Manchester City moved a point clear of title rivals Liverpool at the top of the Premier League standings with a convincing 2-0 win at relegation-threatened Burnley on Saturday.

Needing a win to reclaim top spot after Liverpool beat Watford earlier in the day, first half goals from Kevin de Bruyne and Ilkay Gundogan with two assists from Raheem Sterling sealed all three points for Pep Guardiola's side.

City dominated possession throughout and they made a perfect start by taking a fifth-minute lead after De Bruyne pounced on Sterling's cushioned pass inside the box and pulled the trigger to find the top corner.

Sterling and De Bruyne were instrumental in doubling City's lead 20 minutes later when a quick one-two pass allowed the English forward to sprint down the right flank and cross into the box for Gundogan to score.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-leapfrog-manchester-city-to-top-of-the-table-with-2-0-win-over-watford-467756">Premier League: Liverpool leapfrog Manchester City to top of the table with 2-0 win over Watford</a>

"We've played in these types of games for many years. We scored early on so that helped us a lot. But the game is never finished until you score the third or fourth," Guardiola said in a post-match interview with the Premier League.

"The pitch was so difficult because the grass was high, no water and everything was so slow. But we did well and won the game."

City had a wake-up call in the second half when Burnley nearly got one back as Maxwel Cornet's header was cleared off the line by Nathan Ake. Although Cornet was later flagged offside, the move spurred Burnley to press for a goal.

But City improved soon after and they could have scored more with Phil Foden wasting a couple of opportunities while substitute Gabriel Jesus, who has not scored a league goal since September, also failed to find the target.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-manager-ralf-rangnick-strike-back-at-louis-van-gaal-over-commercial-club-comment-467640">Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick hits back at Louis van Gaal over 'commercial club' comment</a>

Meanwhile, Burnley's fourth consecutive defeat leaves Sean Dyche's side 19th, but with games in hand over the relegation battlers.

"It's never a shock against Man City. Sometimes they can score at will if they're feeling it," Dyche told BBC.

"Our nemesis all season has been creating chances and not scoring goals... The second half showed signs of what we`re about, we've got to do that in the games coming up.

"We still have 10 games left and we're still in a fight... We have 10 efforts to get ourselves correct and move forward."

Manchester City moved a point clear of title rivals Liverpool at the top of the Premier League standings with a convincing 2-0 win at relegation-threatened Burnley on Saturday.

Manchester City moved a point clear of title rivals Liverpool at the top of the Premier League standings with a convincing 2-0 win at relegation-threatened Burnley on Saturday. Needing a win to reclaim top spot after Liverpool beat Watford earlier in the day, first half goals from Kevin de Bruyne and Ilkay Gundogan with two assists from Raheem Sterling sealed all three points for Pep Guardiola's side. City dominated possession throughout and they made a perfect start by taking a fifth-minute lead after De Bruyne pounced on Sterling's cushioned pass inside the box and pulled the trigger to find the top corner. Sterling and De Bruyne were instrumental in doubling City's lead 20 minutes later when a quick one-two pass allowed the English forward to sprint down the right flank and cross into the box for Gundogan to score. ALSO READ: Premier League: Liverpool leapfrog Manchester City to top of the table with 2-0 win over Watford "We've played in these types of games for many years. We scored early on so that helped us a lot. But the game is never finished until you score the third or fourth," Guardiola said in a post-match interview with the Premier League. "The pitch was so difficult because the grass was high, no water and everything was so slow. But we did well and won the game." City had a wake-up call in the second half when Burnley nearly got one back as Maxwel Cornet's header was cleared off the line by Nathan Ake. Although Cornet was later flagged offside, the move spurred Burnley to press for a goal. But City improved soon after and they could have scored more with Phil Foden wasting a couple of opportunities while substitute Gabriel Jesus, who has not scored a league goal since September, also failed to find the target. ALSO READ: Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick hits back at Louis van Gaal over 'commercial club' comment Meanwhile, Burnley's fourth consecutive defeat leaves Sean Dyche's side 19th, but with games in hand over the relegation battlers. "It's never a shock against Man City. Sometimes they can score at will if they're feeling it," Dyche told BBC. "Our nemesis all season has been creating chances and not scoring goals... The second half showed signs of what we`re about, we've got to do that in the games coming up. "We still have 10 games left and we're still in a fight... We have 10 efforts to get ourselves correct and move forward."

Premier League: De Bruyne, Gundogan strike as Man City reclaim top spot from Liverpool with 2-0 win vs Burnley

A goal for Christian Eriksen, two from Vitaly Janelt and a late addition from Yoane Wissa earned Brentford a shock 4-1 comeback victory over west London neighbours Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday.

It was Brentford's first Premier League visit to Stamford Bridge and it looked to be going the European Champions'&nbsp;way when centre back Antonio Rudiger brought the game to life after a dull first half with his screamer of a shot from about 35 metres flying in off the post.

The German raced to the bench and hugged coach and compatriot Thomas Tuchel but the home celebrations were short-lived, proving merely a prelude to 10 minutes of frenzied action from their lowly visitors.

Two minutes later on the break the lively Bryan Mbuemo put Janelt through to score.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-to-face-england-and-iran-spain-meet-germany-in-fifa-world-cup-2022-group-stage-467548">U.S. to face England and Iran, Spain meet Germany in FIFA World Cup 2022 group stage</a>

Mbuemo then assisted Brentford's second with a pinpoint pass to Eriksen for the Dane to score his first goal for his new team in the 54th minute.

Eriksen, whose career had been in doubt after he collapsed on the pitch during the European Championship last year, had also scored twice in two games for his country during the recent international break.

Janelt sent the away end of Stamford Bridge into raptures in the 60th minute with a looping shot from an Ivan Toney pass to put them on course for all three points and a move further away from the relegation zone.

Substitute Wissa put the icing on the cake in the 87th minute, condemning a lacklustre Chelsea to their first home defeat since September.

It was the first victory for promoted Brentford over Chelsea since 1939.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-leapfrog-manchester-city-to-top-of-the-table-with-2-0-win-over-watford-467756">Premier League: Liverpool leapfrog Manchester City to top of the table with 2-0 win over Watford</a>

The home side, who had won their last five games despite the turmoil surrounding the club with sanctions against Roman Abramovich and the search for a new owner, looked off the pace from the start.

Hakim Ziyech had the best chance of the first half for Chelsea, letting rip a powerful shot from the right that David Raya tipped over the bar in the 38th minute.

Brentford had already sent out warning signs with Toney having three chances in the first 20 minutes, firing over the bar and testing Edouard Mendy with a shot that needed tipping round the post.

Chelsea, who had not lost in the Premier League since mid-January, remain third in the table but lost ground on leaders Manchester City and Liverpool who both won on Saturday. Brentford moved up to 14th, four places above the drop zone.

A goal for Christian Eriksen, two from Vitaly Janelt and a late addition from Yoane Wissa earned Brentford a shock 4-1 comeback victory over west London neighbours Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday.

A goal for Christian Eriksen, two from Vitaly Janelt and a late addition from Yoane Wissa earned Brentford a shock 4-1 comeback victory over west London neighbours Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday. It was Brentford's first Premier League visit to Stamford Bridge and it looked to be going the European Champions' way when centre back Antonio Rudiger brought the game to life after a dull first half with his screamer of a shot from about 35 metres flying in off the post. The German raced to the bench and hugged coach and compatriot Thomas Tuchel but the home celebrations were short-lived, proving merely a prelude to 10 minutes of frenzied action from their lowly visitors. Two minutes later on the break the lively Bryan Mbuemo put Janelt through to score. ALSO READ: U.S. to face England and Iran, Spain meet Germany in FIFA World Cup 2022 group stage Mbuemo then assisted Brentford's second with a pinpoint pass to Eriksen for the Dane to score his first goal for his new team in the 54th minute. Eriksen, whose career had been in doubt after he collapsed on the pitch during the European Championship last year, had also scored twice in two games for his country during the recent international break. Janelt sent the away end of Stamford Bridge into raptures in the 60th minute with a looping shot from an Ivan Toney pass to put them on course for all three points and a move further away from the relegation zone. Substitute Wissa put the icing on the cake in the 87th minute, condemning a lacklustre Chelsea to their first home defeat since September. It was the first victory for promoted Brentford over Chelsea since 1939. ALSO READ: Premier League: Liverpool leapfrog Manchester City to top of the table with 2-0 win over Watford The home side, who had won their last five games despite the turmoil surrounding the club with sanctions against Roman Abramovich and the search for a new owner, looked off the pace from the start. Hakim Ziyech had the best chance of the first half for Chelsea, letting rip a powerful shot from the right that David Raya tipped over the bar in the 38th minute. Brentford had already sent out warning signs with Toney having three chances in the first 20 minutes, firing over the bar and testing Edouard Mendy with a shot that needed tipping round the post. Chelsea, who had not lost in the Premier League since mid-January, remain third in the table but lost ground on leaders Manchester City and Liverpool who both won on Saturday. Brentford moved up to 14th, four places above the drop zone.

Premier League: Christian Eriksen scores as Brentford stun Chelsea 4-1

China on Sunday reported 13,287 new Covid cases for April 2, the highest since February 2020, with the majority in Shanghai and northeastern Jilin province.&nbsp;

The national health authority on Sunday said the country reported 1,506 confirmed Covid cases for the previous day, which is less than the day earlier with 2,129 cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-launched-cyberattack-against-ukraine-before-russian-invasion-report-467623">China launched cyberattack against Ukraine before Russian invasion: Report</a>

However, the country has not yet classified asymptomatic cases as confirmed cases which increased from 7,869 cases to 11,781 cases on Saturday. Amongst the confirmed cases, 1,455 cases were locally transmitted with 956 cases from Jilin and 438 from Shanghai which has virtually locked the entire city.

During a press conference on Sunday, a senior official of the Shanghai health authority said that Shanghai will be carrying out a city-wide antigen testing on Sunday and mass nucleic acid testing on Monday.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Shanghai's healthcare system has collapsed

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Shanghai has been striving to stop the spread of cases by imposing a two-stage lockdown, pressuring the manufacturers to halt the operations and causing serious congestion at the Shanghai port.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/popular-chinese-messaging-app-wechat-suspends-several-accounts-linked-to-non-fungible-tokens-467529">Popular Chinese messaging app WeChat suspends several accounts linked to non-fungible tokens</a>

The data showed that the congestion off Shanghai has been easing for oil tankers since March 31, but the number of bulkers queuing in outer Yangtze has increased to nearly 90, the highest level since October 2021. Many ports near Shanghai such as Ningbo are now busy as firms have diverted cargos to avoid prolonged logistic turnarounds.

(With inputs from agencies)

China on Sunday reported 13,287 new Covid cases for April 2, the highest since February 2020, with the majority in Shanghai and northeastern Jilin province. The national health authority on Sunday said the country reported 1,506 confirmed Covid cases for the previous day, which is less than the day earlier with 2,129 cases.

China on Sunday reported 13,287 new Covid cases for April 2, the highest since February 2020, with the majority in Shanghai and northeastern Jilin province. The national health authority on Sunday said the country reported 1,506 confirmed Covid cases for the previous day, which is less than the day earlier with 2,129 cases. Also read | China launched cyberattack against Ukraine before Russian invasion: Report However, the country has not yet classified asymptomatic cases as confirmed cases which increased from 7,869 cases to 11,781 cases on Saturday. Amongst the confirmed cases, 1,455 cases were locally transmitted with 956 cases from Jilin and 438 from Shanghai which has virtually locked the entire city. During a press conference on Sunday, a senior official of the Shanghai health authority said that Shanghai will be carrying out a city-wide antigen testing on Sunday and mass nucleic acid testing on Monday. Watch | Gravitas: Shanghai's healthcare system has collapsed Shanghai has been striving to stop the spread of cases by imposing a two-stage lockdown, pressuring the manufacturers to halt the operations and causing serious congestion at the Shanghai port. Also read | Popular Chinese messaging app WeChat suspends several accounts linked to non-fungible tokens The data showed that the congestion off Shanghai has been easing for oil tankers since March 31, but the number of bulkers queuing in outer Yangtze has increased to nearly 90, the highest level since October 2021. Many ports near Shanghai such as Ningbo are now busy as firms have diverted cargos to avoid prolonged logistic turnarounds. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: China reports highest number of cases since February 2020

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday plunged Pakistan into a constitutional crisis by getting the president to dissolve parliament and seeking fresh elections on a day when a session to hold a no-trust vote against his government was abruptly adjourned.

In what appeared to be premeditated moves, the National Assembly session was dismissed by deputy speaker Qasim Khan Suri as unconstitutional.

Citing Article 5 of the constitution, Suri dismissed the session soon after the ruling party's Fawad Chowdhury spoke against the no-confidence motion, calling it a "foreign conspiracy."

Interestingly, the deputy speaker himself was filling in for Speaker Asad Qaiser against whom the opposition parties filed a no-confidence motion earlier in the day.&nbsp;

The game-changing move by Khan, a cricketer-turned-prime minister, was slammed by opposition parties, who vowed to challenge it in the Supreme Court, thus making it a constitutional crisis.

Bilawal Bhutto, Pakistan People’s Party leader, also vowed to hold a sit-in in parliament against Khan's swift and unexpected play, adding that opposition lawyers will seek Supreme Court's intervention and seek a verdict on Sunday itself.&nbsp;

In yet another bizarre, unprecedented scene, the opposition 'chose' a Speaker, Ayaz Sadiq, and held its parallel session in parliament. If anything, it is only going to serve as political posturing and optics.

With the opposition's legal action, it appears the ball is now in the Supreme Court. Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial has called other justices for consultation.

The top court will have to answer a complex set of constitutional questions: Can a speaker [or his deputy in this case] adjourn the House which had been convened to vote on a no-confidence motion against the government? Is the session 'unconstitutional' only because the deputy speaker thinks so, after it had been listed in the parliament business? Is it constitutional for the president to dismiss the parliament and call elections, when just days ago the opposition appeared to have the sufficient numbers to win the no-trust vote after the MQM-P party switched sides?&nbsp;

Can a prime minister facing a no-trust motion seek to dismiss the very House that was set to vote on it?&nbsp;

Another looming factor is the spectre of another Army rule. Democracy in Pakistan has been a tortuous lab experiment that could not find the right solution even after 75 years. Whenever such political crises occurred, the Army had stepped in, leading to the series of dictatorships that the impoverished South Asian country witnessed intermittently over the years.

WATCH |&nbsp;Imran Khan calls for snap elections after no-confidence vote dismissed, opposition to move SC

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Will the new crisis lead to another such military rule?&nbsp;

Imran Khan might be trying to avoid such a situation, as according to government sources, he is seeking an interim government. Khan is apparently in the process of writing a letter to the opposition for such an interim government. It is quite possible that this was a move from the Army-intelligence establishment of Pakistan.

One way or the other, Pakistan needs to have a government in place by June 30, which is the deadline to pass the budget. The country is reeling from an unprecedented economic crisis, which is a deadly combination of poverty, foreign debt, high cost of living, and unemployment amid a Covid pandemic.

The entire political crisis is a result of mobilisation by the opposition to address these issues. Instead of finding a solution to those, Khan, the maverick cricketer, has plunged the country into yet another crisis. 
&nbsp; 
Which way it will end - more violence on the streets, political vendetta, interim government followed by election, army rule, or just a period of more uncertainty - will only become clearer in the coming days.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday plunged Pakistan into a constitutional crisis by getting the president to dissolve parliament and seeking fresh elections on a day when a session to hold a no-trust vote against his government was abruptly adjourned.

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday plunged Pakistan into a constitutional crisis by getting the president to dissolve parliament and seeking fresh elections on a day when a session to hold a no-trust vote against his government was abruptly adjourned. In what appeared to be premeditated moves, the National Assembly session was dismissed by deputy speaker Qasim Khan Suri as unconstitutional. Citing Article 5 of the constitution, Suri dismissed the session soon after the ruling party's Fawad Chowdhury spoke against the no-confidence motion, calling it a "foreign conspiracy." Interestingly, the deputy speaker himself was filling in for Speaker Asad Qaiser against whom the opposition parties filed a no-confidence motion earlier in the day. The game-changing move by Khan, a cricketer-turned-prime minister, was slammed by opposition parties, who vowed to challenge it in the Supreme Court, thus making it a constitutional crisis. Bilawal Bhutto, Pakistan People’s Party leader, also vowed to hold a sit-in in parliament against Khan's swift and unexpected play, adding that opposition lawyers will seek Supreme Court's intervention and seek a verdict on Sunday itself. In yet another bizarre, unprecedented scene, the opposition 'chose' a Speaker, Ayaz Sadiq, and held its parallel session in parliament. If anything, it is only going to serve as political posturing and optics. With the opposition's legal action, it appears the ball is now in the Supreme Court. Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial has called other justices for consultation. The top court will have to answer a complex set of constitutional questions: Can a speaker [or his deputy in this case] adjourn the House which had been convened to vote on a no-confidence motion against the government? Is the session 'unconstitutional' only because the deputy speaker thinks so, after it had been listed in the parliament business? Is it constitutional for the president to dismiss the parliament and call elections, when just days ago the opposition appeared to have the sufficient numbers to win the no-trust vote after the MQM-P party switched sides? Can a prime minister facing a no-trust motion seek to dismiss the very House that was set to vote on it? Another looming factor is the spectre of another Army rule. Democracy in Pakistan has been a tortuous lab experiment that could not find the right solution even after 75 years. Whenever such political crises occurred, the Army had stepped in, leading to the series of dictatorships that the impoverished South Asian country witnessed intermittently over the years. WATCH | Imran Khan calls for snap elections after no-confidence vote dismissed, opposition to move SC × Will the new crisis lead to another such military rule? Imran Khan might be trying to avoid such a situation, as according to government sources, he is seeking an interim government. Khan is apparently in the process of writing a letter to the opposition for such an interim government. It is quite possible that this was a move from the Army-intelligence establishment of Pakistan. One way or the other, Pakistan needs to have a government in place by June 30, which is the deadline to pass the budget. The country is reeling from an unprecedented economic crisis, which is a deadly combination of poverty, foreign debt, high cost of living, and unemployment amid a Covid pandemic. The entire political crisis is a result of mobilisation by the opposition to address these issues. Instead of finding a solution to those, Khan, the maverick cricketer, has plunged the country into yet another crisis. Which way it will end - more violence on the streets, political vendetta, interim government followed by election, army rule, or just a period of more uncertainty - will only become clearer in the coming days. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

New polls, interim govt, or Army rule? PM Imran Khan plunges Pakistan into constitutional crisis

The odds are slightly in favour of Hungary's nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban, one of Europe's longest-serving leaders, extending his&nbsp;12-year&nbsp;rule&nbsp;in an election on Sunday, helped by his government's firm control over state media.

Hungarians&nbsp;started voting at 0400 GMT with the&nbsp;war&nbsp;in neighbouring&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;dominating the campaign. The six-party opposition alliance is within striking distance of&nbsp;Orban's&nbsp;Fidesz party in the polls, making the outcome of the&nbsp;ballot&nbsp;uncertain for the first time since Orban swept to power in 2010.

Casting his&nbsp;vote&nbsp;in snowy Budapest, Orban told reporters he expected a "great victory" and portrayed the&nbsp;ballot&nbsp;as a choice between "peace or&nbsp;war", accusing his opponents again of trying to drag Hungary into the&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;conflict, a charge they deny.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-crisishungary-pm-orban-calls-sanctions-double-edged-weapon-458898">Russia-Ukraine Crisis:Hungary PM Orban calls sanctions 'double-edged weapon'</a>

When asked repeatedly about his close ties with Moscow and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Orban said:

"I am standing on the basis of the Hungarian national interests, I am pro-Hungarian."

The&nbsp;war&nbsp;in&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;has upset&nbsp;Orban's&nbsp;plans and forced him into uncomfortable manoeuvring at home after more than a decade of close political and business relations with Moscow.

According to the latest poll by Zavecz Research, Fidesz leads with 39% support against 36% for the opposition, while one-fifth of&nbsp;voters have yet to decide who to back.

The leader of the opposition, 49-year-old conservative Peter Marki-Zay, has framed the election as a choice between East and West. Orban has turned Hungary towards Russia, he says, eroding democratic rights and directing the Central European country away from the European Union where it belongs.

"A Hungarian Putin or Europe?", opposition billboards say, showing a photo of Putin together with Orban.

Orban, 58, has portrayed himself as a defender of Hungarian interests by rejecting EU sanctions on Russian oil and gas.

Watch |&nbsp;Hungary’s Orban tries to shed his Putin links ahead of Elections

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He has not vetoed any EU sanctions against Russia, even though he said he did not agree with them. His government has also allowed NATO troops to be deployed in Hungary, where public support for NATO membership stood at 80% in a 2021 GLOBSEC survey.

He supported an EU decision to send arms to&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;but has banned weapons shipments from Hungarian territory, saying such a move could pose a security risk.

His tactical gambit has helped cement his support among core Fidesz&nbsp;voters. But it has led to criticism from some allies including Poland, whose ruling party leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski said he was not pleased with&nbsp;Orban's&nbsp;cautious stance on Russia.

Polls close at 1700 GMT.

Surging prices

Despite the&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;war&nbsp;taking centre-stage, many&nbsp;Hungarians&nbsp;are troubled by surging consumer prices, with inflation at an almost 15-year&nbsp;high of 8.3% in February even as Orban imposed caps on retail fuel prices, basic foodstuffs and mortgage rates.

Think tank GKI said its consumer confidence survey showed an 11-point plunge in March even after&nbsp;Orban's&nbsp;pre-election spending spree to support households.

The opposition alliance, which includes the leftist Democratic Coalition, the liberal Momentum and far-right-turned-moderate Jobbik parties, has tapped popular discontent, criticising what they said was systemic corruption that has enriched oligarchs close to Fidesz.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungarian-far-right-pm-invites-donald-trump-hoping-for-a-positive-boost-in-upcoming-elections-452462">Hungarian far-right PM invites Donald Trump hoping for a positive boost in upcoming elections</a>

"I cannot stand that they have dismantled democracy and ... they have stolen our country from us, they have stolen the wealth of our country and channelled it into private ownership," said Annamaria Varnai, an opposition supporter in Budapest where the alliance looks likely to score a sweeping victory based on a poll by Median this week.

After&nbsp;years of clashes with Brussels over media freedoms, the&nbsp;rule&nbsp;of law and immigration, a part of&nbsp;Orban's&nbsp;current campaign is based on defending conservative Christian family values against what he calls "gender madness" in Western Europe.

On Sunday,&nbsp;Hungarians&nbsp;will also&nbsp;vote&nbsp;in a referendum on sexual orientation workshops in schools - a&nbsp;vote&nbsp;rights groups have condemned, saying it fuels prejudice against LGBTQ people.

The odds are slightly in favour of Hungary's nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban, one of Europe's longest-serving leaders, extending his 12-year rule in an election on Sunday, helped by his government's firm control over state media.

The odds are slightly in favour of Hungary's nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban, one of Europe's longest-serving leaders, extending his 12-year rule in an election on Sunday, helped by his government's firm control over state media. Hungarians started voting at 0400 GMT with the war in neighbouring Ukraine dominating the campaign. The six-party opposition alliance is within striking distance of Orban's Fidesz party in the polls, making the outcome of the ballot uncertain for the first time since Orban swept to power in 2010. Casting his vote in snowy Budapest, Orban told reporters he expected a "great victory" and portrayed the ballot as a choice between "peace or war", accusing his opponents again of trying to drag Hungary into the Ukraine conflict, a charge they deny. Also read | Russia-Ukraine Crisis:Hungary PM Orban calls sanctions 'double-edged weapon' When asked repeatedly about his close ties with Moscow and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Orban said: "I am standing on the basis of the Hungarian national interests, I am pro-Hungarian." The war in Ukraine has upset Orban's plans and forced him into uncomfortable manoeuvring at home after more than a decade of close political and business relations with Moscow. According to the latest poll by Zavecz Research, Fidesz leads with 39% support against 36% for the opposition, while one-fifth of voters have yet to decide who to back. The leader of the opposition, 49-year-old conservative Peter Marki-Zay, has framed the election as a choice between East and West. Orban has turned Hungary towards Russia, he says, eroding democratic rights and directing the Central European country away from the European Union where it belongs. "A Hungarian Putin or Europe?", opposition billboards say, showing a photo of Putin together with Orban. Orban, 58, has portrayed himself as a defender of Hungarian interests by rejecting EU sanctions on Russian oil and gas. Watch | Hungary’s Orban tries to shed his Putin links ahead of Elections He has not vetoed any EU sanctions against Russia, even though he said he did not agree with them. His government has also allowed NATO troops to be deployed in Hungary, where public support for NATO membership stood at 80% in a 2021 GLOBSEC survey. He supported an EU decision to send arms to Ukraine but has banned weapons shipments from Hungarian territory, saying such a move could pose a security risk. His tactical gambit has helped cement his support among core Fidesz voters. But it has led to criticism from some allies including Poland, whose ruling party leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski said he was not pleased with Orban's cautious stance on Russia. Polls close at 1700 GMT. Surging prices Despite the Ukraine war taking centre-stage, many Hungarians are troubled by surging consumer prices, with inflation at an almost 15-year high of 8.3% in February even as Orban imposed caps on retail fuel prices, basic foodstuffs and mortgage rates. Think tank GKI said its consumer confidence survey showed an 11-point plunge in March even after Orban's pre-election spending spree to support households. The opposition alliance, which includes the leftist Democratic Coalition, the liberal Momentum and far-right-turned-moderate Jobbik parties, has tapped popular discontent, criticising what they said was systemic corruption that has enriched oligarchs close to Fidesz. Also read | Hungarian far-right PM invites Donald Trump hoping for a positive boost in upcoming elections "I cannot stand that they have dismantled democracy and ... they have stolen our country from us, they have stolen the wealth of our country and channelled it into private ownership," said Annamaria Varnai, an opposition supporter in Budapest where the alliance looks likely to score a sweeping victory based on a poll by Median this week. After years of clashes with Brussels over media freedoms, the rule of law and immigration, a part of Orban's current campaign is based on defending conservative Christian family values against what he calls "gender madness" in Western Europe. On Sunday, Hungarians will also vote in a referendum on sexual orientation workshops in schools - a vote rights groups have condemned, saying it fuels prejudice against LGBTQ people.

Hungarians vote on Orban's 12-year rule in tight ballot overshadowed by Ukraine war

Incendiary US conservative and former vice presidential hopeful Sarah Palin announced Friday she is running for&nbsp;Alaska's lone seat in the United States House of Representatives, eyeing a return to national politics during a period of deep political division.

The 58-year-old far-right former governor is seeking to succeed Republican Don Young who died unexpectedly last month after serving in the US House for 49 years.

Palin is a fierce supporter of Donald Trump, and has joined with the former president in making unfounded claims that the 2020 election was tainted by fraud.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-former-president-donald-trump-may-answer-questions-in-court-thanks-to-grant-467662">Reggae singer Eddy Grant stumps Trump, former US president may face court</a>

"America is at a tipping point," she said in a statement on Facebook announcing her candidacy. "As I've watched the far left destroy the country, I knew I had to step up and join the fight."

The US midterm elections, in which all 435 House seats are up for grabs, is set for November 8.

While the largest US state by area,&nbsp;Alaska&nbsp;has only one representative in the House, due to its sparse population.

Palin was Republican nominee John McCain's running mate during his 2008 presidential election, in which the duo lost to Barack Obama and his vice presidential pick, then senator Joe Biden.

Palin served as&nbsp;Alaska's governor from 2006 until 2009, when she resigned and emerged as a darling of the conservative Tea Party movement.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maple-syrup-heist-thief-needs-to-pay-victims-us-7-mn-or-serve-6-more-years-in-canadian-jail-467670">&nbsp;‘Maple syrup heist’ thief needs to pay victims US $7 mn&nbsp;or serve 6 more years in Canadian jail</a>

As an anti-establishment flamethrower capable of electrifying the Republican base, she is widely seen as the political precursor to Trump.

In the statement announcing her candidacy, Palin painted a nation in crisis under President Biden, decrying a surge in illegal immigration, "out-of-control inflation," high gas prices and "socialist" policies enacted by Democrats.

In February, a Manhattan judge tossed out a defamation case Palin had brought against The New York Times.

Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan PM Imran Khan sends demarche to US embassy amid political crisis

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Incendiary US conservative and former vice presidential hopeful Sarah Palin announced Friday she is running for Alaska's lone seat in the United States House of Representatives, eyeing a return to national politics during a period of deep political division.

Incendiary US conservative and former vice presidential hopeful Sarah Palin announced Friday she is running for Alaska's lone seat in the United States House of Representatives, eyeing a return to national politics during a period of deep political division. The 58-year-old far-right former governor is seeking to succeed Republican Don Young who died unexpectedly last month after serving in the US House for 49 years. Palin is a fierce supporter of Donald Trump, and has joined with the former president in making unfounded claims that the 2020 election was tainted by fraud. Also read | Reggae singer Eddy Grant stumps Trump, former US president may face court "America is at a tipping point," she said in a statement on Facebook announcing her candidacy. "As I've watched the far left destroy the country, I knew I had to step up and join the fight." The US midterm elections, in which all 435 House seats are up for grabs, is set for November 8. While the largest US state by area, Alaska has only one representative in the House, due to its sparse population. Palin was Republican nominee John McCain's running mate during his 2008 presidential election, in which the duo lost to Barack Obama and his vice presidential pick, then senator Joe Biden. Palin served as Alaska's governor from 2006 until 2009, when she resigned and emerged as a darling of the conservative Tea Party movement. Also read | ‘Maple syrup heist’ thief needs to pay victims US $7 mn or serve 6 more years in Canadian jail As an anti-establishment flamethrower capable of electrifying the Republican base, she is widely seen as the political precursor to Trump. In the statement announcing her candidacy, Palin painted a nation in crisis under President Biden, decrying a surge in illegal immigration, "out-of-control inflation," high gas prices and "socialist" policies enacted by Democrats. In February, a Manhattan judge tossed out a defamation case Palin had brought against The New York Times. Watch | Pakistan PM Imran Khan sends demarche to US embassy amid political crisis

Conservative firebrand Sarah Palin announces bid for US Congress

A&nbsp;series&nbsp;of&nbsp;explosions&nbsp;were&nbsp;heard&nbsp;and smoke was seen in Ukraine's southern&nbsp;port&nbsp;city of&nbsp;Odesa&nbsp;in the early hours of Sunday (April 3), a&nbsp;Reuters&nbsp;witness&nbsp;said.

Footage showed large clouds of dark smoke rising over the city.

Odesa&nbsp;was attacked by missiles and there were reports of fires in some areas, the city council said in an online post.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irpin-bucha-gostomel-and-the-whole-kyiv-region-liberated-ukraine-467833">&nbsp;Irpin, Bucha, Gostomel and the whole Kyiv region liberated: Ukraine</a>

One of the city's "critical infrastructure facilities" was hit, regional administration spokesperson Sergey Bratchuk told Ukraine's public broadcaster.

"We hope there will be no casualties," Bratchuk said.

Ukraine's military said on Friday (April 1) that its anti-air defences had foiled an attempted Russian missile attack on critical infrastructure in the major Black Sea&nbsp;port&nbsp;city.

Governor Maksym Marchenko said three missiles had hit a residential area earlier on Friday, adding there were casualties.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mykolaivs-governor-says-at-least-35-killed-from-russian-strike-on-government-building-467790">&nbsp;Mykolaiv's governor says at least 35 killed from Russian strike on government building</a>

Reuters&nbsp;could not immediately verify the&nbsp;Ukrainian&nbsp;statement at the time.

Russia has denied targeting civilians in its war in Ukraine that began on February 24 in what Moscow calls a "special operation" to demilitarise its southwestern neighbour.

Western countries call it an unprovoked war of aggression.

Watch |&nbsp;Zelensky says 3,000 rescued from Mariupol amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

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A series of explosions were heard and smoke was seen in Ukraine's southern port city of Odesa in the early hours of Sunday (April 3), a Reuters witness said. Footage showed large clouds of dark smoke rising over the city.

A series of explosions were heard and smoke was seen in Ukraine's southern port city of Odesa in the early hours of Sunday (April 3), a Reuters witness said. Footage showed large clouds of dark smoke rising over the city. Odesa was attacked by missiles and there were reports of fires in some areas, the city council said in an online post. Also read | Irpin, Bucha, Gostomel and the whole Kyiv region liberated: Ukraine One of the city's "critical infrastructure facilities" was hit, regional administration spokesperson Sergey Bratchuk told Ukraine's public broadcaster. "We hope there will be no casualties," Bratchuk said. Ukraine's military said on Friday (April 1) that its anti-air defences had foiled an attempted Russian missile attack on critical infrastructure in the major Black Sea port city. Governor Maksym Marchenko said three missiles had hit a residential area earlier on Friday, adding there were casualties. Also read | Mykolaiv's governor says at least 35 killed from Russian strike on government building Reuters could not immediately verify the Ukrainian statement at the time. Russia has denied targeting civilians in its war in Ukraine that began on February 24 in what Moscow calls a "special operation" to demilitarise its southwestern neighbour. Western countries call it an unprovoked war of aggression. Watch | Zelensky says 3,000 rescued from Mariupol amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine

Ukraine war: Series of explosions heard in Ukrainian port of Odesa, say reports

The Pentagon announced Saturday it has repatriated an Algerian man detained for nearly 20 years at the&nbsp;Guantanamo&nbsp;Bay military prison, more than five years after his release was first arranged.

Sufiyan Barhoumi had initially been suspected of having been an instructor in an Al-Qaeda camp and of training Saudi fighters to make remotely detonated explosive devices.

But in 2008, the Pentagon dropped all charges.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-looks-to-reopen-migrant-detention-camp-at-guantanamo-bay-to-tackle-surge-in-asylum-seekers-415331">US looks to reopen migrant detention camp at Guantánamo Bay to tackle surge in asylum seekers</a>

In 2016, a review board determined that the "law of war detention of Mr. Barhoumi was no longer necessary to protect against a continuing significant threat to the national security of the United States," the US Department of Defense said in a statement.

A Trump administration policy, however, had effectively halted most such transfers.

Thirty-seven detainees now remain in the detention center on the southern coast of Cuba, the Pentagon said.

Eighteen of them are "eligible for transfer" and seven are eligible to go before a review board, while 10 others -- including the presumed mastermind of the 2001 terror attacks, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed -- have been charged in the military commission system, and two others convicted.

The 2016 review found that while Barhoumi was involved in various extremist groups, he was not a member of al-Qaeda nor the Taliban.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/guantanamo-911-trial-suspended-amid-covid-19-scare-413888">Guantanamo 9/11 trial suspended amid COVID-19 scare</a>

Barhoumi was the sole Algerian among those eligible for transfer. The Pentagon said his release was subject to assurances from Algeria that he would be treated humanely and not pose a threat in the future.

The statement said the United States "appreciates the willingness of Algeria and other partners to support ongoing US efforts... focused on responsibly reducing the detainee population and ultimately closing the&nbsp;Guantanamo&nbsp;Bay facility."

The Joe Biden administration has been working to reduce the number of detainees at&nbsp;Guantanamo&nbsp;-- a sprawling facility opened amid the US "war on terror" -- and eventually close the facility.

Watch |&nbsp;20 years since the opening of Guantanamo Bay, the infamous US prison in Cuba

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The Pentagon announced Saturday it has repatriated an Algerian man detained for nearly 20 years at the Guantanamo Bay military prison, more than five years after his release was first arranged.

The Pentagon announced Saturday it has repatriated an Algerian man detained for nearly 20 years at the Guantanamo Bay military prison, more than five years after his release was first arranged. Sufiyan Barhoumi had initially been suspected of having been an instructor in an Al-Qaeda camp and of training Saudi fighters to make remotely detonated explosive devices. But in 2008, the Pentagon dropped all charges. Also read | US looks to reopen migrant detention camp at Guantánamo Bay to tackle surge in asylum seekers In 2016, a review board determined that the "law of war detention of Mr. Barhoumi was no longer necessary to protect against a continuing significant threat to the national security of the United States," the US Department of Defense said in a statement. A Trump administration policy, however, had effectively halted most such transfers. Thirty-seven detainees now remain in the detention center on the southern coast of Cuba, the Pentagon said. Eighteen of them are "eligible for transfer" and seven are eligible to go before a review board, while 10 others -- including the presumed mastermind of the 2001 terror attacks, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed -- have been charged in the military commission system, and two others convicted. The 2016 review found that while Barhoumi was involved in various extremist groups, he was not a member of al-Qaeda nor the Taliban. Also read | Guantanamo 9/11 trial suspended amid COVID-19 scare Barhoumi was the sole Algerian among those eligible for transfer. The Pentagon said his release was subject to assurances from Algeria that he would be treated humanely and not pose a threat in the future. The statement said the United States "appreciates the willingness of Algeria and other partners to support ongoing US efforts... focused on responsibly reducing the detainee population and ultimately closing the Guantanamo Bay facility." The Joe Biden administration has been working to reduce the number of detainees at Guantanamo -- a sprawling facility opened amid the US "war on terror" -- and eventually close the facility. Watch | 20 years since the opening of Guantanamo Bay, the infamous US prison in Cuba

US says Algerian at Guantanamo has been repatriated

The&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;announced on Sunday a&nbsp;ban&nbsp;on the cultivation of narcotics in Afghanistan, the world's biggest opium producer.

"As per the decree of the supreme leader of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, all Afghans are informed that from now on, cultivation of poppy has been strictly prohibited across the country," according to an order from the&nbsp;Taliban's supreme leader Haibatullah Akhundzada.

"If anyone violates the decree, the crop will be destroyed immediately and the violator will be treated according to the Sharia law," the order, announced at a news conference by the Ministry of Interior in Kabul, said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-will-recognise-taliban-regime-when-conditions-are-ripe-report-467395">China will recognise Taliban regime ‘when conditions are ripe’: Report</a>

The order said the production, use or transportation of other narcotics was also&nbsp;banned.

Drug control has been one major demand of the international community of the Islamist group, which took over the country in August and is seeking formal international recognition in order to wind back sanctions that are severely hampering&nbsp;banking, business and development.

The&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;banned poppy growing towards the end of their last rule in 2000 as they sought international legitimacy, but faced a popular backlash and later mostly changed their stance, according to experts.

Afghanistan's opium production - which the United Nations estimated was worth $1.4 billion at its height in 2017 - has increased in recent months, farmers and&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;members told Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/world-bank-suspends-projects-in-afghanistan-after-taliban-prohibit-girls-from-school-466909">World Bank suspends projects in Afghanistan after Taliban prohibit girls from school</a>

The country's dire economic situation has prompted residents of south-eastern provinces to grow the illicit crop that could bring them faster and higher returns than legal crops such as wheat.

Taliban&nbsp;sources told Reuters they were anticipating tough resistance from some elements within the group against the&nbsp;ban&nbsp;on poppy and that there had been a surge in the number of farmers cultivating poppy in recent months.

A farmer in Helmand who spoke on condition of anonymity said that in recent weeks prices of poppy had already more than doubled on rumours the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;would&nbsp;ban&nbsp;its cultivation. But he added that he needed to grow poppy to support his family.

"Other crops are just not profitable," he said.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Global Headlines: Taliban issue new diktat

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&nbsp;

The Taliban announced on Sunday a ban on the cultivation of narcotics in Afghanistan, the world's biggest opium producer. "As per the decree of the supreme leader of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, all Afghans are informed that from now on, cultivation of poppy has been strictly prohibited across the country," according to an order from the Taliban's supreme leader Haibatullah Akhundzada.

The Taliban announced on Sunday a ban on the cultivation of narcotics in Afghanistan, the world's biggest opium producer. "As per the decree of the supreme leader of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, all Afghans are informed that from now on, cultivation of poppy has been strictly prohibited across the country," according to an order from the Taliban's supreme leader Haibatullah Akhundzada. "If anyone violates the decree, the crop will be destroyed immediately and the violator will be treated according to the Sharia law," the order, announced at a news conference by the Ministry of Interior in Kabul, said. Also read | China will recognise Taliban regime ‘when conditions are ripe’: Report The order said the production, use or transportation of other narcotics was also banned. Drug control has been one major demand of the international community of the Islamist group, which took over the country in August and is seeking formal international recognition in order to wind back sanctions that are severely hampering banking, business and development. The Taliban banned poppy growing towards the end of their last rule in 2000 as they sought international legitimacy, but faced a popular backlash and later mostly changed their stance, according to experts. Afghanistan's opium production - which the United Nations estimated was worth $1.4 billion at its height in 2017 - has increased in recent months, farmers and Taliban members told Reuters. Also read | World Bank suspends projects in Afghanistan after Taliban prohibit girls from school The country's dire economic situation has prompted residents of south-eastern provinces to grow the illicit crop that could bring them faster and higher returns than legal crops such as wheat. Taliban sources told Reuters they were anticipating tough resistance from some elements within the group against the ban on poppy and that there had been a surge in the number of farmers cultivating poppy in recent months. A farmer in Helmand who spoke on condition of anonymity said that in recent weeks prices of poppy had already more than doubled on rumours the Taliban would ban its cultivation. But he added that he needed to grow poppy to support his family. "Other crops are just not profitable," he said. Watch | Gravitas Global Headlines: Taliban issue new diktat

Taliban ban poppy cultivation in Afghanistan

In a day of swift drama, Pakistan's president dissolved its parliament on Sunday on the advice of Prime Minister Imran Khan, who asked for fresh elections in a TV address just as the National Assembly deputy speaker dismissed a no-trust session against the government as unconstitutional.

President Arif Alvi's move came moments after Khan said in his address to the nation, “I call upon the people of Pakistan to prepare for elections.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/prepare-for-elections-imrans-dramatic-tv-speech-amid-no-confidence-motion-467893">Also Read:&nbsp;Imran's dramatic TV speech amid no-confidence motion</a>

His remarks came almost simultaneously as Deputy Speaker Qasim Khan Suri dismissed the no-confidence motion against Khan-led PTI government as "unconstitutional".&nbsp;

In yet another bizarre, unprecedented scene, the opposition 'chose' a Speaker, Ayaz Sadiq, and held its parallel session in parliament.

Suri himself was filling in for Speaker Asad Qaiser, against whom the opposition had submitted a no-confidence motion just hours before the session started.

Watch: Pakistan deputy speaker dissolves assembly session

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Fawad Choudhury, information minister in the government who earlier slammed in parliament the no-trust move as a "foreign conspiracy", tweeted that Khan would continue as prime minister till elections are held, adding that the cabinet was dissolved.&nbsp;

"The Prime Minister will continue his duties under Article 224 of the Constitution. The Cabinet has been dissolved," he tweeted.&nbsp;

Opposition members shouted slogans inside the parliament, while supporters of Khan were arrested and removed from the Parliament House premises.&nbsp;

Pakistan People's Party leader Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that the united opposition will stage a sit-in inside the National Assembly and its lawyers will challenge the move by Khan in the Supreme Court.

Security has been made tight both in Islamabad and other cities and large gatherings banned in the capital.

The Supreme Court had banned earlier any gatherings inside the so-called Red Zone, a high-security area in the capital.&nbsp;

Junior minister for Information and Broadcasting Farrukh Habib tweeted that fresh elections will be held in 90 days, but it remains to be seen if that's possible, given the opposition's legal challenge.

In a day of swift drama, Pakistan's president dissolved its parliament on Sunday on the advice of Prime Minister Imran Khan, who asked for fresh elections in a TV address just as the National Assembly deputy speaker dismissed a no-trust session against the government as unconstitutional.

In a day of swift drama, Pakistan's president dissolved its parliament on Sunday on the advice of Prime Minister Imran Khan, who asked for fresh elections in a TV address just as the National Assembly deputy speaker dismissed a no-trust session against the government as unconstitutional. President Arif Alvi's move came moments after Khan said in his address to the nation, “I call upon the people of Pakistan to prepare for elections.” Also Read: Imran's dramatic TV speech amid no-confidence motion His remarks came almost simultaneously as Deputy Speaker Qasim Khan Suri dismissed the no-confidence motion against Khan-led PTI government as "unconstitutional". In yet another bizarre, unprecedented scene, the opposition 'chose' a Speaker, Ayaz Sadiq, and held its parallel session in parliament. Suri himself was filling in for Speaker Asad Qaiser, against whom the opposition had submitted a no-confidence motion just hours before the session started. Watch: Pakistan deputy speaker dissolves assembly session Fawad Choudhury, information minister in the government who earlier slammed in parliament the no-trust move as a "foreign conspiracy", tweeted that Khan would continue as prime minister till elections are held, adding that the cabinet was dissolved. "The Prime Minister will continue his duties under Article 224 of the Constitution. The Cabinet has been dissolved," he tweeted. Opposition members shouted slogans inside the parliament, while supporters of Khan were arrested and removed from the Parliament House premises. Pakistan People's Party leader Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that the united opposition will stage a sit-in inside the National Assembly and its lawyers will challenge the move by Khan in the Supreme Court. Security has been made tight both in Islamabad and other cities and large gatherings banned in the capital. The Supreme Court had banned earlier any gatherings inside the so-called Red Zone, a high-security area in the capital. Junior minister for Information and Broadcasting Farrukh Habib tweeted that fresh elections will be held in 90 days, but it remains to be seen if that's possible, given the opposition's legal challenge.

Pak political drama: Parliament, cabinet dissolved as no-trust session against PM Imran Khan junked

In a surprising turn of events, the Pakistan parliament session on a no-trust vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan was abruptly adjourned just minutes after it started on Sunday.&nbsp;

Almost simultaneously, Khan sent advice to president to dissolve the National Assembly, asking countrymen to prepare for a new election, which will decide who will stay in power.&nbsp;

"Dear citizens, it's you, who decide the faith of the nation. Please be prepared for the next election. I have sent president the advice to dissolve the assembly. The conspiracy against our country has failed today," Khan said.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-parliament-no-confidence-procedure-voting-bells-open-counting-and-final-verdict-467852">Pak no-confidence procedure: Voting bells, open counting and final verdict</a>

His move came after Deputy Speaker of National Assembly Qasim Khan Suri dismissed the no-trust move against Prime Minister Imran Khan, terming it against Article 5 of the Constitution.&nbsp;

Suri was filling in for Speaker Asad Qaiser against whom the opposition parties filed a no-confidence motion earlier in the day, in another surprise move.&nbsp;

Soon after the adjournment, opposition members shouted slogans in the parliament.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;'Opposition destabilizing nation for greed,' Pakistan's foreign minister urges people to protest

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Earlier, several supporters of Khan were arrested by police and removed from outside the parliament house.&nbsp;

Security has been tightened around the capital and other cities.&nbsp;

Bilawal Bhutto, the leader of Pakistan People’s Party said the opposition will challenge in court the move by Imran Khan to dissolve the National Assembly and hold protest in parliament.&nbsp;

The ball is in the top court of Pakistan, which will have to decide whether it can dissolve parliament without the no-confidence motion, and allow for a fresh national election, which would be the second in three and a half years.&nbsp;

This has essentially plunged the country into another constitutional crisis.&nbsp;

In a surprising turn of events, the Pakistan parliament session on a no-trust vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan was abruptly adjourned just minutes after it started on Sunday.

In a surprising turn of events, the Pakistan parliament session on a no-trust vote against Prime Minister Imran Khan was abruptly adjourned just minutes after it started on Sunday. Almost simultaneously, Khan sent advice to president to dissolve the National Assembly, asking countrymen to prepare for a new election, which will decide who will stay in power. "Dear citizens, it's you, who decide the faith of the nation. Please be prepared for the next election. I have sent president the advice to dissolve the assembly. The conspiracy against our country has failed today," Khan said. Also Read: Pak no-confidence procedure: Voting bells, open counting and final verdict His move came after Deputy Speaker of National Assembly Qasim Khan Suri dismissed the no-trust move against Prime Minister Imran Khan, terming it against Article 5 of the Constitution. Suri was filling in for Speaker Asad Qaiser against whom the opposition parties filed a no-confidence motion earlier in the day, in another surprise move. Soon after the adjournment, opposition members shouted slogans in the parliament. Watch: 'Opposition destabilizing nation for greed,' Pakistan's foreign minister urges people to protest × Earlier, several supporters of Khan were arrested by police and removed from outside the parliament house. Security has been tightened around the capital and other cities. Bilawal Bhutto, the leader of Pakistan People’s Party said the opposition will challenge in court the move by Imran Khan to dissolve the National Assembly and hold protest in parliament. The ball is in the top court of Pakistan, which will have to decide whether it can dissolve parliament without the no-confidence motion, and allow for a fresh national election, which would be the second in three and a half years. This has essentially plunged the country into another constitutional crisis.

Breaking: No-trust session dispersed, Pak PM Imran Khan asks to dissolve parliament, seeks fresh election 

Beijing has expelled one of its high-profile former justice minister and deputy police chief Fu Zhenghua from the ruling Communist Party, calling him “extremely despicable” and accusing him of association with “political frauds”, state media reported.

Fu Zhenghua, 67, who reportedly helped in bringing down China’s former security chief Zhou Yongkang a few years ago, has been removed from public office for serious violations of party discipline and laws, according to news agency Xinhua, which attributed the decisions to Beijing’s top anti-graft body.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-allow-chinese-military-base-and-knows-ramification-solomon-islands-467309">Won't allow Chinese military base and knows 'ramification': Solomon Islands</a>

The Chinese version of Thursdays’ announcement – which has been widely publicised across the country’s tightly controlled media- hinted Fu’s case was linked to that of Sun Lijun, who was also charged last year with severe “political ambition” and leading a corrupt and luxurious lifestyle.

“[Fu has] never been loyal to the party and the people; [he has] participated in Sun Lijun’s political gang; [he has] befriended several ‘political frauds’ for a long time,” the announcement said.

In October 2021, Fu was placed under investigation with “serious violations.” According to Dr Ling Li, a Chinese politics and law expert at the University of Vienna, said the fact that the matter now has been submitted to the procuratorate for prosecution “shows that the investigator is satisfied with whatever evidence they have obtained for the criminal charge and the prosecution”.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-foreign-minister-shah-mahmood-qureshi-leaves-for-china-to-attend-conclave-on-afghanistan-466700">&nbsp;Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi leaves for China to attend conclave on Afghanistan</a>

Former rising political star, Fu, was appointed to lead the investigation of China’s former security chief Zhou, who was sentenced life to prison in 2015 for power abuse and corruption. However, some Chinese political observers interpreted Fu’s role indicating a tight relationship with country’s top leader, Xi Jinping.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Why global investors are dumping Chinese stocks<o:p></o:p>

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Beijing has expelled one of its high-profile former justice minister and deputy police chief Fu Zhenghua from the ruling Communist Party, calling him “extremely despicable” and accusing him of association with “political frauds”, state media reported.

Beijing has expelled one of its high-profile former justice minister and deputy police chief Fu Zhenghua from the ruling Communist Party, calling him “extremely despicable” and accusing him of association with “political frauds”, state media reported. Fu Zhenghua, 67, who reportedly helped in bringing down China’s former security chief Zhou Yongkang a few years ago, has been removed from public office for serious violations of party discipline and laws, according to news agency Xinhua, which attributed the decisions to Beijing’s top anti-graft body. Also read | Won't allow Chinese military base and knows 'ramification': Solomon Islands The Chinese version of Thursdays’ announcement – which has been widely publicised across the country’s tightly controlled media- hinted Fu’s case was linked to that of Sun Lijun, who was also charged last year with severe “political ambition” and leading a corrupt and luxurious lifestyle. “[Fu has] never been loyal to the party and the people; [he has] participated in Sun Lijun’s political gang; [he has] befriended several ‘political frauds’ for a long time,” the announcement said. In October 2021, Fu was placed under investigation with “serious violations.” According to Dr Ling Li, a Chinese politics and law expert at the University of Vienna, said the fact that the matter now has been submitted to the procuratorate for prosecution “shows that the investigator is satisfied with whatever evidence they have obtained for the criminal charge and the prosecution”. Also read | Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi leaves for China to attend conclave on Afghanistan Former rising political star, Fu, was appointed to lead the investigation of China’s former security chief Zhou, who was sentenced life to prison in 2015 for power abuse and corruption. However, some Chinese political observers interpreted Fu’s role indicating a tight relationship with country’s top leader, Xi Jinping. Watch | Gravitas: Why global investors are dumping Chinese stocks

Former justice minister Fu Zhenghua expelled from Chinese Communist Party in latest purge

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