Mark Andrews is a journalist based in Shanghai, China.

He writes extensively about the Chinese car industry and has also done test drive reviews for many magazines and newspapers around the world. 

In addition Mark Andrews writes articles about travel, food and drink, and various business ...

Users of Dudley supermarket carpark wrongly threatened with £70 fines

28 Nov 2024  |  www.expressandstar.com  |  English  |  Local Governance

Aldi's new branch in Sedgley mistakenly installed signs restricting car park use to customers only, threatening £70 fines, despite planning conditions allowing public access. Dudley Council is investigating after concerns were raised by local councillors. Aldi acknowledged the error, stating the signs would be updated and apologized for the confusion.

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Local Governance Retail

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Journalist with special interest in social, scientific and cultural issues. 

Graduated in Biomedical science at Queen's University Belfast and master's journalism at Columbia Journalism School/University of Barcelona.

The Barcelona Tourism Sector Fears Market Regulation

22 Jul 2024  |  fr.euronews.com  |  French  |  Local Governance

Barcelona's tourism sector is apprehensive about new regulations aimed at curbing overtourism, fearing significant economic repercussions. The city, which heavily relies on tourism, plans to eliminate 10,000 tourist apartments by 2028, a move that could potentially reduce tourism by 40%. Business owners like Bonaventura Durall and Marc express concerns over the impact on their revenue, while tourists like Pablo Lagneau acknowledge the economic benefits tourism brings to the city. Despite the measures, tourists report no hostility in Barcelona's streets.

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Local Governance Tourism Economic Impact

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Felix Asoha is a journalist who currently working as a news reporter/anchor at Radio Africa Group. He is involved in news production and writes stories for the Star newspaper.

Toi Market traders: New leaders will help curb fire incidents

30 Oct 2024  |  The Star  |  English  |  Local Governance

Traders at Toi Market in Kibra, Nairobi, are optimistic that newly elected leaders will address the recurring fire incidents that have plagued the market, including a recent fire in July that resulted in four fatalities. The election process was peaceful despite attempts at disruption. Traders expressed hope that the new leadership would tackle the fire issues and help them recover from financial losses. Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja announced plans to build a perimeter wall and enhance security at the market, with City Hall allocating Sh100 million for reconstruction efforts. The market's recovery is a priority following the devastating fire on August 3.

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Local Governance Fire Incidents

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I am a journalist based in Glasgow in Scotland, which is currently part of the UK. I have a wide range of skills from sub-editing to live radio and sound-rich audio packages, and can take a photo if needed. I specialise in Scottish environmental issues, land management, tourism, outdoor activities ...

Row erupts on island of Ulva after community buyout

22 Sept 2024  |  theferret.scot  |  English  |  Local Governance

Tensions have arisen on the island of Ulva following a community land buyout, with residents expressing dissatisfaction over living conditions and management by the North West Mull Community Woodland Company (CWC). Issues include inadequate water supply and neglected infrastructure, leading to strained relations between the CWC board and the community. Despite initial enthusiasm for the buyout, residents like Rebecca Munro and Barry George have become disillusioned, citing mismanagement and lack of capacity to handle community development. The Development Trusts Association of Scotland has called for a reset in relations, while discussions continue on potential changes in ownership or management structure to address ongoing challenges.

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Local Governance Community Land Buyout Infrastructure Issues

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Career spot and breaking news reporter (CBS, CNN), now freelance in a chronically undercovered region.  I started my career in radio, but now I've added a full array of tools for "backpack reporting."  Mostly in Tijuana and San Diego, California, but extremely mobile.

Soy "periodista mochilera" ...

Brookings Institution Offers Predictions for San Diego Under Second Trump Administration

30 Dec 2024  |  Times of San Diego  |  English  |  Local Governance

The Brookings Institution, in collaboration with the San Diego Regional Policy and Innovation Center, has provided predictions for San Diego under a potential second Trump administration. Key areas of focus include potential tax reforms, cuts to programs like SNAP and Medicaid, and the impact of new tariffs and immigration laws. The analysis highlights the importance of preparing for unexpected developments and the influence of past legislation, such as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, on future policy directions.

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Local Governance US Politics Economic Policy

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Center

Political View

Marvin Charles is a journalist based in Cape Town, South Africa. Writer for Independent Media for various titles such as Cape Argus, Cape Times and Independent Online (IOL)

DA's Jeremy Fasser elected as new mayor of Stellenbosch Municipality

29 Nov 2024  |  www.news24.com  |  English  |  Local Politics

Jeremy Fasser has been elected as the new mayor of Stellenbosch Municipality, succeeding Gesie van Deventer. Fasser, who has deep roots in the community and extensive experience in municipal leadership roles, aims to focus on infrastructure improvements and sustainability projects. His administration plans to prioritize critical infrastructure upgrades and alternative energy projects. The Democratic Alliance, under which Fasser serves, has been praised for its governance, with Stellenbosch Municipality receiving clean audits for eight consecutive years.

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Municipal Governance Local Politics

Informative

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Center-Right

Political View

Gabriele Di Donfrancesco is a freelance journalist and fixer based in Rome, Italy, focused on investigations and stories on environmental crimes, housing, religion, politics, and social justice.

He has covered Italian affairs for US and UK news outlets, including the Daily Dot, Jacobin, Euronews,...

Eviction and Authorization Withdrawn: Casa Carlotta Cleared. Elderly Moved to Via Silicella

08 Jan 2025  |  RomaToday  |  Italian  |  Local Governance

Casa Carlotta, a housing community for the elderly, was evicted after failing to pay rent for over two years and losing its authorization to provide accommodation services. The managing association, Villa dei Castagni, had previously been involved in a local media case when the VI Municipio, led by President Nicola Franco, evicted a group from a building in Via Silicella, purchased by Casa Carlotta to address the eviction issue.

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Local Governance Eviction Elderly Care

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Journalist with experience in written stories, video, interactive graphs and more. In love with new technologies, nature, travelling... Fast learner, specially when it comes to ICT tools. Contact me for more info.

Doger questions Lalo Rivera's management as municipal president

14 Apr 2024  |  elpopular.mx  |  Spanish  |  Local Governance

Enrique Doger, spokesperson for Alejandro Armenta, challenges Eduardo Rivera to compare their respective administrations, questioning Rivera's past exoneration by the Auditoría Superior del Estado and alleging a political agreement with former governor Rafael Moreno Valle. Doger accuses Rivera of dishonesty regarding his electoral history with Morena and calls for a more substantive debate, criticizing Rivera's dismissive remarks towards him.

Tags:

Local Governance Political Dispute

Interpretive

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Left

Political View

Inaara Gangji has experience across outlets like Forbes, Al Jazeera, and USA TODAY and is skilled in news writing, features, multimedia, digital, broadcast, video, and photography. 

Portfolio: ****

Youth press Mayor Thao about jobs, housing, policing, saying city has ignored concerns of young people

17 Oct 2024  |  Oakland North  |  English  |  Local Governance

At a youth town hall meeting, Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao addressed concerns from young people about jobs, housing, and policing, amidst an FBI investigation and a recall election. Youth leaders, organized by the LoveLife Foundation, expressed the need for better employment opportunities, mental health resources, and improved police-community relations. Mayor Thao acknowledged the city's shortcomings in promoting neighborhood councils and committed to addressing these issues. Despite the dialogue, some youths remain skeptical about the mayor's ability to fulfill her promises.

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Local Governance Youth Advocacy Policing

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Nunurai Jena is a journalist based in Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe.
Nationality: Zimbabwean
PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATION
National Diploma in Mass Communication -- 1999-to-2001
Harare Polytechnic 
Zimbabwe
Diploma in Public Relations-2006
Zimbabwe Institute of Public Relations
Zimbabwe
Diploma in ...

Omay South hunting concession raises dust

09 Sept 2024  |  Southern Eye  |  English  |  Local Governance

The Nyaminyami Rural District Council and local stakeholders are embroiled in a legal dispute over hunting concessions in Omay South, Zimbabwe. The delayed High Court judgment has stalled development and service delivery, affecting local communities reliant on hunting proceeds. The controversy involves Afropride Safaris and HHK Safaris, with allegations of procurement violations and poor performance. Cletus Matingwina, the council's chief executive, is under investigation by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission. The case remains unresolved, impacting the region's economic stability.

Tags:

Local Governance Legal Dispute Corruption

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Andre Jones is a journalist based in Silver Spring, United States of America.
Accomplished, multi-platform content producer with nearly 30 years of network and cable television experience. Efficient and detail-oriented team leader, with persuasive communication skills who consistently delivers ...

Citizens express concerns about recent actions taken by Charles City County leaders

24 Oct 2024  |  New Kent - Charles City Chronicle  |  English  |  Local Governance

Residents of Charles City County voiced concerns over recent decisions by the Board of Supervisors, including a $5.2 million loan, the appointment of Bill Coada as interim county administrator, and a land deal with C5 LLC for a data center. Former Commonwealth’s Attorney Rob Tyler led the criticism, calling for external hiring and a halt on deals. Citizens demanded transparency and a forensic audit of county finances. The board's decision to sell land to C5 LLC for $1.5 million faced mixed reactions, with some supporting the potential economic benefits and others questioning the process and communication. The meeting highlighted a divide between the need for development and maintaining community trust.

Tags:

Local Governance Public Concerns County Administration

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Center

Political View

Badylon Kawanda Bakiman is a journalist based in Kikwit, Congo the Democratic Republic. More than 20 years in journalism with a best experience in article writing, in investigative stories, features, web or blog contents… He is an exemplary business writer on several topics: Agriculture, Education, ...

CONAFED in action for citizen governance

17 Dec 2024  |  Writing.Com  |  English  |  Citizen Governance

CONAFED, a Congolese organization focused on gender equality and women's leadership, has been active in Kikwit, Kwilu province, Democratic Republic of Congo. Through activities like the Tribune d'expression des élus, it has promoted citizen governance and accountability. Local leaders, including mayors and deputies, reported on their achievements, such as infrastructure improvements and anti-erosion work. The organization also conducted training on participative governance and gender integration. Observers have commended CONAFED's efforts, urging it to continue its work towards its vision.

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Local Governance Citizen Governance Gender Equality

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Lea Lang is a journalist based in Timișoara, Kreis Timiș, Romania. 
Right now she is working for the German program at Radio Romania Timisoara providing news, event tips, book/film/theatre revisions and producing broadcasts for youth.

Tree Felling in Göttingen: New Regulation on Approval, Replacement Planting, and Fines

27 Mar 2025  |  www.goettinger-tageblatt.de  |  German  |  Local Governance

Göttingen residents face fines up to 25,000 euros for felling protected trees without permission. The new tree protection regulation also mandates replacement planting, reflecting a stricter environmental governance approach.

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Local Governance Environmental Regulation

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Emma Löfgren is a senior digital news editor and public speaker based in southern Sweden. She is the editor of The Local, covering Sweden's news in English.

Mayor of Swedish island Gotland proposes tourist tax for summer visitors

28 Jun 2024  |  The Local Sweden  |  English  |  Local Governance

The regional mayor of Gotland, Meit Fohlin, is advocating for a tourist tax to address the strain on local resources caused by the influx of summer visitors. Despite Sweden's current prohibition on such taxes, Fohlin suggests a system where taxes are paid to Gotland for the months tourists reside there, similar to practices in other regions. This proposal aims to support local industries and manage the impact of tourism on the island's infrastructure.

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Local Governance Tourism

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Jack McGovan is a freelance journalist based in Berlin, covering climate, health and politics.

Including local communities in decision making vital to successful energy transition, researchers say

29 Oct 2024  |  www.cleanenergywire.org  |  English  |  Local Governance

Researchers from the Research Institute for Sustainability in Potsdam emphasize the importance of involving local communities in decision-making processes for a successful energy transition. The report, led by Jörg Radtke, suggests that local-level implementation is crucial, as it is where conflicts and compromises occur. The study finds that bottom-up strategies are more effective than autocratic approaches in gaining public support. The authors propose four principles for policy-making: establishing local discussion groups, creating inclusive formats like citizens' councils, sharing benefits with local communities, and engaging them in broader sustainability concepts.

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Local Governance Energy Transition

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ricardo montoya is a freelance video journalist.

Hernández Araus wins extraordinary elections in Cuautepec de Hinojosa

02 Dec 2024  |  La Jornada  |  Spanish  |  Local Governance

Jorge Hernández Araus, representing the Morena-Nueva Alianza de Hidalgo coalition, won the extraordinary elections for the municipal government of Cuautepec de Hinojosa with 42% of the vote, despite low voter turnout and past allegations of financial misconduct. The elections were held again after the previous results were invalidated due to irregularities. Morena increased its dominance in the region, now governing 55 out of 84 municipalities. Security during the elections was ensured by national forces due to distrust in local police.

Tags:

Local Governance Elections Political Parties

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Paolo Morelli is a journalist based in Torino, Italy. He works also as a press officer and started to write for printed and online newspapers 10 years ago.

Urban Center District. Valves, chicanes and parking: the councilors in 'defense'

27 Mar 2025  |  www.ilrestodelcarlino.it  |  Italian  |  Local Governance

The assembly of the Urban Center District in Cesena was marked by heated discussions involving Vice Mayor Christian Castorri and Councilor Luca Ferrini. Residents expressed frustration over unresolved issues such as the lack of non-return valves in sewers, dangerous chicanes, and insufficient parking, which have led to increased pollution and commercial decline. The officials defended their positions, citing budget constraints and future plans, but faced criticism for the perceived deterioration of the city center's cleanliness, safety, and infrastructure. The meeting concluded with plans for a follow-up discussion on April 11.

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Local Governance Urban Planning Public Safety

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I am a trained professional journalist with a working experience of 15 years.
I am well versed in print and electronic news gathering, camera operation, audio recording, editing and writing for digital platforms.

Nyandarua: Calls for concerted efforts in a bid to tame growing crime

08 Oct 2024  |  www.citizen.digital  |  English  |  Local Governance

In Nyandarua County, local leaders, including Governor Kiarie Badilisha and MP Kwenya Thuku, have criticized the security forces for their inadequate response to rising crime, particularly cattle rustling and illicit brewing. They have called for the transfer of officers at Engineer Police Station. County Commissioner Abdirizak Jaldesa advocates for collaborative efforts to address these issues.

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Local Governance Crime

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CHI NGUYEN
Chi Nguyen is a freelance journalist based in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) Vietnam. She is also a TV journalist from National Television VTV
She is journalism and media studies lecture, journalism and media studies facilitator,
Interpreter and translator
Public Relation ...

Binh Thanh District explains the suspension of Binh Quoi ferry

24 Oct 2024  |  Báo Người Lao Động Online  |  Vietnamese  |  Local Governance

The Binh Quoi ferry connecting Binh Thanh District and Thu Duc City has been suspended, affecting local transportation. The suspension is due to administrative and legal requirements that the ferry operator, Công ty Bình Quới, must fulfill under government decrees. The Binh Thanh District authorities are working to resolve these issues, aiming to resume ferry operations to ease travel for residents. The process involves coordination with the Department of Transport and the Thu Duc City authorities to ensure compliance with legal standards and address the community's transportation needs.

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Local Governance Transportation

Informative

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Christopher Odamah is a journalist based in Warri, Nigeria. A Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism holder who has been in the field of Journalism with 11 years experience.

Why Isoko ring road project is delayed

23 Nov 2024  |  MetroStar News  |  English  |  Local Governance

The delay in the Isoko ring road project in Delta State is attributed to ongoing rains and flooding, not contractor abandonment. Dr. Goodnews Agbi, Special Adviser on Project Monitoring, clarified that the contractor is ready to resume work once conditions improve. He emphasized the state government's commitment to the Isoko people, highlighting various infrastructure projects and urging patience with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori's administration. The Governor is recognized for his inclusive development approach across Delta State.

Tags:

Local Governance Infrastructure Development

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Brian Otieno is a freelance photojournalist and documentary photographer based in Nairobi, Kenya. He was raised in Kibera, where he documents the everyday realities of ordinary life through his photo project called KiberaStories, which started in 2013. His passion and commitment lie in capturing ...

Land dispute in Lamu a ticking time bomb, rights lobby cautions

21 Nov 2024  |  The Star  |  English  |  Local Governance

Land injustices in Lamu, Kenya, are escalating tensions as locals face dispossession by government officials, warns Muslims for Human Rights (Muhuri). The organization highlights illegal encroachments and unethical actions by senior police officers, urging their suspension. The land issue, sensitive across the Coast region, threatens peace and stability, with calls for decisive action to protect community rights. Nominated Senator Miraj Abdillahi emphasizes the urgency for regional leaders to address the land question, warning of potential unrest.

Tags:

Local Governance Land Dispute Human Rights

Interpretive

Factuality Scale

Left

Political View

Judi Shimel is a journalist based in Cruz Bay, U.S. Virgin Islands, experienced in print, online and radio reporting and news production.
Her career began in New York with a community weekly, the Queens Tribune, and WBAI-FM. She pursued the reporting trail through Washington, D.C. with Pacifica ...

St. John Officials Say They Don’t Know Much About a Lot

16 Jan 2025  |  St. Thomas Source  |  English  |  Local Governance

A paid parking lot has been established in Cruz Bay, St. John, raising concerns among residents and prompting an investigation by Senator-At-Large Angel Bolques. The lot, previously free for over 30 years, now charges for parking, with signs in English and Spanish installed. Bolques is seeking clarity on the transaction between the Department of Property and Procurement and an individual named Mr. Parsons, noting the absence of Senate approval or rezoning. The lack of free parking in Cruz Bay has been a longstanding issue, exacerbated by previous decisions to convert free lots into paid ones.

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Local Governance Parking Issues

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Eugenio Teixeira is a journalist based in Praia, Cape Verde.

Cape Verde: Challenges of local power in 32 years of municipal democracy

29 Nov 2024  |  www.voaportugues.com  |  Portuguese  |  Local Governance

Cape Verdeans are set to vote in municipal elections, marking 32 years since the first local elections. While local governance has seen progress, challenges such as financial autonomy and long-term commitments remain. Adilton Agues emphasizes the need for local dynamics to drive development beyond central government support. Ana Cabral notes some municipalities' reliance on state funds, though some have formed partnerships for infrastructure and social support. Gisela Barros calls for better public resource management, while Júlio Correia advocates for long-term commitments from political parties, MpD and PAICV, to strengthen municipal governance. Currently, MpD manages 14 municipalities, and PAICV oversees eight.

Tags:

Local Governance Municipal Elections

Balanced

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Center

Political View

Okot Wilfred is a journalist.

Am a creative, dedicated, committed, and driven individual journalist with 5+ years of experience in reporting, Investigative, and a nose for the truth in news reporting expert for prints, broadcast, TV correspondent, and documentary work. Possesses good ...

Odongo Milton Assumes RDC Role in Napak, Assures Collaborative Leadership

15 Nov 2024  |  The Ankole Times  |  English  |  Local Governance

Odongo Milton has taken over as the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Napak, Uganda, emphasizing a collaborative approach to leadership and security. He succeeds Amos Asiimwe, who has been reassigned to Pader District. Odongo, with extensive experience in various districts, aims to ensure peace and stability in Napak. The district's administrative structure and high service delivery ranking were highlighted by CAO Okumu James, who welcomed Odongo to his new role.

Tags:

Local Governance Leadership Transition

Informative

Factuality Scale

Center-Right

Political View