Egypt's President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi is returning to the polls as he bids to extend his presidency by a third term.

Egypt presidential polls 2023: Egypt's El-Sisi votes in presidential elections

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Dec 8) announced that he will be again running for president in the 2024 presidential election – a move which is most likely to keep him in power till at least 2030.</p>

<h2><strong>When will elections take place?</strong></h2>

<p>The election will be conducted in a span of three days starting from March 15-17 and the winning candidate will become the next president in the month of May.<br />
<br />
The Russian parliament's upper house voted for the date of elections on Thursday (Dec 7), which also marked the start of the election campaign.<br />
<br />
This time, voting will also be conducted in what Russia refers to as its new territories – which are the parts of Ukraine where the Russian forces have gained their control. Ukraine has said it will not stop till it has removed every Russian soldier from the annexed territories.</p>

<h2><strong>How many voters will vote in the elections?</strong></h2>

<p>In Russia, nearly 110 million people have the right to cast their vote, although usually around 70-80 million people turn up for voting. In 2018, the turnout was 67.5 per cent.</p>

<h2><strong>How long is Putin likely to rule if elected again?</strong></h2>

<p>On the last day of 1999, Putin was handed over the presidency of Russia by Boris Yeltsin and till now he has already become the longest-serving Russian president since Josef Stalin, breaking the record of even Leonid Brezhnev, who was the president from 1964 to 1982.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-enters-west-asia-powerplay-in-rare-wartime-visit-to-uae-saudi-arabia-666888">Putin enters West Asia powerplay in rare wartime visit to UAE, Saudi Arabia</a></p>

<p>The 1993 Russian constitution, which is loosely based on the 1958 constitution of France, was perceived by some in the West as a step which would lead post-Soviet Russia towards democracy. The constitution originally had stated that a president can only serve for two successive terms which will be four years each.<br />
<br />
In the amendments made in 2008, the presidential term was extended to six years and amendments introduced in 2020 gave Putin the power to run for the post of president for more than two six-year terms after 2024. This means, that if he is elected this time he will remain president till 2030 and if he manages to clinch victory post that, then Putin will remain president of Russia till 2036.</p>

<h2><strong>How fair are elections and what are Putin's chances of winning?</strong></h2>

<p>With the Russian State Duma considered a “rubber stamp” body which lacks influence and just plays the role of a vote-button-pushing automaton for the government, several questions arise over Putin's chances of winning the elections and how fairly they would be held.<br />
<br />
Putin is considered as a war criminal by the West but that fails to reflect in the Russian opinion polls where he is shown to have approval ratings of 80 per cent, which is higher than his approval ratings before Russia invaded Ukraine.<br />
<br />
As per the Kremlin, Putin has been enjoying overwhelming support from the people of Russia and the country is not interested in being lectured about democracy by the West and that there are no politicians in the West who have similar approval ratings as that of Putin.</p>

<h2><strong>Where is Putin's opposition&nbsp;and who else will or can run elections?</strong></h2>

<p>It is most likely that Putin will face very little or no real competition in the elections. In the voting held in 2018, the man who came second after Putin was Communist tycoon Pavel Grudinin. Grudinin was able to garner less than 9 million votes, or just 11.8 per cent, as per the official results.<br />
<br />
The most well-known opposition politician in Russia is Alexei Navalny who was earlier poisoned and is now in prison so he cannot run for the presidential elections.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Putin sends message to the world with election announcement</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-sends-message-to-the-world-with-election-announcement-667941/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Navalny has claimed that Russia is currently being run by thieves and criminals and warned that the leaders of Russia will be ultimately crushed one day for creating a bloodbath in Ukraine.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, pro-war Russian nationalist Igor Girkin, who has been kept in custody and awaiting trial for inciting extremism, in November had expressed his willingness to run for presidential elections even though he said that the polls will be a "sham" as the winner is already decided. When the elections will take place, he will be behind bars.<br />
<br />
The man, who turned out to be the biggest direct threat to Putin's unchallenged rule, was the most powerful mercenary in Russia, Yevgeny Prigozhin. Prigozhin's short-lived mutiny in June sent thunders into the Kremlin and shook Putin's throne, leaving the world wondering if this was the end of his rule.<br />
<br />
However, after two months Prigozhin was killed in a suspicious plane crash and the remnants of his Wagner force went under the control of Russia's allies.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Dec 8) announced that he will be again running for president in the 2024 presidential election – a move which is most likely to keep him in power till at least 2030.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (Dec 8) announced that he will be again running for president in the 2024 presidential election – a move which is most likely to keep him in power till at least 2030. When will elections take place? The election will be conducted in a span of three days starting from March 15-17 and the winning candidate will become the next president in the month of May. The Russian parliament's upper house voted for the date of elections on Thursday (Dec 7), which also marked the start of the election campaign. This time, voting will also be conducted in what Russia refers to as its new territories – which are the parts of Ukraine where the Russian forces have gained their control. Ukraine has said it will not stop till it has removed every Russian soldier from the annexed territories. How many voters will vote in the elections? In Russia, nearly 110 million people have the right to cast their vote, although usually around 70-80 million people turn up for voting. In 2018, the turnout was 67.5 per cent. How long is Putin likely to rule if elected again? On the last day of 1999, Putin was handed over the presidency of Russia by Boris Yeltsin and till now he has already become the longest-serving Russian president since Josef Stalin, breaking the record of even Leonid Brezhnev, who was the president from 1964 to 1982. Also read: Putin enters West Asia powerplay in rare wartime visit to UAE, Saudi Arabia The 1993 Russian constitution, which is loosely based on the 1958 constitution of France, was perceived by some in the West as a step which would lead post-Soviet Russia towards democracy. The constitution originally had stated that a president can only serve for two successive terms which will be four years each. In the amendments made in 2008, the presidential term was extended to six years and amendments introduced in 2020 gave Putin the power to run for the post of president for more than two six-year terms after 2024. This means, that if he is elected this time he will remain president till 2030 and if he manages to clinch victory post that, then Putin will remain president of Russia till 2036. How fair are elections and what are Putin's chances of winning? With the Russian State Duma considered a “rubber stamp” body which lacks influence and just plays the role of a vote-button-pushing automaton for the government, several questions arise over Putin's chances of winning the elections and how fairly they would be held. Putin is considered as a war criminal by the West but that fails to reflect in the Russian opinion polls where he is shown to have approval ratings of 80 per cent, which is higher than his approval ratings before Russia invaded Ukraine. As per the Kremlin, Putin has been enjoying overwhelming support from the people of Russia and the country is not interested in being lectured about democracy by the West and that there are no politicians in the West who have similar approval ratings as that of Putin. Where is Putin's opposition and who else will or can run elections? It is most likely that Putin will face very little or no real competition in the elections. In the voting held in 2018, the man who came second after Putin was Communist tycoon Pavel Grudinin. Grudinin was able to garner less than 9 million votes, or just 11.8 per cent, as per the official results. The most well-known opposition politician in Russia is Alexei Navalny who was earlier poisoned and is now in prison so he cannot run for the presidential elections. Watch: Putin sends message to the world with election announcement Navalny has claimed that Russia is currently being run by thieves and criminals and warned that the leaders of Russia will be ultimately crushed one day for creating a bloodbath in Ukraine. Meanwhile, pro-war Russian nationalist Igor Girkin, who has been kept in custody and awaiting trial for inciting extremism, in November had expressed his willingness to run for presidential elections even though he said that the polls will be a "sham" as the winner is already decided. When the elections will take place, he will be behind bars. The man, who turned out to be the biggest direct threat to Putin's unchallenged rule, was the most powerful mercenary in Russia, Yevgeny Prigozhin. Prigozhin's short-lived mutiny in June sent thunders into the Kremlin and shook Putin's throne, leaving the world wondering if this was the end of his rule. However, after two months Prigozhin was killed in a suspicious plane crash and the remnants of his Wagner force went under the control of Russia's allies. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Putin, presidency and elections — a race of convenience for indisputable rule

Hong Kong gears up for its District elections candidates hit the streets for their final campaign efforts the voting day is set for Sunday. But in these Patriots only polls for the first time no candidate from the opposition Camp is allowed to contest.

Hong Kong electoral overhaul weeds out those considered disloyal to government

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday announced that he will seek re-election in 2024 for his third consecutive term, and sixth overall, media reports said.

Putin sends message to the world with election announcement

Russian President conveyed his desire to run for president again. Putin told soldiers who had fought in Ukraine that he will run again in the 2024 election. After Putin awarded Ukraine, war veterans, with Russia's highest military honour.The Hero of Russia's gold star, a lieutenant colonel named Artyom Zhoga asked Putin to run again for President. On this, Putin told the soldier that he would run again in the 2024 election

Russian President Putin to run for presidential elections again in 2024

The United Kingdom and the United States have accused Russian Intelligence of orchestrating a wide-ranging hacking campaign. They've said that Russia is targeting British members of parliament civil servants and journalists to meddle in the United Kingdom's general elections.

Moscow rejects claims of malicious cyber acts

<p>Taiwan on Friday (Dec 8) said that China's suspected weather balloon and 12 fighter jets crossed the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait, escalating tensions one month before the scheduled presidential election to be held on the island.<br />
<br />
Taiwan, which is democratically governed and is claimed as its own territory by China, has been complaining about the Chinese military carrying out regular patrols and drills near the island for the last four years.<br />
<br />
On January 13, Taiwan will be conducting presidential and parliamentary elections and campaigning has gone into high gear, with how the relations with China will be handled by the next government being a major point of contention.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-chinas-ousted-ex-foreign-minister-qin-gang-die-reports-are-saying-this-667478">Is China's ousted ex-foreign minister Qin Gang dead? Here's what some reports suggest</a></p>

<p>The defence ministry of Taiwan, while providing details of Chinese missions on Thursday (Dec 7), said that 12 fighter jets of China crossed the median line, which once was seen as an unofficial barrier between the two sides. However, now Chinese planes regularly fly over that zone.<br />
<br />
Making an unusual addition to the statement, the ministry added that around midday on Thursday a Chinese balloon was also detected 101 nautical miles (187 km) southwest of the northern Taiwanese city of Keelung, which moved eastward for nearly an hour and crossed the strait before disappearing.</p>

<h2><strong>Weather balloon or spy balloon?</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking to the reporters at the parliament, Taiwan Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said that their "initial understanding" was most likely a weather balloon and the ministry felt that it had an obligation to report this to be public.<br />
<br />
"Otherwise, if after other units or other countries have reported it, everyone will wonder why (we) did not report it. The defence ministry requires all our subordinate units to have a grasp of the enemy situation," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;China starts up world's first fourth-generation nuclear reactor which is one-of-its-kind&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-starts-up-worlds-first-fourth-generation-nuclear-reactor-which-is-one-of-its-kind-wion-667168/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>China's use of spy balloons turned into a global issue in February when one of these surveillance balloons was shot down by the United States which China had claimed to be a civilian craft which had drifted astray accidentally.<br />
<br />
Ahead of the election, Taiwan has remained on high alert for all kinds of military and political Chinese activities which Taipei sees as efforts by Beijing to interfere in the ballot to get electors to vote for candidates who will be preferred by China.<br />
<br />
The elections are being led by Vice President Lai Ching-te and running mate Hsiao Bi-khim from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, who are viewed by China as separatists.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Taiwan on Friday (Dec 8) said that China's suspected weather balloon and 12 fighter jets crossed the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait, escalating tensions one month before the scheduled presidential election to be held on the island.

Taiwan on Friday (Dec 8) said that China's suspected weather balloon and 12 fighter jets crossed the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait, escalating tensions one month before the scheduled presidential election to be held on the island. Taiwan, which is democratically governed and is claimed as its own territory by China, has been complaining about the Chinese military carrying out regular patrols and drills near the island for the last four years. On January 13, Taiwan will be conducting presidential and parliamentary elections and campaigning has gone into high gear, with how the relations with China will be handled by the next government being a major point of contention. Also Read: Is China's ousted ex-foreign minister Qin Gang dead? Here's what some reports suggest The defence ministry of Taiwan, while providing details of Chinese missions on Thursday (Dec 7), said that 12 fighter jets of China crossed the median line, which once was seen as an unofficial barrier between the two sides. However, now Chinese planes regularly fly over that zone. Making an unusual addition to the statement, the ministry added that around midday on Thursday a Chinese balloon was also detected 101 nautical miles (187 km) southwest of the northern Taiwanese city of Keelung, which moved eastward for nearly an hour and crossed the strait before disappearing. Weather balloon or spy balloon? Speaking to the reporters at the parliament, Taiwan Defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng said that their "initial understanding" was most likely a weather balloon and the ministry felt that it had an obligation to report this to be public. "Otherwise, if after other units or other countries have reported it, everyone will wonder why (we) did not report it. The defence ministry requires all our subordinate units to have a grasp of the enemy situation," he said. Watch: China starts up world's first fourth-generation nuclear reactor which is one-of-its-kind China's use of spy balloons turned into a global issue in February when one of these surveillance balloons was shot down by the United States which China had claimed to be a civilian craft which had drifted astray accidentally. Ahead of the election, Taiwan has remained on high alert for all kinds of military and political Chinese activities which Taipei sees as efforts by Beijing to interfere in the ballot to get electors to vote for candidates who will be preferred by China. The elections are being led by Vice President Lai Ching-te and running mate Hsiao Bi-khim from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, who are viewed by China as separatists. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese balloon, fighter jets cross the Taiwan Strait one month before elections

Germany's populist right-wing party, the alternative for Germany party, has gained a significant lead over its rivals. The AFD has more than 70 seats in the national parliament and is a serious electoral contender. In fact, it is establishing itself as the strongest political force across the country's east.

Germany's populist right-wing party rises in polls

After the Congress’s poor show in the recent Assembly Polls, the JD(U) has renewed its demand to project party supremo and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar as probable prime minister face of the India Bloc, adding that the party’s brand of politics would dominate the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Earlier, TMC projected Mamata for INDIA alliance's PM candidate.

General Elections less than 5 months away, INDIA alliance has a lot to do

Donald Trump has said that he will not become a dictator if he becomes U.S. president again except on day one, after warnings from Democrats and some Republicans that America was in danger of becoming an autocracy if he wins the 2024 election.

Trump: Won't be a dictator if elected, 'except for day one'

Portugal's leading contender for prime minister, Luis Montenegro, expects his promise of tax cuts for the middle class, young and companies to win enough votes for his centre-right Social Democratic Party to secure a majority in a March 10 snap election.

Portugal's PM contender banks on tax cuts to secure majority

<p>Krystle Kaul, an Indian-origin foreign policy and national security expert rooted in Kashmir, has declared her candidacy for the US House of Representatives from Virginia's 10th Congressional District, aiming to address key issues like public safety, education, and healthcare.</p>

<p>If successful in the 2024 elections, Kaul would become only the second Indian-American woman in the House of Representatives, following Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal. Notably, Pramila's sister, Susheela Jayapal, has also entered the race for the Congress from Oregon's third Congressional District.</p>

<p>Both Kaul and Susheela Jayapal, representing the Democratic Party, will contend in the party's primary next year to secure nominations for the November 2024 general elections.</p>

<p>Fluent in eight languages, including Hindi, Punjabi, Dari, Urdu, and Arabic, Kaul, the first Kashmiri-origin individual to run for Congress, draws from her extensive background in the national security sector, spanning the Pentagon, think tanks, and the defence industry.</p>

<p>"We have a lot of small business owners and just making healthcare more affordable and more accessible. So from prescription drugs to seeing specialists, that is something that is a concern. And the third is public safety, making sure we have safe neighbourhoods, safe schools, safe communities,” Kaul, told PTI in a recent interview.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-visa-bans-after-warning-israel-over-west-bank-violence-666658">Also read |&nbsp;US imposes visa bans after warning Israel over West Bank violence</a></p>

<h2><strong>Focus on core issues</strong></h2>

<p>Education, healthcare, and public safety are the pillars of Kaul's campaign. The 10th Congressional District, encompassing areas with a high concentration of Indian Americans and South Asians in Virginia, provides a strategic platform for her candidacy.</p>

<p>Kaul underlines education as her primary focus, stressing on&nbsp;the need for affordable and accessible healthcare, particularly for small business owners. Ensuring safe neighborhoods, schools, and communities aligns with her commitment to public safety.</p>

<p>With a strong background in national security, Kaul pledges a robust stance on counter-terrorism. Drawing inspiration from her father's narratives about the Kashmir conflict during her childhood, she expresses a profound interest in understanding and addressing the issues in the region.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | Israel must allow aid into Gaza: US | Residents running out of safe places to go</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-israel-must-allow-aid-into-gaza-us-residents-running-out-of-safe-places-to-go-666674/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"I had a desire to eventually run for Congress. But obviously, it's a path. It's a journey to get there. So I first devoted my studies, my first three degrees, to understanding diplomacy, negotiation, political science, and all the theory that you need to understand,” she said</p>

<p>Kaul's journey towards Congress began with a dedication to understanding diplomacy, negotiation, political science, and conflict resolution, reflected in her pursuit of three degrees. Her comprehensive approach to national and international issues reflects her commitment to a holistic understanding of governance.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs&nbsp;from agencies)</em></p>


Krystle Kaul, an Indian-origin foreign policy and national security expert rooted in Kashmir, has declared her candidacy for the US House of Representatives from Virginia's 10th Congressional District, aiming to address key issues like public safety, education, and healthcare.

Krystle Kaul, an Indian-origin foreign policy and national security expert rooted in Kashmir, has declared her candidacy for the US House of Representatives from Virginia's 10th Congressional District, aiming to address key issues like public safety, education, and healthcare. If successful in the 2024 elections, Kaul would become only the second Indian-American woman in the House of Representatives, following Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal. Notably, Pramila's sister, Susheela Jayapal, has also entered the race for the Congress from Oregon's third Congressional District. Both Kaul and Susheela Jayapal, representing the Democratic Party, will contend in the party's primary next year to secure nominations for the November 2024 general elections. Fluent in eight languages, including Hindi, Punjabi, Dari, Urdu, and Arabic, Kaul, the first Kashmiri-origin individual to run for Congress, draws from her extensive background in the national security sector, spanning the Pentagon, think tanks, and the defence industry. "We have a lot of small business owners and just making healthcare more affordable and more accessible. So from prescription drugs to seeing specialists, that is something that is a concern. And the third is public safety, making sure we have safe neighbourhoods, safe schools, safe communities,” Kaul, told PTI in a recent interview. Also read | US imposes visa bans after warning Israel over West Bank violence Focus on core issues Education, healthcare, and public safety are the pillars of Kaul's campaign. The 10th Congressional District, encompassing areas with a high concentration of Indian Americans and South Asians in Virginia, provides a strategic platform for her candidacy. Kaul underlines education as her primary focus, stressing on the need for affordable and accessible healthcare, particularly for small business owners. Ensuring safe neighborhoods, schools, and communities aligns with her commitment to public safety. With a strong background in national security, Kaul pledges a robust stance on counter-terrorism. Drawing inspiration from her father's narratives about the Kashmir conflict during her childhood, she expresses a profound interest in understanding and addressing the issues in the region. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war | Israel must allow aid into Gaza: US | Residents running out of safe places to go "I had a desire to eventually run for Congress. But obviously, it's a path. It's a journey to get there. So I first devoted my studies, my first three degrees, to understanding diplomacy, negotiation, political science, and all the theory that you need to understand,” she said Kaul's journey towards Congress began with a dedication to understanding diplomacy, negotiation, political science, and conflict resolution, reflected in her pursuit of three degrees. Her comprehensive approach to national and international issues reflects her commitment to a holistic understanding of governance. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Krystle Kaul? Indian-American national security expert running for US Congress

<p>India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party clinched a massive victory in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly election. The results came out in favour of the BJP despite exit polls predicting a tight race.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The BJP had clinched victory or was leading in 165 seats at 8:40 pm (local time), which was more than double the number of seats with Congress – 64. The numbers have represented BJP's staggering gain of 56 seats and a massive loss of 50 seats for the Congress.<br />
<br />
Among the state elections' heavyweights, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan clinched victory from Budhni and his predecessor and leader of Congress Kamal Nath was leading from Chhindwara.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-bjp-roars-in-mp-scindia-fires-back-at-priyanka-gandhi-over-height-remark-665698">As BJP wins&nbsp;in MP, Scindia fires back at Priyanka Gandhi over 'height' remark</a></p>

<p>After it became clear&nbsp;that the BJP was winning elections, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked voters and said the results showed that the country's people have chosen "politics of good governance and development".<br />
<br />
Confirming BJP's victory in Madhya Pradesh, the Election Commission of India said that the party will be forming its government in the state as it has crossed the majority mark of 116 seats.</p>

<h2><strong>Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Jyotiraditya Scindia emerge as 'election heroes'</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier on Sunday (Dec 3), Chouhan appreciated the 'double engine' approach of the party. "The reason for this (win for the BJP) is the double-engine government and the welfare schemes. These touched the hearts of voters... we will win with a comfortable majority,” he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Assembly elections results: BJP scores hat-trick in crucial assembly elections</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/assembly-elections-results-bjp-scores-hat-trick-in-crucial-assembly-elections-665797/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>He had earlier expressed confidence that the BJP would clinch victory and form the government for a fifth time. In the morning, Chouhan had said that the party will remain in power with a commanding majority.<br />
<br />
"I am confident that with the blessings of the people and the able leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the BJP will form government again with a full majority," said Chouhan, while speaking on X.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, who is being helmed as one of the major reasons behind the victory and whose mutiny in 2020 led to the fall of Kamal Nath-led Congress government, had expressed his confidence in the party's victory.<br />
<br />
"We will wait till the complete results are in. We will form government with complete majority. The people's faith in PM and the welfare schemes are the reasons for such a mandate,” he said.<br />
<br />
"Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in the hearts of the people of Madhya Pradesh. The work done by the double-engine government, whether in the Centre or the state, such as the Ladli scheme, has helped uplift people and improved their lives. All of us have worked hard together," said Chouhan, while speaking to NDTV.</p>

<p>Madhya Pradesh Congress president Kamal Nath, accepting the defeat, said, “We will analyse the loopholes and why we were not able to make the voters understand our point. We will hold discussions with all, be it a winning or losing candidate.”</p>

<p>"We accept the decision of the voters of Madhya Pradesh in this contest of&nbsp;democracy. I congratulate BJP and hope that they will live up to the support people have given them," he said.</p>

<p><br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party clinched a massive victory in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly election. The results came out in favour of the BJP despite exit polls predicting a tight race.

India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party clinched a massive victory in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly election. The results came out in favour of the BJP despite exit polls predicting a tight race. The BJP had clinched victory or was leading in 165 seats at 8:40 pm (local time), which was more than double the number of seats with Congress – 64. The numbers have represented BJP's staggering gain of 56 seats and a massive loss of 50 seats for the Congress. Among the state elections' heavyweights, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan clinched victory from Budhni and his predecessor and leader of Congress Kamal Nath was leading from Chhindwara. Also read: As BJP wins in MP, Scindia fires back at Priyanka Gandhi over 'height' remark After it became clear that the BJP was winning elections, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked voters and said the results showed that the country's people have chosen "politics of good governance and development". Confirming BJP's victory in Madhya Pradesh, the Election Commission of India said that the party will be forming its government in the state as it has crossed the majority mark of 116 seats. Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Jyotiraditya Scindia emerge as 'election heroes' Earlier on Sunday (Dec 3), Chouhan appreciated the 'double engine' approach of the party. "The reason for this (win for the BJP) is the double-engine government and the welfare schemes. These touched the hearts of voters... we will win with a comfortable majority,” he said. Watch: Assembly elections results: BJP scores hat-trick in crucial assembly elections He had earlier expressed confidence that the BJP would clinch victory and form the government for a fifth time. In the morning, Chouhan had said that the party will remain in power with a commanding majority. "I am confident that with the blessings of the people and the able leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the BJP will form government again with a full majority," said Chouhan, while speaking on X. Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, who is being helmed as one of the major reasons behind the victory and whose mutiny in 2020 led to the fall of Kamal Nath-led Congress government, had expressed his confidence in the party's victory. "We will wait till the complete results are in. We will form government with complete majority. The people's faith in PM and the welfare schemes are the reasons for such a mandate,” he said. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in the hearts of the people of Madhya Pradesh. The work done by the double-engine government, whether in the Centre or the state, such as the Ladli scheme, has helped uplift people and improved their lives. All of us have worked hard together," said Chouhan, while speaking to NDTV. Madhya Pradesh Congress president Kamal Nath, accepting the defeat, said, “We will analyse the loopholes and why we were not able to make the voters understand our point. We will hold discussions with all, be it a winning or losing candidate.” "We accept the decision of the voters of Madhya Pradesh in this contest of democracy. I congratulate BJP and hope that they will live up to the support people have given them," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Madhya Pradesh elections 2023: BJP roars with staggering numbers, Congress virtually wiped out

With elections on Jan 7, Bangladesh's key opposition party stares at a potentially leaderless election. Will their bid to dethrone Sheikh Hasina succeed?

Bangladesh election: Key opposition party stares at leadership void | Race To Power

Madhya Pradesh's state Assembly elections saw the Bharatiya Janata Party pull off a historic victory, retaining power in the state. The BJP secured 163 seats in the 230-member Assembly, while the Congress could only muster 66 seats. Chief Minister Shivraj Chouhan said that despite the BJP's historic victory in the state, there was no anti-incumbency sentiment in Madhya Pradesh.

Assembly elections: BJP to hold power independently in 12 states, in coalition in 4 others

<p>Telangana's outgoing chief minister and BRS leader K Chandrashekar Rao's son KT Rama Rao interestingly took a dig at himself as he re-shared his less-than-a-day-old post on X after his party Bharat Rashtra Samithi lost the state elections on Sunday (Dec 3).<br />
<br />
Less than 24 hours before the defeat, an overconfident KT Rama Rao had shared a picture of himself with a gun aiming towards the screen and captioned it: "Hattrick Loading 3.0. Get ready to celebrate guys."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/telangana-election-results-2023-brs-concedes-defeat-extends-congratulations-to-congress-665743">Telangana election results 2023: BRS concedes defeat, extends congratulations to Congress</a></p>

<p>However, as the trends started coming on Sunday morning (Dec 3), the BRS was left stunned by the Congress – a party which failed to make a mark in any other state – in the southern state of Telangana as it secured the lead in most of the seats.</p>

<h2><strong>Three-state loser Congress takes jibe on KTR's tweet, says 'aiming for car tyres'?</strong></h2>

<p>Three-state loser Congress, after getting buoyed by the good numbers in the trends in only Telangana, reposted a tweet of KTR and wrote, “Were you aiming for car tyres?"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Were you aiming for car tyres? <a href="https://t.co/5LPsKRjE4A">pic.twitter.com/5LPsKRjE4A</a></p>
— Telangana Congress (@INCTelangana) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCTelangana/status/1731204654045052997?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Interestingly, the election symbol of the BRS is a car.</p>

<p>By Sunday afternoon, Congress consolidated its victory in Telangana and KTR, reposting his own post, wrote, "This one ain't gonna age well. Missed the mark."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This one ain’t gonna age well 😁<br />
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Missed the mark <a href="https://t.co/IUN1vKdTsc">https://t.co/IUN1vKdTsc</a></p>
— KTR (@KTRBRS) <a href="https://twitter.com/KTRBRS/status/1731248779993792635?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Conceding the defeat, KTR said, "Grateful to the people of Telangana for giving BRS two consecutive terms of government. Not saddened over the result today, but surely disappointed as it was not in the expected lines for us. But we will take this in our stride as a learning and will bounce back. Congratulations to the Congress on winning the mandate. Wishing you good luck."</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Telangana assembly election results 2023: Congress takes early lead&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Increasing&nbsp;the distress of BRS, two-time Chief Minister of the state Rao and young state chief of Congress Revanth Reddy both lost the seats in Kamareddy as BJP's Ramana Reddy clinched a shocking victory.<br />
<br />
The Telangana Rashtra Samithi, which was renamed Bharat Rashtra Samithi, had spearheaded the statehood movement of Telangana and received unwavering support in the last decade since the state was carved out of Andhra Pradesh in 2014.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Telangana's outgoing chief minister and BRS leader K Chandrashekar Rao's son KT Rama Rao interestingly took a dig at himself as he re-shared his less-than-a-day-old post on X after his party Bharat Rashtra Samithi lost the state elections on Sunday (Dec 3).

Telangana's outgoing chief minister and BRS leader K Chandrashekar Rao's son KT Rama Rao interestingly took a dig at himself as he re-shared his less-than-a-day-old post on X after his party Bharat Rashtra Samithi lost the state elections on Sunday (Dec 3). Less than 24 hours before the defeat, an overconfident KT Rama Rao had shared a picture of himself with a gun aiming towards the screen and captioned it: "Hattrick Loading 3.0. Get ready to celebrate guys." Also read: Telangana election results 2023: BRS concedes defeat, extends congratulations to Congress However, as the trends started coming on Sunday morning (Dec 3), the BRS was left stunned by the Congress – a party which failed to make a mark in any other state – in the southern state of Telangana as it secured the lead in most of the seats. Three-state loser Congress takes jibe on KTR's tweet, says 'aiming for car tyres'? Three-state loser Congress, after getting buoyed by the good numbers in the trends in only Telangana, reposted a tweet of KTR and wrote, “Were you aiming for car tyres?" Were you aiming for car tyres? pic.twitter.com/5LPsKRjE4A — Telangana Congress (@INCTelangana) December 3, 2023 × Interestingly, the election symbol of the BRS is a car. By Sunday afternoon, Congress consolidated its victory in Telangana and KTR, reposting his own post, wrote, "This one ain't gonna age well. Missed the mark." This one ain’t gonna age well 😁 Missed the mark https://t.co/IUN1vKdTsc — KTR (@KTRBRS) December 3, 2023 × Conceding the defeat, KTR said, "Grateful to the people of Telangana for giving BRS two consecutive terms of government. Not saddened over the result today, but surely disappointed as it was not in the expected lines for us. But we will take this in our stride as a learning and will bounce back. Congratulations to the Congress on winning the mandate. Wishing you good luck." Watch: Telangana assembly election results 2023: Congress takes early lead Increasing the distress of BRS, two-time Chief Minister of the state Rao and young state chief of Congress Revanth Reddy both lost the seats in Kamareddy as BJP's Ramana Reddy clinched a shocking victory. The Telangana Rashtra Samithi, which was renamed Bharat Rashtra Samithi, had spearheaded the statehood movement of Telangana and received unwavering support in the last decade since the state was carved out of Andhra Pradesh in 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

Telangana elections: From ‘hattrick loading’, KTR goes to ‘missed the mark’ after defeat

<p>As India's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)&nbsp;leads&nbsp;in the election&nbsp;results counting in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh – and Congress only setting its dominant foot in Telangana, a sudden meeting of opposition bloc INDIA was called on Wednesday, as per reports.<br />
<br />
INDIA bloc's next meeting, which has been called by Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge in Delhi on Wednesday, is likely to sketch plans for next year's Lok Sabha election, reported&nbsp;the NDTV.<br />
<br />
The news of a meeting by the INDIA bloc comes as Congress is trailing by a huge margin against&nbsp;its rival BJP in all the above three states -&nbsp;Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, according to the latest trends.&nbsp;Telangana is the only state where the Congress is likely to emerge victorious defeating the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi of K Chandrasekhar Rao.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajasthan-assembly-elections-2023-results-live-updates-check-mp-constituency-wise-winner-loser-candidates-665565">Rajasthan Assembly Elections 2023 Results Live Updates: BJP maintains healthy lead as see-saw game continues</a></p>

<p>The meeting is scheduled amid reports regarding turbulence and internal rifts in the bloc and its dangling future.</p>

<h2><strong>Is INDIA alliance drifting apart or uniting for future battles?</strong></h2>

<p>The rifts within the bloc came under focus earlier this month after Janata Dal (United) leader and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who is considered as INDIA alliance's founding member, accused the Congress of lacking&nbsp;in preparation for the crucial general election to be held next year.<br />
<br />
"We have been speaking to them... pushing them forward in the INDIA alliance. But, of late, there has not been much progress on that front. The Congress seems to be more interested in the five assembly polls. We agreed to assign Congress the leading role. But it appears they will call the next meeting only after they are through with the state elections," Kumar was quoted as saying by NDTV.<br />
<br />
The last meeting of the INDIA bloc was held from August 31 to September 1 in Mumbai after which the next date was set to be announced by the Congress.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Telangana assembly election results 2023: Congress takes early lead</strong></p>

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<p>The alliance had then stated that it planned to contest the 2024 election along with the current state elections "together as far as possible". However, the resolution had raised eyebrows and questions over the unity of the opposition as it tries to push&nbsp;hard to stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi from winning an unprecedented third term.<br />
<br />
The comment of Nitish Kumar had surfaced after a squabble between the Congress and Samajwadi Party's Akhilesh Yadav over seat-sharing in Madhya Pradesh, as per reports. Yadav had said that the party had ignored a gentleman's agreement.<br />
<br />
"If I knew, wouldn't have spoken to Congress," said the former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh and Samajwadi Party chief.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As India's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leads in the election results counting in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh – and Congress only setting its dominant foot in Telangana, a sudden meeting of opposition bloc INDIA was called on Wednesday, as per reports.

As India's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leads in the election results counting in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh – and Congress only setting its dominant foot in Telangana, a sudden meeting of opposition bloc INDIA was called on Wednesday, as per reports. INDIA bloc's next meeting, which has been called by Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge in Delhi on Wednesday, is likely to sketch plans for next year's Lok Sabha election, reported the NDTV. The news of a meeting by the INDIA bloc comes as Congress is trailing by a huge margin against its rival BJP in all the above three states - Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, according to the latest trends. Telangana is the only state where the Congress is likely to emerge victorious defeating the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi of K Chandrasekhar Rao. Also read: Rajasthan Assembly Elections 2023 Results Live Updates: BJP maintains healthy lead as see-saw game continues The meeting is scheduled amid reports regarding turbulence and internal rifts in the bloc and its dangling future. Is INDIA alliance drifting apart or uniting for future battles? The rifts within the bloc came under focus earlier this month after Janata Dal (United) leader and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who is considered as INDIA alliance's founding member, accused the Congress of lacking in preparation for the crucial general election to be held next year. "We have been speaking to them... pushing them forward in the INDIA alliance. But, of late, there has not been much progress on that front. The Congress seems to be more interested in the five assembly polls. We agreed to assign Congress the leading role. But it appears they will call the next meeting only after they are through with the state elections," Kumar was quoted as saying by NDTV. The last meeting of the INDIA bloc was held from August 31 to September 1 in Mumbai after which the next date was set to be announced by the Congress. Watch: Telangana assembly election results 2023: Congress takes early lead The alliance had then stated that it planned to contest the 2024 election along with the current state elections "together as far as possible". However, the resolution had raised eyebrows and questions over the unity of the opposition as it tries to push hard to stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi from winning an unprecedented third term. The comment of Nitish Kumar had surfaced after a squabble between the Congress and Samajwadi Party's Akhilesh Yadav over seat-sharing in Madhya Pradesh, as per reports. Yadav had said that the party had ignored a gentleman's agreement. "If I knew, wouldn't have spoken to Congress," said the former chief minister of Uttar Pradesh and Samajwadi Party chief. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian assembly election results: BJP's lead in three states prompts Cong to call INDIA bloc meet - Report

On The India Story this week, Vikram Chandra discusses exit polls following the recently concluded crucial state elections in five states and what the results would mean for the 2024 General elections with election expert, Sanjay Kumar, Former Director, Centre for Study of Developing Societies and senior journalists Nalini Singh and Kingshuk Nag.

Exit polls predictions 2023: Mixed exit polls predictions for five state election

Dutch far-right politician and leader of the PVV party, Geert Wilders election win has been confirmed by the Election Commssion. His PVV freedom party won 37 seats in the 150-seat parliament. Now wilders faces an uphill task to forge a coalition. As some parties are uncomfortable with his far-right ideology.

Geert Wilders: Far-right populist wins Dutch election

In the Netherlands Geert Wilders' election win has been confirmed. The election committee has said that Geert Wilders and his PVV freedom party has now won 137 seats in the 150 seat Parliament and now Wilders faces an uphill task to forge a coalition as some parties are extremely uncomfortable with his far right anti-Islam agenda.

Dutch Election Committee officially confirms Geert Wilders win

Campaigning has come to an end in Indian state of Telangana. Over 2,000 candidates are going to contest for various assembly constituencies.

India's Telangana gears up for third legislative assembly polls

India's Home Minister, Amit Shah has evoked the Citizenship Amendment Act during a poll rally. With this the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party has kickstarted its 2024 general election campaign.

India: Bharatiya Janata Party launches 2024 poll campaign | WION

<p>As Islamabad High Court is set to hear Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan's appeals against the Toshakhana case verdict, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) declared on Wednesday (Nov 29) that the ex-premiere would not be contesting intra-party polls set for December 2 until a final decision in the matter has been taken.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The court is scheduled to hear Khan's appeals against the Toshakhana case he is convicted in on Thursday (Nov 30). A verdict in the case earlier&nbsp;disqualified Imran Khan from contesting in elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PTI’s barrister Ali Zafar on Wednesday (Nov 29) clarified that Khan would not throw his hat in the intra-party polls.</p>

<p>Making another announcement, Zafar said that Barrister Gohar Khan had been nominated for the post in what he dubbed a “temporary arrangement".</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kuwaiti-emir-sheikh-nawaf-taken-to-hospital-after-emergency-report-664294">Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Nawaf taken to hospital after emergency: Report</a></p>

<h2><strong>Toshakhana case should not disqualify Imran: PTI</strong></h2>

<p>PTI member Zafar also vehemently defended Khan saying that not declaring Toshakhana gifts should not call for his disqualification from the elections.</p>

<p>Moreover, he also vowed that PTI will be vigilant over any possible “illegal or unconstitutional” step by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) pertaining to the party symbol or in connection to any decision over the fate of candidates' nominations.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The comments came days after a warning by the poll body to PTI which cautioned that the bat elections symbol will be taken away in case the intra-polls are not held within a timeframe of three weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/disturbing-trend-in-2022-more-people-than-ever-died-by-suicide-in-the-united-states-664285">Disturbing trend: In 2022, more people than ever died by suicide in the United States</a></p>

<p>Pakistan's election commission disqualified Khan for 5 years on August 8, 2023, for selling state gifts when he held the position of prime minister.</p>

<p>The sentence was suspended on August 29, 2023 however at the time Khan's legal aide said that a final decision is yet to be taken.&nbsp;This was again clarified by Zafar who spoke to media personnel outside the ECP office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While quoting Imran, who is in Attock district jail in Pakistan's Punjab Province, Zafar said that the former premier did not want to give the ECP any “excuse” for not giving the party the bat symbol or on being an obstruction in nomination of candidates, Dawn reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-is-france-planning-to-create-the-first-tobacco-free-generation-by-2032-664290">How is France planning to create the “first tobacco-free generation” by 2032?</a></strong></p>

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<p>“The public is with us. We will win the elections when they happen. I want to take part in the general election. Intra-party polls hold no meaning for me. I want that the Toshkahana case is decided as soon as possible. When it is decided, I will contest intra-party polls as chairman,” Zafar reportedly said while quoting Imran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is worth noting that Imran is in consonance with the decision. This is reflected in comments by Zafar who said that Khan was the one who asked the party to hold intra-party polls. Now, a decision lies with the party seniors, Zafar said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As Islamabad High Court is set to hear Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan's appeals against the Toshakhana case verdict, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) declared on Wednesday (Nov 29) that the ex-premiere would not be contesting intra-party polls set for December 2 until a final decision in the matter has been taken.

As Islamabad High Court is set to hear Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan's appeals against the Toshakhana case verdict, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) declared on Wednesday (Nov 29) that the ex-premiere would not be contesting intra-party polls set for December 2 until a final decision in the matter has been taken. The court is scheduled to hear Khan's appeals against the Toshakhana case he is convicted in on Thursday (Nov 30). A verdict in the case earlier disqualified Imran Khan from contesting in elections. PTI’s barrister Ali Zafar on Wednesday (Nov 29) clarified that Khan would not throw his hat in the intra-party polls. Making another announcement, Zafar said that Barrister Gohar Khan had been nominated for the post in what he dubbed a “temporary arrangement". Also Read | Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Nawaf taken to hospital after emergency: Report Toshakhana case should not disqualify Imran: PTI PTI member Zafar also vehemently defended Khan saying that not declaring Toshakhana gifts should not call for his disqualification from the elections. Moreover, he also vowed that PTI will be vigilant over any possible “illegal or unconstitutional” step by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) pertaining to the party symbol or in connection to any decision over the fate of candidates' nominations. The comments came days after a warning by the poll body to PTI which cautioned that the bat elections symbol will be taken away in case the intra-polls are not held within a timeframe of three weeks. Also Read | Disturbing trend: In 2022, more people than ever died by suicide in the United States Pakistan's election commission disqualified Khan for 5 years on August 8, 2023, for selling state gifts when he held the position of prime minister. The sentence was suspended on August 29, 2023 however at the time Khan's legal aide said that a final decision is yet to be taken. This was again clarified by Zafar who spoke to media personnel outside the ECP office. While quoting Imran, who is in Attock district jail in Pakistan's Punjab Province, Zafar said that the former premier did not want to give the ECP any “excuse” for not giving the party the bat symbol or on being an obstruction in nomination of candidates, Dawn reported. Watch | How is France planning to create the “first tobacco-free generation” by 2032? × “The public is with us. We will win the elections when they happen. I want to take part in the general election. Intra-party polls hold no meaning for me. I want that the Toshkahana case is decided as soon as possible. When it is decided, I will contest intra-party polls as chairman,” Zafar reportedly said while quoting Imran. It is worth noting that Imran is in consonance with the decision. This is reflected in comments by Zafar who said that Khan was the one who asked the party to hold intra-party polls. Now, a decision lies with the party seniors, Zafar said. (With inputs from agencies)

Imran to not contest PTI intra-party polls, Gohar Khan roped in as 'temporary arrangement'

For the first time since the 1960s North Korea has made a rare mention of dissenting votes in the country's recent elections. The figure is 0.09% this is a small trunk who voted against the selected candidates for the provincial Council.

North Korea's rare mention of dissenting votes

With elections just two weeks away opponents have been unable to gather the 25,000 endorsements necessary to qualify as a candidate and Sisi is all set to win without even a contest opposition parties.

Sisi Sprinting in the Egyptian election race, election viewed as foregone conclusion | WION

Money talks in US politics and right now Republican Presidential hopeful Nikki Haley seems to be a prominent beneficiary Haley has locked in a crucial conservative endorsement making further Headway in her battle for a GOP nomination. Or at least second place Americans for Prosperity action the Charles Koch PAC group announced this week that they are endorsing the former ambassador to of the United Nations.

Nikki Haley bags endorsement from PAC backed by Koch Brothers

<p>North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;on Tuesday made a rare mention of dissenting votes in recent elections, although analysts dismissed it as an attempt to portray an image of a normal society rather than signalling any meaningful increase of rights in the authoritarian state.</p>

<p>The reclusive&nbsp;North&nbsp;has one of the most highly controlled societies in the world, with leader Kim Jong Un accused of using a system of patronage and repression to retain absolute power.</p>

<p>Reporting on the results of Sunday's election for deputies to regional people's assemblies, the&nbsp;North's state media said 0.09 per cent and 0.13 per cent voted against the selected candidates for the provincial and city councils, respectively.</p>

<p>"Among the voters who took part in the ballot-casting, 99.91 per cent voted for the candidates for deputies to provincial people's assemblies.... (and) 99.87 per cent voted for candidates for deputies to city and county people's assemblies," state news agency KCNA said.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;North's parliament and regional councils serve as a rubber stamp to the ruling Workers' Party, with their elections usually registering over 99 per cent&nbsp;voter turnout.</p>

<p>This month's election marks the first time&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has referred to dissenting votes in local polls since the 1960s, an official at South&nbsp;Korea's unification ministry handling relations with the&nbsp;North&nbsp;said.</p>

<p>Held every four years, the latest regional election was also the first polls since&nbsp;North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp; revised its election law in August to allow multiple candidates.</p>

<p>"The portrayal of a more democratic society, particularly in comparison to South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;and the U.S., is aimed at reinforcing the regime's legitimacy and authenticity on the world stage," the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, a think tank, said in a report.</p>

<p>A photo released by state media showed Kim Jong Un casting a ballot, standing before two boxes - one in green for approval, and the other in red for dissent.</p>

<p>"Discreet voting will likely remain limited as the boxes will continue to be conspicuously monitored," the report said, adding that the candidate selection process will remain tightly controlled by Pyongyang.</p>

<p>The voter turnout slightly decreased to 99.63 per cent from 99.98 per cent&nbsp;four years ago, a sign analysts say that could indicate a minor weakening in state control in a country where voting is considered mandatory.</p>


North Korea on Tuesday made a rare mention of dissenting votes in recent elections, although analysts dismissed it as an attempt to portray an image of a normal society rather than signalling any meaningful increase of rights in the authoritarian state.

North Korea on Tuesday made a rare mention of dissenting votes in recent elections, although analysts dismissed it as an attempt to portray an image of a normal society rather than signalling any meaningful increase of rights in the authoritarian state. The reclusive North has one of the most highly controlled societies in the world, with leader Kim Jong Un accused of using a system of patronage and repression to retain absolute power. Reporting on the results of Sunday's election for deputies to regional people's assemblies, the North's state media said 0.09 per cent and 0.13 per cent voted against the selected candidates for the provincial and city councils, respectively. "Among the voters who took part in the ballot-casting, 99.91 per cent voted for the candidates for deputies to provincial people's assemblies.... (and) 99.87 per cent voted for candidates for deputies to city and county people's assemblies," state news agency KCNA said. The North's parliament and regional councils serve as a rubber stamp to the ruling Workers' Party, with their elections usually registering over 99 per cent voter turnout. This month's election marks the first time North Korea has referred to dissenting votes in local polls since the 1960s, an official at South Korea's unification ministry handling relations with the North said. Held every four years, the latest regional election was also the first polls since North Korea revised its election law in August to allow multiple candidates. "The portrayal of a more democratic society, particularly in comparison to South Korea and the U.S., is aimed at reinforcing the regime's legitimacy and authenticity on the world stage," the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, a think tank, said in a report. A photo released by state media showed Kim Jong Un casting a ballot, standing before two boxes - one in green for approval, and the other in red for dissent. "Discreet voting will likely remain limited as the boxes will continue to be conspicuously monitored," the report said, adding that the candidate selection process will remain tightly controlled by Pyongyang. The voter turnout slightly decreased to 99.63 per cent from 99.98 per cent four years ago, a sign analysts say that could indicate a minor weakening in state control in a country where voting is considered mandatory.

North Korea cites rare dissent in elections even as 99 per cent voters back candidates

Nepal government has announced elections to fill 19 vacant seats in the Upper House. The meeting of the council of ministers made the decision today to hold the election for the national assemblies during the last week of January.

Nepal government announces election date, polls to fill 19 seats in Upper House | WION

Bangaldesh Nationlist Party wants caretaker government to oversee polls. Bangladesh goes to poll on January 7.

Bangladesh: BOP demads PM Shaina resign ahead of polls

<p>The Election Commission (EC)&nbsp;has warned the south-eastern Telangana government to desist from doling out financial aid to farmers under a state government scheme after it withdrew the earlier order citing a violation of the poll code.</p>

<p>Assembly elections are to be held in Telangana on November 30 and results are to be announced on December 3.</p>

<p>The poll body has said that the government can disburse&nbsp;relief only on certain conditions during the model code of conduct period and asked it to refrain from publicising it to the public.</p>

<h2><strong>State minister warned&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>"The Commission has observed that T Harish Rao, Minister of Finance and Heath and Family Welfare, Govt of Telangana ... has not only violated the provisions of MCC (model code of conduct)... but also conditions laid down as above by publicising the release under the scheme, and thereby disturbed the level playing field in the ongoing election process," the EC letter to the state chief electoral officer (CEO) read.</p>

<p>The EC informed the state chief electoral officer about its decision to withdraw its permission.</p>

<p>The action follows the public announcement made by Rao on the release of disbursements of rabi crops. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"The disbursement will be made on Monday. Even before the farmers complete their breakfast and tea, the amount will be credited into their account,” the minister had said.</p>

<p>The EC had said that it gave 'no objection', based on the premise that it is an ongoing scheme and rabi instalments were disbursed during October-January in the past five years.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-seven-university-students-booked-under-uapa-over-pro-pakistan-slogans-663514">Jammu and Kashmir: Seven university students booked under UAPA over 'pro-Pakistan' slogans</a></p>

<h2><strong>Congress slams CM Rao</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Congress slammed the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) over the EC’s order, alleging it was a result of the irresponsible and self-serving approach of the K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR)-led party.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/narendra-modi-launches-scathing-attack-at-opponents-in-telangana-calls-brs-and-congress-equal-sinners-663422">PM Narendra Modi launches scathing attack on opponents in Telangana, calls BRS and Congress 'equal sinners</a></p>

<p>In a post on X, Congress general secretary, organisation, K C Venugopal said due to the irresponsible and narrow self-serving approach of the BRS and (minister) Harish Rao, under the instructions of his boss KCR, the EC has denied permission for the disbursement of the Rythu Bandhu instalments.</p>

<p>The money is the right of farmers and it is what they deserve for their year-long hard work, he said.</p>


The Election Commission (EC) has warned the south-eastern Telangana government to desist from doling out financial aid to farmers under a state government scheme after it withdrew the earlier order citing a violation of the poll code.

The Election Commission (EC) has warned the south-eastern Telangana government to desist from doling out financial aid to farmers under a state government scheme after it withdrew the earlier order citing a violation of the poll code. Assembly elections are to be held in Telangana on November 30 and results are to be announced on December 3. The poll body has said that the government can disburse relief only on certain conditions during the model code of conduct period and asked it to refrain from publicising it to the public. State minister warned "The Commission has observed that T Harish Rao, Minister of Finance and Heath and Family Welfare, Govt of Telangana ... has not only violated the provisions of MCC (model code of conduct)... but also conditions laid down as above by publicising the release under the scheme, and thereby disturbed the level playing field in the ongoing election process," the EC letter to the state chief electoral officer (CEO) read. The EC informed the state chief electoral officer about its decision to withdraw its permission. The action follows the public announcement made by Rao on the release of disbursements of rabi crops. "The disbursement will be made on Monday. Even before the farmers complete their breakfast and tea, the amount will be credited into their account,” the minister had said. The EC had said that it gave 'no objection', based on the premise that it is an ongoing scheme and rabi instalments were disbursed during October-January in the past five years. Also read | Jammu and Kashmir: Seven university students booked under UAPA over 'pro-Pakistan' slogans Congress slams CM Rao The Congress slammed the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) over the EC’s order, alleging it was a result of the irresponsible and self-serving approach of the K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR)-led party. Also read | PM Narendra Modi launches scathing attack on opponents in Telangana, calls BRS and Congress 'equal sinners In a post on X, Congress general secretary, organisation, K C Venugopal said due to the irresponsible and narrow self-serving approach of the BRS and (minister) Harish Rao, under the instructions of his boss KCR, the EC has denied permission for the disbursement of the Rythu Bandhu instalments. The money is the right of farmers and it is what they deserve for their year-long hard work, he said.

EC warns Telangana govt to stop farmers’ aid citing violation of poll code

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