Hadi Matar, the man who is accused of attacking British author Salman Rushdie was apparently "changed" after a Middle East trip, his Lebanese-born mother Silvana Fardos said while interacting with Britain's Daily Mail newspaper on Sunday (August 14).&nbsp;

Fardos, who hails from Fairview in New Jersey, described her 24-year-old son as "a moody introvert". She further stated that Matar was increasingly fixated on Islam after the visit to see his estranged father.&nbsp;

"One time he argued with me asking why I encouraged him to get an education instead of focusing on religion," she told the website.&nbsp;

"He was angry that I did not introduce him to Islam from a young age," she said in the interview.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-responds-to-salman-rushdies-stabbing-denies-involvement-but-justifies-attack-507147">Iran responds to Salman Rushdie's stabbing: Denies involvement but blames writer for the attack</a>&nbsp;

Matar was arrested at the scene where the 75-year-old writer was attacked. Rushdie was stabbed in the neck last Friday on a stage at the Chautauqua Institution in New York state during a literary event.&nbsp;

The alleged attacker&nbsp;was charged with attempted murder and assault but he pleaded not guilty. Currently, he is being held without bail.&nbsp;

Reacting to the incident, Fardos said she was "shell shocked" when she got to know about the incident from one of her twin 14-year-old daughters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/salman-rushdie-on-long-road-to-recovery-says-his-agent-507031">Salman Rushdie on ‘long road to recovery’, says his agent</a>&nbsp;

"I just cannot believe he was capable of doing something like this. He was very quiet, everyone loved him," she said,&nbsp;adding that her son "changed a lot" after his trip to Lebanon.&nbsp;

"I was expecting him to come back motivated, to complete school, to get his degree and a job, but instead he locked himself in the basement," she said.&nbsp;

"I couldn't tell you much about his life after that because he has isolated me since 2018&nbsp;and also said little to the rest of his family for months. He sleeps during the day and wakes and eats during the night," she said.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Hadi Matar, the man who is accused of attacking British author Salman Rushdie was apparently "changed" after a Middle East trip, his Lebanese-born mother Silvana Fardos said while interacting with Britain's Daily Mail newspaper on Sunday (August 14).

Hadi Matar, the man who is accused of attacking British author Salman Rushdie was apparently "changed" after a Middle East trip, his Lebanese-born mother Silvana Fardos said while interacting with Britain's Daily Mail newspaper on Sunday (August 14). Fardos, who hails from Fairview in New Jersey, described her 24-year-old son as "a moody introvert". She further stated that Matar was increasingly fixated on Islam after the visit to see his estranged father. "One time he argued with me asking why I encouraged him to get an education instead of focusing on religion," she told the website. "He was angry that I did not introduce him to Islam from a young age," she said in the interview. ALSO READ | Iran responds to Salman Rushdie's stabbing: Denies involvement but blames writer for the attack Matar was arrested at the scene where the 75-year-old writer was attacked. Rushdie was stabbed in the neck last Friday on a stage at the Chautauqua Institution in New York state during a literary event. The alleged attacker was charged with attempted murder and assault but he pleaded not guilty. Currently, he is being held without bail. Reacting to the incident, Fardos said she was "shell shocked" when she got to know about the incident from one of her twin 14-year-old daughters. ALSO READ | Salman Rushdie on ‘long road to recovery’, says his agent "I just cannot believe he was capable of doing something like this. He was very quiet, everyone loved him," she said, adding that her son "changed a lot" after his trip to Lebanon. "I was expecting him to come back motivated, to complete school, to get his degree and a job, but instead he locked himself in the basement," she said. "I couldn't tell you much about his life after that because he has isolated me since 2018 and also said little to the rest of his family for months. He sleeps during the day and wakes and eats during the night," she said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Salman Rushdie attack suspect 'changed a lot' after Lebanon visit, says Hadi Matar's mother

Good news for thousands of staff working for Nationwide Building Society, the largest building society in the UK as it said on Monday (August 15) tha it will pay more than 11,000 of its staff $1,446.84 amid the ongoing cost of living crisis across the country.&nbsp;

The customer-owned lender further noted that the offer will be made to staff making less than 35,000 pounds, comprising around 61% of Nationwide's workforce of 18,000 people.&nbsp;

As quoted by media outlets, Debbie Crosbie, chief executive officer at Nationwide, said: "The months ahead will be worrying for many people and we're always considering new ways to help our members. But rising prices affect our colleagues too and that's why we’re providing this additional support."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-claims-his-passport-stolen-by-fbi-agents-during-the-august-8-raid-507227">Donald Trump claims his passports 'stolen' by FBI agents during the August 8 raid</a>&nbsp;

Including HSBC, Barclays, Lloyds, NatWest and the UK arm of Santander, several British lenders have also given thousands of their staff a one-off sum or a pay rise to help them cope with soaring prices.&nbsp;

In the first week of August, the Bank of England (BoE) unveiled the biggest interest rate rise in 27 years and also warned that Britain will sink into a lengthy recession later this year as inflation rockets even higher. Amid a cost-of-living crisis, borrowing is becoming more expensive.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/salman-rushdie-attack-suspect-changed-a-lot-after-lebanon-visit-says-his-mother-507226">Salman Rushdie attack suspect 'changed a lot' after Lebanon visit</a>&nbsp;

That hike meant that there will be an immediate increase in mortgage bills for millions of homeowners on the tracker. Or even the variable mortgages that are in line with the BoE rate.&nbsp;

The BoE had said that the "inflationary pressures in the United Kingdom and the rest of Europe have intensified significantly" since May.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Good news for thousands of staff working for Nationwide Building Society, the largest building society in the UK as it said on Monday (August 15) tha it will pay more than 11,000 of its staff $1,446.

Good news for thousands of staff working for Nationwide Building Society, the largest building society in the UK as it said on Monday (August 15) tha it will pay more than 11,000 of its staff $1,446.84 amid the ongoing cost of living crisis across the country. The customer-owned lender further noted that the offer will be made to staff making less than 35,000 pounds, comprising around 61% of Nationwide's workforce of 18,000 people. As quoted by media outlets, Debbie Crosbie, chief executive officer at Nationwide, said: "The months ahead will be worrying for many people and we're always considering new ways to help our members. But rising prices affect our colleagues too and that's why we’re providing this additional support." ALSO READ | Donald Trump claims his passports 'stolen' by FBI agents during the August 8 raid Including HSBC, Barclays, Lloyds, NatWest and the UK arm of Santander, several British lenders have also given thousands of their staff a one-off sum or a pay rise to help them cope with soaring prices. In the first week of August, the Bank of England (BoE) unveiled the biggest interest rate rise in 27 years and also warned that Britain will sink into a lengthy recession later this year as inflation rockets even higher. Amid a cost-of-living crisis, borrowing is becoming more expensive. ALSO READ | Salman Rushdie attack suspect 'changed a lot' after Lebanon visit That hike meant that there will be an immediate increase in mortgage bills for millions of homeowners on the tracker. Or even the variable mortgages that are in line with the BoE rate. The BoE had said that the "inflationary pressures in the United Kingdom and the rest of Europe have intensified significantly" since May. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Amid cost of living crisis, Britain's Nationwide to pay staff $1,446 bonus

Kenya's election commission has announced that William Ruto has been elected as the country's fifth president with 50.49% of the vote. Iran has finally responded to the horrific and life-threatening attack on author Salman Rushdie.&nbsp;

Read our report on fresh military drills near Taiwan by China in the aftermath of the latest visit by United States lawmakers to the island.&nbsp;

In sports, read what Rafael Nadal has to say on his abdominal injury.&nbsp;

In Hollywood, read a report on how American actor Troy Kotsur recently lost his Oscar trophy and Jeep for a few hours in Arizona. Thanks to the police, the actor was able to recover the biggest honour of his life in no time.&nbsp;

Click on the links to read the full report&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kenya-election-result-william-ruto-elected-5th-president-with-5049-of-vote-507171">Kenya election result: William Ruto elected 5th president with 50.49% of vote&nbsp;</a> 
Kenya's election commission has announced that William Ruto has been elected as the country's fifth president with 50.49% of the vote. The deputy president won his first election, defeating former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who was running for the fifth time. Odinga received 48.5% of the vote.&nbsp;

<img alt="Kenya" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e559e698-3677-4bfa-bad3-462c6c240b91" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kenya%20%282%29.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-stages-more-drills-near-taiwan-as-us-lawmakers-taipei-visit-angers-beijing-507129">China stages fresh drills near Taiwan as US lawmakers' Taipei visit angers Beijing&nbsp;</a> 
Fresh military drills have been staged near Taiwan by China as the latest visit by United States lawmakers to the island has further angered Beijing. The visit comes days after a controversial halt to Taiwan by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi during her recent Asia trip. Pelosi's visit to Taiwan triggered a furious response from Beijing.&nbsp;

<img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="06eae321-9ce3-4867-9022-8d258099be10" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/China%20%284%29.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-court-convicts-aung-san-suu-kyi-on-more-corruption-charges-507078">Myanmar court gives 6 more years in jail to ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi on corruption charges</a> 
Myanmar's ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been convicted on more corruption charges by the court in military-ruled Myanmar on Monday (August 15), and sentenced her to another six years in jail in addition to the 11 she's already got.&nbsp;

<img alt="Myanmar" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33c21217-4dca-4e7f-b822-9899d571eac4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Myanmar.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-responds-to-salman-rushdies-stabbing-denies-involvement-but-justifies-attack-507147">Iran responds to Salman Rushdie's stabbing: Denies involvement but blames writer for the attack</a> 
Iran has finally responded to the horrific and life-threatening attack on author Salman Rushdie that shocked the world. On Monday (August 15), the foreign ministry in Tehran denies involvement and said that no one has the right to level accusations against Iran.&nbsp;

<img alt="Iran" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9c7e5af9-1f5e-4d25-a9ed-906a045def07" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Salman%20Rushdie%20%282%29.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-and-kim-jong-un-exchange-letters-talk-of-expanding-bilateral-ties-to-counter-hostile-military-forces-507093">Putin and Kim Jong Un exchange letters, talk of expanding bilateral ties to counter 'hostile military forces'</a> 
Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed interest to “expand the comprehensive and constructive bilateral relations” with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Pyongyang’s state media reported on Monday.

<img alt="Vladimir Putin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a4da341f-2644-4d95-9f44-d82e0e220935" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Vladimir%20Putin.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghanistan-in-order-to-address-near-universal-poverty-ngos-demand-assets-to-be-unfrozen-507113">Afghanistan: In order to address 'near-universal poverty' NGOs demand assets to be unfrozen</a> 
A group of 32 Afghan and international non-governmental organisations (INGOs) are pleading with the international community not to abandon the people of Afghanistan one year after the Taliban took control of the country. Instead, they want the international community to address the causes of the country's economic crisis, defend human rights, and increase humanitarian aid.&nbsp;

<img alt="Afghan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d5fef16-9668-415b-ac02-99d5f505ce3a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Afghan.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-medicine-regulator-approves-first-bivalent-covid-19-booster-vaccine-507148">UK's medicine regulator approves first bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine</a> 
The United Kingdom's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved the first bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine. According to June Raine, MHRA Chief Executive, "I am pleased to announce the approval of the Moderna bivalent booster vaccine, which was found in the clinical trial to provide a strong immune response against the Omicron BA.1 variant as well as the original 2020 strain."&nbsp;

<img alt="COVID-19" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cea20d0e-d70e-4290-9b28-d37cbe5b4a8f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/COVID-19%20%282%29_0.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-destroys-headquarters-of-russias-wagner-paramilitary-group-report-507173">Ukraine destroys headquarters of Russia's Wagner paramilitary group: Report</a> 
Ukraine destroyed the headquarters of Russia's shadowy Wagner paramilitary group known as the Wagner Group (or Wagner PMC), in the Luhansk region of Ukraine as media reports on Monday (August 15) mentioned.&nbsp;

<img alt="Ukraine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8bc8e12b-e78e-408d-901e-47db4a021e3c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Russia%20and%20Ukraine_0.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-not-play-more-than-what-i-believe-works-well-for-my-body-rafael-nadal-opens-up-on-his-abdominal-injury-507161">Will not play more than what I believe works well for my body: Rafael Nadal opens up on his abdominal injury</a> 
Rafael Nadal has been unstoppable so far this season and has been enjoying a stellar run on the court having already won two Grand Slam titles and missing out closely on a third straight Grand Slam final appearance this year. The Spaniard had to pull out of the Wimbledon 2022 semi-final against Nick Kyrgios due to an abdominal injury.

<img alt="Rafael Nadal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d245c45-d616-44a5-883b-94642ba98eb0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Rafael%20Nadal.png" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-deaf-actor-troy-kotsur-gets-his-stolen-oscar-trophy-and-jeep-back-thanks-police-507037">Deaf actor Troy Kotsur gets his stolen Oscar trophy and jeep back; thanks police</a> 
American actor Troy Kotsur recently lost his Oscar trophy and Jeep for a few hours in Arizona. Thanks to the police, the actor was able to recover the biggest honour of his life in no time.

<img alt="Troy Kotsur" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1fac8d7c-729d-4f41-a6a8-0410baaf2ebc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Troy%20Kotsur.png" />

Kenya's election commission has announced that William Ruto has been elected as the country's fifth president with 50.49% of the vote. Iran has finally responded to the horrific and life-threatening attack on author Salman Rushdie.

Kenya's election commission has announced that William Ruto has been elected as the country's fifth president with 50.49% of the vote. Iran has finally responded to the horrific and life-threatening attack on author Salman Rushdie. Read our report on fresh military drills near Taiwan by China in the aftermath of the latest visit by United States lawmakers to the island. In sports, read what Rafael Nadal has to say on his abdominal injury. In Hollywood, read a report on how American actor Troy Kotsur recently lost his Oscar trophy and Jeep for a few hours in Arizona. Thanks to the police, the actor was able to recover the biggest honour of his life in no time. Click on the links to read the full report Kenya election result: William Ruto elected 5th president with 50.49% of vote Kenya's election commission has announced that William Ruto has been elected as the country's fifth president with 50.49% of the vote. The deputy president won his first election, defeating former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who was running for the fifth time. Odinga received 48.5% of the vote. China stages fresh drills near Taiwan as US lawmakers' Taipei visit angers Beijing Fresh military drills have been staged near Taiwan by China as the latest visit by United States lawmakers to the island has further angered Beijing. The visit comes days after a controversial halt to Taiwan by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi during her recent Asia trip. Pelosi's visit to Taiwan triggered a furious response from Beijing. Myanmar court gives 6 more years in jail to ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi on corruption charges Myanmar's ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been convicted on more corruption charges by the court in military-ruled Myanmar on Monday (August 15), and sentenced her to another six years in jail in addition to the 11 she's already got. Iran responds to Salman Rushdie's stabbing: Denies involvement but blames writer for the attack Iran has finally responded to the horrific and life-threatening attack on author Salman Rushdie that shocked the world. On Monday (August 15), the foreign ministry in Tehran denies involvement and said that no one has the right to level accusations against Iran. Putin and Kim Jong Un exchange letters, talk of expanding bilateral ties to counter 'hostile military forces' Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed interest to “expand the comprehensive and constructive bilateral relations” with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Pyongyang’s state media reported on Monday. Afghanistan: In order to address 'near-universal poverty' NGOs demand assets to be unfrozen A group of 32 Afghan and international non-governmental organisations (INGOs) are pleading with the international community not to abandon the people of Afghanistan one year after the Taliban took control of the country. Instead, they want the international community to address the causes of the country's economic crisis, defend human rights, and increase humanitarian aid. UK's medicine regulator approves first bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine The United Kingdom's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved the first bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine. According to June Raine, MHRA Chief Executive, "I am pleased to announce the approval of the Moderna bivalent booster vaccine, which was found in the clinical trial to provide a strong immune response against the Omicron BA.1 variant as well as the original 2020 strain." Ukraine destroys headquarters of Russia's Wagner paramilitary group: Report Ukraine destroyed the headquarters of Russia's shadowy Wagner paramilitary group known as the Wagner Group (or Wagner PMC), in the Luhansk region of Ukraine as media reports on Monday (August 15) mentioned. Will not play more than what I believe works well for my body: Rafael Nadal opens up on his abdominal injury Rafael Nadal has been unstoppable so far this season and has been enjoying a stellar run on the court having already won two Grand Slam titles and missing out closely on a third straight Grand Slam final appearance this year. The Spaniard had to pull out of the Wimbledon 2022 semi-final against Nick Kyrgios due to an abdominal injury. Deaf actor Troy Kotsur gets his stolen Oscar trophy and jeep back; thanks police American actor Troy Kotsur recently lost his Oscar trophy and Jeep for a few hours in Arizona. Thanks to the police, the actor was able to recover the biggest honour of his life in no time.

Top 10 world news: Kenya election result, China stages fresh drills near Taiwan, and more

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukraine destroyed the headquarters of Russia's shadowy Wagner paramilitary group known as the Wagner Group (or Wagner PMC), in the Luhansk region of Ukraine as media reports on Monday (August 15) mentioned. As quoted by BBC, the attack in Popasna was reported by Serhiy Hayday, who is a Ukrainian governor of the Luhansk region. Several other pro-Kremlin war reporters also reported it. ALSO READ | Iran responds to Salman Rushdie's stabbing: Denies involvement but blames writer for the attack Governor Hayday on Telegram wrote that Ukrainian forces "hit an enemy HQ whose whereabouts were established thanks to a Russian journalist". "This time the successful strike destroyed the Wagner PMC HQ in Popasna yesterday," he said. He added that "the number of dead is being clarified," the post added. The report also mentioned that on August 8, Sergei Sreda, who is a Russian war correspondent, wrote about a visit to the "headquarters". He published a post on Telegram, writing: "Arrived at Popasnaya, stopped at the headquarters of the 'PMC Wagner'. I was welcomed as family. Told me some funny stories." ALSO READ | Germany imposes a winter gas tax despite concerns about its effects × Meanwhile, the Ukrainian forces reported heavy Russian shelling and many attempts to advance on several towns in the eastern region of Donetsk. Ukraine also noted that the forces had repelled many of the attacks. The General Staff of Ukraine's armed forces also reported Russian shelling of over a dozen towns on the southern front - particularly the Kherson region. In a news briefing, Natalia Humeniuk, who is a spokesperson for Ukraine's southern military command, said on Monday that the situation was complicated but under control. "The enemy doesn't dare advance by land, but fires at the territories in the rear with artillery and rockets," she said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukraine destroys headquarters of Russia's Wagner paramilitary group: Report

Iran has finally responded to the horrific and life-threatening attack on author Salman Rushdie that shocked the world. On Monday (August 15), the foreign ministry in Tehran denies involvement and said that no one has the right to level accusations against Iran.&nbsp;

The Indian-born novelist was stabbed in the neck last Friday on a stage at the Chautauqua Institution in New York state. The attacker rushed to the stage and stabbed the 75-year-old multiple times.&nbsp;

In Tehran's first official reaction, the foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani in fact said that Rushdie himself is to blame after denigrating the world's Muslims.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/salman-rushdie-on-long-road-to-recovery-says-his-agent-507031">Salman Rushdie on ‘long road to recovery’, says his agent</a>&nbsp;

Kanani said that "we categorically deny" any link with the attack and "no one has the right to accuse the Islamic Republic of Iran."&nbsp;

At his weekly press conference in Tehran, he said, "In this attack, we do not consider anyone other than Salman Rushdie and his supporters worthy of blame and even condemnation."&nbsp;

"By insulting the sacred matters of Islam and crossing the red lines of more than 1.5 billion Muslims and all followers of the divine religions, Salman Rushdie has exposed himself to the anger and rage of the people," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hadi-matars-father-refuses-to-speak-after-his-son-tried-to-murder-salman-rushdie-507004">Hadi Matar's father refuses to speak after his son tried to murder Rushdie</a>&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Rushdie's attacker pleads not guilty in court&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rushdies-attacker-pleads-not-guilty-in-court-506784/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Rushdie spent years hiding under death threats from Iran because of writing the novel "The Satanic Verses". He faced death threats and moved to the United Kingdom. The novel was banned in many countries with large Muslim populations upon its 1988 publication.&nbsp;

A year later, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, then supreme leader of Iran, pronounced a fatwa, calling upon Muslims to kill the novelist and anyone involved in its publication for blasphemy.&nbsp;

Even a bounty worth millions of dollars were raised to murder the novelist by some unknown Iranian organisations, some affiliated with the government.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Iran has finally responded to the horrific and life-threatening attack on author Salman Rushdie that shocked the world. On Monday (August 15), the foreign ministry in Tehran denies involvement and said that no one has the right to level accusations against Iran.

Iran has finally responded to the horrific and life-threatening attack on author Salman Rushdie that shocked the world. On Monday (August 15), the foreign ministry in Tehran denies involvement and said that no one has the right to level accusations against Iran. The Indian-born novelist was stabbed in the neck last Friday on a stage at the Chautauqua Institution in New York state. The attacker rushed to the stage and stabbed the 75-year-old multiple times. In Tehran's first official reaction, the foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani in fact said that Rushdie himself is to blame after denigrating the world's Muslims. ALSO READ | Salman Rushdie on ‘long road to recovery’, says his agent Kanani said that "we categorically deny" any link with the attack and "no one has the right to accuse the Islamic Republic of Iran." At his weekly press conference in Tehran, he said, "In this attack, we do not consider anyone other than Salman Rushdie and his supporters worthy of blame and even condemnation." "By insulting the sacred matters of Islam and crossing the red lines of more than 1.5 billion Muslims and all followers of the divine religions, Salman Rushdie has exposed himself to the anger and rage of the people," he added. ALSO READ | Hadi Matar's father refuses to speak after his son tried to murder Rushdie WATCH | Rushdie's attacker pleads not guilty in court × Rushdie spent years hiding under death threats from Iran because of writing the novel "The Satanic Verses". He faced death threats and moved to the United Kingdom. The novel was banned in many countries with large Muslim populations upon its 1988 publication. A year later, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, then supreme leader of Iran, pronounced a fatwa, calling upon Muslims to kill the novelist and anyone involved in its publication for blasphemy. Even a bounty worth millions of dollars were raised to murder the novelist by some unknown Iranian organisations, some affiliated with the government. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Iran responds to Salman Rushdie's stabbing: Denies involvement but blames writer for the attack

Fresh military drills have been staged near Taiwan by China as the latest visit by United States lawmakers to the island has further angered Beijing.&nbsp;

The visit comes days after a controversial halt to Taiwan by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi during her recent Asia trip. Pelosi's visit to Taiwan triggered a furious response from Beijing.&nbsp;

The five US lawmakers arrived in Taipei on an unannounced visit late on Sunday. The team was led by Senator Ed Markey. The US de facto embassy in Taipei said that the delegation met with President Tsai Ing-wen on Monday (August 15).&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-court-convicts-aung-san-suu-kyi-on-more-corruption-charges-507078">Myanmar court gives 6 more years in jail to ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi on corruption charges</a>&nbsp;

"The delegation had an opportunity to exchange views with Taiwan counterparts on a wide range of issues of importance to both the United States and Taiwan," it said.&nbsp;

Pelosi's Taiwan visit has flared up tensions between China and US as Beijing views self-ruled, democratic Taiwan as part of its territory. China even claimed that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two territories.&nbsp;

China claims that Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen will defy China's one-nation policy by pushing for formal independence — a red line for the nation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-congress-delegation-visits-taiwan-second-high-profile-visit-in-a-month-507061">US Congress delegation visits Taiwan, second high-profile visit in a month</a>&nbsp;

In the latest, the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theatre Command, meaning the Chinese military unit responsible for the area adjacent to Taiwan, said that the PLA's Eastern Theatre Command had organised multi-service joint combat readiness patrols and combat drills in the sea and airspace around Taiwan on Monday.&nbsp;

It added that the exercises were "a stern deterrent to the United States and Taiwan continuing to play political tricks and undermine peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Taiwan: After Nancy Pelosi, congressional delegation visits Taiwan&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taiwan-after-nancy-pelosi-congressional-delegation-visits-taiwan-507120/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In a separate statement, China's Defence Ministry said that the lawmakers' trip infringed on China's sovereignty and territorial integrity and "fully exposes the true face of the United States as a spoiler and spoiler of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait".&nbsp;

"The Chinese People's Liberation Army continues to train and prepare for war, resolutely defends national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and will resolutely crush any form of 'Taiwan independence' separatism and foreign interference."&nbsp;

Taiwan's Defence Ministry claimed that&nbsp;15 Chinese aircraft had crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait on Monday.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Fresh military drills have been staged near Taiwan by China as the latest visit by United States lawmakers to the island has further angered Beijing. The visit comes days after a controversial halt to Taiwan by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi during her recent Asia trip.

Fresh military drills have been staged near Taiwan by China as the latest visit by United States lawmakers to the island has further angered Beijing. The visit comes days after a controversial halt to Taiwan by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi during her recent Asia trip. Pelosi's visit to Taiwan triggered a furious response from Beijing. The five US lawmakers arrived in Taipei on an unannounced visit late on Sunday. The team was led by Senator Ed Markey. The US de facto embassy in Taipei said that the delegation met with President Tsai Ing-wen on Monday (August 15). ALSO READ | Myanmar court gives 6 more years in jail to ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi on corruption charges "The delegation had an opportunity to exchange views with Taiwan counterparts on a wide range of issues of importance to both the United States and Taiwan," it said. Pelosi's Taiwan visit has flared up tensions between China and US as Beijing views self-ruled, democratic Taiwan as part of its territory. China even claimed that, in case needed, it will use force to unite the two territories. China claims that Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen will defy China's one-nation policy by pushing for formal independence — a red line for the nation. ALSO READ | US Congress delegation visits Taiwan, second high-profile visit in a month In the latest, the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theatre Command, meaning the Chinese military unit responsible for the area adjacent to Taiwan, said that the PLA's Eastern Theatre Command had organised multi-service joint combat readiness patrols and combat drills in the sea and airspace around Taiwan on Monday. It added that the exercises were "a stern deterrent to the United States and Taiwan continuing to play political tricks and undermine peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait." WATCH | Taiwan: After Nancy Pelosi, congressional delegation visits Taiwan × In a separate statement, China's Defence Ministry said that the lawmakers' trip infringed on China's sovereignty and territorial integrity and "fully exposes the true face of the United States as a spoiler and spoiler of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait". "The Chinese People's Liberation Army continues to train and prepare for war, resolutely defends national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and will resolutely crush any form of 'Taiwan independence' separatism and foreign interference." Taiwan's Defence Ministry claimed that 15 Chinese aircraft had crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait on Monday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China stages fresh drills near Taiwan as US lawmakers' Taipei visit angers Beijing

Myanmar's ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been convicted on more corruption charges by the court in military-ruled Myanmar on Monday (August 15), and sentenced her to another six years in jail in addition to the 11 she's already got.

The 77-year-old Nobel peace prize laureate denied all the charges and her lawyers are expected to appeal after the court sentenced her, news agencies reported.&nbsp;

The trial was held behind closed doors and the media or public didn't have any access to the proceedings. Her lawyers were forbidden by a gag order from revealing information.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-congress-delegation-visits-taiwan-second-high-profile-visit-in-a-month-507061">US Congress delegation visits Taiwan, second high-profile visit in a month</a>&nbsp;

On February 1, 2021, A coup d'état started in Myanmar when democratically elected members of the country's ruling party, the National League for Democracy (NLD), were deposed by the country's military.&nbsp;

Suu Kyi, along with ministers and members of the parliament were detained. Ever since Suu Kyi has been in custody and facing multiple charges.&nbsp;

In the latest development, the court ruling emerged as Suu Kyi was alleged to have abused her position to rent public land at below market prices in the four corruption cases decided Monday.&nbsp;

As per the claims, she also built a residence with donations meant for charitable purposes.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drought-hit-uk-faces-danger-of-flash-floods-following-thunderstorm-warning-507046">Drought-hit UK faces danger of flash floods following thunderstorm warning</a>&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/one-year-of-taliban-regime-a-year-of-grave-human-rights-violation-507058/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

She received sentences of three years for each of the four counts, but the sentences for three of them will be served concurrently, giving her a total of six more years in prison.&nbsp;

She already had been sentenced to 11 years in prison on sedition, corruption and other charges at earlier trials.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Myanmar's ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been convicted on more corruption charges by the court in military-ruled Myanmar on Monday (August 15), and sentenced her to another six years in jail in addition to the 11 she's already got.

Myanmar's ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been convicted on more corruption charges by the court in military-ruled Myanmar on Monday (August 15), and sentenced her to another six years in jail in addition to the 11 she's already got. The 77-year-old Nobel peace prize laureate denied all the charges and her lawyers are expected to appeal after the court sentenced her, news agencies reported. The trial was held behind closed doors and the media or public didn't have any access to the proceedings. Her lawyers were forbidden by a gag order from revealing information. ALSO READ | US Congress delegation visits Taiwan, second high-profile visit in a month On February 1, 2021, A coup d'état started in Myanmar when democratically elected members of the country's ruling party, the National League for Democracy (NLD), were deposed by the country's military. Suu Kyi, along with ministers and members of the parliament were detained. Ever since Suu Kyi has been in custody and facing multiple charges. In the latest development, the court ruling emerged as Suu Kyi was alleged to have abused her position to rent public land at below market prices in the four corruption cases decided Monday. As per the claims, she also built a residence with donations meant for charitable purposes. ALSO READ | Drought-hit UK faces danger of flash floods following thunderstorm warning × She received sentences of three years for each of the four counts, but the sentences for three of them will be served concurrently, giving her a total of six more years in prison. She already had been sentenced to 11 years in prison on sedition, corruption and other charges at earlier trials. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Myanmar court gives 6 more years in jail to ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi on corruption charges

Indian-born novelist Salman Rushdie was stabbed in the neck on Friday (August 12). The horrific incident occurred on stage at the Chautauqua Institution in New York state.

Indian-born novelist Salman Rushdie was stabbed in the neck on Friday (August 12). The horrific incident occurred on stage at the Chautauqua Institution in New York state. The attacker rushed to the stage and stabbed the 75-year-old multiple times. Police said that Rushdie was airlifted to a hospital. New York said that the novelist is alive and being treated at the hospital. Rabbi Charles Savenor, who was in the audience for the lecture at Chautauqua Institution, about 100 km from the city, said, "This guy ran onto platform and started pounding on Mr Rushdie." Savenor told the news agency that "at first you're like, 'What's going on?' And then it became abundantly clear in a few seconds that he was being beaten." He said the attack lasted about 20 seconds. ALSO READ | Salman Rushdie stabbed: New York governor says he's alive, being treated at hospital A reporter for the news agency The Associated Press, who was present at the scene, revealed horrific details. The reporter said that the attacker "punched or stabbed Mr Rushdie 10 to 15 times". Reuters quoted a witness, who asked not to be named, as saying that the author fell to the floor when the man attacked him. After that, he was surrounded by a small group of people who held up his legs. It appeared that they wanted to send more blood to his upper body. Rushdie's current situation is unknown but Andrew Wylie, who is a spokesperson for the novelist, said in an emailed statement that "Salman is in surgery." But Wylie did not give further details to share. The motive behind the attack was not revealed and it was also not clear what kind of weapon was used. Eyewitness video captures the moment emergency responders rushed to help author Salman Rushdie after he was attacked on stage https://t.co/aeFA7p7Omz pic.twitter.com/9mPKH8T5ft — Reuters (@Reuters) August 12, 2022 × Who is Salman Rushdie? Salman Rushdie was born into a Muslim Kashmiri family in Bombay (now known as Mumbai) in 1947. He spent years hiding under death threats from Iran because of his writing. He moved to the United Kingdom. Rushdie wrote the novel "The Satanic Verses" and faced death threats for it. Some Muslims said that his fourth novel "The Satanic Verses" contained blasphemous passages. The novel was banned in many countries with large Muslim populations upon its 1988 publication. A year later, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, then supreme leader of Iran, pronounced a fatwa, calling upon Muslims to kill the novelist and anyone involved in its publication for blasphemy. Even a bounty worth millions of dollars were raised to murder the novelist by some unknown Iranian organisations, some affiliated with the government. The Iranian government said in 1998 that it would no longer back the fatwa, and Rushdie has lived relatively openly in recent years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Salman Rushdie stabbed '10 to 15 times' in neck: Eyewitness shares horrific details

UK: Unprecedented high temperatures lead to drought in several parts of England - see pics

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned the government officials on Thursday (August 11) to stop divulging details about the military tactics that are being used against Russia during the ongoing war.

Terming such remarks "frankly irresponsible" in an evening address, Zelensky said, "War is definitely not the time for vanity and loud statements. The fewer details you divulge about our defence plans, the better it will be for the implementation of those defence plans."

The Ukrainian president further said, "If you want to generate loud headlines, that's one thing — it's frankly irresponsible. If you want victory for Ukraine, that is another thing, and you should be aware of your responsibility for every word you say about our state's plans for defence or counter attacks."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-backs-indias-call-for-urgent-un-security-council-reforms-506169">France backs India’s call for ‘urgent’ UN Security Council reforms</a>&nbsp;

Zelensky's comments came after the blasts that wrecked a Russian air base in Crimea. Some newspapers such as the New York Times and Washington Post cited unidentified officials as saying Ukrainian forces were responsible.&nbsp;

Though, there wasn't any official confirmation as the Ukrainian government declined to say whether it had been behind the explosions.&nbsp;

Probe initiated

Meanwhile, Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar said that the security services had started an investigation into one of the cases where officials had talked to newspapers.&nbsp;

"A leak like this disrupts the plans of the Ukrainian armed forces since the enemy adjusts its actions and uses this information against us," she wrote on Facebook.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-searched-for-classified-nuclear-documents-at-trumps-mar-a-lago-home-report-506107">FBI searched for classified nuclear documents at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago home: Report</a>&nbsp;

Satellite images

Before-and-after satellite images showed three craters where buildings at the Russian air base had been struck and there was apparently massive damage made to the Russian Saki airbase in Crimea.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Russia said the explosions&nbsp;were detonations of stored ammunition, not the result of any attack. There were&nbsp;at least 12 explosions, according to witnesses.&nbsp;

<img alt="Russia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9ee92284-e528-45ee-9cac-c6b0fe084e40" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/russia%20%284%29.png" />

Image: This combination of handout satellite images courtesy of Maxar Technologies created on August 11, 2022, shows Saki airbase on May 16, 2022, (top) and August 10, 2022, (bottom) following the reported attack in Novofedorivka, Crimea, Ukraine. Credit: AFP

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned the government officials on Thursday (August 11) to stop divulging details about the military tactics that are being used against Russia during the ongoing war.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned the government officials on Thursday (August 11) to stop divulging details about the military tactics that are being used against Russia during the ongoing war. Terming such remarks "frankly irresponsible" in an evening address, Zelensky said, "War is definitely not the time for vanity and loud statements. The fewer details you divulge about our defence plans, the better it will be for the implementation of those defence plans." The Ukrainian president further said, "If you want to generate loud headlines, that's one thing — it's frankly irresponsible. If you want victory for Ukraine, that is another thing, and you should be aware of your responsibility for every word you say about our state's plans for defence or counter attacks." ALSO READ | France backs India’s call for ‘urgent’ UN Security Council reforms Zelensky's comments came after the blasts that wrecked a Russian air base in Crimea. Some newspapers such as the New York Times and Washington Post cited unidentified officials as saying Ukrainian forces were responsible. Though, there wasn't any official confirmation as the Ukrainian government declined to say whether it had been behind the explosions. Probe initiated Meanwhile, Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Malyar said that the security services had started an investigation into one of the cases where officials had talked to newspapers. "A leak like this disrupts the plans of the Ukrainian armed forces since the enemy adjusts its actions and uses this information against us," she wrote on Facebook. ALSO READ | FBI searched for classified nuclear documents at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago home: Report Satellite images Before-and-after satellite images showed three craters where buildings at the Russian air base had been struck and there was apparently massive damage made to the Russian Saki airbase in Crimea. On the other hand, Russia said the explosions were detonations of stored ammunition, not the result of any attack. There were at least 12 explosions, according to witnesses. Image: This combination of handout satellite images courtesy of Maxar Technologies created on August 11, 2022, shows Saki airbase on May 16, 2022, (top) and August 10, 2022, (bottom) following the reported attack in Novofedorivka, Crimea, Ukraine. Credit: AFP WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Frankly irresponsible': Zelensky asks officials to stop sharing Ukraine's military tactics

The warrant and related materials, unsealed by a judge on Friday (August 12), revealed that Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents recovered multiple documents, including those marked "top secret" during the search of former President Donald Donald Trump's Florida estate.

The warrant and related materials, unsealed by a judge on Friday (August 12), revealed that Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents recovered multiple documents, including those marked "top secret" during the search of former President Donald Donald Trump's Florida estate. The US Justice Department stated that it has probable cause to believe he violated the Espionage Act. The US District Court for the Southern District of Florida unsealed the search warrant and property receipt from the search of Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach earlier this week. What's the investigation all about? Trouble mounts for the former US president as the FBI probes his alleged mishandling of classified documents. The investigation accelerated dramatically when Trump revealed on August 8 that the FBI had raided his home. Boxes filled with sensitive documents were removed from the property by the agents during the unprecedented search. It was the first time in the history of America that a former president's home was searched as part of a criminal investigation. ALSO READ | Polio outbreak in New York? Two cases within weeks; last case before this was in 2013 The investigation is related to the documents that Trump allegedly removed from the White House when his presidential term was ending in January 2021. National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) recovered 15 boxes of presidential documents from Mar-a-Lago, earlier this year. What did the search warrant reveal? The warrant in the raid was unveiled on August 12. The US Justice Department said that including the "top secret" ones, the FBI agents removed a total of 11 sets of classified documents. The unsealed seven-page federal court filing stated that apart from some of the papers being marked "top secret", there were papers that were "meant to be only available in special government facilities." The search warrant also revealed that the FBI agents took more than 30 items including more than 20 boxes, binders of photos, a handwritten note and the executive grant of clemency for Trump's ally and longtime adviser Roger Stone. Unknown information about the "President of France" was also included in the list. ALSO READ | Salman Rushdie stabbed '10 to 15 times' in neck: Eyewitness shares horrific details What can we understand from the 'top secret' document? In the United States, "Top secret" is the highest level of classification. It is basically reserved for the country's most closely held national security information. It is understood that disclosure of such documents could cause grave damage to national security. WATCH | WION Fineprint: Why online privacy is a myth in the Post-Roe world × Who approved the search? Attorney General Merrick Garland, who is the country's top law enforcement officer, said that he had "personally approved" the raid on Trump's home. The highly unusual move to unseal the search warrant was announced by him only. What is Espionage Act? In its warrant application, Justice Department told US Magistrate Judge Bruce Reinhart that it had probable cause to believe that Trump violated the Espionage Act. It is a federal law that prohibits the possession or transmission of national defence information. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Does Donald Trump's probe involve violations of Espionage Act? All you need to know

Without providing any proof, the secretary-general of Kenya's governing party has said there was election rigging, fuelling public anxiety on Friday as media outlets significantly slowed down their unofficial tallies from Tuesday's tight vote.

Only the electoral commission is authorised to declare a winner, but the tallies done by media were seen as a bulwark against the kind of rigging allegations that have previously sparked violence.

While Kenya is East Africa's richest and most stable nation it also has a history of violent elections disputes. More than 1,200 people were killed after the 2007 elections and more than 100 after the 2017 elections.

The race is to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta, who must step down after serving the maximum two five-year terms. Leading contenders are former political prisoner and veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga and Deputy President William Ruto. Kenyatta has fallen out with Ruto and endorsed Odinga.

Media tallies, which had nearly stopped by Friday morning, showed Odinga and Ruto neck and neck, just under the 50% mark they needed to win. Less than a percent was divided between two other marginal candidates.

If no candidate wins more than 50% plus one vote, the two frontrunners will have a run-off.

On Friday, the election commission chairman Wafula Chebukati blamed party agents for the slow pace of the official count, which has not yet topped 1.5% of the vote.

“Agents in this exercise cannot proceed in the manner which we are proceeding, as if we are doing a forensic audit,” he told a news briefing at the tallying centre.

“We are not moving as fast as we should. This exercise needs to be concluded as soon as possible.”

RIGGING CLAIM

Late on Thursday, the chairman of Kenyatta's Jubilee party, which has backed Odinga, issued a statement alleging "massive subtle rigging" and claiming the "electoral process was highly compromised" after Ruto's new party made a strong showing in an area traditionally dominated by Kenyatta.

The statement alleged voter intimidation, bribery, illegal display&nbsp;of campaign materials in polling station, mishandling of party agents and incorrect use of election materials. It provided no evidence and did not explain why the allegations had been made so late. Reuters could not reach party officials for comment.

International observers have generally praised the proceedings in the elections.

Previous elections have largely been determined by ethnic voting blocs. But Ruto has sought to make this election about economics, portraying himself as a self-made "hustler" in contrast to political "dynasties". Odinga and Kenyatta are the sons of Kenya's first vice president and president, respectively.

Ian Dan, a parcel service attendant in the main bus park in Odinga's stronghold of Kisumu, said business was very slow.

"We are in darkness and this is not good for us. People are anxious and need to have a clear picture," he said. "There are allegations of rigging flying in social media, but many people are waiting to hear from Raila Odinga or William Ruto. Their word will influence people's reaction."

MEDIA SLOWDOWN

The electoral commission is the only body legally authorised to declare a winner. It initially uploaded images of results forms from more than 46,000 polling stations, but had not tallied them. Instead, media houses employed teams to download forms and enter them into a database.

More than 99.7% of polling station results are in but thousands have not been counted by the media. The abrupt slowdown started when around 80% of the vote had been counted.

Prominent Kenyan columnist and cartoonist Patrick Gathara criticised the slowdown, tweeting: "So once again KE media have chickened out and have stopped updating their counts? It was too good to last."

But executives from Citizen and Nation media groups said exhausted staff needed a rest.

"Now we have about a third of people working that we started with and we intend to pick up pace in the next few hours when the rest of the team come back," said Linus Kaikai, director of strategy at Citizen.

Stephen Gitagama, the CEO of Nation Media group, said his staff also needed a rest and that they focused on quality control. He referred Reuters to the election commission, known as the IEBC.

"IEBC bears the responsibility of providing the results, not the media," he said.

On Friday morning, the election commission displayed an official count of presidential results on a board at the main tallying center. It had counted 1.5% of the vote.

The commission has seven days to announce a winner.

At 1100 GMT, a Reuters tally of 199 out of 291 constituency-level results had Ruto leading by 52.44% and Odinga at 46.89%. Fifteen constituency-level results images were unreadable or lacked totals.

Without providing any proof, the secretary-general of Kenya's governing party has said there was election rigging, fuelling public anxiety on Friday as media outlets significantly slowed down their unofficial tallies from Tuesday's tight vote.

Without providing any proof, the secretary-general of Kenya's governing party has said there was election rigging, fuelling public anxiety on Friday as media outlets significantly slowed down their unofficial tallies from Tuesday's tight vote. Only the electoral commission is authorised to declare a winner, but the tallies done by media were seen as a bulwark against the kind of rigging allegations that have previously sparked violence. While Kenya is East Africa's richest and most stable nation it also has a history of violent elections disputes. More than 1,200 people were killed after the 2007 elections and more than 100 after the 2017 elections. The race is to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta, who must step down after serving the maximum two five-year terms. Leading contenders are former political prisoner and veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga and Deputy President William Ruto. Kenyatta has fallen out with Ruto and endorsed Odinga. Media tallies, which had nearly stopped by Friday morning, showed Odinga and Ruto neck and neck, just under the 50% mark they needed to win. Less than a percent was divided between two other marginal candidates. If no candidate wins more than 50% plus one vote, the two frontrunners will have a run-off. On Friday, the election commission chairman Wafula Chebukati blamed party agents for the slow pace of the official count, which has not yet topped 1.5% of the vote. “Agents in this exercise cannot proceed in the manner which we are proceeding, as if we are doing a forensic audit,” he told a news briefing at the tallying centre. “We are not moving as fast as we should. This exercise needs to be concluded as soon as possible.” RIGGING CLAIM Late on Thursday, the chairman of Kenyatta's Jubilee party, which has backed Odinga, issued a statement alleging "massive subtle rigging" and claiming the "electoral process was highly compromised" after Ruto's new party made a strong showing in an area traditionally dominated by Kenyatta. The statement alleged voter intimidation, bribery, illegal display of campaign materials in polling station, mishandling of party agents and incorrect use of election materials. It provided no evidence and did not explain why the allegations had been made so late. Reuters could not reach party officials for comment. International observers have generally praised the proceedings in the elections. Previous elections have largely been determined by ethnic voting blocs. But Ruto has sought to make this election about economics, portraying himself as a self-made "hustler" in contrast to political "dynasties". Odinga and Kenyatta are the sons of Kenya's first vice president and president, respectively. Ian Dan, a parcel service attendant in the main bus park in Odinga's stronghold of Kisumu, said business was very slow. "We are in darkness and this is not good for us. People are anxious and need to have a clear picture," he said. "There are allegations of rigging flying in social media, but many people are waiting to hear from Raila Odinga or William Ruto. Their word will influence people's reaction." MEDIA SLOWDOWN The electoral commission is the only body legally authorised to declare a winner. It initially uploaded images of results forms from more than 46,000 polling stations, but had not tallied them. Instead, media houses employed teams to download forms and enter them into a database. More than 99.7% of polling station results are in but thousands have not been counted by the media. The abrupt slowdown started when around 80% of the vote had been counted. Prominent Kenyan columnist and cartoonist Patrick Gathara criticised the slowdown, tweeting: "So once again KE media have chickened out and have stopped updating their counts? It was too good to last." But executives from Citizen and Nation media groups said exhausted staff needed a rest. "Now we have about a third of people working that we started with and we intend to pick up pace in the next few hours when the rest of the team come back," said Linus Kaikai, director of strategy at Citizen. Stephen Gitagama, the CEO of Nation Media group, said his staff also needed a rest and that they focused on quality control. He referred Reuters to the election commission, known as the IEBC. "IEBC bears the responsibility of providing the results, not the media," he said. On Friday morning, the election commission displayed an official count of presidential results on a board at the main tallying center. It had counted 1.5% of the vote. The commission has seven days to announce a winner. At 1100 GMT, a Reuters tally of 199 out of 291 constituency-level results had Ruto leading by 52.44% and Odinga at 46.89%. Fifteen constituency-level results images were unreadable or lacked totals.

First rigging allegation as Kenyan media slow tally of votes in tight presidential race

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Srishti Sisodia

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.