Big Changes: Kenya's President Mwai Kibaki signs in the new constitution

NEW CONSTITUTION

Kenya

Kenyans voted emphatically in favor of a new constitution on August 4. The electoral commission said that 67 percent of voters had voted in the affirmative, paving the way for a constitution that greatly reduces the president's powers and places greater emphasis on local leaders. The changes will also mean the introduction of a senate. President Mwai Kibaki, who had campaigned in favor for the new constitution, welcomed the result.  "Let us all join hands together as we begin the process of national renewal," he told the celebrating crowds.

Obasanjo (XINHUA)

GREATLY EXAGGERATED

Nigeria

In August, former Nigeria President Olusegun Obasanjo found himself in the bizarre situation of having to deny rumors of his own death. Somehow, the rumor mill came up with a story that Obasanjo had been assassinated on August 7.  "I thank you for taking the trouble to find out," he told one reporter who actually decided it might be a good idea to make a call and check the facts. "There is nothing wrong with me… I must tell you that I am hale and hearty."