Latest update: 10/05/2009 

In the Papers
In the Papers
France 24 journalists present a daily roundup of the world's papers
By Marian HENBEST (text)

 

Al Ghad – Jordan
 
Al Ghad is among the Arab papers covering Pope Benedict XVI’s Middle East visit.  The newspaper had published an open letter calling on the Pontiff to excuse himself for comments he made in Germany in 2006 – and which had angered much of the Arab world.  Now his visit to a mosque in Jordan's capital was described as very symbolic and was welcomed by people in the region.
 

Al Zamman – United Kingdom
 
According to Al Zamman, an Islamic scholar in Damascus has complained that about half of the city’s muezzins - who call their faithful to prayer – do not have a "beautiful voice".  The scholar has suggested that perhaps younger Muslims would be more suitable for the job.  A committee currently meets, once a month, to discuss complaints about the quality of the muezzins’ voices.  
 

Independent – United Kingdom
"Greedy, petty, shameless"
 
The Independent continues its coverage of the British MP expense scandal as revealed recently by the country’s press.  The paper explains that ministers have been receiving rebates for items as diverse as building work and beds, wooden spoons and lemons.
 
A report in the Mail Online explains that, despite the fact that it’s not just the Labour party involved in the expense scandal, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown’s party has taken most of the criticism.  The paper reveals that only 23% of voters support Brown – according to a poll carried out on Thursday and Friday – and half want him to step down immediately. 
 
An article in the Opinion section of the Mail Online criticizes Brown's government even further, accusing it of losing all moral and political authority and calling for it to be dissolved.  The author admits nobody expects the country’s MPs to be perfect, but the actions of some are shameful.  
 

Ouest France – France
"Guingamp remporte la Coupe de France"
“Guingamp wins the French Cup"
 
The French press is unanimous in its coverage of Guingamp’s victory over neighbouring Rennes in the French Cup Final.  Local Brittany paper Ouest France publishes a series of photos showing celebrations on and off the pitch after the second-division team secured their win at Paris’ Stade de France.
 

 

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