Transitional authorities and Presidential Guard (RSP) reached compromise 16 July after RSP 30 June accused PM Zida of inventing kidnap plot against himself, demanded his resignation along with other military officers in govt: Zida to remain PM but President Kafando to assume defence portfolio; Colonel Auguste Denise Barry, thought to be close to Zida, dismissed 19 July as minister of territorial administration, decentralisation and security. Kafando 27 July named Colonel Sidi Paré minister of security. ECOWAS Court of Justice 13 July struck down provision of new electoral code which banned supporters of former President Compaoré’s Oct 2014 attempt to modify constitution from contesting Oct elections. National Transition Council 16 July voted on resolution to charge Compaoré for treason, and members of his last govt for assault, murder and financial wrongdoings.

Electoral commission (CENI) 24 July announced President Nkurunziza’s victory in 21 July presidential elections boycotted by opposition and accompanied by violence in Bujumbura. UN, U.S. said elections not credible; opposition leader Agathon Rwasa 25 July rejected result after 22 July calling on Nkurunziza to form unity govt to avoid violence, but attended opening session of new parliament 27 July, 30 July was named deputy speaker, breaking unity of opposition. Violence in Bujumbura intensified throughout month including police killing six alleged gang members after several policemen were killed 1 July. CENI 7 July announced Nkurunziza’s CNDD-FDD won 77% of votes in late June legislative and district elections; UN 2 July said elections not free and fair. EAC 6 July appointed Ugandan President Museveni as mediator in Burundi crisis; Museveni met with stakeholders 14-15 July, govt 19 July failed to appear and asked to adjourn talks. Opposition members living abroad 15 July announced creation of national council to restore Arusha agreement, oppose Nkurunziza; council set to hold first meeting end of month. Army 13 July said 31 militants who crossed border from Rwanda killed 10 July, some 170 captured; Kigali denied militants came from Rwanda.

Suicide bombings attributed to Boko Haram (BH) intensified: at least 40 killed, tens injured in four separate attacks in Fotokol and Maroua throughout July. Following attacks, wearing of burqas banned in Far North and Littoral provinces, some mosques and Islamic schools closed, public Muslim gatherings forbidden in Maroua. Govt early month expelled some 450 Nigerians without documents from country, 28 July announced deployment of 2,000 additional troops in Far North. French President Hollande visited 3 July, said will support fight against BH. Nigerian President Buhari visited 29-30 July, discussed cooperation against BH.

UN 13 July expressed concern about 30 June National Transitional Council (NTC) decision to refuse refugees right to vote in Oct presidential polls; Transitional Constitutional Court 21 July said decision unconstitutional. Electoral census closed in Bangui 27 July after opening late June, opened in all other provinces late July. Militia members including ex-Seleka rebels 28 July clashed over control of Markounda city in NW, at least 26 killed. Two UN peacekeepers injured in clashes with militants near Cameroon border 27 July. Anti-balaka leader Sébastien Wenezaoui entered govt 21 July after reshuffle.

Boko Haram (BH) attacks intensified: at least seventeen killed, 80 injured in 11 July suicide attack on N’Djamena’s main market; at least 39 killed in suspected BH raids on Lake Chad villages throughout month; army 25 July launched military operation against BH on Lake Chad islands, 30 July announced it killed 117 BH fighters. Govt 3 July adopted new anti-terrorism law; opposition leader Saleh Kebzabo 21 July warned law could be used to curtail freedom of assembly.

Voter roll update ended 12 July: electoral commission announced 344,295 new voters registered. Some parties within opposition coalition National Coalition for Change (CNC) 7 July called for boycott of electoral commission’s activities. Former PM Charles Konan Banny named CNC president 22 July. Ivoirian court 6 July indicted twenty for crimes committed during 2010-2011 post-election crisis, including two former rebel leaders allied to President Ouattara, Cherif Ousmane and Losséni Fofana, and pro-Gbagbo General Guiai Bi Poin.

Establishment of provinces continued throughout month, increasing number of provinces from eleven to 26, following 11 July govt announcement of end decentralisation process. Electoral commission 28 July announced elections for provincial governors to take place 6 Oct instead of 31 Aug. Parliament 4 July began special session to discuss legislation required for local elections. Attacks on civilians attributed to Ugandan Allied Defence Forces (ADF) rebels continued in Beni: nine killed 14 July, three killed 24 July.

Newly-formed armed opposition group “Arbengoch Ginbot 7 Unity and Democratic Movement” (AGUDM) 2 July took first military action in Western Tigray state, bordering Eritrea; some 50 reported killed. PM Desalegn confirmed clashes, warned authorities will take direct military action against Eritrea for alleged support to Ethiopian armed opposition groups. Federal police 10 July said counter-attack launched against group, killing 30.

Dialogue between govt and opposition remained stalled: international partners 3 July proposed signing of interim agreement to take stock of points of accord already identified, following opposition’s 27 June withdrawal. Opposition rejected proposal, said it included agreements not yet discussed; opposition leader Cellou Dalein Diallo 9 July resumed calls for general street protests. Authorities 9 July indicted ex-junta leader Moussa Dadis Camara for complicity in massacre and other crimes committed by security forces in Sept 2009. Indictment comes amid concerns over announced Camara-Diallo alliance following late-June meeting. Electoral commission (CENI) 11 July presented voter roll for Oct presidential election: 900,000 new voters validated in country, 65,000 abroad; Kankan region, ruling party stronghold, showed highest number of new voters.

PM Pereira confirmed 2 July following National Assembly’s unanimous vote of confidence 25 June. Investigation into alleged corruption by FM Mario Lopes da Rosa, reported adversary of President Vaz and ally of Pereira, continued, Lopes da Rosa stripped of diplomatic passport. Council of Ministers 15 July accused judiciary of bias following launch of investigation, called for debate on role and functioning of judiciary.

Al-Shabaab attacks continued throughout month including several IED attacks in Lamu county and 6 July attack on quarry worker residences in Soko Mbuzi, Mandera county, that left fourteen dead and ten injured. Al-Shabaab militants 17 July occupied Kiunga Milimani, Lamu, for several hours; 7 July ambushed bus convoy in Milihoi. Senior intelligence officer shot dead in Mombasa 2 July by suspected radical groups. Inter-clan disputes over boundaries continued in NE: two killed 22 July in clashes in Wayama Jibril, Garissa county; two Ajuran clan men killed 21 July in attack by group from Dagodia clan amid administrative disputes between Eldas and Wajir North constituencies in Basir, Wajir county. Intercommunal livestock raids also continued in north: Pokot raiders 6, 14 and 20 July attacked Turkana homesteads in Katila, Turkana county: two killed, four injured, at least 2,150 livestock seized. Attempted livestock raid by Samburu men on Turkana herders in Marti area, Baragoi, Samburu county, repelled 25 July; four injured in gunfire exchange.

Govt 12 July reported seven Ebola cases, one death over previous three weeks amid disease’s resurgence in neighbouring Guinea and Sierra Leone. Preparations for UNMIL drawdown continued, UN SRSG for West Africa 2 July reiterated organisation will continue to support country after drawdown.

Over a hundred MPs 1 July filed motion of no confidence against Prime Minister Ravelonarivo’s govt for failing to resolve country’s socio-economic troubles, among other grievances; motion failed 3 July.

Committee of the Agreement (CSA), established to oversee implementation of 20 June peace deal, met 3-5 July and late July; participants failed to agree on rules to share responsibilities within committee, scope of mission, and on individual representatives, slowing implementation progress. Several attacks attributed to jihadi groups throughout month, including 2 July attack on MINUSMA convoy in Tumbuktu region by presumed al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) assailants, six peacekeepers killed. Attacks prompted increased operations by govt and French Barkhane authorities: Barkhane forces 5 July reported AQIM leader Ali Wadossene killed during operation. Armed forces 14 July arrested over fifteen suspected Islamist fighters in Zegoua, near Ivoirian border.

Govt 13 and 27 July accused opposition Renamo of violating Sept ceasefire, launching attacks against police units 3 July and attacks against army 27 July in Tete province. Malawian press 27 July reported some 678 Mozambicans have fled across border into Malawi seeking asylum since 3 July. Renamo 6 July reiterated demands for greater stake in provincial affairs; leader Afonso Dhlakama threatened to expel provincial governors and district administrators from Manica, Sofala, Tete, Zambezia, Nampula and Niassa provinces.

Boko Haram (BH) attacks continued in Diffa region near Nigerian border including 15 July attack that left some twelve villagers dead and 18 July attack in Bosso that left sixteen dead. Army reported forces killed some 32 BH fighters 15-17 July. Electoral commission 29 July announced upcoming election dates: first round of presidential elections planned 21 Feb 2016, second round 20 March 2016 and local elections 9 May 2016.

President Muhammadu Buhari 2 July sacked head of domestic intelligence services Ita Ekpenyong; 13 July sacked national security adviser Sambo Dasuki as well as military top brass inherited from predecessor Goodluck Jonathan. Intelligence services moved against former President Jonathan’s top security aides: 16 July arrested and detained former chief security officer Gordon Obuah for six days. Next day raided former National Security Adviser retired Col. Sambo Dasuki’s homes, reported it was recovering incriminating items, hinted at pressing treasonable felony charges. Boko Haram (BH) raids intensified in NE: insurgents attacked over fourteen towns and villages in Borno state throughout month, killing over 275 civilians. BH also continued suicide attacks, with thirteen attacks in Borno, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Plateau and Yobe states 1-26 July, killing at least 265 civilians. Govt forces increased counter-attacks, including at least twenty insurgents reportedly killed 26 July in Dikwa area, Borno state. Over 70 killed throughout month in communal and political violence in Benue, Plateau, Niger, Nasarawa, Zamfara and Rivers states.

Both houses of parliament 14 July supported constitutional change to allow President Kagame’s bid for third term; govt 20 July announced national consultation on amending constitution to be held until Aug 11.

Long-anticipated “Operation Juba Corridor” offensive began 19 July with AMISOM and Somali forces deposing Al-Shabaab from two major strongholds, Bardheere (Gedo) and Dinsoor (Bay), 23 and 22 July respectively. Senior Al-Shabaab commanders Ismail Jamhad and Jama Dere and several other militants reportedly killed mid-July in U.S. drone strike near Bardheere. Al-Shabaab attacks continued including simultaneous attacks on two Mogadishu hotels popular with govt officials and parliamentarians: ten killed on 10 July, twenty killed 26 July. Somalia Federal Govt (SFG) President Hassan late July officially acknowledged elections not possible in 2016. New Galmudug Interim State assembly 4 July elected first president, Abdikarim Guled, former security minister and close ally of SFG President Hassan Sheikh. Neighbouring Puntland condemned new administration as SFG plan to destabilise Puntland. Armed Ahlu Sunna Wal Jamaa militia meanwhile declared own president of rival “Galmudug state”. Regional administration leaders Abdiweli Gaas of Puntland and Ahmed Madobe of Interim Juba Administration (IJA) boycotted 29 July High-Level Partnership Forum (HLPF) meeting to review Somalia’s progress in political, security and economic areas due to ongoing disagreements with SFG. SFG 13 July submitted petition to International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding dispute with Kenya over sea border.

International community presented unified front to exert pressure on S Sudan’s warring parties to reach peace agreement: IGAD, African Union, UN, China and others, as part of new IGAD-PLUS mediation, 24 July proposed draft peace agreement, gave it to S Sudanese parties, gave them until 17 Aug to sign a final deal; S Sudanese parties dispute certain provisions but did not reject draft, raising hopes of agreement to end deadly 18-month conflict. U.S. President Obama late July visited Addis Ababa, met with regional leaders and Heads of State 27 July, discussed sanctions and other penalties for warring parties if they do not sign deal by 17 Aug. UNSC 2 July imposed sanctions on six govt and opposition generals. Most of ten SPLM Former Detainees (FDs), returned to Juba to mark Independence Day 9 July; notably the two most senior generals did not return. Low-level conflict in Maridi and Mundri forced over 4,000 civilians to flee parts of Western Equatoria.

President Bashir 2 July announced negotiations on National Dialogue will resume following end of Ramadan mid-July: Islamist Just Peace Forum announced it will rejoin dialogue, Islamist Reform Now said it will not participate. Sectarian Umma Party leader Sadig al-Mahdi 7 July called for new process supported by UNSC Chapter VII resolution; SPLM-N also called for new process, abandoning current AUHIP mediation. Clashes between SPLM-N and govt forces continued at reduced level due to rainy season in S Kordofan and Blue Nile; use of cluster bombs reported in Thabo county, S Kordofan 10 July. Govt 5 July announced deployment of 1,800 troops and police in E Darfur to prevent clashes between Ma’alia and Rizeigat ethnic groups. Sec Gen of radical Islamist Tayar El Umma El Wahida group rearrested 1 July several days after release from prison after reaffirming his support for Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIL).

Authorities 9 July arrested presidential hopeful and former PM Amana Mbabazi; opposition Forum for Democratic Change presidential candidate Kizza Besigye also arrested; both released same day. Local govt representatives from Uganda and DRC 28 July failed to reach agreement on reopening of Vurra border crossing, closed early July following conflict at border.

President Mugabe 6 July reshuffled cabinet: prominent Information Minister Jonathan Moyo reappointed as Minister for Higher Education. Mugabe 3 July announced three by-elections for seats of three ZANU-PF heavyweights Kudakwashe Bhasikti, David Butau and Ray Kaukonde, expelled from parliament in June, to be held 19 Sept.

Govt officials met with Taliban leaders outside Islamabad 7 July, marking minor breakthrough in President Ghani’s efforts to restart peace talks. Senior Pakistani official said talks conducted with approval from Taliban leadership, apparently confirmed by 15 July statement signed by Mullah Omar; however, several insurgent commanders expressed scepticism. Second round of talks scheduled for end-July, but Taliban 30 July rejected participation after govt claimed to have “credible information” that Mullah Omar died in April 2013. Ghani facing continued opposition from lawmakers, who 5 July rejected his third nominee for defence minister. Security continued to deteriorate, with unprecedented number of insurgent attacks. Eighteen Afghan Local Police (ALP) members killed 3 July as insurgents overran outposts in Wardak province. In Faryab province hundreds of Taliban reportedly attacked parts of Qaisar, Almar and Pashtun Kot districts, took control of part of Almar district. Taliban reportedly captured Sar-e Pul province’s Kohistanat district late month. Khost provincial officials 12 July reported 27 civilians killed in suicide car bomb outside Khost city. Residents in northern Kunduz province 5 July complained about behaviour of some 7,000 irregular armed militiamen raised to block Taliban in north. Fighting between insurgent groups also reaching unprecedented intensity as Taliban battled self-declared Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIL) factions in east. Number of U.S. drone attacks doubled in July, with over 100 strikes, most prominently against IS targets. Avowed IS groups reportedly seized control of several Taliban enclaves in Nangarhar province but subsequently lost most to Taliban counter-offensives.

Amid allegations of corruption and criminality, and accusations of inept and repressive governance, PM Sheikh Hasina mid-July undertook major cabinet reshuffle, reportedly considering action against corrupt ministers, Awami League (AL) parliamentarians, advisers, and senior/mid-level party members. Senior leader of Jubo League, AL’s youth wing, expelled mid-July over extortion allegations. Cabinet 13 July approved draft “Public Services Act, 2015”, requiring law enforcers to obtain govt permission before filing charges against public officials; prompted criticism from civil society groups. Addressing parliament 7 July, PM Hasina said special tribunal would be formed to try cases against Zia and 37 other Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) members under 2009 Anti-Terrorism Act. BNP’s acting secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, arrested Jan on charges of vandalism and arson, released on bail 14 July. Zia appeared before court trying two graft cases against her 23 July. Former telecommunications minister Abdul Latif Siddique, charged with hurting religious sentiments, released on bail 29 June; some Islamist parties and groups mobilised demanding death sentence. Police 27 July arrested eight suspected extremists including Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen head. Controversial International War Crimes Tribunal 1 July decided to try Razakar (militia) commander and three other militia members accused of committing atrocities during 1971 independence war; 16 July sentenced a Jamaat-i-Islami leader to death for war crimes; Supreme Court 29 July upheld death sentence against former minister and senior BNP member Salauddin Quader Chowdhury, convicted by ICT in 2013.

Shenyang police 13 July shot dead three alleged “Xinjiang terrorists” and injured woman in raid, also reportedly captured sixteen suspected terrorists; Uighur rights group said those arrested and shot were Uighurs trying to flee country. Police 24 July conducted anti-terrorist raid in Wenzhou, Zheijiang, arrested two Uighurs accused of planning bomb attack in Shijiazhuang mall.

Japan’s lower house 16 July passed two controversial security bills aimed at allowing Self Defence Forces (SDF) to conduct military operations overseas for first time since WW2; China called legislation “unprecedented”, warned of effects on regional security environment. During mid-July visit to Beijing, Japanese envoy reportedly discussed a leaders’ summit in Sept with Chinese counterparts. Japan 21 July released defence white paper stressing threat posed by China, including latter’s mobilisation of larger vessels around disputed Senkaku/Diaoyu islands in East China Sea (ECS). China said white paper “ignores facts, makes irresponsible remarks on China’s normal military growth and maritime activities”. Japan 22 July unveiled photos of Chinese oil rigs in ECS, said constructions “extremely regrettable”; China said Japan provoking confrontation; rigs are on Chinese side of medium line. Japan 7 July announced maritime SDF and coast guard will hold naval drills in preparation for incidents related to China’s ECS construction activities.

Police early July reported four Maoist leaders killed by fellow rebels in Chhattisgarh’s Sukma district amid rebel infighting. Maoist insurgents abducted and killed four policemen in Chhattisgarh 13 July. Top Maoist leader alias Sylvester Minz killed in clash with security forces in Jharkhand 25 July. Police reported two Maoists killed in clash in Kandhamal district, Odisha 27 July; locals claimed dead were innocent. Several members of Naga militant group National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN(K)) killed by security forces in clashes during month, amid stepped up operations against group, accused of forcibly recruiting two school boys. Two students killed in crossfire between Assam Rifles and suspected NSCN(K) 16 July. One child killed, one injured in attack by suspected tribal militants in Dima Hasao district, Assam 21 July.

Surge of clashes across Line of Control (LoC) dividing Kashmir and Working Boundary dividing Pakistan and Indian-administered Kashmir. Pakistan 6 July reported shelling near Sialkot from Indian side of Working Boundary; India 10 July said Pakistani sniper shot Indian border guard dead across Line of Control (LoC). 10 July meeting between Pakistani and Indian PMs on sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation in Russia issued short joint statement condemning terrorism, pledging to cooperate in eliminating it; agreed to meetings between national security advisors, between director generals of Pakistan Rangers and Indian Border Security Force, and between directors general of military operations; sides also agreed to release detained fishermen, to discuss ways to expedite trial for 2008 Mumbai bombing. Despite statement, cross-border clashes intensified. Punjab Rangers 15 July said Indian Border Security Forces fired near Sialkot; India claimed to be responding to Pakistani shelling in which a civilian died. Pakistani military same day claimed it shot down Indian drone. Islamabad 17 July formally protested alleged Indian ceasefire violations to UN Military Observer’s Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP), soon after a teenaged Pakistani girl reportedly killed in LoC crossfire. UNMOGIP members 20 July visited Sialkot district in Pakistan’s Punjab province to inspect sites reportedly affected by Indian shelling. Five people killed in series of attacks on Indian side around Sopore late month; one injured in Srinagar 24 July. Ten killed, including three militants, in day-long clash between police and gunmen in India’s northern frontier state Punjab 27 July; National Security Adviser Ajit Doval called incident “very serious”, other officials suggested Pakistani involvement.

Crowd of around two hundred people attacked group of Muslims and set mosque on fire in majority-Christian Tolikara in Papua province 17 July; one attacker shot dead by police, eleven wounded.

Reports emerged 22 July DPRK has upgraded a launch tower to accommodate larger space launch vehicles; U.S. warned it against “destabilizing activities”. ROK and U.S. 29 June-9 July ran “Combined Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore Exercise” on west coast. Some ten DPRK soldiers crossed Military Demarcation Line (MDL) 11 July, returned north after ROK army fired warning shots. Amid ongoing severe drought UNICEF warned lives of many DPRK children at risk. Two ROK citizens who had been in China near DPRK border sentenced to life for espionage by DPRK court; ROK confirmed their citizenship, denied spying accusations.

Govt and ethnic armed groups met for eighth formal round of negotiations 22-24 July but no breakthrough reached on Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) due to disagreements over remaining amendments to text and exclusion of six rebel groups; negotiations to resume first week of Aug. Sporadic fighting continued in Kachin, Shan, Karen and Rakhine states; army 11 July launched airstrikes on Kachin Independence Army (KIA) in Kachin state; KIA 11 July initiated rocket attack on govt forces in Shan state, one KIA member reported killed in military counter-attack. Democratic Karen Ben Army (DKBA) and army early July clashed in dispute over newly-constructed Asia Highway in Kayin state. Election Commission early July announced 8 Nov date for general elections. Parliament 8 July voted on second of two constitutional amendment bills proposed by ruling USDP in June; most provisions again vetoed by military, only minor changes slightly broadening lawmaking and taxation authority of regions and states approved. National League for Democracy 19 July announced Ko Ko Gyi, leader of 1988 student protests, will run in Nov election. Parliament 7 July approved controversial Buddhist Women’s Special Marriage Bill restricting interfaith marriage by Buddhist women, criticised by human rights and women’s groups. Govt released almost 7,000 prisoners given presidential pardon 30 July, including a small number of political prisoners.

Constituent Assembly 7 July endorsed draft constitution; major parties agreed to fast-track drafting process and aim for promulgation by mid-Aug. 8-23 July public opinion collection process truncated from one month to fifteen days, two days only allocated for consultations. Draft constitution widely labelled regressive, criticised for not addressing longstanding demands including delineation of federal provinces, entrenching secularism in preamble, and granting of citizenship by descent through mother. Demonstrations demanding amendments to these and other provisions in several southern Madhesi towns 20-21 July obstructed public consultation programs, dozens injured; police criticised for using excessive force. Right-wing monarchist Rastriya Prajatantra Party (Nepal) also launched demonstrations 20 July demanding enshrinement of Hinduism as official state religion. Citing public feedback, major parties 27 July discussed replacing secularism provision—previously enshrined in 2007 Interim Constitution – with “religious freedom” in new constitution, casting further doubt on protection of minority religions. Breakaway faction of Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist launched nationwide strike 24 July against draft constitution and May 2015 India-China trade agreement for allegedly violating Nepal’s territorial sovereignty; vehicles torched, schools shut down, over 200 arrested.

Media 3 July reported military had concluded operation “Khyber-II” 15 June, three-month operation intended to retake control over militant strongholds in Tirah and Bara valleys. Several soldiers killed in militant attacks in N and S Waziristan early July. Militants 9 July bombed school in Khyber Agency. Ongoing incidents in Balochistan included suicide bomb attack in Quetta marketplace 5 July injuring nineteen; gunmen killed two Balochistan Constabulary members 13 July; nine alleged militants killed in paramilitary operations in Khuzdar and Awaran districts 20 July. Balochistan’s apex committee 27 June announced amnesty package for Baloch insurgents who disarm and renounce violence, but with no commitment to address Baloch grievances, including military’s extrajudicial killings and other rights violations. Paramilitary Rangers 17 July conducted raid on Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) HQ in Karachi, detaining two senior MQM members and others for “facilitating hate speeches”; in subsequent raids reportedly arrested scores of MQM workers. Non-govt Human Rights Commission of Pakistan 15 July noted increase in extrajudicial killings in Karachi during Rangers-led counter-terrorism operation against criminal networks, from 191 in first half of 2014 to 255 in same period 2015. Sindh’s PPP govt 17 July extended Rangers broad policing powers in Karachi for another year. EU Council 20 July expressed concern about recent govt measures limiting NGOs’ freedom. Three-member judicial commission 22 July rejected allegations by Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of organised rigging in 2013 election after three-month probe; PTI accepted findings.

House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee on Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) 12 July announced resumption of BBL talks in Aug. President Aquino 27 July called for passage of BBL in State of the Nation Address. National Bureau of Investigation and National Prosecution Service joint fact-finding mission 16 July recommended investigation of 102 MILF and BIFF militants linked to 25 Jan clash in Mamasapano that killed 44 police commandos and eighteen MILF. Almost daily clashes in south, including: security forces 16 July conducted raid in Sulu, three Abu Sayyaf Group members killed; one soldier killed in BIFF attack in Maguindanao 6 July. New People’s Army (NPA) 11 July also conducted raid in Misamis Oriental, one soldier killed, one captured. NPA 27 July ambushed military convoy in Kalinga, three soldiers killed. Security forces 21 July arrested high-ranking NPA leader Ernesto Lorenzo.

UN tribunal began deliberations 7-13 July on whether it can hear Philippines’ legal challenge against China’s nine-dash line claim and rights to exploit natural resources in disputed areas of SCS. China, which does not accept court’s jurisdiction, 22 July urged Philippines to return to bilateral talks. Philippine navy 13 July began repairing military ship grounded deliberately on Second Thomas Shoal in 1999 to mark its claim in SCS; Beijing 15 July said it “strongly protests” refurbishment of “illegally grounded” vessel. Philippines 15 July reopened former U.S. naval base in Subic Bay as military outpost to cover SCS; 21 July stationed fighter jets there. China 23 July commenced ten-day naval drill in SCS, 28 July conducted air and sea drills. U.S. 17 July announced its navy’s readiness for military action in SCS. U.S. Pacific Fleet Commander 18 July joined surveillance flight over area. Vietnam 24 July demanded halt to Chinese naval drill near Paracel islands. Followed visit by senior Chinese official to Hanoi mid-July.

President Sirisena’s 26 June dissolution of parliament triggered two weeks of battles within United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) and its main constituent, Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP). Sirisena’s months-long effort to prevent former President Rajapaksa’s return to active politics ended 3 July, when UPFA announced it was nominating Rajapaksa for seat in 17 Aug parliamentary elections, angering supporters of Sirisena, still UPFA chairman. Sirisena 14 July speech reiterated his opposition to Rajapaksa’s candidacy, vowed never to appoint him as PM even if UPFA won majority of seats, announced he would not campaign for UPFA; speech seen as major political blow to Rajapaksa and UPFA’s chances of electoral victory and boost to coalition led by United National Party (UNP). Tamil National Alliance (TNA) and Janath Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) will run independent campaigns, also strongly opposed to Rajapaksa and UPFA. Rajapaksa 27 July launched UPFA manifesto with Sinhala nationalist themes, criticised TNA’s 25 July call for federal political solution; UNP and JVP also reiterated opposition to federalism. Election outcome expected to have major impact on the chances for further progress on rule of law reforms, post-war reconciliation and accountability. Northern Province Chief Minister CV Wigneswaran travelled to U.S. and UK, reiterating calls for international investigation into alleged genocide by govt against Tamils and Tamils self-determination. One person reported killed, 13 injured in shooting at election rally in Colombo 31 July.

Constitution Drafting Committee (CDC) 21 July received 30-day extension to complete revisions to 315-article draft constitution and present them to National Reform Council (NRC) 22 Aug; follows late June announcement by Election Commission that referendum on draft constitution could be held Jan 2016. CDC 6 July replaced controversial “open list” system with single constituency for party-list system. National Legislative Assembly deputy chairman 20 July said current govt could stay in office until early 2017, election may not take place until Dec 2016. Criminal Court 14 July convicted ten members of alleged “lèse majesté network” for distributing online content it said insulted monarchy, sentenced them to three to five years in jail; justice minister mid-July sought cooperation from France and Japan to extradite lèse majesté suspects. Govt criticised over decision to hand over 109 Uighurs who fled China to Chinese authorities early July. Violence in south continued with series of bomb attacks in Narathiwat, Pattani during month, several killed, dozens injured including civilians and security forces. Security forces 20 July killed two wanted insurgents during raid in Pattani; gunmen 6 July killed village chief, wounded three in Yala; motorcycle bomb 10 July exploded in Songkhla, killed three civilians, wounded three others; seventeen injured in platoon-sized attack on defence volunteer base in Yala 30 July.

Police 6 July removed remaining protesters opposing electricity price increase from Yerevan main street; some 40 protesters briefly detained, around a thousand moved to nearby Freedom Square. Protest leaders 21 July said they will continue demonstrations. Govt 3 July launched investigation into alleged police violence and abuses during protests in June. Russian military 7 July conducted combat readiness check of troops stationed in Armenia.

Tensions along contact line increased: Azerbaijan defence ministry 16 July announced “intense” military exercises with heavy artillery, told hospitals to be ready for “possible military action”; Armenia 2 July announced it received $200m Russian loan to buy weapons, modernise army. One Azeri, five Armenian soldiers reportedly killed in clash along contact line 25 July; Azerbaijan 29 July said it shot down Armenian drone near contact line, NK de facto authorities denied. European Council President Donald Tusk said status quo in NK unacceptable to EU, peaceful settlement a priority.

Baku court 30 July sentenced high-ranking opposition member Asif Yusifli to 7.5 years’ jail for fraud and forgery; Yusifli denied charges, said verdict politically motivated. Baku court 1 July sentenced nine people to between four and 15 years’ jail for joining Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIL).

Republika Srpska (RS) legislative assembly 15 July voted to hold referendum on authority of national courts and Office of High Representative (OHR) over ethnic Serbs; OHR, U.S. criticised decision, Bosniak delegates to RS assembly 23 July vetoed referendum. Govt 27 July adopted reform plan required for progress on EU integration; thousands protested 30 July against labour law passed as part of reforms. During 11 July commemoration of 1995 killing of over 7,000 Bosniak men and boys by Serbs in Srebrenica, some mourners attacked Serbian PM Vučić; Bosnian and Serbian leaders meeting 22 July pledged cooperation despite attack. Russia 8 July vetoed UNSC resolution calling 1995 Srebrenica killings “genocide”.

UN-led reunification talks continued 10 and 27 July between Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci and Greek Cypriot leader Nicos Anastasiades. Leaders 27 July agreed individual rights to property must be respected, resolved to appoint independent Property Commission to settle claims. Turkish President Erdogan 20 July expressed support for negotiations.

President Margvelashvili 13 July accused Russia of violating international law following demarcation activities by Russian troops stationed in breakaway republic South Ossetia (SO) early month, which put portion of strategic oil pipeline under SO control. EU foreign policy chief Mogherini 15 July condemned Russian demarcation, warned against “provocative” actions. Army 8 July began joint military exercises with NATO countries. Over 3,000 protested in Tbilisi 18 July, denouncing Russia as “occupier”, calling for its withdrawal from SO and Abkhazia.

Ethnic Serb MPs 20 July blocked law on creation of Kosovo army. Violent incidents in Serb village Goraždevac 8-9 July: two cars shot at, Molotov cocktail thrown at monument to Serb victims of war. Parliament 23 July passed resolution requesting probe into alleged corruption in EULEX mission. Authorities 11 July cut water supply in Pristina citing “security issues” following arrest of five suspects reportedly linked to Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIL), accused of planning to poison reservoir. Police 7 July arrested man suspected of taking part in May shootout in Kumanovo, Macedonia.

Anti-terrorist operations in Bishkek and nearby Lebedinovka village 16 July; six militants killed, seven arrested. Govt said militants were members of Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIL), led by two Kazakhs imprisoned in 2014 for attempted travel to Syria using illegal passports but escaped in April; one blew himself up 1 July during arrest. Security services reported large find of weapons and explosives following Bishkek raid, said group plotting attacks on post-Ramadan prayers and Russia’s Kant air base. Bishkek 17 July condemned U.S. State Dept bestowal of 2014 Human Rights Defender Award on jailed rights defender Azimjan Askarov; PM Sariev 21 July denounced 1993 cooperation agreement with U.S. President, set 4 Oct date for parliamentary elections.

Agreement between four main political parties reached 15 July, in step to end political crisis around alleged widespread illegal surveillance by govt. EU-mediated deal stipulates resignation of PM Gruevski by Jan 2016, interim govt to be sworn in, parliamentary elections in April 2016. Opposition 21 July said govt cancelled follow-up meeting on implementing reforms, accused it of stalling. Skopje court 1 July ruled trial of opposition leader Zoran Zaev for attempting to blackmail Gruevski should proceed. Member of ethnic Albanian party Democratic Union for Integration shot dead in Kumanovo 24 July; local party head surrendered to police, claimed self-defence.

Responding to late June announcement of Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIL) “governorate” in NC, Chechen leader Kadyrov 15 July said there will be no IS bases or branches in Chechnya. Russian National Antiterrorist Committee (NAK) operations continued: two members of Kizilyurt gang linked to several terror incidents reportedly killed in early month two-day pursuit in Dagestan, which also left one Russian soldier dead; six militants reported killed in 23 July raid in Kabardino-Balkaria. Following split within insurgency in which many swore allegiance to IS, Caucasus Emirate (CE) 5 July announced new leader Magomed Suleymanov (Abu Usman Gimrinsky), former Sharia judge of Dagestani insurgency. New leader (amir) of Dagestan’s CE mountain sector appointed after returning from fighting in Syria.

Authorities reported they arrested two men planning terrorist attacks. Russia late June supplied 120 armoured vehicles specialised for mountainous terrain to 201st Russian military base; began training 1,000 Tajik soldiers.

Month saw collapse of state-PKK ceasefire in place since 2013 following marked increase in violent incidents particularly in SE Turkey, Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIL) blamed for 20 July suicide bomb attack in Suruc killing 32. Two police killed by PKK-affiliated group 22 July. Border guard killed by IS militant 23 July, one police officer killed by PKK same day. Amid increasing tensions Turkey announced agreement for opening bases to allied forces fighting IS on 23 July and launched airstrikes on IS positions in Syria (killing at least 35 IS members according to Turkish military) on 24 July; and struck PKK positions in N Iraq starting on 25 July, continuing through end of July with seven waves of bombardment. Govt also arrested hundreds of suspected IS and PKK members inside Turkey 24 July onwards. PKK said 2013 truce has lost meaning; President Erdogan 28 July said peace process “with those who threaten our national unity and brotherhood” is impossible. Turkey and U.S. 28 July reportedly agreed in general terms on plan to drive out IS from part of Syrian territory along Turkish border. NATO ambassadors same day expressed solidarity with Turkey at meeting in Brussels to discuss Syria and Iraq, in session requested by Turkey. Kurdish forces claimed Turkish tanks shelled Kurdish-held villages in N Syria 26 July; Ankara denied targeting Syrian Kurds, stating it only targeted IS in Syria and PKK in N Iraq. PKK 24-31 July killed eleven Turkish security officers, bringing total during July to eighteen.

Registration of candidates underway 27 June-22 July for 16 Aug parliamentary elections and local administration polls. Opposition media 2 July reported increase in arrests near Iranian border of people linked to Afghan militant groups; 400 people reportedly detained since Feb, 300 still being held. Arrested reportedly include six officials from defence ministry, nine police, several officials from prosecutor’s office. Media 6 July asserted coffins containing four officers and eight draftees arrived in Ashgabat, all served in Tagtabazar district in Mary province near Afghan border. No official explanation provided for deaths; Russian media 8 July reported servicemen killed by IS reconnaissance group that crossed border.

Fighting, mostly involving heavy artillery, resumed in second half of month: eight Ukrainian soldiers reported killed, sixteen injured in separatist attack 15 July. Increasing tension and violence in western Ukraine: at least one dead, seven injured in standoff between police and ultra-nationalist Right Sector 11-13 July in Zakarpattia; Right Sector 21 July rallied in Kiev against govt policies, said will start campaign to organise referendum on President Poroshenko’s impeachment, recognition of volunteer militia units. Poroshenko 1 July proposed constitutional changes to give some self-determination to separatist-controlled regions; parliament 16 July voted to send proposal to Constitutional Court. Russia and separatists 2 July criticised proposal, said leaders of breakaway Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics (DPR and LPR) not consulted. DPR 2 July announced local elections on 18 October, under auspices of expected law on special status of breakaway areas; 18 July said it will withdraw heavy weaponry from line of separation. Some 2,000 Ukrainian troops 20 July began military drills with NATO countries; Russia 21 July said exercises disrupting implementation of Minsk agreement. U.S. 24 July announced it will begin training Ukrainian troops; will supplement ongoing U.S. training of National Guard, which will end in Nov. Responding to western criticism at slow pace of reform, parliament adopted four laws aimed at unblocking $2.7bn due from IMF and World Bank in Aug.