Iran releases 140 demonstrators who had been detained during last month’s protests against the disputed presidential election.

Violent clashes between Islamic militants and the Nigerian police spread to four states in northern Nigeria, killing as many as 150 people. The militants belong to a group called Boko Haram, which means “Western education is a sin.”

Final arguments are made today in the trial of Burmese pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who faces up to five years in prison for violating the terms of her house arrest. A verdict is expected on Friday.

Violent protests against joblessness and lack of basic services combined with strikes by municipal workers demanding a salary increase cripple Johannesburg and other major cities in South Africa.