India has one of the lowest global COVID fatality rates and is working on the coronavirus vaccine development, Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said on Saturday.

The minister, who chaired 20th meeting of Group of Ministers on COVID-19, said health infrastructure in the country has been amply strengthened. According to the Health Ministry, India has reported 26,48,998 total COIVD-19 cases and 62,550 deaths.

Dr Vardhan informed the GOM that country`s Case Fatality Rate (CFR) is at its lowest at 1.81 per cent and the recovery rate has climbed to 76.47 per cent.

"As of now, only 0.29 per cent of cases are on ventilators, 1.93 per cent on ICU and only 2.88 per cent of cases are on oxygen," he said.

The GoM was briefed on the current status of COVID-19 in India. The global comparison clearly depicted that India has one of the lowest cases per million (2424) and deaths per million (44) compared to the global average of 3,161 and 107.2 respectively.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-unlock-40-metro-rail-services-to-restart-from-september-7-schools-universities-to-remain-closed-323961">Also read|&nbsp;India Unlock 4.0: Metro rail services to restart from September 7; schools, universities to remain closed</a>

Dr Vardhan also informed the GoM that more than 338 lakh N-95 masks, nearly 135 lakh PPEs and about 27,000 ventilators have been provided by the Centre to the States and Union Territories (UTs).

According to the Health Ministry, eight States (Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha and Telangana) have contributed to around 73 per cent of the active caseload as of Saturday.

Seven states (Maharashtra, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal) account for 81 per cent of total deaths.

Dr Vinod K Paul, Chairperson of the Empowered Group-1 on medical emergency management plan, apprised the GoM of the process of COVID vaccine development in India and around the world.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/home-minister-amit-shah-has-recovered-after-covid-19-care-to-be-discharged-soon-aiims-323944">Also read|&nbsp;Home Minister Amit Shah has recovered after COVID-19 care, to be discharged soon: AIIMS</a>

"About 29 candidates, including two Indian ones, are in clinical trials out of which 6 are in Phase III. In India, Bharat Biotech`s vaccine candidate based on inactivated virus procured by ICMR is in phase II trial along with Zydus Cadila`s candidate which is based on viral DNA," he said.

"The Oxford vaccine candidate developed by Serum Institute of India (SII) is already in phase III trial in Maharashtra and some other states," he added.

He informed the GoM of the progress made by the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19.

Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan elaborated the efforts made towards mental health during the pandemic. He said the government is in direct communication with the states that were reporting a surge in cases and those with higher mortality rates.&nbsp;

India has one of the lowest global COVID fatality rates and is working on the coronavirus vaccine development, Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said on Saturday.

India has one of the lowest global COVID fatality rates and is working on the coronavirus vaccine development, Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said on Saturday. The minister, who chaired 20th meeting of Group of Ministers on COVID-19, said health infrastructure in the country has been amply strengthened. According to the Health Ministry, India has reported 26,48,998 total COIVD-19 cases and 62,550 deaths. Dr Vardhan informed the GOM that country`s Case Fatality Rate (CFR) is at its lowest at 1.81 per cent and the recovery rate has climbed to 76.47 per cent. "As of now, only 0.29 per cent of cases are on ventilators, 1.93 per cent on ICU and only 2.88 per cent of cases are on oxygen," he said. The GoM was briefed on the current status of COVID-19 in India. The global comparison clearly depicted that India has one of the lowest cases per million (2424) and deaths per million (44) compared to the global average of 3,161 and 107.2 respectively. Also read| India Unlock 4.0: Metro rail services to restart from September 7; schools, universities to remain closed Dr Vardhan also informed the GoM that more than 338 lakh N-95 masks, nearly 135 lakh PPEs and about 27,000 ventilators have been provided by the Centre to the States and Union Territories (UTs). According to the Health Ministry, eight States (Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha and Telangana) have contributed to around 73 per cent of the active caseload as of Saturday. Seven states (Maharashtra, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal) account for 81 per cent of total deaths. Dr Vinod K Paul, Chairperson of the Empowered Group-1 on medical emergency management plan, apprised the GoM of the process of COVID vaccine development in India and around the world. Also read| Home Minister Amit Shah has recovered after COVID-19 care, to be discharged soon: AIIMS "About 29 candidates, including two Indian ones, are in clinical trials out of which 6 are in Phase III. In India, Bharat Biotech`s vaccine candidate based on inactivated virus procured by ICMR is in phase II trial along with Zydus Cadila`s candidate which is based on viral DNA," he said. "The Oxford vaccine candidate developed by Serum Institute of India (SII) is already in phase III trial in Maharashtra and some other states," he added. He informed the GoM of the progress made by the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19. Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan elaborated the efforts made towards mental health during the pandemic. He said the government is in direct communication with the states that were reporting a surge in cases and those with higher mortality rates.

India has one of lowest global COVID-19 fatality rates, 0.29% cases on ventilators: Harsh Vardhan

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/military-will-not-play-any-role-in-us-elections-us-army-general-mark-milley-323938">Military will not play any role in US elections: US Army General Mark Milley</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/29/157188-milley-and-trump.jpg?itok=nsqPN2pK" />

America's&nbsp;most senior general, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley has told the Congress that the military will not be a part of the November elections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-must-build-an-impregnable-fortress-to-maintain-stability-in-tibet-xi-to-party-leaders-323908">China must build an 'impregnable fortress' to maintain stability in Tibet: Xi to party leaders</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/29/157161-tibetr.jpg?itok=sgc3POc1" />

The Chinese leader reportedly said that role of the Communist Party needs to be "strengthened" to "integrate" the Tibet's local ethnic group.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-had-to-do-it-student-leader-defies-thailands-royal-taboo-323911">'I had to do it': Student leader defies Thailand's royal taboo</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/29/157164-thailand-student-leader-rung.jpg?itok=QK-B_prH" />

The&nbsp;21-year-old Rung -- real name Panusaya Sithijirawattanakul -- said the August 10 protest at Thammasat University outside Bangkok was "the right time" to ask for change, even though she risked arrest.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fda-spokeswoman-emily-miller-fired-as-spokesperson-to-continue-as-appointee-323953">FDA spokeswoman Emily Miller fired as spokesperson; to continue as 'appointee'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/29/157195-emily-miller-and-fda.jpg?itok=VHMHVxrt" />

Emily Miller, the spokesperson for US Food and Drug Administration, has been fired days after her appointment in the officer. The decision was taken by FDA Commissioner Stephen Hahn.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-republican-party-senator-rand-paul-alleges-he-was-attacked-near-white-house-323878">US Republican Party Senator Rand Paul alleges he was 'attacked' near White House</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2019/03/05/85767-untitled-design-11.jpg?itok=nvo0ak14" />

Hundreds of anti-Trump protesters had gathered outside the White House as Trump accepted the Republican Party`s nomination for the 2020 presidential election.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-13-dead-in-china-restaurant-collapse-323918">At least 13 dead in China restaurant collapse</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/29/157168-china-restaurant-collapse.jpg?itok=7GXiEEgQ" />

At least 13 people died on Saturday when a restaurant in northern China collapsed, state media said, with rescuers pulling dozens of survivors from the rubble and searching for others believed to be trapped.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-take-to-streets-to-protest-over-dead-dolphins-in-mauritius-323931">Thousands take to streets to protest over dead dolphins in Mauritius</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/29/157180-dead-dolphins-in-mauritius.jpg?itok=211KveeV" />

Protestors held banners that showed dolphins covered in oil with slogan of 'all lives matter', and asked the government to resign.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harris-not-competent-to-be-us-president-ivanka-better-donald-trump-323883">Kamala Harris 'not competent' to be US president, Ivanka better: Donald Trump</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/29/157148-pjimage-2.jpg?itok=osj-2xon" />

Trump said he would support seeing a female president in the US but suggested that his daughter and senior White House advisor Ivanka Trump would be a better candidate for such a role.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-to-restore-internet-in-rohingya-refugee-settlement-323924">Bangladesh to restore internet in Rohingya refugee settlement</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/29/157176-bangladesh-rohingya-final.jpg?itok=Ml9ZMbub" />

Bangladesh had received flak for continuing to suspend internet services even amid coronavirus pandemic. Human Rights groups had warned that such move may give rise to unnecessary rumours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-children-and-unemployed-turn-to-opium-for-quick-cash-323907">Afghan children and unemployed turn to opium for quick cash</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/29/157162-opiumpoppy-fields-in-afghanistan.jpg?itok=E1-XLzQn" />

Afghanistan is one of the highest producer of opium as it produces nearly 80 per cent of the global supply and also provides thousands of jobs.

Military will not play any role in US elections: US Army General Mark Milley America's most senior general, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley has told the Congress that the military will not be a part of the November elections.

Military will not play any role in US elections: US Army General Mark Milley America's most senior general, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley has told the Congress that the military will not be a part of the November elections. China must build an 'impregnable fortress' to maintain stability in Tibet: Xi to party leaders The Chinese leader reportedly said that role of the Communist Party needs to be "strengthened" to "integrate" the Tibet's local ethnic group. 'I had to do it': Student leader defies Thailand's royal taboo The 21-year-old Rung -- real name Panusaya Sithijirawattanakul -- said the August 10 protest at Thammasat University outside Bangkok was "the right time" to ask for change, even though she risked arrest. FDA spokeswoman Emily Miller fired as spokesperson; to continue as 'appointee' Emily Miller, the spokesperson for US Food and Drug Administration, has been fired days after her appointment in the officer. The decision was taken by FDA Commissioner Stephen Hahn. US Republican Party Senator Rand Paul alleges he was 'attacked' near White House Hundreds of anti-Trump protesters had gathered outside the White House as Trump accepted the Republican Party`s nomination for the 2020 presidential election. At least 13 dead in China restaurant collapse At least 13 people died on Saturday when a restaurant in northern China collapsed, state media said, with rescuers pulling dozens of survivors from the rubble and searching for others believed to be trapped. Thousands take to streets to protest over dead dolphins in Mauritius Protestors held banners that showed dolphins covered in oil with slogan of 'all lives matter', and asked the government to resign. Kamala Harris 'not competent' to be US president, Ivanka better: Donald Trump Trump said he would support seeing a female president in the US but suggested that his daughter and senior White House advisor Ivanka Trump would be a better candidate for such a role. Bangladesh to restore internet in Rohingya refugee settlement Bangladesh had received flak for continuing to suspend internet services even amid coronavirus pandemic. Human Rights groups had warned that such move may give rise to unnecessary rumours. Afghan children and unemployed turn to opium for quick cash Afghanistan is one of the highest producer of opium as it produces nearly 80 per cent of the global supply and also provides thousands of jobs.

Top 10 world news today: Trump takes dig at Harris, Senator attacked near WH, and more

Mali military rulers said on Saturday they were postponing their first meeting over the transfer of powers due to "organisational reasons" nearly two weeks after ousting the president in a coup.

The junta had invited civic groups, political organisations and former rebels to consultations on Saturday, but said in a statement that the meeting was postponed to a later date.

A protest coalition that had campaigned against former president Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, the June 5 Movement, had not been invited to participate in the meeting.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mali-junta-wants-military-rule-for-three-years-agrees-to-free-president-322652">Also read:&nbsp;Mali junta wants military rule for three years, agrees to free president</a>

The group has demanded that the military junta give it a role in the transition to civilian rule which the military has promised, though without a timetable.

After an escalating series of mass protests, young army officers mutinied on August 18, seizing Keita and other leaders and declaring they now governed the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-african-leaders-add-to-pressure-on-mali-after-coup-322437">Also read:&nbsp;West African leaders add to pressure on Mali after coup</a>

The coup shocked Mali's West African neighbours and ally France, heightening worries over instability in a country already struggling with an Islamist insurgency, ethnic violence and economic malaise.

Mali's influential imam Mahmoud Dicko, a key player in the mass opposition protests that led to Keita's ouster, said Friday that the new military rulers did not have "carte blanche".

His comments came as a new document published on the Malian government's Official Journal said the junta's head had been effectively invested with the powers of head of state.&nbsp;

West African leaders, meanwhile, on Friday demanded an immediate civilian transition and elections within 12 months as they considered sanctions.

Mali military rulers said on Saturday they were postponing their first meeting over the transfer of powers due to "organisational reasons" nearly two weeks after ousting the president in a coup.

Mali military rulers said on Saturday they were postponing their first meeting over the transfer of powers due to "organisational reasons" nearly two weeks after ousting the president in a coup. The junta had invited civic groups, political organisations and former rebels to consultations on Saturday, but said in a statement that the meeting was postponed to a later date. A protest coalition that had campaigned against former president Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, the June 5 Movement, had not been invited to participate in the meeting. Also read: Mali junta wants military rule for three years, agrees to free president The group has demanded that the military junta give it a role in the transition to civilian rule which the military has promised, though without a timetable. After an escalating series of mass protests, young army officers mutinied on August 18, seizing Keita and other leaders and declaring they now governed the country. Also read: West African leaders add to pressure on Mali after coup The coup shocked Mali's West African neighbours and ally France, heightening worries over instability in a country already struggling with an Islamist insurgency, ethnic violence and economic malaise. Mali's influential imam Mahmoud Dicko, a key player in the mass opposition protests that led to Keita's ouster, said Friday that the new military rulers did not have "carte blanche". His comments came as a new document published on the Malian government's Official Journal said the junta's head had been effectively invested with the powers of head of state. West African leaders, meanwhile, on Friday demanded an immediate civilian transition and elections within 12 months as they considered sanctions.

Mali junta postpones first meeting over transfer of powers

Manila city Mayor Isko Moreno feels insulted. Calling the mislabeling an attack on the Philippine sovereignty, he clarified that&nbsp;he is not the Governor of China but the Mayor of Manila.

Moreno&nbsp;has shut down four stores that sold the Ashley Shine hair care product. Now, he is asking the government to deport all Chinese citizens who are importing such strangely-labelled products and selling them in his city.

Mayor Isko Moreno is very popular in the Philippines. He is even seen as a Presidential candidate for 2022 elections. So, his posts lit up the social media platforms and a hashtag of #ProvinceOfChina began to trend.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-anti-china-clamour-in-the-philippines-323800/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Filippinos started noticing many more Ashley Shine products carrying labels listing Manila as a province of China. That prompted other politicians to join the battle.

Lawmaker Jericho Nograles started shooting off letters to authorities. He has called for blacklisting of the Chinese manufacturer and&nbsp;termed the mislabeling a repulsive offense against the Philippines.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/philippines-dual-bomb-blast-two-female-suicide-attackers-carried-bomb-blasts-323209">Also read|&nbsp;Philippines dual bomb blast, Two female suicide attackers carried bomb blasts</a>

The Mayor Isko Moreno wants criminal charges filed against the distributor Elegant Fumes Beauty Products.

The Presidential office is portraying the incident as being trivial — something that doesn't deserve the attention of the President Rodrigo Duterte. His spokesperson said "no one believes we are a province of China."

However, the Filipinos have always been angered by Chinese actions, and especially China's illegal claims over the Philippine territories in the South China sea.

Also, previously, textile products have identified Philippine cities as part of China. A geotag on Facebook and Instagram once displayed: the Philippines, the province of China.

It is not a matter of belief, but perception. A perception that China is out to get the Philippines and&nbsp;that the government&nbsp;is not standing up to it. The Filipinos believe this mislabeling is yet another attempt of China to mess with their minds.

Manila city Mayor Isko Moreno feels insulted. Calling the mislabeling an attack on the Philippine sovereignty, he clarified that he is not the Governor of China but the Mayor of Manila.

Manila city Mayor Isko Moreno feels insulted. Calling the mislabeling an attack on the Philippine sovereignty, he clarified that he is not the Governor of China but the Mayor of Manila. Moreno has shut down four stores that sold the Ashley Shine hair care product. Now, he is asking the government to deport all Chinese citizens who are importing such strangely-labelled products and selling them in his city. Mayor Isko Moreno is very popular in the Philippines. He is even seen as a Presidential candidate for 2022 elections. So, his posts lit up the social media platforms and a hashtag of #ProvinceOfChina began to trend. Filippinos started noticing many more Ashley Shine products carrying labels listing Manila as a province of China. That prompted other politicians to join the battle. Lawmaker Jericho Nograles started shooting off letters to authorities. He has called for blacklisting of the Chinese manufacturer and termed the mislabeling a repulsive offense against the Philippines. Also read| Philippines dual bomb blast, Two female suicide attackers carried bomb blasts The Mayor Isko Moreno wants criminal charges filed against the distributor Elegant Fumes Beauty Products. The Presidential office is portraying the incident as being trivial — something that doesn't deserve the attention of the President Rodrigo Duterte. His spokesperson said "no one believes we are a province of China." However, the Filipinos have always been angered by Chinese actions, and especially China's illegal claims over the Philippine territories in the South China sea. Also, previously, textile products have identified Philippine cities as part of China. A geotag on Facebook and Instagram once displayed: the Philippines, the province of China. It is not a matter of belief, but perception. A perception that China is out to get the Philippines and that the government is not standing up to it. The Filipinos believe this mislabeling is yet another attempt of China to mess with their minds.

'Governor of Manila, not China': Isko Moreno's statement takes over Twitter with #ProvinceOfChina

It is not common to see world leaders step down from their post due to health issues. Most of times, the leaders try to hide it for as long as they can. However, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has broken the unsaid rule and stepped down because of his ill health.&nbsp;

A Prime Minister or a President's health is almost a state secret and any leak spells incompetence, the end of a career, and loss of trust.

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/possible-successors-stack-up-as-japanese-prime-minister-shinzo-abe-resigns-323622" hreflang="en">Possible successors stack up as Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe resigns</a>

In a movie&nbsp;based on Former British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, it was shown that a sick leader is seen as an unfit leader, and a&nbsp;person troubled by health problems loses his or her ability to make the best decisions.

However, world leaders cling to their post even in ill health and&nbsp;choose to prioritise power over people.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-leaders-who-refused-to-step-down-despite-ill-health-323796/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In 2016, the Chief Minister of the Indian State of Tamil Nadu died in office. Jayalalithaa was hospitalised for over two months. Though she handed over her duties to a party leader, there was no talk of officially handing over the baton. She remained the southern&nbsp;state's Chief Minister till her death.

The same year, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, the Chief Minister of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir died in office. His illness too was a prolonged one. He was in the ICU&nbsp;for two weeks but he held on to power till his last breath.

A lot of questions were raised about the health of Atal Bihari Vajpayee when he was serving as India's 10th Prime Minister. Reports said there were two senior doctors at his door step each morning. The media repeatedly asked whether India's Prime Minister was unwell but&nbsp;there were questions about who would replace Vajpayee.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-pm-abe-resigns-how-the-world-is-reacting-to-the-news-323702">Also read|&nbsp;Japan PM Abe resigns: How the world is reacting to the news</a>

This is not just an Indian problem; leaders across the world have hidden their illness from the public due to the fear of being branded 'unfit'.

American President, John F Kennedy had addison's disease. It was concealed from the public and the President took his drugs secretly. Americans were also not told about Woodrow Wilson's stroke in 1919.

In 1893, Grover Cleveland needed a surgery to remove a cancerous tumor in his mouth and believe it or not, he did it on a friend's yacht, secretly.

French President François Mitterrand died of prostate cancer in 1996. This was a year after the end of his two terms. His doctors concealed his health condition from the french public.

Even our neighbour, Pakistan, has had similar examples. Mohammad Ali Jinnah had tuberculosis and the people of Pakistan had no clue about it. Seventy two years after his death, there is still no clarity about his health condition. Infact, Pakistan's current Prime Minister Imran Khan recently thought Jinnah had cancer, and well, he was trolled for it.

Leaders hold the lives of people in their hands, and the decisions they make have far-reaching effects. The question that these examples raise is that can leaders make the best decisions for their country and citizens when&nbsp;struggling with ill-health?

The answer can be simply given by one example: Jayalalithaa lead 77 million people and was loved by the locals of the southern state. She handled a state budget worth $27 billion. While the state loved her,&nbsp;did she do justice to her people by clinging on to power even when she was bed ridden?

This is a question for all leaders who put power over people. However,&nbsp;Shinzo Abe is a welcome exception.

It is not common to see world leaders step down from their post due to health issues. Most of times, the leaders try to hide it for as long as they can. However, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has broken the unsaid rule and stepped down because of his ill health.

It is not common to see world leaders step down from their post due to health issues. Most of times, the leaders try to hide it for as long as they can. However, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has broken the unsaid rule and stepped down because of his ill health. A Prime Minister or a President's health is almost a state secret and any leak spells incompetence, the end of a career, and loss of trust. Also see| Possible successors stack up as Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe resigns In a movie based on Former British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, it was shown that a sick leader is seen as an unfit leader, and a person troubled by health problems loses his or her ability to make the best decisions. However, world leaders cling to their post even in ill health and choose to prioritise power over people. In 2016, the Chief Minister of the Indian State of Tamil Nadu died in office. Jayalalithaa was hospitalised for over two months. Though she handed over her duties to a party leader, there was no talk of officially handing over the baton. She remained the southern state's Chief Minister till her death. The same year, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, the Chief Minister of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir died in office. His illness too was a prolonged one. He was in the ICU for two weeks but he held on to power till his last breath. A lot of questions were raised about the health of Atal Bihari Vajpayee when he was serving as India's 10th Prime Minister. Reports said there were two senior doctors at his door step each morning. The media repeatedly asked whether India's Prime Minister was unwell but there were questions about who would replace Vajpayee. Also read| Japan PM Abe resigns: How the world is reacting to the news This is not just an Indian problem; leaders across the world have hidden their illness from the public due to the fear of being branded 'unfit'. American President, John F Kennedy had addison's disease. It was concealed from the public and the President took his drugs secretly. Americans were also not told about Woodrow Wilson's stroke in 1919. In 1893, Grover Cleveland needed a surgery to remove a cancerous tumor in his mouth and believe it or not, he did it on a friend's yacht, secretly. French President François Mitterrand died of prostate cancer in 1996. This was a year after the end of his two terms. His doctors concealed his health condition from the french public. Even our neighbour, Pakistan, has had similar examples. Mohammad Ali Jinnah had tuberculosis and the people of Pakistan had no clue about it. Seventy two years after his death, there is still no clarity about his health condition. Infact, Pakistan's current Prime Minister Imran Khan recently thought Jinnah had cancer, and well, he was trolled for it. Leaders hold the lives of people in their hands, and the decisions they make have far-reaching effects. The question that these examples raise is that can leaders make the best decisions for their country and citizens when struggling with ill-health? The answer can be simply given by one example: Jayalalithaa lead 77 million people and was loved by the locals of the southern state. She handled a state budget worth $27 billion. While the state loved her, did she do justice to her people by clinging on to power even when she was bed ridden? This is a question for all leaders who put power over people. However, Shinzo Abe is a welcome exception.

Health or power: What the world leaders can learn from Japanese PM Shinzo Abe

In the United States of America, it was a night like no other as the&nbsp;grand finale of the Republican National Convention was nothing short of a blockbuster.

The spectacle at the White House was unprecedented and unconventional. This four-day event was Trump's biggest opportunity to frame the presidential race on his terms and he may have exceeded the expectations of most people.

The Trump family put up a show that was made for television. It had emotions, fireworks, big promises, some acknowledgements, and in the words of Donald Trump himself, "a&nbsp;lot of greatness".

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-grand-finale-of-republican-convention-323794/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Big takeaways

First,&nbsp;Trump wanted a big party and he had it — pandemic or no pandemic. The President did not allow the coronavirus to deny him the crowd he craved for. The South Lawn of the White House was packed with over one thousand people. There were no masks or social distancing.&nbsp;America still remains the worst hit country, but the pandemic can wait.&nbsp;It's the land of the free afterall.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/truth-behind-the-simpsons-predicting-donald-trumps-death-on-august-27-2020-323495">&nbsp;Truth behind 'The Simpsons' predicting Donald Trump's death on August 27 2020</a>

Second,&nbsp;Trump used the White House as the backdrop for an overtly political activity. Delivering a convention speech at the President's official address is unconventional, to put it mildly. The Democrats say he broke a few laws by doing so, but&nbsp;the President couldn't care less. He promised a show and he delivered it.

The show-stopper, except for Donald Trump, was his daughter,&nbsp;Ivanka Trump who&nbsp;got a starring role at this convention.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-melania-trumps-disdainful-look-towards-ivanka-during-republican-national-convention-goes-viral-323586" hreflang="en">Watch: Melania Trump's 'disdainful' look towards Ivanka during Republican National Convention goes viral</a>

Much like she has throughout the Trump presidency,&nbsp;Ivanka introduced her father before his acceptance speech and she began by acknowledging that her father's style may not be to everyone's liking.&nbsp;"My father has a strong convictions. He knows what he believes and he says what he thinks. Whether you agree with him or not, you always know where he stands. I recognize that my dad's communication style is not to everyone's taste. And I know that his tweets can feel a bit unfiltered. But the results, the results speak for themselves."

Her statement of "the results speak for themselves"was a hint towards her father's apparent foreign policy victories.

"I heard foreign leaders beg him not to move the American embassy to Jerusalem. Yet he delivered on a promise also made and unfulfilled by past presidents because my father knew that it was the right thing to do. Defying all expectations, just weeks ago, he rewrote history again by making a peace agreement in the middle east. The biggest breakthrough in a quarter century," she said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/melania-trump-speaks-at-rnc-despite-keeping-low-profile-323274">Also watch|&nbsp;Melania Trump speaks at RNC despite keeping low profile</a>

Finally came the big surprise - an acknowledgement of the coronavirus crisis in America. Much like Melania Trump,&nbsp;Ivanka addressed the invisible enemy America is fighting. "I've been with my father and I've seen the pain in his eyes when he receives updates on the lives that have been stolen by this plague. I have witnessed him make some of the most difficult decisions of his life. I sat with him in the oval office as he stopped travel to europe. I watched him take the strongest, most inclusive economy in a lifetime, the lowest unemployment in a half a century and the highest wage increase for working families in decades and close it down to save American lives. "

After this rather moving speech, the President made a grand entrace to the song "God bless the USA". However, after the grand entry, it was mainly Trump and his teleprompter.

"Thank you very much. Thank you very much. Thank you. Thank you very much. Friends, delegates and distinguished guests, please, I stand before you tonight, honored by your support, proud of the extraordinary progress we have made together over the last four incredible years and brimming with confidence in the bright future we will build for America over the next four years."

Trump proceeded to give a preview of what to expect in the next nine weeks, which was an absolute assault on Joe Biden. Trump said that Biden's agenda was made in China. He called Biden weak and a trojan horse for socialism. Trump thinks Biden is a man who takes his orders from liberal hypocrites who are driving cities to the ground and tearing down the country.

"Joe Biden is weak. He takes his marching orders from liberal hypocrites who drive their cities into the ground while fleeing from the scene of the wreckage to eliminate school choice, while they enroll their children in the finest schools in the land.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/america-loves-india-trump-campaign-releases-commercial-for-indian-americans-322504">Also read|&nbsp;'America loves India': Trump campaign releases commercial for Indian-Americans</a>

"At the democrat national convention, joe biden and his party repeatedly assailed America as a land of racial, economlic and social injustice. So tonight I ask you a simple question. How can the democrat party ask to lead our country when it spends so much time tearing down our country?," he said.

Then the US President concluded with a promise that doesn't get old:&nbsp;Make America strong, proud and great once again.

"Together we are unbeatable because together we are the proud citizens of the United States of America. And on november 3, we will make America safer. We will make America stronger. We will make America prouder. And we will make America greater than ever before. I am very, very proud to be the nominee of the republican party. I love you all. God bless you. And god bless America. Thank you."

This message did not resonate well outside the White House. As Trump delivered his acceptance speech, anti-Trump demonstrators had gathered by the thousands, armed with horns and whistle and&nbsp;Hoping that their cacophony would disrupt the President's speech.

They were successful, as the noise they made was occassionaly audible on the live broadcast. However, it wasn't long before their voice got lost in the sound of fireworks.

While there was nothing new said in the RNC, the claims and promises were wrapped in grand packages, designed to impress his supporters.&nbsp;Donald Trump has managed to blur the lines between political campaigning and the Presidential office.

"Washington has not changed donald trump. Donald trump has changed Washington," Trump claimed.

Unfortunately for team Trump, the moment that has really gone viral from the convention is first lady <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-melania-trumps-disdainful-look-towards-ivanka-during-republican-national-convention-goes-viral-323586">Melania Trump rolling her eyes at first daughter Ivanka Trump.</a>

In the United States of America, it was a night like no other as the grand finale of the Republican National Convention was nothing short of a blockbuster. The spectacle at the White House was unprecedented and unconventional.

In the United States of America, it was a night like no other as the grand finale of the Republican National Convention was nothing short of a blockbuster. The spectacle at the White House was unprecedented and unconventional. This four-day event was Trump's biggest opportunity to frame the presidential race on his terms and he may have exceeded the expectations of most people. The Trump family put up a show that was made for television. It had emotions, fireworks, big promises, some acknowledgements, and in the words of Donald Trump himself, "a lot of greatness". Big takeaways First, Trump wanted a big party and he had it — pandemic or no pandemic. The President did not allow the coronavirus to deny him the crowd he craved for. The South Lawn of the White House was packed with over one thousand people. There were no masks or social distancing. America still remains the worst hit country, but the pandemic can wait. It's the land of the free afterall. Also read| Truth behind 'The Simpsons' predicting Donald Trump's death on August 27 2020 Second, Trump used the White House as the backdrop for an overtly political activity. Delivering a convention speech at the President's official address is unconventional, to put it mildly. The Democrats say he broke a few laws by doing so, but the President couldn't care less. He promised a show and he delivered it. The show-stopper, except for Donald Trump, was his daughter, Ivanka Trump who got a starring role at this convention. Also read| Watch: Melania Trump's 'disdainful' look towards Ivanka during Republican National Convention goes viral Much like she has throughout the Trump presidency, Ivanka introduced her father before his acceptance speech and she began by acknowledging that her father's style may not be to everyone's liking. "My father has a strong convictions. He knows what he believes and he says what he thinks. Whether you agree with him or not, you always know where he stands. I recognize that my dad's communication style is not to everyone's taste. And I know that his tweets can feel a bit unfiltered. But the results, the results speak for themselves." Her statement of "the results speak for themselves"was a hint towards her father's apparent foreign policy victories. "I heard foreign leaders beg him not to move the American embassy to Jerusalem. Yet he delivered on a promise also made and unfulfilled by past presidents because my father knew that it was the right thing to do. Defying all expectations, just weeks ago, he rewrote history again by making a peace agreement in the middle east. The biggest breakthrough in a quarter century," she said. Also watch| Melania Trump speaks at RNC despite keeping low profile Finally came the big surprise - an acknowledgement of the coronavirus crisis in America. Much like Melania Trump, Ivanka addressed the invisible enemy America is fighting. "I've been with my father and I've seen the pain in his eyes when he receives updates on the lives that have been stolen by this plague. I have witnessed him make some of the most difficult decisions of his life. I sat with him in the oval office as he stopped travel to europe. I watched him take the strongest, most inclusive economy in a lifetime, the lowest unemployment in a half a century and the highest wage increase for working families in decades and close it down to save American lives. " After this rather moving speech, the President made a grand entrace to the song "God bless the USA". However, after the grand entry, it was mainly Trump and his teleprompter. "Thank you very much. Thank you very much. Thank you. Thank you very much. Friends, delegates and distinguished guests, please, I stand before you tonight, honored by your support, proud of the extraordinary progress we have made together over the last four incredible years and brimming with confidence in the bright future we will build for America over the next four years." Trump proceeded to give a preview of what to expect in the next nine weeks, which was an absolute assault on Joe Biden. Trump said that Biden's agenda was made in China. He called Biden weak and a trojan horse for socialism. Trump thinks Biden is a man who takes his orders from liberal hypocrites who are driving cities to the ground and tearing down the country. "Joe Biden is weak. He takes his marching orders from liberal hypocrites who drive their cities into the ground while fleeing from the scene of the wreckage to eliminate school choice, while they enroll their children in the finest schools in the land. Also read| 'America loves India': Trump campaign releases commercial for Indian-Americans "At the democrat national convention, joe biden and his party repeatedly assailed America as a land of racial, economlic and social injustice. So tonight I ask you a simple question. How can the democrat party ask to lead our country when it spends so much time tearing down our country?," he said. Then the US President concluded with a promise that doesn't get old: Make America strong, proud and great once again. "Together we are unbeatable because together we are the proud citizens of the United States of America. And on november 3, we will make America safer. We will make America stronger. We will make America prouder. And we will make America greater than ever before. I am very, very proud to be the nominee of the republican party. I love you all. God bless you. And god bless America. Thank you." This message did not resonate well outside the White House. As Trump delivered his acceptance speech, anti-Trump demonstrators had gathered by the thousands, armed with horns and whistle and Hoping that their cacophony would disrupt the President's speech. They were successful, as the noise they made was occassionaly audible on the live broadcast. However, it wasn't long before their voice got lost in the sound of fireworks. While there was nothing new said in the RNC, the claims and promises were wrapped in grand packages, designed to impress his supporters. Donald Trump has managed to blur the lines between political campaigning and the Presidential office. "Washington has not changed donald trump. Donald trump has changed Washington," Trump claimed. Unfortunately for team Trump, the moment that has really gone viral from the convention is first lady Melania Trump rolling her eyes at first daughter Ivanka Trump.

Fireworks to eyerolls: Fourth day of Republican National Convention concludes

The ex-mayor of South Africa's biggest city Johannesburg on Saturday launched his own party after last year quitting the main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) over its approach to racial inequality.

Herman Mashaba was elected in 2016, becoming the city's first mayor not from the ruling African National Congress (ANC) since apartheid ended in 1994.

His new party, ActionSA has gained support of outspoken former ANC lawmakers including corruption whistle blower Vytjie Mentor.

His resignation from the DA was sparked by the election of the party's former leader Helen Zille as its federal council chairperson.

Zille had stoked controversy by arguing there were some positive aspects to colonialism.

Two days after Mashaba resigned, the DA's first black leader Mmusi Maimane, walked away from the party over what he described as coordinated attacks from sections of the traditionally white liberal party against affirmative action policies for the black majority population.

The DA has struggled to shed its image as a historically white party. Its share of the vote shrunk in national elections last year despite numerous scandals plaguing the ANC.

"Racism diminishes the equality and worth of a South African and sets back progress in our country," said Mashaba in an inaugural speech. "It has no place in this new party and it has no place in our country."

"We will no longer let the corrupt, the racist and the radical few speak on our behalf," said Mashaba.

The 61-year-old millionaire, who made his fortune in black hair products, was one of the most senior politicians in the pro-business DA.

In his speech, he also commented on foreign policy issues, chiding the government Cyril Ramaphosa for being soft with Zimbabwe.

"This crisis impacts our country deeply, and it is now time for a new approach," he said.&nbsp;

"It is time for hard diplomacy. We must adopt the strongest and harshest policies against an oppressive government, and not punish the people of Zimbabwe."&nbsp;

Zimbabwean authorities have in recent months arrested several opposition activists and government critics in what is widely seen as a campaign to crush dissent.

The ex-mayor of South Africa's biggest city Johannesburg on Saturday launched his own party after last year quitting the main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) over its approach to racial inequality.

The ex-mayor of South Africa's biggest city Johannesburg on Saturday launched his own party after last year quitting the main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) over its approach to racial inequality. Herman Mashaba was elected in 2016, becoming the city's first mayor not from the ruling African National Congress (ANC) since apartheid ended in 1994. His new party, ActionSA has gained support of outspoken former ANC lawmakers including corruption whistle blower Vytjie Mentor. His resignation from the DA was sparked by the election of the party's former leader Helen Zille as its federal council chairperson. Zille had stoked controversy by arguing there were some positive aspects to colonialism. Two days after Mashaba resigned, the DA's first black leader Mmusi Maimane, walked away from the party over what he described as coordinated attacks from sections of the traditionally white liberal party against affirmative action policies for the black majority population. The DA has struggled to shed its image as a historically white party. Its share of the vote shrunk in national elections last year despite numerous scandals plaguing the ANC. "Racism diminishes the equality and worth of a South African and sets back progress in our country," said Mashaba in an inaugural speech. "It has no place in this new party and it has no place in our country." "We will no longer let the corrupt, the racist and the radical few speak on our behalf," said Mashaba. The 61-year-old millionaire, who made his fortune in black hair products, was one of the most senior politicians in the pro-business DA. In his speech, he also commented on foreign policy issues, chiding the government Cyril Ramaphosa for being soft with Zimbabwe. "This crisis impacts our country deeply, and it is now time for a new approach," he said. "It is time for hard diplomacy. We must adopt the strongest and harshest policies against an oppressive government, and not punish the people of Zimbabwe." Zimbabwean authorities have in recent months arrested several opposition activists and government critics in what is widely seen as a campaign to crush dissent.

South Africa's Johannesburg ex-mayor launches new party

First-time drug offender,&nbsp;Alice Marie Johnson, has been granted a full pardon from the US President Donald Trump, two years after he commuted her prison sentence.

Trump said the pardon&nbsp;has been granted considering her great work since her commutation in 2018. "We're giving Alice a full pardon. I just told her," Trump said in the Oval Office alongside Johnson. "That means you can do whatever you want in life. Just keep doing the great job you're doing. Alice has done an incredible job since she's been out, and recommending other people" to grant clemency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/most-infamous-and-shocking-presidential-pardons-in-the-history-of-us-312513">Have a look:&nbsp;Most infamous and shocking presidential pardons in the history of US</a>

Johnson was a&nbsp;a first-time nonviolent drug offender. Her case was brought to light by&nbsp;Kim Kardashian West in 2018 as she pleaded Johnson's case in front of Trump.

She was convicted on charges of conspiracy to possess cocaine and attempted possession of cocaine, after serving 21 years in prison.

Since her commutation, Johnson has been acting as&nbsp;a criminal justice reform advocate, and has received praises from several well-known people, such as Trump. Johnson was also spotted at the recently-concluded Republican National Convention, where she told her story and thanked Trump for signing&nbsp;a criminal justice reform bill, the First Step Act, into law.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" src="https://w3.cdn.anvato.net/player/prod/v3/anvload.html?key=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%3D%3D" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"It was real justice reform," Johnson said of the First Step Act. "And it brought joy, hope and freedom to thousands of well-deserving people. I hollered, 'Hallelujah!' My faith in justice and mercy was rewarded. Imagine getting to hug your loved ones again. It's a feeling I will never forget. And to think, this first step meant so much to so many."

Johnson, however claims she was completely unaware of her upcoming pardon. "I had idea. None. It's almost like déjà vu from two years ago. When I woke up that morning I didn't know that would be my last day in prison," she said.

Since the pardo, Johnson has been vocal about her support for Trump in the upcoming elections.&nbsp;"You know, of course I support him as a president and last night I didn't have a right to vote. And I still haven't registered to vote. So, I thought it would have been a little bit hypocritical of me to not be able to vote and then say I'm endorsing," she said. 
"But for me this is not about politics. This is about people and I try to really stay focused on what my mission is," she added. "This really is not a partisan issue, criminal justice reform. It's something that reaches across the aisle."

Johnson is the second person to have been pardoned in the last one week.&nbsp;Jon Ponder, who used his time after prison for robbing a bank to create a reintegration program for former inmates, was also pardoned by Trump this week. Ponder's pardoning was broadcasted at the RNC.

First-time drug offender, Alice Marie Johnson, has been granted a full pardon from the US President Donald Trump, two years after he commuted her prison sentence.

First-time drug offender, Alice Marie Johnson, has been granted a full pardon from the US President Donald Trump, two years after he commuted her prison sentence. Trump said the pardon has been granted considering her great work since her commutation in 2018. "We're giving Alice a full pardon. I just told her," Trump said in the Oval Office alongside Johnson. "That means you can do whatever you want in life. Just keep doing the great job you're doing. Alice has done an incredible job since she's been out, and recommending other people" to grant clemency. Have a look: Most infamous and shocking presidential pardons in the history of US Johnson was a a first-time nonviolent drug offender. Her case was brought to light by Kim Kardashian West in 2018 as she pleaded Johnson's case in front of Trump. She was convicted on charges of conspiracy to possess cocaine and attempted possession of cocaine, after serving 21 years in prison. Since her commutation, Johnson has been acting as a criminal justice reform advocate, and has received praises from several well-known people, such as Trump. Johnson was also spotted at the recently-concluded Republican National Convention, where she told her story and thanked Trump for signing a criminal justice reform bill, the First Step Act, into law. × "It was real justice reform," Johnson said of the First Step Act. "And it brought joy, hope and freedom to thousands of well-deserving people. I hollered, 'Hallelujah!' My faith in justice and mercy was rewarded. Imagine getting to hug your loved ones again. It's a feeling I will never forget. And to think, this first step meant so much to so many." Johnson, however claims she was completely unaware of her upcoming pardon. "I had idea. None. It's almost like déjà vu from two years ago. When I woke up that morning I didn't know that would be my last day in prison," she said. Since the pardo, Johnson has been vocal about her support for Trump in the upcoming elections. "You know, of course I support him as a president and last night I didn't have a right to vote. And I still haven't registered to vote. So, I thought it would have been a little bit hypocritical of me to not be able to vote and then say I'm endorsing," she said. "But for me this is not about politics. This is about people and I try to really stay focused on what my mission is," she added. "This really is not a partisan issue, criminal justice reform. It's something that reaches across the aisle." Johnson is the second person to have been pardoned in the last one week. Jon Ponder, who used his time after prison for robbing a bank to create a reintegration program for former inmates, was also pardoned by Trump this week. Ponder's pardoning was broadcasted at the RNC.

Trump pardons first-time drug offender, Alice Marie Johnson

As the US Presidential elections draw near, the rumours, controversies and safety concerns are also growing. The elections are scheduled for November 03 where the present President Donald Trump will contest against Joe Biden.

While some believed that the American military will be ready for any disputes, the&nbsp;country's most senior general, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley has told the Congress that the military will not be a part of the November elections.

"The Constitution and laws of the US and the states establish procedures for carrying out elections, and for resolving disputes over the outcome of elections ... I do not see the US military as part of this process," Milley said in a letter released on Friday responding to questions from two members of the House Armed Services Committee.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-republican-party-senator-rand-paul-alleges-he-was-attacked-near-white-house-323878">Also read:&nbsp;US Republican Party Senator Rand Paul alleges he was 'attacked' near White House</a>

He also clarified that if any disputes are involved, the courts and Congress will be the decider of it. "In the event of a dispute over some aspect of the elections, by law US courts and the US Congress are required to resolve any disputes, not the US Military," he added.

"I believe deeply in the principle of an apolitical US military," he said.

The clarification was provided by Milley after&nbsp;Democratic Reps. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan and Mikie Sherrill of New Jersey asked if military will be involved in the elections.

The rumour started when Trump's opponent, Joe Biden, in a local interview, laughed that the military might have to escort the President out of the White House if Trump refuses to leave the premises upon losing the elections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-people-protesting-in-washington-on-thursday-were-thugs-323838">Also read:&nbsp;Trump says people protesting in Washington on Thursday were 'thugs'</a>

"I promise you, I'm absolutely convinced they will escort him from the White House with great dispatch," Biden said, referring to the US military's Joint Chiefs of Staff.

The statement came after Trump had said he might not publically accept the election results if it is not in his favour.&nbsp;"I have to see, look, I have to see, I'm not just going to say yes, I'm not going to say no, and I didn't last time either," he had said in an interview.

Trump's statement was followed by an open-letter sent to Milley by two of the most-popular retired military officers,&nbsp;John Nagl and Paul Yingling, who had said, "If Donald Trump refuses to leave office at the expiration of his constitutional term, the United States military must remove him by force, and you must give that order."

The rumour was also clarified by chief Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman, who had said,&nbsp;"We have a Constitution, and our Constitution, which all members of the military have sworn an oath to, provides no role for the US military as arbiter of political or election disputes."

"This issue appears to be born of unserious thought reflecting a fundamental lack of appreciation for the history of our democracy and the civilian-military relationship established under our Constitution," he added.

As the US Presidential elections draw near, the rumours, controversies and safety concerns are also growing. The elections are scheduled for November 03 where the present President Donald Trump will contest against Joe Biden.

As the US Presidential elections draw near, the rumours, controversies and safety concerns are also growing. The elections are scheduled for November 03 where the present President Donald Trump will contest against Joe Biden. While some believed that the American military will be ready for any disputes, the country's most senior general, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley has told the Congress that the military will not be a part of the November elections. "The Constitution and laws of the US and the states establish procedures for carrying out elections, and for resolving disputes over the outcome of elections ... I do not see the US military as part of this process," Milley said in a letter released on Friday responding to questions from two members of the House Armed Services Committee. Also read: US Republican Party Senator Rand Paul alleges he was 'attacked' near White House He also clarified that if any disputes are involved, the courts and Congress will be the decider of it. "In the event of a dispute over some aspect of the elections, by law US courts and the US Congress are required to resolve any disputes, not the US Military," he added. "I believe deeply in the principle of an apolitical US military," he said. The clarification was provided by Milley after Democratic Reps. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan and Mikie Sherrill of New Jersey asked if military will be involved in the elections. The rumour started when Trump's opponent, Joe Biden, in a local interview, laughed that the military might have to escort the President out of the White House if Trump refuses to leave the premises upon losing the elections. Also read: Trump says people protesting in Washington on Thursday were 'thugs' "I promise you, I'm absolutely convinced they will escort him from the White House with great dispatch," Biden said, referring to the US military's Joint Chiefs of Staff. The statement came after Trump had said he might not publically accept the election results if it is not in his favour. "I have to see, look, I have to see, I'm not just going to say yes, I'm not going to say no, and I didn't last time either," he had said in an interview. Trump's statement was followed by an open-letter sent to Milley by two of the most-popular retired military officers, John Nagl and Paul Yingling, who had said, "If Donald Trump refuses to leave office at the expiration of his constitutional term, the United States military must remove him by force, and you must give that order." The rumour was also clarified by chief Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman, who had said, "We have a Constitution, and our Constitution, which all members of the military have sworn an oath to, provides no role for the US military as arbiter of political or election disputes." "This issue appears to be born of unserious thought reflecting a fundamental lack of appreciation for the history of our democracy and the civilian-military relationship established under our Constitution," he added.

Military will not play any role in US elections: US Army General Mark Milley

When university student Rung calmly read out 10 demands to reform Thailand's monarchy before thousands of protesters at a pro-democracy rally this month, she defied the country's biggest political taboo.

Backed by an arch-royalist military and shielded by draconian royal defamation laws, the super-rich monarchy wields enormous influence in nearly every sphere of Thai society.

But 21-year-old Rung -- real name Panusaya Sithijirawattanakul -- said the August 10 protest at Thammasat University outside Bangkok was "the right time" to ask for change, even though she risked arrest.

"When I left the stage, I felt like I had expanded the boundaries... raised the limits on how people can talk about the monarchy," the bespectacled sociology and anthropology student told AFP.

That demonstration was one of many near-daily rallies -- some drawing thousands -- across Thailand as the democracy movement gathered steam, led by university students like her.

The demands Rung announced that day included more transparency for the royal family's fortune and the abolition of the royal defamation law, which carries a sentence of up to 15 years in jail per charge.

Born 1998 in Nonthaburi to a middle-class family that runs an auto workshop, Rung said she grew up largely unaware of political developments but one incident stood out.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" src="https://w3.cdn.anvato.net/player/prod/v3/anvload.html?key=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%3D" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

When she was 10, her entire neighbourhood was ushered out onto the streets to wait for a royal motorcade to drive past.

"I remember thinking: 'Why did I have to go? Why did they have to force me and other people to kneel down?'"

"This was the incident that marked my conscience."

- 'It's about equality' - 
A few years later, when she was 15, Rung was "radicalised" as she saw the 2014 coup unfold.

"Soldiers don't have the authority to rule the country and everything broadcasted then was propaganda," she told AFP at her university dorm.

Inspired by the Hong Kong democracy protests, Thai activists are calling for a complete overhaul of the government of Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha, a former army chief who led the 2014 coup.

To the current protesters, Prayut's administration is emblematic of a putsch-happy military entrenched in the country's political establishment long perceived to serve only the elite.

Sitting at the apex of power is King Maha Vajiralongkorn. Since he ascended the throne in 2016, he has made unprecedented changes to the institution.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-minister-says-clampdown-wont-stop-as-facebook-plans-to-fight-order-323256">Also read:&nbsp;Thai minister says clampdown won't stop as Facebook plans to fight order</a>

He has taken personal control of the palace's fortune, worth an estimated $60 billion, and also moved two army units under his direct command.

The burgeoning youth-led movement wants changes "meant to sustain the monarchy in a way that is adapted" to the modern world, said Rung.

On Wednesday, activists submitted the demands to a parliamentary committee -- a move that does not guarantee discussion among MPs but symbolises the group's resolve.

"It's about equality," Rung stressed.

"No one should be more important or higher than anyone else."

- 'My life would change forever' - 
But speaking out comes at a cost.

At least nine pro-democracy activists who fled Thailand since the 2014 coup have disappeared in the past two years, according to Human Rights Watch.

And while the royal defamation law has not been used against any of the activists charged so far, authorities have hit Rung and other student leaders with multiple charges, including sedition.

That carries a maximum sentence of up to seven years in jail.

Prayut has claimed their demands are unacceptable to the country's majority, and on Wednesday warned that Thailand would be "engulfed in flames" if protesters push too far.

Some analysts -- and even student leaders themselves -- have recalled the events of 1976, when students protesting the return of a military dictator were shot, beaten to death and lynched by state forces and royalist mobs.

For now, Rung faces legal threats and could be arrested. But she says she is "ready" for what comes next.

She continues to travel to rallies outside Bangkok to make speeches, and helps organise future gatherings in encrypted message groups.

"I knew that after I read out the 10 demands, my life would change forever," the soft-spoken activist said as she played with her kitten.

"I still had to do it."

When university student Rung calmly read out 10 demands to reform Thailand's monarchy before thousands of protesters at a pro-democracy rally this month, she defied the country's biggest political taboo.

When university student Rung calmly read out 10 demands to reform Thailand's monarchy before thousands of protesters at a pro-democracy rally this month, she defied the country's biggest political taboo. Backed by an arch-royalist military and shielded by draconian royal defamation laws, the super-rich monarchy wields enormous influence in nearly every sphere of Thai society. But 21-year-old Rung -- real name Panusaya Sithijirawattanakul -- said the August 10 protest at Thammasat University outside Bangkok was "the right time" to ask for change, even though she risked arrest. "When I left the stage, I felt like I had expanded the boundaries... raised the limits on how people can talk about the monarchy," the bespectacled sociology and anthropology student told AFP. That demonstration was one of many near-daily rallies -- some drawing thousands -- across Thailand as the democracy movement gathered steam, led by university students like her. The demands Rung announced that day included more transparency for the royal family's fortune and the abolition of the royal defamation law, which carries a sentence of up to 15 years in jail per charge. Born 1998 in Nonthaburi to a middle-class family that runs an auto workshop, Rung said she grew up largely unaware of political developments but one incident stood out. × When she was 10, her entire neighbourhood was ushered out onto the streets to wait for a royal motorcade to drive past. "I remember thinking: 'Why did I have to go? Why did they have to force me and other people to kneel down?'" "This was the incident that marked my conscience." - 'It's about equality' - A few years later, when she was 15, Rung was "radicalised" as she saw the 2014 coup unfold. "Soldiers don't have the authority to rule the country and everything broadcasted then was propaganda," she told AFP at her university dorm. Inspired by the Hong Kong democracy protests, Thai activists are calling for a complete overhaul of the government of Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha, a former army chief who led the 2014 coup. To the current protesters, Prayut's administration is emblematic of a putsch-happy military entrenched in the country's political establishment long perceived to serve only the elite. Sitting at the apex of power is King Maha Vajiralongkorn. Since he ascended the throne in 2016, he has made unprecedented changes to the institution. Also read: Thai minister says clampdown won't stop as Facebook plans to fight order He has taken personal control of the palace's fortune, worth an estimated $60 billion, and also moved two army units under his direct command. The burgeoning youth-led movement wants changes "meant to sustain the monarchy in a way that is adapted" to the modern world, said Rung. On Wednesday, activists submitted the demands to a parliamentary committee -- a move that does not guarantee discussion among MPs but symbolises the group's resolve. "It's about equality," Rung stressed. "No one should be more important or higher than anyone else." - 'My life would change forever' - But speaking out comes at a cost. At least nine pro-democracy activists who fled Thailand since the 2014 coup have disappeared in the past two years, according to Human Rights Watch. And while the royal defamation law has not been used against any of the activists charged so far, authorities have hit Rung and other student leaders with multiple charges, including sedition. That carries a maximum sentence of up to seven years in jail. Prayut has claimed their demands are unacceptable to the country's majority, and on Wednesday warned that Thailand would be "engulfed in flames" if protesters push too far. Some analysts -- and even student leaders themselves -- have recalled the events of 1976, when students protesting the return of a military dictator were shot, beaten to death and lynched by state forces and royalist mobs. For now, Rung faces legal threats and could be arrested. But she says she is "ready" for what comes next. She continues to travel to rallies outside Bangkok to make speeches, and helps organise future gatherings in encrypted message groups. "I knew that after I read out the 10 demands, my life would change forever," the soft-spoken activist said as she played with her kitten. "I still had to do it."

'I had to do it': Student leader defies Thailand's royal taboo

As nearly 40 dead dolphins washed up on the shore after the tragic and massive oil spill in Mauritius, locals are demanding a detailed investigation of the same.

The dolphins that washed up in Maritius were, presumably, negatively affected by the toxic oil spill caused by a crack in the Japanes ship in the ocean.

Locals are now protestung against the unintentional deaths of dolphins and are demanding thorough investigation of the same. Several environmentalists are demanding a detailed investigation of whether or not the death of dolphins is related to the oil spill.

However, as per preliminary investigations, experts have revealed that the dead dolphins had&nbsp;wounds on their bodies but no trace of oil.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-40-dolphins-die-in-area-hit-by-mauritius-oil-spill-323756">Also read:&nbsp;At least 40 dolphins die in area hit by Mauritius oil spill</a>

"The preliminary results show that the animals did not have trace of hydrocarbon in their respiratory system, nor in their skin, throat or stomach," the report said.

However, the locals are not satisfied with the initial reports.&nbsp;"We do not trust the government and the diluted information they`ve been feeding us regarding the management and responses to the oil spill," Fabiola Monty, 33 a Mauritian environmental scientist

Protestors held banners that showed dolphins covered in oil with slogan of "all lives matter". Several participants of the protest also asked the government to resign over such a deadly mistake.&nbsp;Mauritian flags were also waved across the packed square of St Louis Cathedral.

So far, two dolphins' bodies have been investigated, and the results for next 20-25 dolphins is expected in a few days.&nbsp;The autopsy on the first two was conducted by the government-run Albion Fisheries Research Centre.

The government has assured the locals that an autopsy will be performed on all the dead dolphins, and not some.

Local environmental group Eco-Sud, which took part in Saturday`s protest, said in a statement on Friday that representatives from civil society should be present during the autopsies and called for a second opinion from independent specialists.

Meanwhile, the government has started two different investigations. First is by the local police which will be looking into the crew's responsibility and role into this environmental tragedy, and the second will be by a senior Shipping Ministry official to study the whole incident that happened during the hit.

As nearly 40 dead dolphins washed up on the shore after the tragic and massive oil spill in Mauritius, locals are demanding a detailed investigation of the same.

As nearly 40 dead dolphins washed up on the shore after the tragic and massive oil spill in Mauritius, locals are demanding a detailed investigation of the same. The dolphins that washed up in Maritius were, presumably, negatively affected by the toxic oil spill caused by a crack in the Japanes ship in the ocean. Locals are now protestung against the unintentional deaths of dolphins and are demanding thorough investigation of the same. Several environmentalists are demanding a detailed investigation of whether or not the death of dolphins is related to the oil spill. However, as per preliminary investigations, experts have revealed that the dead dolphins had wounds on their bodies but no trace of oil. Also read: At least 40 dolphins die in area hit by Mauritius oil spill "The preliminary results show that the animals did not have trace of hydrocarbon in their respiratory system, nor in their skin, throat or stomach," the report said. However, the locals are not satisfied with the initial reports. "We do not trust the government and the diluted information they`ve been feeding us regarding the management and responses to the oil spill," Fabiola Monty, 33 a Mauritian environmental scientist Protestors held banners that showed dolphins covered in oil with slogan of "all lives matter". Several participants of the protest also asked the government to resign over such a deadly mistake. Mauritian flags were also waved across the packed square of St Louis Cathedral. So far, two dolphins' bodies have been investigated, and the results for next 20-25 dolphins is expected in a few days. The autopsy on the first two was conducted by the government-run Albion Fisheries Research Centre. The government has assured the locals that an autopsy will be performed on all the dead dolphins, and not some. Local environmental group Eco-Sud, which took part in Saturday`s protest, said in a statement on Friday that representatives from civil society should be present during the autopsies and called for a second opinion from independent specialists. Meanwhile, the government has started two different investigations. First is by the local police which will be looking into the crew's responsibility and role into this environmental tragedy, and the second will be by a senior Shipping Ministry official to study the whole incident that happened during the hit.

Thousands take to streets to protest over dead dolphins in Mauritius

At least 13 people died on Saturday when a restaurant in northern China collapsed, state media said, with rescuers pulling dozens of survivors from the rubble and searching for others believed to be trapped.

The two-storey building used for banquets came down in the morning in Xiangfen county, in Shanxi province, according to broadcaster CGTN.

"So far, 43 people have been brought out, including the dead and four seriously injured," the report said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-must-build-an-impregnable-fortress-to-maintain-stability-in-tibet-xi-to-party-leaders-323908">Also read:&nbsp;China must build an 'impregnable fortress' to maintain stability in Tibet: Xi to party leaders</a>

Images on the CGTN website showed rescuers in orange overalls and hard hats combing the crumbled ruin of the building, with a decorative painting seen on one of the few walls still intact.

CGTN said 700 people were involved in the rescue operation.

While the cause of the disaster was not immediately clear, China is no stranger to building collapses and deadly construction accidents.

They are typically blamed on the country's rapid growth leading to corner-cutting by builders and the widespread flouting of safety rules.

At least 13 people died on Saturday when a restaurant in northern China collapsed, state media said, with rescuers pulling dozens of survivors from the rubble and searching for others believed to be trapped.

At least 13 people died on Saturday when a restaurant in northern China collapsed, state media said, with rescuers pulling dozens of survivors from the rubble and searching for others believed to be trapped. The two-storey building used for banquets came down in the morning in Xiangfen county, in Shanxi province, according to broadcaster CGTN. "So far, 43 people have been brought out, including the dead and four seriously injured," the report said. Also read: China must build an 'impregnable fortress' to maintain stability in Tibet: Xi to party leaders Images on the CGTN website showed rescuers in orange overalls and hard hats combing the crumbled ruin of the building, with a decorative painting seen on one of the few walls still intact. CGTN said 700 people were involved in the rescue operation. While the cause of the disaster was not immediately clear, China is no stranger to building collapses and deadly construction accidents. They are typically blamed on the country's rapid growth leading to corner-cutting by builders and the widespread flouting of safety rules.

At least 13 dead in China restaurant collapse

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Deeksha Teri

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.