The military junta is observing the 75th anniversary of independence with a gesture of amnesty, but critics have called it a stunt. Thousands still remain locked up as authorities continue to crack down on dissenters.

Defiant protesters wave Afghan flags at scattered rallies to mark the country's independence anniversary, days after the hardline Taliban Islamist militants swept into the capital, completing a stunning rout of government forces after a two decade insurgency.

Here are a few reasons to pick up a copy of The Guardian on Thursday. Find these stories and much more when you grab a copy of The Guardian on Thursday.⁣⁣⁣⁣

Here are a few reasons to pick up a copy of The Guardian on Thursday. Find these stories and much more when you grab a copy of The Guardian on Thursday.

Osinbajo’s viral Independence Day message Nigeria at 59

What Governor Ayade said on Independence Day

Nigeria kicked off this week with the country's 57th Independence Day anniversary which was celebrated with mixed sentiments across the country.

The Gambia’s new president will formally be sworn in on Saturday which is also the country’s independence day. Hundreds of prisoners hope the day will also bring their release.