As pressure increased on the military to cede control to a civilian government, the head of the junta that toppled President Ali Bongo of Gabon stated that he wished to avoid hastily holding elections that "repeat past mistakes."

Gabon coup leader will not rush to elections despite mounting pressure

Indian-origin Tharman Shanmugaratnam, a Singaporean economist, has been elected president of the nation. In the first presidential election to be held in the nation since 2011, Tharman Shanmugaratnam triumphed against two candidates of Chinese descent.

Singapore: Indian-origin Tharman Shanmugaratnam wins Singapore's presidential election

Gabon coup leader: No rush to elections and ‘the same mistakes’

To explore the possibility of 'one nation, one election.' The development has prompted questions on whether central and state governments can hold simultaneous polls? Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas:  'One Nation, One Poll' In India Soon? Modi Govt Forms Panel Led By Ram Nath Kovind

The 26-member I.N.D.I.A bloc will meet in Mumbai on August 31 and September 1 to discuss their strategy for the Lok Sabha elections in 2024. The alliance will meet for the third time after previous gatherings in Patna and Bengaluru.

India: Opposition bloc 'I.N.D.I.A', ruling NDA holds meetings in Mumbai

India's electoral landscape may change soon. Divided into subcategories, elections take place frequently in many states of India. However, it wasn't the case when India got its constitution post-independence.

One Nation, One Election: Merits, Demerits & Constitutional challenges for the Indian government

Citigroup says India’s cut to cooking gas cost might help slow inflation and shift attention to lowering the price of petrol and diesel ahead of certain important festivals and critical elections. Economists at Citibank, in a research note, said the government's plan to cut the price of cooking gas might ease inflation by roughly 30 basis points. Citibank economists suggested that more fiscal measures need to be discussed to reduce inflation and boost rural incomes. The economists noted that excise tax cuts are a possible solution to the high cost of fuel and getting inflation under control.

Citibank predicts relief: Cooking gas price cut to tackle inflation

<p>United States former president Donald Trump said that he will have no choice but to lock up his political enemies if he becomes the president again.<br />
<br />
Speaking in an interview on Tuesday (August 30), the rightwing broadcaster Glenn Beck brought up the famous campaign trail vow of Trump to “lock up” Hillary Clinton, who was his opponent in 2016. Trump didn't actually go through with it after assuming office.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-historic-trial-in-federal-election-case-to-begin-on-march-4-630047">Trump's historic trial in federal election case to begin on March 4, one day before Super Tuesday</a></p>

<p>In the interview, Beck said, “Do you regret not locking [Clinton] up? And if you’re president again, will you lock people up?” “The answer is you have no choice, because they’re doing it to us,” Trump stated.<br />
<br />
The former president has encouraged the “lock her up” chant against other opponents, however, he has himself been facing the considerable danger of getting locked up.</p>

<h2><strong>Trump's criminal trials and fear of being locked up</strong></h2>

<p>Under four indictments, Trump has been facing 91 criminal charges related to the retention of classified information, election subversion and hush-money payments to an adult film star. He has denied any wrongdoing and has stated that he has been a victim of political persecution.<br />
<br />
In his interview telecasted on BlazeTV on Tuesday, Trump also stated that he “never hit Biden as hard as I could have” while in office.<br />
<br />
Speaking to Beck, Trump said that Biden had orchestrated all the indictments against him. He said that all of them were brought by prosecutors who are not associated with the White House: 44 by the Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith, 34 by the Manhattan district attorney, Alvin Bragg, and 13 by Fani Willis, the district attorney of Fulton county, Georgia.<br />
<br />
Trump further stated that “the woman that I never met, that they accused me of rape, that’s being run by a Democrat, a Democrat operative, and paid for by the Democrat [sic] party”.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Former US President Donald Trump charged with 13 felony counts | World News | WION</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/former-us-president-donald-trump-charged-with-13-felony-counts-world-news-wion-625598/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><br />
The statement was made by Trump in reference to civil claims brought by writer E Jean Carroll, who stated that she was sexually assaulted by the former president in New York in the 1990s.<br />
<br />
Trump, who is also undergoing investigations of his business affairs, said that Democrats and other opponents were “sick people … evil people”.<br />
<br />
The former president, who has been twice impeached, four times indicted, and 91 times charged, also told Beck he “always had such great respect for the office of the president and the presidency”.</p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<main>
<section>
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-25="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-32="true" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="lazy" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=0" title="live tv" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</section>
</main>


United States former president Donald Trump said that he will have no choice but to lock up his political enemies if he becomes the president again. Speaking in an interview on Tuesday (August 30), the rightwing broadcaster Glenn Beck brought up the famous campaign trail vow of Trump to “lock up” Hillary Clinton, who was his opponent in 2016.

United States former president Donald Trump said that he will have no choice but to lock up his political enemies if he becomes the president again. Speaking in an interview on Tuesday (August 30), the rightwing broadcaster Glenn Beck brought up the famous campaign trail vow of Trump to “lock up” Hillary Clinton, who was his opponent in 2016. Trump didn't actually go through with it after assuming office. ALSO READ | Trump's historic trial in federal election case to begin on March 4, one day before Super Tuesday In the interview, Beck said, “Do you regret not locking [Clinton] up? And if you’re president again, will you lock people up?” “The answer is you have no choice, because they’re doing it to us,” Trump stated. The former president has encouraged the “lock her up” chant against other opponents, however, he has himself been facing the considerable danger of getting locked up. Trump's criminal trials and fear of being locked up Under four indictments, Trump has been facing 91 criminal charges related to the retention of classified information, election subversion and hush-money payments to an adult film star. He has denied any wrongdoing and has stated that he has been a victim of political persecution. In his interview telecasted on BlazeTV on Tuesday, Trump also stated that he “never hit Biden as hard as I could have” while in office. Speaking to Beck, Trump said that Biden had orchestrated all the indictments against him. He said that all of them were brought by prosecutors who are not associated with the White House: 44 by the Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith, 34 by the Manhattan district attorney, Alvin Bragg, and 13 by Fani Willis, the district attorney of Fulton county, Georgia. Trump further stated that “the woman that I never met, that they accused me of rape, that’s being run by a Democrat, a Democrat operative, and paid for by the Democrat [sic] party”. WATCH | Former US President Donald Trump charged with 13 felony counts | World News | WION The statement was made by Trump in reference to civil claims brought by writer E Jean Carroll, who stated that she was sexually assaulted by the former president in New York in the 1990s. Trump, who is also undergoing investigations of his business affairs, said that Democrats and other opponents were “sick people … evil people”. The former president, who has been twice impeached, four times indicted, and 91 times charged, also told Beck he “always had such great respect for the office of the president and the presidency”. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Trump makes strange vow to 'lock up political foes' after comeback to White House

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina claims that the United States is meddling in Bangladesh's general elections. She blamed Washington of supporting a military dictator and hence trying to topple the government. Hasina further said that the US has the power to overthrow any government.

Sheikh Hasina: Some countries interfering in our elections, trying to topple govt

Zimbabwe's sitting president Emmerson Mnangagwa has secured a second term winning roughly 53 per cent of the votes in a taxing election.

Zimbabwe presidential elections 2023: President Emmerson Mnangagwa secures 2nd term

<p>Zimbabwe's opposition leader, Nelson Chamisa, has vehemently contested the official re-election of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, asserting his own victory in an election that international observers criticise for falling short of democratic standards.</p>

<p>President Mnangagwa secured a second term with 52.6 per cent of the votes, while his main challenger, 45-year-old Chamisa, garnered 44 per cent, as per official results announced by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) late Saturday.</p>

<p>However, the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has adamantly refused to accept these results, labelling them as "false."</p>

<p>"We have won this election. We are the leaders. We are even surprised why Mnangagwa has been declared a leader," declared Chamisa during a press conference in Harare.</p>

<h2><strong>Controversial election marred by delays</strong></h2>

<p>The election, which took place over two days (Wednesday and Thursday), was plagued by delays, leading to accusations of rigging and voter suppression from the opposition.</p>

<p>Chamisa commented on the situation, saying, "We knew we were going into a flawed election. We have a flawed voters roll, a flawed delimitation report. We had a flawed ballot. It was a flawed electoral environment."</p>

<h2><strong>Mnangagwa challenges opponents</strong></h2>

<p>President Mnangagwa, in a response at the presidential palace, urged those contesting his re-election to pursue legal channels. He stated, "Those who feel the race was not run properly should know where to go to."</p>

<p>Foreign observers, including missions from the European Union, the Commonwealth, and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), have expressed concerns about the election. They cited issues such as the banning of opposition rallies, problems with voter registration rolls, biased state media coverage, and voter intimidation.</p>

<p>Despite these concerns, Mnangagwa thanked various election observation missions for witnessing the electoral processes, emphasising that Zimbabwe is a mature democracy.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Zimbabwe presidential elections 2023: President Emmerson Mnangagwa secures 2nd term</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/zimbabwe-presidential-elections-2023-president-emmerson-mnangagwa-secures-2nd-term-629610/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>Mixed reactions in Harare</strong></h2>

<p>In the streets of Harare, some citizens expressed disillusionment with the election results. One individual stated, "The results were no good; there's something wrong somewhere."</p>

<p>However, another citizen, while admitting not closely examining the results, noted, "We accept them as they are; it's the decision of the majority, and we respect it."</p>

<p>ZEC chairwoman Justice Chigumba disclosed that Mnangagwa had secured more than 2.3 million votes, while Chamisa had received over 1.9 million. With more than half the votes cast, Mnangagwa avoided a run-off. Voter turnout stood at 69 percent.</p>

<h2><strong>Mnangagwa's Political Journey</strong></h2>

<p>Dubbed "The Crocodile," Mnangagwa assumed power after a coup that ousted Robert Mugabe in 2017. A year later, he narrowly defeated Chamisa in a vote criticized by the opposition leader as fraudulent, followed by a deadly crackdown.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


Zimbabwe's opposition leader, Nelson Chamisa, has vehemently contested the official re-election of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, asserting his own victory in an election that international observers criticise for falling short of democratic standards.

Zimbabwe's opposition leader, Nelson Chamisa, has vehemently contested the official re-election of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, asserting his own victory in an election that international observers criticise for falling short of democratic standards. President Mnangagwa secured a second term with 52.6 per cent of the votes, while his main challenger, 45-year-old Chamisa, garnered 44 per cent, as per official results announced by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) late Saturday. However, the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has adamantly refused to accept these results, labelling them as "false." "We have won this election. We are the leaders. We are even surprised why Mnangagwa has been declared a leader," declared Chamisa during a press conference in Harare. Controversial election marred by delays The election, which took place over two days (Wednesday and Thursday), was plagued by delays, leading to accusations of rigging and voter suppression from the opposition. Chamisa commented on the situation, saying, "We knew we were going into a flawed election. We have a flawed voters roll, a flawed delimitation report. We had a flawed ballot. It was a flawed electoral environment." Mnangagwa challenges opponents President Mnangagwa, in a response at the presidential palace, urged those contesting his re-election to pursue legal channels. He stated, "Those who feel the race was not run properly should know where to go to." Foreign observers, including missions from the European Union, the Commonwealth, and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), have expressed concerns about the election. They cited issues such as the banning of opposition rallies, problems with voter registration rolls, biased state media coverage, and voter intimidation. Despite these concerns, Mnangagwa thanked various election observation missions for witnessing the electoral processes, emphasising that Zimbabwe is a mature democracy. Also watch | Zimbabwe presidential elections 2023: President Emmerson Mnangagwa secures 2nd term Mixed reactions in Harare In the streets of Harare, some citizens expressed disillusionment with the election results. One individual stated, "The results were no good; there's something wrong somewhere." However, another citizen, while admitting not closely examining the results, noted, "We accept them as they are; it's the decision of the majority, and we respect it." ZEC chairwoman Justice Chigumba disclosed that Mnangagwa had secured more than 2.3 million votes, while Chamisa had received over 1.9 million. With more than half the votes cast, Mnangagwa avoided a run-off. Voter turnout stood at 69 percent. Mnangagwa's Political Journey Dubbed "The Crocodile," Mnangagwa assumed power after a coup that ousted Robert Mugabe in 2017. A year later, he narrowly defeated Chamisa in a vote criticized by the opposition leader as fraudulent, followed by a deadly crackdown. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Zimbabwe's opposition challenges president's re-election, claims victory

<p>Zimbabwe's election&nbsp;commission said late on Saturday that incumbent Emmerson Mnangagwa had won this week's presidential election with roughly 53% of the vote, but the opposition and analysts immediately questioned the result.</p>

<p>Mnangagwa, who took over from longtime leader Robert Mugabe after a 2017 army coup, was widely expected to secure re-election for a second term as analysts said the contest was heavily skewed in favour of the ZANU-PF ruling party, which has been in power for more than four decades.</p>

<p>The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) said Mnangagwa's main challenger, Nelson Chamisa, who leads the opposition Citizens' Coalition for Change (CCC) party, secured 44 percent of the presidential vote.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-two-killed-one-injured-after-russian-shelling-hits-cafe-in-ukraines-northeast-629482">At least two killed, one injured after Russian shelling hits cafe in Ukraine’s northeast</a></p>

<p>ZANU-PF supporters started singing and cheering at the results centre after the elections commission said Mnangagwa had won.</p>

<p>A CCC spokesperson said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, that the party rejected "any result hastily assembled without proper verification".</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sends-police-experts-to-vanuatu-after-pro-west-pm-loses-power-629511">China sends ‘police experts’ to Vanuatu after pro-West PM loses power</a></p>

<p>Mnangagwa had also narrowly defeated Chamisa at the last presidential election in 2018. The opposition alleges that election was rigged but the constitutional court upheld the result.</p>

<p>While the run-up to the election has been largely free from violence, the police routinely ban opposition rallies and arrest opposition supporters using Zimbabwe's tough public order laws.</p>

<p>ZANU-PF denies it has an unfair advantage or seeks to influence the outcome of elections through rigging.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | NASA's supersonic passenger flights are getting closer</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasas-supersonic-passenger-flights-are-getting-closer-629569/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The head of the European Union's observer mission on Friday said this week's vote took place in a "climate of fear". Southern African regional bloc SADC's mission noted issues including voting delays, the banning of rallies and biased state media coverage.</p>

<p>Nicole Beardsworth, a politics lecturer at the University of the Witwatersrand, said she thought the late Saturday announcement was probably a response to the critique by SADC and other election observers.</p>

<p>"We all have a lot of questions about the speed with which ZEC is announcing presidential results," she said.</p>

<p>Voting in this week's presidential and parliamentary elections was meant to be wrapped up within one day on Wednesday, but it was extended into Thursday in some wards after the late distribution of ballot papers.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Zimbabwe's election commission said late on Saturday that incumbent Emmerson Mnangagwa had won this week's presidential election with roughly 53% of the vote, but the opposition and analysts immediately questioned the result.

Zimbabwe's election commission said late on Saturday that incumbent Emmerson Mnangagwa had won this week's presidential election with roughly 53% of the vote, but the opposition and analysts immediately questioned the result. Mnangagwa, who took over from longtime leader Robert Mugabe after a 2017 army coup, was widely expected to secure re-election for a second term as analysts said the contest was heavily skewed in favour of the ZANU-PF ruling party, which has been in power for more than four decades. The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) said Mnangagwa's main challenger, Nelson Chamisa, who leads the opposition Citizens' Coalition for Change (CCC) party, secured 44 percent of the presidential vote. Also Read | At least two killed, one injured after Russian shelling hits cafe in Ukraine’s northeast ZANU-PF supporters started singing and cheering at the results centre after the elections commission said Mnangagwa had won. A CCC spokesperson said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, that the party rejected "any result hastily assembled without proper verification". Also Read | China sends ‘police experts’ to Vanuatu after pro-West PM loses power Mnangagwa had also narrowly defeated Chamisa at the last presidential election in 2018. The opposition alleges that election was rigged but the constitutional court upheld the result. While the run-up to the election has been largely free from violence, the police routinely ban opposition rallies and arrest opposition supporters using Zimbabwe's tough public order laws. ZANU-PF denies it has an unfair advantage or seeks to influence the outcome of elections through rigging. Watch | NASA's supersonic passenger flights are getting closer × The head of the European Union's observer mission on Friday said this week's vote took place in a "climate of fear". Southern African regional bloc SADC's mission noted issues including voting delays, the banning of rallies and biased state media coverage. Nicole Beardsworth, a politics lecturer at the University of the Witwatersrand, said she thought the late Saturday announcement was probably a response to the critique by SADC and other election observers. "We all have a lot of questions about the speed with which ZEC is announcing presidential results," she said. Voting in this week's presidential and parliamentary elections was meant to be wrapped up within one day on Wednesday, but it was extended into Thursday in some wards after the late distribution of ballot papers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Zimbabwe’s president declared election winner again, opposition rejects result

<p>Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy is set to face trial in 2025 following allegations that he accepted funds from the late Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi to finance one of his election campaigns, news agencies reported citing prosecutors. If convicted, the former French president could face up to 10 years in prison. The trial will delve into evidence suggesting that Sarkozy, along with 12 co-defendants, engaged in a conspiracy to unlawfully secure funds from Gaddafi to support his successful 2007 presidential bid.&nbsp;"There's not even the smallest inkling of proof," he reportedly said in a 2018 interview.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Denial of allegations</strong></h2>

<p>Sarkozy, a right-wing politician who has encountered numerous legal challenges since his single term as president from 2007 to 2012, vehemently denies the allegations involving Libyan funding.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-with-prigozhin-dead-wagner-groups-bloodied-past-tumultuous-present-uncertain-future-629170">With Prigozhin dead, Wagner group's bloodied past, tumultuous present &amp; uncertain future</a></p>

<p>These allegations stand as the most severe legal issue he currently faces. Despite being convicted twice for corruption and influence-peddling in separate cases related to attempts to manipulate a judge and campaign financing, Sarkozy has contested both verdicts through appeals.</p>

<h2><strong>Prominent figures among co-defendants</strong></h2>

<p>Several significant figures are among the co-defendants who will face trial for their alleged involvement in the Libyan funding scandal. These include Claude Gueant, Sarkozy's former right-hand man, Eric Woerth, the former head of campaign financing, and Brice Hortefeux, a former minister.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greek-wildfires-are-worst-in-europe-in-decades-says-eu-backed-climate-service-629165">Greek wildfires are worst in Europe in years, says EU-backed climate service</a></p>

<p>The investigation was triggered by revelations from the investigative platform Mediapart, which released a document purportedly indicating that Gaddafi had agreed to provide Sarkozy with up to 50 million euros ($54 million based on current exchange rates).</p>

<p>The prosecutor's office has announced that the first hearing is designated for March 7, 2024. The trial is planned between January 6, 2025, and April 10, 2025, according to the information provided. After his unsuccessful appeal in May, 68-year-old Sarkozy's 2021 conviction on charges of corruption and influence peddling stands. His legal team has expressed their intention to contest this verdict at France's highest court, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sarkozy-Gaddafi relations&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Sarkozy and Gaddafi shared an unexpectedly amicable relationship, exemplified by Gaddafi setting up his Bedouin tent across from the Elysee Palace during a state visit to France shortly after Sarkozy's election. Sarkozy's recent activities have rekindled attention in France, with the release of the second volume of his memoirs and his suggestions regarding the recognition of Russia-occupied Ukrainian territories following last year's Kremlin-led invasion.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | PM Modi, Xi Jinping discuss border issues in Johannesburg</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-xi-jinping-discuss-border-issues-in-johannesburg-629142/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>He has also expressed his stance that Crimea, which has been annexed by Russia, will remain under Russian control, dismissing the possibility of reverting to the pre-annexation status quo.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy is set to face trial in 2025 following allegations that he accepted funds from the late Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi to finance one of his election campaigns, news agencies reported citing prosecutors.

Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy is set to face trial in 2025 following allegations that he accepted funds from the late Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi to finance one of his election campaigns, news agencies reported citing prosecutors. If convicted, the former French president could face up to 10 years in prison. The trial will delve into evidence suggesting that Sarkozy, along with 12 co-defendants, engaged in a conspiracy to unlawfully secure funds from Gaddafi to support his successful 2007 presidential bid. "There's not even the smallest inkling of proof," he reportedly said in a 2018 interview. Denial of allegations Sarkozy, a right-wing politician who has encountered numerous legal challenges since his single term as president from 2007 to 2012, vehemently denies the allegations involving Libyan funding. Also Read | With Prigozhin dead, Wagner group's bloodied past, tumultuous present & uncertain future These allegations stand as the most severe legal issue he currently faces. Despite being convicted twice for corruption and influence-peddling in separate cases related to attempts to manipulate a judge and campaign financing, Sarkozy has contested both verdicts through appeals. Prominent figures among co-defendants Several significant figures are among the co-defendants who will face trial for their alleged involvement in the Libyan funding scandal. These include Claude Gueant, Sarkozy's former right-hand man, Eric Woerth, the former head of campaign financing, and Brice Hortefeux, a former minister. Also Read | Greek wildfires are worst in Europe in years, says EU-backed climate service The investigation was triggered by revelations from the investigative platform Mediapart, which released a document purportedly indicating that Gaddafi had agreed to provide Sarkozy with up to 50 million euros ($54 million based on current exchange rates). The prosecutor's office has announced that the first hearing is designated for March 7, 2024. The trial is planned between January 6, 2025, and April 10, 2025, according to the information provided. After his unsuccessful appeal in May, 68-year-old Sarkozy's 2021 conviction on charges of corruption and influence peddling stands. His legal team has expressed their intention to contest this verdict at France's highest court, reported Reuters. Sarkozy-Gaddafi relations Sarkozy and Gaddafi shared an unexpectedly amicable relationship, exemplified by Gaddafi setting up his Bedouin tent across from the Elysee Palace during a state visit to France shortly after Sarkozy's election. Sarkozy's recent activities have rekindled attention in France, with the release of the second volume of his memoirs and his suggestions regarding the recognition of Russia-occupied Ukrainian territories following last year's Kremlin-led invasion. Watch | PM Modi, Xi Jinping discuss border issues in Johannesburg × He has also expressed his stance that Crimea, which has been annexed by Russia, will remain under Russian control, dismissing the possibility of reverting to the pre-annexation status quo. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Trial looms for ex-French President Sarkozy over alleged illicit funding from Gaddafi for election campaign

In a bid to end the deadlock on the next general elections in Pakistan President Arif Alvi has invited the country's Chief election commissioner for a meeting to fix an appropriate date to hold the polls. He has proposed a meeting for today or for tomorrow. Pakistan's National Assembly was dissolved on August 9th on the advice of the then prime minister Shehbaz Sharif. This was 3 days before the mandated period now according to Pakistan's Constitution the president is obliged to hold elections within 90 days of an early dissolution.

Deadlock on Pakistan's next general election date

Who will ultimately be the Republican candidate to take on Joe Biden for the White House? The GOP has conducted its first presidential primary debate which saw eight candidates often engage in heated exchanges.

US presidential election: Vivek Ramaswamy takes center stage at debate

<p>Srettha Thavisin, formerly the chief of one of Thailand's largest real estate development firms, has ascended to the role of prime minister in an unexpected turn of events. Thavisin, 61, won a parliamentary vote on Tuesday (Aug 22) to assume the country's highest office, ending weeks of political deadlock after the elections.</p>

<p>This coincided with the return of Thaksin Shinawatra, the founder of Thavisin's populist Pheu Thai Party, to Thailand after 15 years of self-imposed exile, only to be&nbsp;imprisoned.</p>

<p>Following the vote, Thavisin expressed his gratitude to the Thai people and conveyed his sense of honour at being elected as prime minister. While he beamed with optimism, he refrained from answering questions until royal confirmation of his election was received, a customary practice in Thailand.</p>

<h2><strong>A tactical alliance</strong></h2>

<p>Tuesday's vote for Thavisin's premiership received critical support from pro-military members of parliament, effectively sidelining the progressive Move Forward Party, which had emerged as the largest single party in the recent elections.</p>

<p>The conservative establishment views Thavisin&nbsp;and his Pheu Thai Party as a more acceptable option, prompting an unlikely alliance with former political adversaries aligned with pro-military factions.</p>

<p>Together, they seek to govern Southeast Asia's second-largest economy.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-parliament-elects-srettha-thavisin-as-next-pm-ending-months-of-political-deadlock-627949">Thai parliament elects Srettha Thavisin as next PM, ending months of political deadlock</a></p>

<h2><strong>Business background of the new Thai PM</strong></h2>

<p>Srettha Thavisin, a suave businessman with no prior administrative experience, was initially presented as a Pheu Thai prime ministerial candidate due to his business acumen.</p>

<p>His family's deep connections in the business elite paved the way for his career, which began at the Thailand division of Procter &amp; Gamble after earning economics and management degrees in the United States.</p>

<p>In 1990, alongside some cousins, he co-founded Sansiri, a property development company that grew to become one of Thailand's largest.</p>

<p>In 2022, Sansiri posted impressive revenues and profits, leading to an over eight per cent&nbsp;surge in its stock on the day of Srettha's election.</p>

<p>Despite his success, Thavisin's journey to power has not been without controversy. Allegations of wrongdoing in two land deals during his tenure at Sansiri surfaced earlier this month, claims that both Sansiri and Thavisin&nbsp;vehemently denied.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Thailand gets its 30th Prime Minister as Srettha Thavisin elected as new PM</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thailand-gets-its-30th-prime-minister-as-srettha-thavisin-elected-as-new-pm-628021/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>The 'outsider' politician</strong></h2>

<p>Thavisin's transition from business to politics echoes that of Thaksin Shinawatra, who transitioned from the telecommunications industry to become a prominent political figure.</p>

<p>Unlike many seasoned politicians, Thavisin's relative political inexperience has both advantages and potential disadvantages.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


Srettha Thavisin, formerly the chief of one of Thailand's largest real estate development firms, has ascended to the role of prime minister in an unexpected turn of events.

Srettha Thavisin, formerly the chief of one of Thailand's largest real estate development firms, has ascended to the role of prime minister in an unexpected turn of events. Thavisin, 61, won a parliamentary vote on Tuesday (Aug 22) to assume the country's highest office, ending weeks of political deadlock after the elections. This coincided with the return of Thaksin Shinawatra, the founder of Thavisin's populist Pheu Thai Party, to Thailand after 15 years of self-imposed exile, only to be imprisoned. Following the vote, Thavisin expressed his gratitude to the Thai people and conveyed his sense of honour at being elected as prime minister. While he beamed with optimism, he refrained from answering questions until royal confirmation of his election was received, a customary practice in Thailand. A tactical alliance Tuesday's vote for Thavisin's premiership received critical support from pro-military members of parliament, effectively sidelining the progressive Move Forward Party, which had emerged as the largest single party in the recent elections. The conservative establishment views Thavisin and his Pheu Thai Party as a more acceptable option, prompting an unlikely alliance with former political adversaries aligned with pro-military factions. Together, they seek to govern Southeast Asia's second-largest economy. Also read | Thai parliament elects Srettha Thavisin as next PM, ending months of political deadlock Business background of the new Thai PM Srettha Thavisin, a suave businessman with no prior administrative experience, was initially presented as a Pheu Thai prime ministerial candidate due to his business acumen. His family's deep connections in the business elite paved the way for his career, which began at the Thailand division of Procter & Gamble after earning economics and management degrees in the United States. In 1990, alongside some cousins, he co-founded Sansiri, a property development company that grew to become one of Thailand's largest. In 2022, Sansiri posted impressive revenues and profits, leading to an over eight per cent surge in its stock on the day of Srettha's election. Despite his success, Thavisin's journey to power has not been without controversy. Allegations of wrongdoing in two land deals during his tenure at Sansiri surfaced earlier this month, claims that both Sansiri and Thavisin vehemently denied. Also watch | Thailand gets its 30th Prime Minister as Srettha Thavisin elected as new PM The 'outsider' politician Thavisin's transition from business to politics echoes that of Thaksin Shinawatra, who transitioned from the telecommunications industry to become a prominent political figure. Unlike many seasoned politicians, Thavisin's relative political inexperience has both advantages and potential disadvantages. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Who is Srettha Thavisin, Thailand's property mogul and next prime minister?

<p>Guatemalans began casting their vote&nbsp;on Sunday (August 20) in the presidential run-off election, as many hope for a reversal of democratic backsliding the country has witnessed in recent administrations. The election has also been marked by the harassment of a surprise frontrunner who has vowed to end corruption.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the run-off elections</strong></h2>

<p>Polling stations opened at 7:00 am (local time) and the voting was supposed to end by 6:00 pm (local time). The first results are expected later in the evening. The current race is between progressive outsider Bernardo Arevalo and former first lady Sandra Torres, both of whom are said to be social democrats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A poll by CID Gallup and the Freedom and Development Foundation said that Arevalo – who is running mainly on an anti-corruption message – is leading with 50 per cent against Torres, who is coming in second with 32 per cent.</p>

<p>A presidential candidate of the&nbsp;National Union of Hope party, Torres is the ex-wife of deceased leftist president Alvaro Colom. She launched her fourth shot at the presidency with a focus on violent crime and poverty.</p>

<p>It is also worth noting that since both candidates are left-leaning, the Central American nation will have its first leftist leader in over a decade.</p>

<h2><strong>Fears of election interference</strong></h2>

<p>The Organization of American States said a team of 86 election observers was in the country. “It is essential that citizens be able to express themselves freely with full guarantees and that their expressions be respected,” said Eladio Loizaga, head of the OAS mission in Guatemala, on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes amid fears of efforts to undermine the vote after Arevalo’s surprise second-place finish in June’s first-round vote was followed by raids against his Semilla party offices and those of electoral officials. Therefore, the vote has been closely watched by the international community.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Outgoing President Alejandro Giammattei has vowed to ensure an orderly vote and transition of power. Meanwhile, prosecutor Rafael Curruchiche ahead of the vote on Sunday did not rule out the possibility of more raids and arrests after the elections. Notably, Curruchiche has been sanctioned by the United States for corruption.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What’s at stake?</strong></h2>

<p>The outcome of this election is set to usher in a new era of widespread allegations of corruption and creeping authoritarianism that Guatemala has witnessed under recent administrations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I hope that everything is calm, that democracy wins, that there is no fraud or political issues...and that our country gets ahead more than anything,” Ardem Villagran, a merchant in Guatemala City told Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The winner of the election will take office on January 14, amid a number of challenges that Guatemala currently faces. According to the World Bank, the country has some of the worst poverty, malnutrition and child mortality rates in Latin America.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Guatemala also has one of the highest crime rates in the world with many killings attributed to gang violence related to drug trafficking.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Guatemalans began casting their vote on Sunday (August 20) in the presidential run-off election, as many hope for a reversal of democratic backsliding the country has witnessed in recent administrations.

Guatemalans began casting their vote on Sunday (August 20) in the presidential run-off election, as many hope for a reversal of democratic backsliding the country has witnessed in recent administrations. The election has also been marked by the harassment of a surprise frontrunner who has vowed to end corruption. About the run-off elections Polling stations opened at 7:00 am (local time) and the voting was supposed to end by 6:00 pm (local time). The first results are expected later in the evening. The current race is between progressive outsider Bernardo Arevalo and former first lady Sandra Torres, both of whom are said to be social democrats. A poll by CID Gallup and the Freedom and Development Foundation said that Arevalo – who is running mainly on an anti-corruption message – is leading with 50 per cent against Torres, who is coming in second with 32 per cent. A presidential candidate of the National Union of Hope party, Torres is the ex-wife of deceased leftist president Alvaro Colom. She launched her fourth shot at the presidency with a focus on violent crime and poverty. It is also worth noting that since both candidates are left-leaning, the Central American nation will have its first leftist leader in over a decade. Fears of election interference The Organization of American States said a team of 86 election observers was in the country. “It is essential that citizens be able to express themselves freely with full guarantees and that their expressions be respected,” said Eladio Loizaga, head of the OAS mission in Guatemala, on Saturday. This comes amid fears of efforts to undermine the vote after Arevalo’s surprise second-place finish in June’s first-round vote was followed by raids against his Semilla party offices and those of electoral officials. Therefore, the vote has been closely watched by the international community. Outgoing President Alejandro Giammattei has vowed to ensure an orderly vote and transition of power. Meanwhile, prosecutor Rafael Curruchiche ahead of the vote on Sunday did not rule out the possibility of more raids and arrests after the elections. Notably, Curruchiche has been sanctioned by the United States for corruption. What’s at stake? The outcome of this election is set to usher in a new era of widespread allegations of corruption and creeping authoritarianism that Guatemala has witnessed under recent administrations. “I hope that everything is calm, that democracy wins, that there is no fraud or political issues...and that our country gets ahead more than anything,” Ardem Villagran, a merchant in Guatemala City told Reuters. The winner of the election will take office on January 14, amid a number of challenges that Guatemala currently faces. According to the World Bank, the country has some of the worst poverty, malnutrition and child mortality rates in Latin America. Guatemala also has one of the highest crime rates in the world with many killings attributed to gang violence related to drug trafficking. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Guatemalans vote for new leader in runoff elections amid hopes for renewal of democracy

Luisa Gonzalez prodigy of leftist former president Rafael Correa is reported to be leading the early vote count in Ecuador's presidential and legislative election. That too after a campaign darkened by bloodshed while voters hoped that the winner will bring the country out of a spiral of violence and economic troubles. The initial results are expected later but the outcome could take days to emerge.

Ecuador awaits presidential election results amid spike in violence

In an interesting development in US presidential race, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Indian-American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy find themselves tied for second place in the Republican presidential field in a new poll.

US: Trump, Vivek Ramaswamy front-runners to face Biden in President election

Elections are underway in Ecuador to elect a president. The elections become significant as the country has been grappling with an alarming rise in violence, particularly over the past three years.

Ecuador presidential elections clouded by violence

<p>Mayor of an Ecuadorian coastal city, on Saturday (August 19), claimed that he was a victim of an attempted assassination, a day before the country is set to hold general elections. This comes as Ecuador is reeling from an unprecedented surge in violence and reported a disturbing trend of attacks against political candidates which includes the assassination of a presidential hopeful.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>They tried to kill me: Ecuadorian mayor</strong></h2>

<p>The mayor of the Ecuadorian coastal town of La Libertad, Francisco Tamariz, took to X (formerly Twitter) and spoke about the ordeal that took place on Friday evening. He said that he escaped unharmed after gunmen fired 30 shots at his vehicle.</p>

<p>“They tried to kill me,” said Tamariz, adding that more than eight people had witnessed the shooting.</p>

<h2><strong>Ecuador elections marked by violence</strong></h2>

<p>Ecuador has been grappling with an alarming rise in violence, particularly over the past three years, as the nation has transformed into a significant drug trafficking hub. Local gangs, often with cartel affiliations, are vying for control of the streets, prisons, and drug routes, resulting in thousands of casualties.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dark World | Is Ecuador becoming a Narco-state?<br />
<br />
WION's Harshit Sabarwal decodes it for you<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ecuador?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ecuador</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ecuadorelection?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ecuadorelection</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FernandoVillavicencio?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FernandoVillavicencio</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ecuadordrugcartels?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ecuadordrugcartels</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DarkWorld?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DarkWorld</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/B_Torg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@B_Torg</a> <a href="https://t.co/JLCjLoAxWI">pic.twitter.com/JLCjLoAxWI</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1692529278456373560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Luisa González, a prominent figure in the party and the frontrunner in the recent special presidential election, has described this rise in violence as the country’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-drugs-gang-warfare-and-corruption-transformed-ecuador-625424">“bloodiest era.”</a> The recent alleged assassination attempt also comes days after the political leader named Pedro Briones was killed on August 15.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Briones was an organiser for Citizen Revolution, the party founded by former president Rafael Correa and his death was confirmed by González on X. Briones’ death also came less than a week after the daylight assassination of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio, a vocal critic of organised crime and corruption.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-third-political-leader-killed-in-a-week-after-presidential-hopefuls-assassination-625774">&nbsp;Ecuador: Third political leader killed in a week after presidential hopeful's assassination</a></p>

<p>These incidents follow the killing of Agustín Intriago, the mayor of Manta, Ecuador’s third-largest city, on July 26.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In response to the escalating violence, authorities moved José Adolfo Macías, also known as Fito, the leader of one of the country’s powerful gangs, Los Choneros, into a maximum-security prison.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
This also comes as the murder in the small South American nation has recently spiked and soared above that of Mexico and Colombia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Mayor of an Ecuadorian coastal city, on Saturday (August 19), claimed that he was a victim of an attempted assassination, a day before the country is set to hold general elections.

Mayor of an Ecuadorian coastal city, on Saturday (August 19), claimed that he was a victim of an attempted assassination, a day before the country is set to hold general elections. This comes as Ecuador is reeling from an unprecedented surge in violence and reported a disturbing trend of attacks against political candidates which includes the assassination of a presidential hopeful. They tried to kill me: Ecuadorian mayor The mayor of the Ecuadorian coastal town of La Libertad, Francisco Tamariz, took to X (formerly Twitter) and spoke about the ordeal that took place on Friday evening. He said that he escaped unharmed after gunmen fired 30 shots at his vehicle. “They tried to kill me,” said Tamariz, adding that more than eight people had witnessed the shooting. Ecuador elections marked by violence Ecuador has been grappling with an alarming rise in violence, particularly over the past three years, as the nation has transformed into a significant drug trafficking hub. Local gangs, often with cartel affiliations, are vying for control of the streets, prisons, and drug routes, resulting in thousands of casualties. Dark World | Is Ecuador becoming a Narco-state? WION's Harshit Sabarwal decodes it for you#Ecuador #Ecuadorelection #FernandoVillavicencio #Ecuadordrugcartels #DarkWorld @B_Torg pic.twitter.com/JLCjLoAxWI — WION (@WIONews) August 18, 2023 × Luisa González, a prominent figure in the party and the frontrunner in the recent special presidential election, has described this rise in violence as the country’s “bloodiest era.” The recent alleged assassination attempt also comes days after the political leader named Pedro Briones was killed on August 15. Briones was an organiser for Citizen Revolution, the party founded by former president Rafael Correa and his death was confirmed by González on X. Briones’ death also came less than a week after the daylight assassination of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio, a vocal critic of organised crime and corruption. ALSO READ | Ecuador: Third political leader killed in a week after presidential hopeful's assassination These incidents follow the killing of Agustín Intriago, the mayor of Manta, Ecuador’s third-largest city, on July 26. In response to the escalating violence, authorities moved José Adolfo Macías, also known as Fito, the leader of one of the country’s powerful gangs, Los Choneros, into a maximum-security prison. This also comes as the murder in the small South American nation has recently spiked and soared above that of Mexico and Colombia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ecuador mayor survives assassination attempt ahead of general elections

<p>Officials in the US state of Georgia are investigating online threats made against members of the grand jury that indicted former United States President Donald Trump’s alleged election interference investigation, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-indicted-over-2020-election-interference-in-georgia-625533">on Monday</a>. This comes after personal information including, names and addresses of grand jury members were posted online, said the local sheriff’s office.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, on Thursday (August 17) said that they are working on tracking the origins of threats against grand jury members who, earlier this week, indicted Trump on 13 charges, which included racketeering and election meddling.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after personal information, including addresses and photos of the jurors, were reportedly shared on right-wing platforms. Officials in Fulton County, which also includes Atlanta, the state capital, said threats could amount to jury intimidation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Our investigators are working closely with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to track down the origin of threats in Fulton County and other jurisdictions,” said the sheriff’s office, in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “We take this matter very seriously and are coordinating with our law enforcement partners to respond quickly to any credible threat and to ensure the safety of those individuals who carried out their civic duty.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Whose information was supposedly leaked?</strong></h2>

<p>The posts that purportedly share names and addresses of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-is-donald-trumps-georgia-indictment-different-626154">Fulton County grand jury </a>are being tracked by Advance Democracy, a non-profit research organisation whose president, Dan Jones, a former FBI investigator and a part of the Senate intelligence committee told Reuters, “Statements by Trump and his allies continue to inspire violent language and threats online.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the group, two NBC reporters who wrote about the grand jury incident also had their purported addresses posted online, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The organisation has also reportedly tracked posts containing violent rhetoric against the Fulton County district attorney, Fani Willis who oversaw the over two-year investigation regarding the alleged efforts made by Trump and 18 others to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The group has also called on the Fulton County police to take the matter “seriously”.<br />
<br />
“The latest threats against jury members shows you don’t have to be a politician or government official to be the target,” said Jones. He added, “Equally important is that political leaders on the right denounce these threats and the statements that inspire them.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Trump’s case in Georgia</strong></h2>

<p>In a recent update about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-requests-april-2026-trial-date-for-election-interference-trial-626587">the case</a>, lawyers for Trump on Thursday (August 17) asked a federal judge in Washington to schedule an April 2026 trial for the former president regarding the federal charges against his alleged attempt to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this month after the indictment by the US Special Counsel Jack Smith against Trump, the former president lashed out on his social media platform, Truth Social, and said “IF YOU GO AFTER ME, I’M COMING AFTER YOU!”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 98-page Georgia indictment on Monday listed 19 defendants and 41 criminal counts and while the document is available as a public record and does include the names of grand jurors but not their addresses or any other personally identifiable information.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Officials in the US state of Georgia are investigating online threats made against members of the grand jury that indicted former United States President Donald Trump’s alleged election interference investigation, on Monday.

Officials in the US state of Georgia are investigating online threats made against members of the grand jury that indicted former United States President Donald Trump’s alleged election interference investigation, on Monday. This comes after personal information including, names and addresses of grand jury members were posted online, said the local sheriff’s office. What happened? The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, on Thursday (August 17) said that they are working on tracking the origins of threats against grand jury members who, earlier this week, indicted Trump on 13 charges, which included racketeering and election meddling. This comes after personal information, including addresses and photos of the jurors, were reportedly shared on right-wing platforms. Officials in Fulton County, which also includes Atlanta, the state capital, said threats could amount to jury intimidation. “Our investigators are working closely with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to track down the origin of threats in Fulton County and other jurisdictions,” said the sheriff’s office, in a statement. It added, “We take this matter very seriously and are coordinating with our law enforcement partners to respond quickly to any credible threat and to ensure the safety of those individuals who carried out their civic duty.” Whose information was supposedly leaked? The posts that purportedly share names and addresses of the Fulton County grand jury are being tracked by Advance Democracy, a non-profit research organisation whose president, Dan Jones, a former FBI investigator and a part of the Senate intelligence committee told Reuters, “Statements by Trump and his allies continue to inspire violent language and threats online.” According to the group, two NBC reporters who wrote about the grand jury incident also had their purported addresses posted online, reported Reuters. The organisation has also reportedly tracked posts containing violent rhetoric against the Fulton County district attorney, Fani Willis who oversaw the over two-year investigation regarding the alleged efforts made by Trump and 18 others to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. The group has also called on the Fulton County police to take the matter “seriously”. “The latest threats against jury members shows you don’t have to be a politician or government official to be the target,” said Jones. He added, “Equally important is that political leaders on the right denounce these threats and the statements that inspire them.” Trump’s case in Georgia In a recent update about the case, lawyers for Trump on Thursday (August 17) asked a federal judge in Washington to schedule an April 2026 trial for the former president regarding the federal charges against his alleged attempt to overturn his 2020 election loss to Democrat Joe Biden. Earlier this month after the indictment by the US Special Counsel Jack Smith against Trump, the former president lashed out on his social media platform, Truth Social, and said “IF YOU GO AFTER ME, I’M COMING AFTER YOU!” The 98-page Georgia indictment on Monday listed 19 defendants and 41 criminal counts and while the document is available as a public record and does include the names of grand jurors but not their addresses or any other personally identifiable information. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: Georgia investigates threats against Donald Trump grand jury members identified online

Gabon will be heading to the polls on the 26th of August to elect a new leader. But as the country prepares to vote, current president Ali Bongo is seeking another term in office. Does Bongo aim to rule as his father did for over 40 years?

Elections in Gabon as current president hopes to keep the seat

Former personal lawyer for former President Trump Michael Cohen revealed in a new interview that he is thinking about running for Congress. Cohen informed Semafor that he is "interested" in seeking the Democratic nomination. The fact that Cohen currently resides on Manhattan's East Side suggests that he may run for the 12th Congressional District of New York, which is currently represented by Rep. Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.).

US: Michael Cohen eyes running for New York district

Nine months after the formation of the federal government the counting of votes in six states of Malaysia is underway. 570 candidates from nine parties are competing for 245 State Assembly seats. Currently, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's multi-ethnic Alliance holds power in three of these six states.

Malaysia State Polls: Electoral match pitted between current and former PM's party

In Pakistan, after days of mulling the name of a new interim Prime Minister, the political parties have finally zeroed down on the individual who will be the interim prime minister.

Pakistan gets caretaker Prime Minister ahead of elections

Former PM Nawaz Sharif to return to Pakistan next month, as hinted by outgoing PM Shehbaz Sharif. Earlier, president Alvi approves the dissolution of the Pakistan National Assembly. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that he will step down on the 9th of August and dissolve the government. This signifies the country's general elections will have to be held within 90 days.

Former PM Nawaz Sharif to return to Pakistan next month?

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stepped down on 10th of August and dissolved the government. This signifies the country's general elections will have to be held within 90 days.

Shehbaz Sharif and opposition leaders to agree on caretaker PM in three days

<p>A federal judge presiding over former President Donald Trump's trial on charges of trying to overturn the 2020 election has ordered his attorneys and federal prosecutors to appear in court on Friday for a hearing to help determine how evidence can be used and shared in the case.</p>

<p>U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan set the hearing for Friday at 10 a.m. ET (1400 GMT), shortly after Trump's attorneys and members of U.S. Special Counsel Jack Smith's office had clashed in a joint court over when to schedule the proceeding.</p>

<p>Prosecutors had said they were available all week, while Trump's lawyers had asked for a postponement until early next week.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-reaping-benefits-from-instability-in-niger-says-us-state-secretary-antony-blinken-623660">Wagner reaping benefits from instability in Niger, says US State Secretary Antony Blinken</a></p>

<p>Friday's hearing comes after Trump's defense team on Monday opposed a request from prosecutors for Chutkan to impose a protective order to ensure confidential evidence is not shared publicly by Trump, suggesting he could use the information to intimidate witnesses. Trump has pleaded not guilty and called the charges politically motivated.</p>

<p>Trump's attorneys said limits would infringe on his right to free speech, protected by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.</p>

<p>Trump is not expected to be present in the courtroom on Friday, after Chutkan waived his appearance.</p>

<p>Typically, defense lawyers do not oppose such protective orders because doing so can delay the government from producing the evidence it intends to use at trial in a process known as discovery.</p>

<p>The disagreement between the parties over the hearing date represented the latest effort by Trump's team to delay or slow legal proceedings.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-gets-furious-and-locks-ex-colleagues-at-former-workplace-after-being-fired-from-job-623655">Man gets furious and locks ex-colleagues at former workplace after being fired from job</a></p>

<p>It also underscored the logistical challenges that Trump's team may have as it continues to represent him in two separate federal criminal cases brought by Smith's office, one in Washington, D.C., and the other in southern Florida, where Trump is charged with retaining highly classified records after leaving the White House and obstructing the government's efforts to have the records returned. Trump also pleaded not guilty in that case.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Nepal initiates investigation against former Prime Ministers</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-initiates-investigation-against-former-prime-ministers-623643/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>One of Trump's attorneys, Todd Blanche, will be in federal court in Florida on Thursday for an arraignment, after the government filed a superseding indictment that charged Trump with additional criminal counts and also charged another one of his employees in the case.</p>

<p>In the joint Washington filing, Trump's lawyers said Trump wished for both Blanche and his other lawyer John Lauro to be present for the hearing before Chutkan.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A federal judge presiding over former President Donald Trump's trial on charges of trying to overturn the 2020 election has ordered his attorneys and federal prosecutors to appear in court on Friday for a hearing to help determine how evidence can be used and shared in the case.

A federal judge presiding over former President Donald Trump's trial on charges of trying to overturn the 2020 election has ordered his attorneys and federal prosecutors to appear in court on Friday for a hearing to help determine how evidence can be used and shared in the case. U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan set the hearing for Friday at 10 a.m. ET (1400 GMT), shortly after Trump's attorneys and members of U.S. Special Counsel Jack Smith's office had clashed in a joint court over when to schedule the proceeding. Prosecutors had said they were available all week, while Trump's lawyers had asked for a postponement until early next week. Also Read | Wagner reaping benefits from instability in Niger, says US State Secretary Antony Blinken Friday's hearing comes after Trump's defense team on Monday opposed a request from prosecutors for Chutkan to impose a protective order to ensure confidential evidence is not shared publicly by Trump, suggesting he could use the information to intimidate witnesses. Trump has pleaded not guilty and called the charges politically motivated. Trump's attorneys said limits would infringe on his right to free speech, protected by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Trump is not expected to be present in the courtroom on Friday, after Chutkan waived his appearance. Typically, defense lawyers do not oppose such protective orders because doing so can delay the government from producing the evidence it intends to use at trial in a process known as discovery. The disagreement between the parties over the hearing date represented the latest effort by Trump's team to delay or slow legal proceedings. Also Read | Man gets furious and locks ex-colleagues at former workplace after being fired from job It also underscored the logistical challenges that Trump's team may have as it continues to represent him in two separate federal criminal cases brought by Smith's office, one in Washington, D.C., and the other in southern Florida, where Trump is charged with retaining highly classified records after leaving the White House and obstructing the government's efforts to have the records returned. Trump also pleaded not guilty in that case. Watch | Nepal initiates investigation against former Prime Ministers × One of Trump's attorneys, Todd Blanche, will be in federal court in Florida on Thursday for an arraignment, after the government filed a superseding indictment that charged Trump with additional criminal counts and also charged another one of his employees in the case. In the joint Washington filing, Trump's lawyers said Trump wished for both Blanche and his other lawyer John Lauro to be present for the hearing before Chutkan. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

US judge sets hearing on evidence in Trump's 2020 election case

The upcoming general elections in Pakistan, which are scheduled for later this year, could be delayed by many months due to the use of a new census. It may take over four months to complete the census process and create new parliamentary borders, according to Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar.

Will Pakistan conduct elections this year?

<p>United States 2024 presidential hopeful and rightwing Florida governor Ron DeSantis faced wide condemnation after he stated that if he gets elected to the White House, he will “start slitting throats” in the country's federal bureaucracy from the first day he comes in power.<br />
<br />
National Treasury Employees Union president Tony Reardon called the comments of hardline Republicans “repulsive and unworthy of the presidential campaign trail”.<br />
<br />
As reported by The Guardian, American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) President Everett Kelley said, “Governor DeSantis’ threat to ‘start slitting throats’ of federal employees is dangerous, disgusting, disgraceful and disqualifying.”<br />
<br />
Among other commentators, columnist Max Boot said that the words of DeSantis were “deranged” while founder of the Bulwark, a conservative site, Bill Kristol said that the governor was “making a bold play to dominate the maniacal psychopath lane in the Republican primary”.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-widens-lead-over-desantis-with-record-54-per-cent-support-even-as-legal-challenges-mount-621349">Trump widens lead over DeSantis with record 54% support even as legal challenges mount</a></p>

<p>DeSantis has been clearly in second place in the Republican primary but is lagging behind Donald Trump by more than 30 points in most averages, notwithstanding proliferating legal jeopardy of the former president, which includes 78 criminal charges.<br />
<br />
The comment about slitting throats was made by DeSantis at an event in the second state to vote New Hampshire, as reported by The Guardian.<br />
<br />
“On bureaucracy, you know, we’re going to have all these deep state people, you know, we’re going to start slitting throats on day one and be ready to go,” DeSantis stated. “You’re going to see a huge, huge outcry because Washington wants to protect its own,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>DeSantis uses line ‘slitting throats’ often</strong></h2>

<p>The line “slitting throats” has been used by DeSantis even before. Last week, he had said to rightwing columnist John Solomon that he wished to appoint a defence secretary who can “slit some throats” and be “very firm, very strong”.<br />
<br />
Condemning remarks of DeSantis, Kelley said, “Federal employees – over a third of whom are veterans now wearing their second uniform in service to their country – have dedicated their lives to serving their fellow Americans.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;‘Peaky Blinders’ team condemns Ron DeSantis campaign's ‘homophobic’ post</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/peaky-blinders-team-condemns-ron-desantis-campaigns-homophobic-post-612566/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“They support our military, provide healthcare to our nation’s veterans, enforce our laws, safeguard our communities, deliver benefits to America’s most vulnerable citizens, keep our skies safe for air travel, protect human health and our environment, and much more,” he added.<br />
<br />
“These public servants deserve respect and commendation from our nation’s leaders. No federal employee should face death threats from anyone, least of all from someone seeking to lead the US government. Governor DeSantis must retract his irresponsible statement,” he stated.</p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<main>
<section>
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-25="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-30="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</section>
</main>


United States 2024 presidential hopeful and rightwing Florida governor Ron DeSantis faced wide condemnation after he stated that if he gets elected to the White House, he will “start slitting throats” in the country's federal bureaucracy from the first day he comes in power.

United States 2024 presidential hopeful and rightwing Florida governor Ron DeSantis faced wide condemnation after he stated that if he gets elected to the White House, he will “start slitting throats” in the country's federal bureaucracy from the first day he comes in power. National Treasury Employees Union president Tony Reardon called the comments of hardline Republicans “repulsive and unworthy of the presidential campaign trail”. As reported by The Guardian, American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) President Everett Kelley said, “Governor DeSantis’ threat to ‘start slitting throats’ of federal employees is dangerous, disgusting, disgraceful and disqualifying.” Among other commentators, columnist Max Boot said that the words of DeSantis were “deranged” while founder of the Bulwark, a conservative site, Bill Kristol said that the governor was “making a bold play to dominate the maniacal psychopath lane in the Republican primary”. ALSO READ | Trump widens lead over DeSantis with record 54% support even as legal challenges mount DeSantis has been clearly in second place in the Republican primary but is lagging behind Donald Trump by more than 30 points in most averages, notwithstanding proliferating legal jeopardy of the former president, which includes 78 criminal charges. The comment about slitting throats was made by DeSantis at an event in the second state to vote New Hampshire, as reported by The Guardian. “On bureaucracy, you know, we’re going to have all these deep state people, you know, we’re going to start slitting throats on day one and be ready to go,” DeSantis stated. “You’re going to see a huge, huge outcry because Washington wants to protect its own,” he added. DeSantis uses line ‘slitting throats’ often The line “slitting throats” has been used by DeSantis even before. Last week, he had said to rightwing columnist John Solomon that he wished to appoint a defence secretary who can “slit some throats” and be “very firm, very strong”. Condemning remarks of DeSantis, Kelley said, “Federal employees – over a third of whom are veterans now wearing their second uniform in service to their country – have dedicated their lives to serving their fellow Americans.” WATCH | ‘Peaky Blinders’ team condemns Ron DeSantis campaign's ‘homophobic’ post “They support our military, provide healthcare to our nation’s veterans, enforce our laws, safeguard our communities, deliver benefits to America’s most vulnerable citizens, keep our skies safe for air travel, protect human health and our environment, and much more,” he added. “These public servants deserve respect and commendation from our nation’s leaders. No federal employee should face death threats from anyone, least of all from someone seeking to lead the US government. Governor DeSantis must retract his irresponsible statement,” he stated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: DeSantis says will ‘start slitting throats’ in federal bureaucracy if elected, sparks outrage

elections-0

Elections, News on Elections, stories on Elections, articles on Elections, Elections stories at Wion, Elections news, Elections latest news

elections 0