Trump’s enters uncertain territory after court ruling, and other trending stories, Gulf News Editors comment on December 20 top news

COLORADO SUPREME COURT DROPS BOMBSHELL DECISION: The Colorado Supreme Court's groundbreaking ruling that Donald Trump is constitutionally ineligible for the 2024 election due to the 14th Amendment's 'insurrectionist ban' marks a significant moment in US legal and political history. The court affirmed Trump's engagement in the January 6 insurrection, clearing crucial legal hurdles. Notably, it broke from a trial judge's decision, asserting that the 'insurrectionist ban' indeed applies to the presidency. The case now heads to the US Supreme Court, introducing uncertainty into the political calendar. Trump, facing potential disqualification, relies on the conservative-majority court he appointed to determine the fate of his candidacy. The decision's implications on democratic processes and the GOP primary season remain uncertain in this unprecedented legal and political saga. (By Sadiq Shaban, Opinion Editor)

MILESTONE IN MEDICAL PROGRESS: In a groundbreaking medical milestone, Dubai achieved its first-ever liver transplant, rescuing the life of a 38-year-old woman at King’s College Hospital. The surgery, led by a collaborative team from King’s College Hospital, London, and their Dubai branch, took place on November 29, showcasing the city's growing prowess in advanced medical procedures. The liver, donated by the family of a brain-dead patient, was successfully transplanted in a four-hour surgery, with the patient recovering well. This achievement not only highlights the remarkable progress in Dubai's medical landscape but also signifies the city's commitment to advancing organ transplant capabilities. Dr. Marwan Al Mulla, CEO of Health Regulation Sector at Dubai Health Authority (DHA), emphasised the historic nature of this event, marking a significant leap forward in organ transplant capabilities, and reflecting on the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's generous contribution in 1979, which played a pivotal role in establishing King’s College Hospital as a global leader in liver transplant procedures. (By Jay Hilotin, Senior Assistant Editor)

IPL HAS HELPED CRICKETERS FULFIL THEIR DREAMS: The Indian Premier League has been growing as the richest franchise league in the world and it continues to break the barriers to move higher. The mini auction held in Dubai has set a new benchmark by taking a player’s salary past the Rs200 million, Australians Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc were the two beneficiaries of the record purse. To put things in perspective, the total salary cap of a team in the inaugural edition was Rs200 million and from there to splurge such an amount to one single player shows the phenomenal growth of the league. The best players across the world want to come and play in the league to maximize their earnings and also improve their skillsets. Majority of the uncapped Indian players might not earn such high salaries now, but still the exposure that they will get once get a chance to play in the XI and start performing, their value skyrockets. While the IPL has kept the cricket fans spellbound, it has also given the players the chance to fulfil their dreams. (By A.K.S. SATISH, Sports Editor)

SHAH RUKH KHAN STEERS CLEAR OF PRESS INTERVIEWS: Steering away from the conventional path of traditional press interviews, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan is opting for a more interactive approach in promoting his upcoming film 'Dunki' in Dubai. Embracing a fan-centric strategy, Khan is foregoing the usual Q&A sessions or sit-down interviews with the local or international press and choosing to engage with his admirers in his inimitable style.From a drone show at Downtown Dubai to witnessing his movie's trailer illuminate the iconic Burj Khalifa, the 58-year-old matinee idol has been on a whirlwind promotional spree. However, opting out of conventional press interviews may not be the healthiest sign. Public figures ducking tough questions about their career or their personal lives raise concerns about transparency and the authenticity of the promotional narrative.A star of Khan’s stature evading questions or press conferences makes you wonder if stage-managed PR activities are the new way to curb dialogues and conversations. But fans aren’t complaining, so at least someone’s happy. Stay tuned for our review tomorrow. (By Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Entertainment Editor)