The MDGs, rather than subverting existing colonial power structures, bolstered them. Furthermore, they are a diversion from the more progressive alternatives that many African and other forces from the global South propose.

For too long, Monsanto has been the benefactor of corporate subsidies and political favoritism. Organic and small farmers suffer losses while Monsanto continues to forge its monopoly over the world’s food supply, including exclusive patenting rights over seeds and genetic makeup.

The police and public watchdog institutions are increasingly unwilling to hold government accountable and to protect the constitutional rights of citizens.

Corporate media writes of drowning refugees fleeing poverty and violence in the Middle East and North Africa without mentioning the actions of the United States and its European allies that have caused the humanitarian catastrophe.

The movement expresses solidarity with Burundians and appeals to authorities to uphold the human rights of all citizens, including the freedoms of assembly, association and expression. East African leaders should act quickly to prevent the current crisis from spiraling into a full-scale disaster.