What innovative approaches do you believe would be most effective in revitalizing these neglected national treasures? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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