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American democracy cannot safeguard human rights in the U.S.

Published

2 years ago

April 4, 2023

By Zhong Sheng, People’s Daily
China’s State Council Information Office on March 28 issued The Report on Human Rights Violations in the United States in 2022. With massive facts and statistics, the report exposes unrelenting human rights violations in the U.S
The report says the year 2022 witnessed a landmark setback for U.S. human rights. In the U.S., a country labeling itself a “human rights defender,” “chronic diseases” such as money politics, racial discrimination, gun and police violence, and wealth polarization are rampant. Human rights legislation and justice have seen an extreme retrogression, further undermining the basic rights and freedoms of the American people.
Facts have profoundly revealed that American democracy cannot safeguard the human rights of people in the U.S.
U.S. politicians declared that human rights are universal and that they won’t brush aside the human rights problems of America. However, in the 2022 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices released by the U.S. Department of State recently, the country ignores its own issues of human rights but points fingers at nearly 200 countries and regions for their human rights situation.
The report issued by China, with ironclad facts, exposes the “diseases” of the U.S. human rights－a dysfunctional civil rights protection system, hollowed-out American-style electoral democracy, growing racial discrimination and inequality, worsening subsistence crisis among U.S. underclass, historic retrogression in women’s and children’s rights, as well as wanton violation of other countries’ human rights and trampling on justice. It is a great textbook for U.S. politicians who need to study more about the problems of human rights in their own country.
The hollowed-out American democracy cannot solve the systemic human rights problems that have long existed in the U.S.
At present, American democracy is being rotted because of political donations, dark money donations, voting obstacles as well as violence and intimidation that accompany its elections. Billionaires and interest groups can easily manipulate the direction of elections, while the will of the people can barely be turned into governance decisions.
The insoluble problem of gun violence is an example. Though most American citizens request gun control, the gun control agenda has been paralyzed due to the manipulation by interest groups and the collusion between politicians and businesses.
The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in the “Bruen case” in June 2022 overturned half a century’s gun control legislation in New York and six other states. Residents of these states were allowed to make concealed carry, a landmark backward step in the field of gun control in the U.S.
The widening ideological divide and opposition between the Democratic Party and the Republican Party have expanded the tear in American society and led to the idling of American politics, which has severely undermined civil rights.
Even the U.S. Supreme Court has been involved in partisan struggles. Last year, it ended women’s right to abortion protected by the U.S. Constitution for nearly 50 years, which landed a huge blow to women’s human rights and gender equality.
The struggle between the two parties has resulted in a “vetocracy,” and the governance efficiency of the U.S. has declined, which seriously weakens the public confidence in American democracy.
According to a poll, 69 percent of Americans believe their democracy is at “risk of collapse” and 86 percent of American voters say it faces “very serious threats.” There is a general public disillusionment of American-style democracy.
American politicians, serving the interests of oligarchs, have failed to solve the structural problems of human rights in the country. Hate crimes based on racial bias in the U.S. increased dramatically over recent years.
The racist massacre at a Buffalo supermarket in May 2022 has shocked the world. The number of Americans dying from drug and substance abuse has increased dramatically in recent years, to more than 100,000 per year. The child poverty rate in the country increased from 12.1 percent in December 2021 to 16.6 percent in May 2022, with 3.3 million more children living in poverty.
Facing these brutal facts, U.S. politicians have lost their subjective will and objective ability to respond to the basic demands of ordinary people and defend the basic rights of ordinary citizens. Instead, they have become an obstructor in eliminating chronic diseases in American human rights in the U.S.
Failing to safeguard the human rights of citizens in their own country, U.S. politicians are still provoking confrontations, division and chaos in the international community under the disguise of so-called “democracy” and “human rights.”
According to data released by Brown University, since the 21st century, the U.S. government has undertaken what it labeled “counterterrorism” activities in 85 countries, directly killing at least 929,000 people and displacing 38 million people. The U.S. military operations around the world have violated the freedom and human rights of people in the U.S. and other countries.
The U.S. is the most prolific enforcer of unilateral sanctions in the world. It currently has sanctions in place against more than 20 countries, which have greatly weakened the capacity and level of human rights protection of the sanctioned countries.
Currently, the U.S. is organizing another edition of the so-called “Summit for Democracy.” Its true intention is to maintain its hegemony by playing bloc politics and using democracy as a tool for political ends.
The international community has come to realize that U.S. politicians indeed follow power politics though they always talk about “democracy” and “human rights,” and they have become a saboteur of global peace and development and a stumbling block to human rights progress.
The U.S. is blind to its serious human rights problems and unable to solve them. However, it has pointed fingers at other countries for their human rights development, which is bound to be strongly opposed by people around the world.
The United States should let go of its arrogance and bias, face up to its serious human rights issues, reflect on the institutional source of these issues and stop its hegemonic, domineering and bullying acts that violate the human rights of other countries as early as possible.

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Form I-130 Approved: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Next Stages

Published

3 days ago

October 13, 2024

Online Editor

Obtaining approval of Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative is one of the key milestones in the immigration process. It unveils the process of the next moves in order to bring your loved one to the United States of America. Perhaps they are in the United States or perhaps they are in another country. It is crucial to know what comes next. Alright, let’s define the most crucial questions you may have.

What to do after Form I-130 is approved

It takes several months, after which USCIS will send you a notice that your Form I-130 has been approved. In case your relative resides in another country other than the United States the case will be taken to the National Visa Center (NVC). If they are in the U.S, whether to apply for adjustment of status or to go through consular processing is the next step to be taken.

All the applicants apart from those in the USA will have their case numbers allocated to them by the NVC together with instructions. This encompasses paying fees and completing the form I-130 Petition alien relative and the DS-260 form called the Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application. It is important that you be responsive to emails, at least to the official ones to check for updates.

If your relative is in the U.S., you will proceed filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

How to apply for Adjustment of Status if you are in the US

Adjustment of Status (AOS) enables Your Relative to get an LPR status without having to travel out of the country. Here’s how to navigate this process:

Check Eligibility: This should guarantee that the beneficiary is in the United States legally and meets all the requirements of the program.

File form I-485: Complete and file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) which is used in changing of immigration status to that of a permanent resident. A general rule of thumb to reduce delay as much as possible is to lay as much accuracy as possible from the onset of the project.

Gather Required Documents: Most organizations require that you submit some documents Among the documents include:

Form I-130 approval notice.
Passport and current visas.
The form with the name Arrival/Departure Record, also known as I-94.
Two passport-style photos.
The results of the medical examination are contained in form I-693.
Evidence of a relationship with the U.S. citizen or a permanent resident.

Pay the Fees: The costs associated with a Form I-485 depend on the applicant’s age and other factors of his/her personal situation. Make sure you submit your application with the right fee.

Attend the Biometrics Appointment: Applicants are required to submit the application and after some time, USCIS will reschedule for fingerprint and photos to be taken. Attendance is crucial.

Prepare for the Interview: Nevertheless, most applicants will have to go for an interview at a local office of the USCIS. Check your application and gather whatever proof to support your case that you can.

How to apply for consular processing if you are outside the US

For the beneficiaries residing in other countries they then undergo consular processing. Here’s how to handle this process:

Wait for NVC Notification: Once the I-130 has been approved you will be contacted with a case number and additional directives from NVC.

Pay Fees and Submit DS-260: When the applicant receives a case number, they should then process the immigrant visa processing fees and fill the Form DS-260.

Gather Supporting Documents: Gather different documents in order of, barring the letters:

Your passport, which must be valid for at least six months of the intended stay.
Birth certificate.
Police certificates.
Medical examination results.
Affidavit of Support or the specific form used for it is I-864.

Attend the Visa Interview: The last stage is the Visa interview that takes place at a US embassy or a consulate. They should not lie, and they should be ready or willing to answer questions about their relationship and their background.

Receive Your Visa: When granted you get a stamp on your passport through which you can be able to travel to the United States of America.

It is often not easy to know what to do after Form I-130 has been approved, however it’s important to be informed and organized. No matter whether you are changing your status within the territory of the United States or opting for consular processing, it is important to know what steps to take in order to reach the desired end. The receipt of a green card. Be as organized as you can, keep record of the documents and when necessary, seek legal help. All the best on this great adventure that lies ahead of you!

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Awe Progressive Group Urges Gov. Sule to Consider Hamza Moyi for LGA Chairmanship

Published

5 days ago

October 12, 2024

Online Editor

From Leo Zwànke, Lafia

Awe Local Government Area Progressive Group has called on the Governor of Nasarawa State, Engineer Abdullahi Sule, to consider Hon. Hamza Ibrahim Moyi for the position of Chairman of the Awe Local Government Council. This appeal comes as the governor and the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Working Committee are set to decide on the candidate for the chairmanship post.

In a press release signed by the group’s spokesperson, Muhammed Musa on Saturday and sent to journalist, the group highlighted Moyi’s contributions to the development of Awe Local Government Area in his capacity as the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the governor on Sports. According to Musa, Moyi’s name is among the three submitted for consideration by the governor.

The statement commended Moyi’s dedication to the local government, particularly in areas such as security, education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructural development. The group believes that his track record makes him the best fit for the position of council chairman.

“Hon. Hamza Ibrahim Moyi has worked tirelessly as the SSA to the governor, ensuring that Awe Local Government remains secure and that development projects are carried out effectively. His efforts in the areas of education, health, and agriculture have had a direct and positive impact on the people of the local government,” the statement read.

The group further emphasized that Moyi’s leadership has played a pivotal role in fostering peace and stability within the local government, particularly in addressing security challenges that have affected the area in the past.

“We appeal to His Excellency, Governor Abdullahi Sule, to recognize the efforts of Hon. Moyi and give him the opportunity to serve as the Chairman of Awe Local Government Council. His experience, dedication, and commitment to the progress of our local government make him the ideal candidate for this position,” the statement added.

The group expressed confidence that Moyi’s leadership would bring further development to Awe LGA and strengthen its role within the state.

The decision on the chairmanship is expected to be made soon as political activities in Nasarawa State gear up ahead of the local government council elections.

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Rivers LG Polls: Observers Blame Gov Fubara’s Use Of Non-State Actors for Post-Election Violence ***Exonerate Police of Any Wrongdoing Independent observers have condemned the violence and arson that marred the Rivers State local government elections, blaming Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s supporters for the chaos. The Independent Election Monitoring Group, in its preliminary report, cited widespread irregularities, including the lack of election materials, non-use of electoral registers, and dubious declaration of results. Speaking at a press conference, Executive Director, Dr. Emmanuel Agabi, said Governor Fubara’s insistence on conducting the elections despite court rulings and security concerns has been criticized as a desperate bid to consolidate power. Notably, the report cleared the Nigerian Police of any wrongdoing, highlighting their withdrawal from the election due to a Federal High Court ruling. The report recommends a full investigation into the arson attacks, nullification of election results, deployment of federal security forces, and dialogue between the governor and opposition parties. According to the report, the use of violence by Fubara’s supporters in the wake of the election reflects the Governor’s desperation to suppress opposition and maintain control of the political narrative. By allowing his supporters to engage in such acts of violence, it added that Fubara has contributed to the breakdown of law and order in Rivers State. “The Rivers State local government elections and the subsequent acts of arson represent a low point in the state’s political history,” the report said. “Obviously , the state local government elections have exposed the fragility of the democratic process in the state. “Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s determination to consolidate political power through the Action Peoples Party (APP) and disregard for legal rulings has led to a crisis that threatens both the democratic fabric of Rivers State and the security of its citizens. “The refusal to honor court rulings, combined with the manipulation of electoral processes and violent suppression of opposition, demonstrates a clear disregard for the rule of law. “It is evident that Governor Fubara’s supporters, driven by his desperation to build and secure a political stronghold, are responsible for the violence and destruction that followed the elections. “The state’s political crisis will only worsen if urgent steps are not taken to restore order, accountability, and respect for democratic principles. “The use of arson as a tool for political intimidation is not only reprehensible but dangerous, as it has the potential to escalate into broader conflict. If unchecked, this pattern of governance could erode what remains of democratic practice in Rivers State. “It is therefore imperative that Governor Fubara and his administration give peace a chance by embracing dialogue, respecting court rulings, and adhering to democratic norms. “The Governor must realize that power, when pursued at the expense of the people’s trust and the rule of law, is unsustainable. “For the future of Rivers State, and indeed Nigeria’s democratic experiment, it is crucial that stakeholders at all levels work together to address the deep-seated issues that have emerged from this election. “This includes reforming the electoral system, ensuring accountability for violent actions, and fostering a political culture where power is gained through the people’s will, not through coercion, manipulation, or violence. “In the words of former President Goodluck Jonathan, the political crisis in Rivers State is reminiscent of the crisis in the old Western region. It is a warning sign of what could become a larger national issue if the political situation in Rivers State is not addressed. “It is the responsibility of all concerned parties, including the federal government, to intervene and ensure that Rivers State does not spiral into anarchy. Only through collective action can the state be returned to peace, stability, and genuine democratic governance.”

Published

5 days ago

October 12, 2024

Online Editor

***Exonerate Police of Any Wrongdoing

Independent observers have condemned the violence and arson that marred the Rivers State local government elections, blaming Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s supporters for the chaos.

The Independent Election Monitoring Group, in its preliminary report, cited widespread irregularities, including the lack of election materials, non-use of electoral registers, and dubious declaration of results.

Speaking at a press conference, Executive Director, Dr. Emmanuel Agabi, said Governor Fubara’s insistence on conducting the elections despite court rulings and security concerns has been criticized as a desperate bid to consolidate power.

Notably, the report cleared the Nigerian Police of any wrongdoing, highlighting their withdrawal from the election due to a Federal High Court ruling.

The report recommends a full investigation into the arson attacks, nullification of election results, deployment of federal security forces, and dialogue between the governor and opposition parties.

According to the report, the use of violence by Fubara’s supporters in the wake of the election reflects the Governor’s desperation to suppress opposition and maintain control of the political narrative.

By allowing his supporters to engage in such acts of violence, it added that Fubara has contributed to the breakdown of law and order in Rivers State.

“The Rivers State local government elections and the subsequent acts of arson represent a low point in the state’s political history,” the report said.

“Obviously , the state local government elections have exposed the fragility of the democratic process in the state.

“Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s determination to consolidate political power through the Action Peoples Party (APP) and disregard for legal rulings has led to a crisis that threatens both the democratic fabric of Rivers State and the security of its citizens.

“The refusal to honor court rulings, combined with the manipulation of electoral processes and violent suppression of opposition, demonstrates a clear disregard for the rule of law.

“It is evident that Governor Fubara’s supporters, driven by his desperation to build and secure a political stronghold, are responsible for the violence and destruction that followed the elections.

“The state’s political crisis will only worsen if urgent steps are not taken to restore order, accountability, and respect for democratic principles.

“The use of arson as a tool for political intimidation is not only reprehensible but dangerous, as it has the potential to escalate into broader conflict. If unchecked, this pattern of governance could erode what remains of democratic practice in Rivers State.

“It is therefore imperative that Governor Fubara and his administration give peace a chance by embracing dialogue, respecting court rulings, and adhering to democratic norms.

“The Governor must realize that power, when pursued at the expense of the people’s trust and the rule of law, is unsustainable.

“For the future of Rivers State, and indeed Nigeria’s democratic experiment, it is crucial that stakeholders at all levels work together to address the deep-seated issues that have emerged from this election.

“This includes reforming the electoral system, ensuring accountability for violent actions, and fostering a political culture where power is gained through the people’s will, not through coercion, manipulation, or violence.

“In the words of former President Goodluck Jonathan, the political crisis in Rivers State is reminiscent of the crisis in the old Western region. It is a warning sign of what could become a larger national issue if the political situation in Rivers State is not addressed.

“It is the responsibility of all concerned parties, including the federal government, to intervene and ensure that Rivers State does not spiral into anarchy. Only through collective action can the state be returned to peace, stability, and genuine democratic governance.”