Joe Biden is expected to announce is re-election bid in the age of 82. He is already the oldest President the country has ever seen. Doubts like will he be able to able to win his nomination smoothly, are arising. To know more, watch the video.

82 year old Biden to kick-off 2024 Election Campaign

Sri Lanka's election body on Tuesday said the local body polls scheduled to be held on April 25 have now been postponed indefinitely due to an acute shortage of funds.

Sri Lanka's local body elections delayed due to lack of funds: Poll Body

A year after crisis-hit Sri Lankans stood in long queues outside fuel stations, foreign oil companies will be able to sell fuel in the island nation at a lower rate than what the state-owned oil firm sells at.

Sri Lanka allows 3 foreign oil companies to sell fuel

An Indonesian court on Tuesday overturned a lower court's controversial order to delay 2024 presidential and general elections by two years. The Jakarta High Court said the lower court last month had no jurisdiction to make the decision.

Indonesian court overturns order to delay 2024 elections

A survey revealed that former US president Donald Trump's chances of winning the Republican nomination for the 2024 election are high. It also shows that Americans are divided in their opinion of Trump's felony charges. According to the results of the Reuters/Ipsos survey, which was released on Thursday, 49% of all Americans believe that it was appropriate for prosecutors to file the first criminal case against a&nbsp;former president.

New York City prosecutors indicted Trump on 34 felony counts of falsifying business&nbsp;records on Tuesday. Following this major development that has brought Trump and adult star Stormy Daniels into the spotlight in the US and all around the world, the&nbsp;survey was conducted on Wednesday and Thursday.

<h2>Democrats and Republicans divided over Trump case&nbsp;</h2>

Republicans and Democrats seemed to be sharply divided over the case. Just 16% of Republicans believed that the accusations were justified, compared to 84% of self-described Democrats.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/king-charles-backs-research-to-investigate-links-between-royal-family-and-slavery-579975">King Charles backs research to investigate links between royal family and slavery</a>

Around 40% of Republicans indicated they would be more inclined to vote for Trump in 2024 as a result of the case, while 12% said they would be less likely to do so. 38% of respondents claimed it had no effect.

<h2>Do Republicans support Trump's nomination for 2024 presidential election?</h2>

As Trump eyes the 2024 Presidential race, the first step would be the Republican nomination for the next year's elections. 58% of Republicans favour Trump as their choice for nominee. It is an uptick from 48% which was stated in a Reuters/Ipsos poll released on Monday. Ron DeSantis, the governor of Florida, came&nbsp;second in the survey&nbsp;with 21% of the vote.&nbsp;

<h2>What do Americans think of law enforcement agencies in Trump case?&nbsp;</h2>

Although the survey&nbsp;revealed a wide&nbsp;agreement that Trump set up payments to model Karen McDougal and porn star Stormy Daniels to silence them about alleged extramarital affairs.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-posing-as-fraud-prevention-specialist-dupes-many-us-elderly-gets-33-months-prison-term-579966">Indian posing as fraud prevention specialist dupes many US elderly, gets 33 months prison term</a>

It is the&nbsp;opinion of 73% of Americans, including 55% of Republicans. Nevertheless, compared to 34% of Democrats, 76% of Republicans believe that certain members of law enforcement agencies&nbsp;are conducting investigations that are politically motivated in an effort to discredit Trump.

<h2>Should Trump be disqualified?&nbsp;</h2>

Just 18% of Republicans, but 51% of all respondents, agreed that Trump should be barred from running for president again because of the allegations.

Watch | Rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia hold first high-level talks in seven years

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<h2>Survey credibility&nbsp;</h2>

The credibility interval, a metric of precision, for the poll of 1,004 American adults is plus or minus 3.8 percentage points for all respondents and plus or minus 6.3 percentage points for the 368 Republicans who took part in the study.

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A survey revealed that former US president Donald Trump's chances of winning the Republican nomination for the 2024 election are high. It also shows that Americans are divided in their opinion of Trump's felony charges.

A survey revealed that former US president Donald Trump's chances of winning the Republican nomination for the 2024 election are high. It also shows that Americans are divided in their opinion of Trump's felony charges. According to the results of the Reuters/Ipsos survey, which was released on Thursday, 49% of all Americans believe that it was appropriate for prosecutors to file the first criminal case against a former president. New York City prosecutors indicted Trump on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records on Tuesday. Following this major development that has brought Trump and adult star Stormy Daniels into the spotlight in the US and all around the world, the survey was conducted on Wednesday and Thursday. Democrats and Republicans divided over Trump case Republicans and Democrats seemed to be sharply divided over the case. Just 16% of Republicans believed that the accusations were justified, compared to 84% of self-described Democrats. Also Read | King Charles backs research to investigate links between royal family and slavery Around 40% of Republicans indicated they would be more inclined to vote for Trump in 2024 as a result of the case, while 12% said they would be less likely to do so. 38% of respondents claimed it had no effect. Do Republicans support Trump's nomination for 2024 presidential election? As Trump eyes the 2024 Presidential race, the first step would be the Republican nomination for the next year's elections. 58% of Republicans favour Trump as their choice for nominee. It is an uptick from 48% which was stated in a Reuters/Ipsos poll released on Monday. Ron DeSantis, the governor of Florida, came second in the survey with 21% of the vote. What do Americans think of law enforcement agencies in Trump case? Although the survey revealed a wide agreement that Trump set up payments to model Karen McDougal and porn star Stormy Daniels to silence them about alleged extramarital affairs. Also Read | Indian posing as fraud prevention specialist dupes many US elderly, gets 33 months prison term It is the opinion of 73% of Americans, including 55% of Republicans. Nevertheless, compared to 34% of Democrats, 76% of Republicans believe that certain members of law enforcement agencies are conducting investigations that are politically motivated in an effort to discredit Trump. Should Trump be disqualified? Just 18% of Republicans, but 51% of all respondents, agreed that Trump should be barred from running for president again because of the allegations. Watch | Rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia hold first high-level talks in seven years × Survey credibility The credibility interval, a metric of precision, for the poll of 1,004 American adults is plus or minus 3.8 percentage points for all respondents and plus or minus 6.3 percentage points for the 368 Republicans who took part in the study. 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.

Trump's chances of winning Republican nomination for 2024 election high: Poll

Imran Khan,&nbsp;former prime minister of Pakistan, reportedly stated in a media report on Wednesday (April 5)&nbsp;that he was willing to wait until October if the coalition government led by the Pakistan Democratic Movement shared a plan with him for holding free and fair general elections in the country.&nbsp;

Since being ousted in April 2022,&nbsp;as a result of losing a vote of confidence in Parliament, Chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Khan has pushed for the holding of early elections nationwide. By October, general elections would be held in Pakistan thanks to the election commission.&nbsp;

As per The News, Khan, a former cricketer who is now a politician, said he was willing to wait until October for elections. But, his choice hinges on the coalition government led by the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDMreadiness )'s to delay the polls.

The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and other members of the ruling coalition form the majority of the PDM (PML-N).&nbsp;

Khan said he could postpone the elections until October if the coalition administration provided a roadmap assuring that everything would take place systematically.&nbsp;

The PTI leader thanked the Supreme Court for overturning the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) decision and ordering the Punjab Assembly elections for May 14 while speaking to his party's members and supporters through video link.&nbsp;

In a victory for the Khan-led PTI party, the three-member bench set May 14 as the date for elections in the politically significant province.

Khan said: “The incumbent government is using all tactics to escape from elections, which is a part of the London plan,” apparently referring to the former prime minister and the PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif.

Since an assassination attempt on him in November last year, Khan has been talking about a “London Plan” which as per his definition&nbsp;entails&nbsp;conspiracy regarding his murder and where commitments were made to bring “absconder” Nawaz Sharif to power as quid pro quo for agreeing to one appointment.

The last general election in Pakistan&nbsp;was held in July 2018 and the term of Pakistan’s current National Assembly is till October 2023.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Imran Khan, former prime minister of Pakistan, reportedly stated in a media report on Wednesday (April 5) that he was willing to wait until October if the coalition government led by the Pakistan Democratic Movement shared a plan with him for holding free and fair general elections in the country.

Imran Khan, former prime minister of Pakistan, reportedly stated in a media report on Wednesday (April 5) that he was willing to wait until October if the coalition government led by the Pakistan Democratic Movement shared a plan with him for holding free and fair general elections in the country. Since being ousted in April 2022, as a result of losing a vote of confidence in Parliament, Chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Khan has pushed for the holding of early elections nationwide. By October, general elections would be held in Pakistan thanks to the election commission. As per The News, Khan, a former cricketer who is now a politician, said he was willing to wait until October for elections. But, his choice hinges on the coalition government led by the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDMreadiness )'s to delay the polls. The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and other members of the ruling coalition form the majority of the PDM (PML-N). Khan said he could postpone the elections until October if the coalition administration provided a roadmap assuring that everything would take place systematically. The PTI leader thanked the Supreme Court for overturning the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) decision and ordering the Punjab Assembly elections for May 14 while speaking to his party's members and supporters through video link. In a victory for the Khan-led PTI party, the three-member bench set May 14 as the date for elections in the politically significant province. Khan said: “The incumbent government is using all tactics to escape from elections, which is a part of the London plan,” apparently referring to the former prime minister and the PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif. Since an assassination attempt on him in November last year, Khan has been talking about a “London Plan” which as per his definition entails conspiracy regarding his murder and where commitments were made to bring “absconder” Nawaz Sharif to power as quid pro quo for agreeing to one appointment. The last general election in Pakistan was held in July 2018 and the term of Pakistan’s current National Assembly is till October 2023. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan: Imran Khan ready to wait till October if ruling coalition discloses plan for general elections

The Punjab elections were scheduled by the electoral commission on dates that were deemed unlawful by the Supreme Court of Pakistan, who ruled that the elections must take place on May 14th.

Pakistan Supreme Court: Elections in Punjab to be held on May 14

On Sunday, voters in Finland will go to the polls for a general election that could result in the replacement of the prime minister and the current coalition administration. 200 seats in the Finnish Parliament are also up for election.

Finland General Elections 2023: Polling to take place on Sunday

Apart from Finland, elections are also being held in Europe's Bulgaria and Montenegro. Polls are now open for Presidential elections in Montenegro whereas Bulgaria is holding its fifth parliamentary election in just two years.

Elections being held in Finland, Bulgaria and Montenegro

The parliamentary election in Finland is underway as incumbent Prime Minister Sanna Marin is fighting hard to secure a second term at the helm amid an extremely close race between three parties.

Finland General Elections 2023: Voting underway as Sanna Marin faces tough re-election bid

Myanmar junta chief Min Aung Hlaing said Monday that he would take "decisive action" against the country’s rebel National Unity Government (NUG) and its allied ethnic armed groups.

He emphasised that martial law had been extended throughout the country in 40 townships. The&nbsp;majority of these towns are strongholds for anti-junta forces.&nbsp;To crush the resistance led by the NUG and PDFs, he commanded his soldiers to "effectively use the firearms provided."

Min Aung Hlaing remarks came as he addressed 8,000 service members Monday who attended the annual Armed Forces Day parade in Myanmar's capital Naypyidaw.

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"The terror acts of NUG and its lackey so-called People's Defence Forces (PDFs) need to be tackled for good and all," he said.&nbsp;Young and pro-democracy activists have long been vying to topple the junta joining People's Defence Force, NUG's armed wing.&nbsp;

The junta chief said that the military would then hold "free and fair elections" upon the completion of the state of emergency.&nbsp;

Apparently, Myanmar's military had planned to organise elections by August this year. However, it is likely to be delayed as in February it announced that the countrywide state of emergency would prolong for another six months. It is important to note that after seizing control in February 2021, the junta has declared three extensions of six months up until now.&nbsp;

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Junta had said that it is postponing the elections as the military did not control enough of the country for a vote to take place. In Monday address, junta chief said "serenity and stability are vital" before any election.&nbsp;

Russian-built Yak and Sukoi Su-30 jets flyovers left colours of Myanmar's national flag into the skies during Monday parade.&nbsp;

This comes as according to reports, over 3,100 people have been killed as a result of the military's crackdown on opposition since the coup. United Nations reports suggest that the coup has resulted in the displacement of more than a million people.

The Myanmar junta seized power in the country on 1 February, 2021, through a coup. The military, led by General Min Aung Hlaing, detained civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other top officials and declared a state of emergency for one year.

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Later, Suu Kyi was sentenced to 33 years in prison by the junta in December after a string of close-court trials that rights organisations have denounced as a farce.

The coup has been met with widespread condemnation from the international community, including the United States, the United Nations, and many other countries. The military's actions have sparked protests and civil unrest throughout Myanmar. Demonstrators are demanding the restoration of democracy and the release of detained political leaders.

Moreover, the military junta has been accused of committing human rights abuses, including violence against peaceful protesters, arbitrary detentions, and the use of lethal force against civilians. The situation in Myanmar remains fluid, with ongoing protests and resistance against the military regime. The military justified the coup by claiming that the November 2020 general elections were fraudulent.&nbsp;

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Myanmar junta chief Min Aung Hlaing said Monday that he would take "decisive action" against the country’s rebel National Unity Government (NUG) and its allied ethnic armed groups.

Myanmar junta chief Min Aung Hlaing said Monday that he would take "decisive action" against the country’s rebel National Unity Government (NUG) and its allied ethnic armed groups. He emphasised that martial law had been extended throughout the country in 40 townships. The majority of these towns are strongholds for anti-junta forces. To crush the resistance led by the NUG and PDFs, he commanded his soldiers to "effectively use the firearms provided." Min Aung Hlaing remarks came as he addressed 8,000 service members Monday who attended the annual Armed Forces Day parade in Myanmar's capital Naypyidaw. Also Read | Russia shells Sloviansk, two killed and 29 wounded: Official "The terror acts of NUG and its lackey so-called People's Defence Forces (PDFs) need to be tackled for good and all," he said. Young and pro-democracy activists have long been vying to topple the junta joining People's Defence Force, NUG's armed wing. The junta chief said that the military would then hold "free and fair elections" upon the completion of the state of emergency. Apparently, Myanmar's military had planned to organise elections by August this year. However, it is likely to be delayed as in February it announced that the countrywide state of emergency would prolong for another six months. It is important to note that after seizing control in February 2021, the junta has declared three extensions of six months up until now. Also Read | Iranian, Saudi foreign ministers to hold talks during Muslim holy month Junta had said that it is postponing the elections as the military did not control enough of the country for a vote to take place. In Monday address, junta chief said "serenity and stability are vital" before any election. Russian-built Yak and Sukoi Su-30 jets flyovers left colours of Myanmar's national flag into the skies during Monday parade. This comes as according to reports, over 3,100 people have been killed as a result of the military's crackdown on opposition since the coup. United Nations reports suggest that the coup has resulted in the displacement of more than a million people. The Myanmar junta seized power in the country on 1 February, 2021, through a coup. The military, led by General Min Aung Hlaing, detained civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other top officials and declared a state of emergency for one year. Watch | Scotland: SNP to announce Nicola Sturgeon's successor × Later, Suu Kyi was sentenced to 33 years in prison by the junta in December after a string of close-court trials that rights organisations have denounced as a farce. The coup has been met with widespread condemnation from the international community, including the United States, the United Nations, and many other countries. The military's actions have sparked protests and civil unrest throughout Myanmar. Demonstrators are demanding the restoration of democracy and the release of detained political leaders. Moreover, the military junta has been accused of committing human rights abuses, including violence against peaceful protesters, arbitrary detentions, and the use of lethal force against civilians. The situation in Myanmar remains fluid, with ongoing protests and resistance against the military regime. The military justified the coup by claiming that the November 2020 general elections were fraudulent. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Myanmar's junta chief pledges to root out shadow govt before elections

Iraqi lawmakers, on Monday (March 27), passed controversial amendments to the elections law which are said to have weakened the chances for smaller parties and independent candidates to win seats in future polls. The country has been facing unrest over the issues surrounding its political system which many have called corrupt.&nbsp;

More than 560 protesters and security personnel have lost their lives since 2019 amid the wave of unrest, reported Reuters. The amendments increase the size of electoral districts and reverse key articles passed ahead of the 2021 federal election which would now lead to redrawing of electoral maps to have Iraq return to one electoral district per each governorate.&nbsp;

The bill was passed by a 206-12 vote in the 329-seat parliament, while others were absent during the hours-long session. The vote which began late Sunday had previously been stalled for weeks by several Iraqi political blocs and independent parliamentarians who have rejected this amendment.&nbsp;

Independent MPs who objected to the law, staged a walkout during the previous session, causing it to be postponed over a lack of quorum. The lawmakers opposing the bills&nbsp;did something similar overnight as they began protesting and disturbed the count before&nbsp;security forces escorted them out of the parliament, reported Al Jazeera.&nbsp;

“Large parties controlling parliament plan to consolidate their powers and remove independents. They want to smash us,” said independent MP Hadi al-Salami, as per Reuters. The amendments also come after anti-government protests which demanded fairer election law and the ouster of Iraq’s ruling elite. According to media reports, on Saturday, hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Baghdad against the new election law amendments.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Iraqi lawmakers, on Monday (March 27), passed controversial amendments to the elections law which are said to have weakened the chances for smaller parties and independent candidates to win seats in future polls.

Iraqi lawmakers, on Monday (March 27), passed controversial amendments to the elections law which are said to have weakened the chances for smaller parties and independent candidates to win seats in future polls. The country has been facing unrest over the issues surrounding its political system which many have called corrupt. More than 560 protesters and security personnel have lost their lives since 2019 amid the wave of unrest, reported Reuters. The amendments increase the size of electoral districts and reverse key articles passed ahead of the 2021 federal election which would now lead to redrawing of electoral maps to have Iraq return to one electoral district per each governorate. The bill was passed by a 206-12 vote in the 329-seat parliament, while others were absent during the hours-long session. The vote which began late Sunday had previously been stalled for weeks by several Iraqi political blocs and independent parliamentarians who have rejected this amendment. Independent MPs who objected to the law, staged a walkout during the previous session, causing it to be postponed over a lack of quorum. The lawmakers opposing the bills did something similar overnight as they began protesting and disturbed the count before security forces escorted them out of the parliament, reported Al Jazeera. “Large parties controlling parliament plan to consolidate their powers and remove independents. They want to smash us,” said independent MP Hadi al-Salami, as per Reuters. The amendments also come after anti-government protests which demanded fairer election law and the ouster of Iraq’s ruling elite. According to media reports, on Saturday, hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Baghdad against the new election law amendments. (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.

Iraq’s parliament passes controversial election law amendments

The gas-rich Central Asian nation of Turkmenistan, on Sunday (March 26) held voting for its parliamentary elections. The polling stations closed at 7:00 pm (local time), with the turnout being an estimated 91.12 per cent of the 3.5 million eligible voters, said the country’s Central Elections and Referendums Board.&nbsp;

The election comes nearly a year after President Serdar Berdymukhamedov came to power a year ago following a hereditary succession. Aside from the 125 lawmakers of the unicameral parliament, called the Mejlis, the people also voted for members of the Assembly of Turkmenistan and other local government bodies who will remain in office for five years.&nbsp;

The elections were contested by 258 candidates for the 125 seats in the assembly and over 2,644 ballot boxes were set up across the country, reported Anadolu Agency. However, information about their policies was difficult to find, said a report by AFP, adding that the candidates represent three parties and several groups of citizens.&nbsp;

There is very little known about the former Soviet republic as it reportedly remains one of the most repressive and secretive states. However, Berdymukhamedov and his father had previously said that the elections will be held in line with democratic principles.&nbsp;

In 2006, former dentist and health minister Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov came to power succeeding the nation’s founding president Saparmurat Niyazov after his death. Last year, the 65-year-old Gurbanguly handed over the country to his son Serdar following a token snap election while retaining his position as a chair of the upper house of parliament.&nbsp;

Entrepreneur Maksat Redjenov from Turkmenistan told AFP, that after Serdar took over “a lot of people were expecting major reforms from the new president. We expected new factories to be built, the country to open up, the arrival of tourists, that state control would ease.” However, Turkmenistan remains one of the world’s most closed-off countries.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The gas-rich Central Asian nation of Turkmenistan, on Sunday (March 26) held voting for its parliamentary elections. The polling stations closed at 7:00 pm (local time), with the turnout being an estimated 91.

The gas-rich Central Asian nation of Turkmenistan, on Sunday (March 26) held voting for its parliamentary elections. The polling stations closed at 7:00 pm (local time), with the turnout being an estimated 91.12 per cent of the 3.5 million eligible voters, said the country’s Central Elections and Referendums Board. The election comes nearly a year after President Serdar Berdymukhamedov came to power a year ago following a hereditary succession. Aside from the 125 lawmakers of the unicameral parliament, called the Mejlis, the people also voted for members of the Assembly of Turkmenistan and other local government bodies who will remain in office for five years. The elections were contested by 258 candidates for the 125 seats in the assembly and over 2,644 ballot boxes were set up across the country, reported Anadolu Agency. However, information about their policies was difficult to find, said a report by AFP, adding that the candidates represent three parties and several groups of citizens. There is very little known about the former Soviet republic as it reportedly remains one of the most repressive and secretive states. However, Berdymukhamedov and his father had previously said that the elections will be held in line with democratic principles. In 2006, former dentist and health minister Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov came to power succeeding the nation’s founding president Saparmurat Niyazov after his death. Last year, the 65-year-old Gurbanguly handed over the country to his son Serdar following a token snap election while retaining his position as a chair of the upper house of parliament. Entrepreneur Maksat Redjenov from Turkmenistan told AFP, that after Serdar took over “a lot of people were expecting major reforms from the new president. We expected new factories to be built, the country to open up, the arrival of tourists, that state control would ease.” However, Turkmenistan remains one of the world’s most closed-off countries. (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.

Turkmenistan concludes parliamentary elections after a controlled vote

In a statement, on Friday (March 24), the Rwandan prime minister’s office said that the cabinet has decided to synchronise the dates for its parliamentary and presidential elections. This comes after a meeting was chaired by the country’s President Paul Kagame where the ministers approved his proposal to amend the constitution, reported AFP. The move will effectively delay the parliamentary ballot which was supposed to take place later this year.&nbsp;

The incumbent president who took office in April 2000 as a former rebel chief had been regarded as a de facto leader since the end of the 1994 genocide, however, he won elections in 2003, 2010 and 2017 with more than 90 per cent of the votes.&nbsp;

The idea for this was first pitched by the new head of the National Electoral Commission, Oda Gasinzigwa, in February. Notably, he is also a senior member of Kagame’s ruling Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF). Additionally, after his most recent victory, the incumbent president made constitutional amendments that allowed him to serve a third term and could see him rule until 2034.

The parliamentary ballot which was scheduled for September 2023 has now been moved to August next year, the date originally set for the presidential election. The move, however, required parliamentary approval and was approved after the meeting on Friday, which has allowed “the harmonisation of parliamentary and presidential election calendars”, said the PM’s office, as per AFP.&nbsp;

The NEC secretary general Charles Munyaneza also told local media that the change in date will help save money as both elections, “be it the parliamentary elections or the presidential” require at least $6 million. He added, “Yet about eight billion francs ($7 million) would be enough if they were held simultaneously,” reported AFP.&nbsp;

The opposition, Democratic Green Party of Rwanda’s leader Frank Habineza told AFP, “It will be cost effective both for the state and for political parties,” while welcoming the move. He added that the state will also be able to “save taxpayers’ money which could be used to construct more roads, more schools or hospitals.”&nbsp; 
 
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In a statement, on Friday (March 24), the Rwandan prime minister’s office said that the cabinet has decided to synchronise the dates for its parliamentary and presidential elections.

In a statement, on Friday (March 24), the Rwandan prime minister’s office said that the cabinet has decided to synchronise the dates for its parliamentary and presidential elections. This comes after a meeting was chaired by the country’s President Paul Kagame where the ministers approved his proposal to amend the constitution, reported AFP. The move will effectively delay the parliamentary ballot which was supposed to take place later this year. The incumbent president who took office in April 2000 as a former rebel chief had been regarded as a de facto leader since the end of the 1994 genocide, however, he won elections in 2003, 2010 and 2017 with more than 90 per cent of the votes. The idea for this was first pitched by the new head of the National Electoral Commission, Oda Gasinzigwa, in February. Notably, he is also a senior member of Kagame’s ruling Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF). Additionally, after his most recent victory, the incumbent president made constitutional amendments that allowed him to serve a third term and could see him rule until 2034. The parliamentary ballot which was scheduled for September 2023 has now been moved to August next year, the date originally set for the presidential election. The move, however, required parliamentary approval and was approved after the meeting on Friday, which has allowed “the harmonisation of parliamentary and presidential election calendars”, said the PM’s office, as per AFP. The NEC secretary general Charles Munyaneza also told local media that the change in date will help save money as both elections, “be it the parliamentary elections or the presidential” require at least $6 million. He added, “Yet about eight billion francs ($7 million) would be enough if they were held simultaneously,” reported AFP. The opposition, Democratic Green Party of Rwanda’s leader Frank Habineza told AFP, “It will be cost effective both for the state and for political parties,” while welcoming the move. He added that the state will also be able to “save taxpayers’ money which could be used to construct more roads, more schools or hospitals.” 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.

Rwanda allows ‘harmonisation’ of presidential and parliamentary elections

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that the finance ministry of the country is lacking funds for conducting elections, reported ARY News.

The revelation was made by Asif while speaking to the international media during a joint press conference along with the country's Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb.

As per ARY News, Khawaja Asif&nbsp;also&nbsp;criticised PTI chief Imran Khan and claimed that the allegation of an assassination attempt levelled by the latter was a lie.

Former army chief General Qamar Javaid Bajwa's tenure was first extended by Khan and now he is blaming Bajwa, the defence minister said.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-imf-asks-govt-to-explain-its-fuel-pricing-scheme-before-loan-deal-575391">Pakistan: IMF asks govt to explain its fuel-pricing scheme before signing loan deal</a>

The defence minister said that Imran also blamed the United States for his ouster. The minister further said that the provincial assemblies were dissolved unconstitutionally by Khan, however, through a vote of no confidence he was ousted from his seat constitutionally and now he is not willing to appear before the courts.

Asif further blamed the PTI chairman for imprisoning the leaders of PML-N during his tenure. He stated that he was jailed during the three-year tenure of Khan and his party leaders also had to face court trials in fake cases.

Asif added that everyday crises are being created by Khan but those are being tackled by the government and soon Pakistan will resolve all the crises.

He added that a false narrative was made by the former prime minister about the US conspiracy but due to the interference of the Supreme Court, the country was saved from a constitutional crisis.

Meanwhile, Imran Khan appealed that judges look into the constitutional violations that have taken place because of the general elections' postponement, reported ARY News.

WATCH | Gravitas: 'No more easy money', Saudi Arabia refuses to bailout Pakistan

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While speaking to PTI workers and supporters through a video link, Khan said that the rule of law is the nation's fundamental right.

Appealing to judges to take notice of the moves of the government, he said that Pakistan is passing through a decisive phase.

The PTI chief added that the constitution was attacked by "the ruling mafia". He asked who will guarantee that the general elections will be held on October 8.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that the finance ministry of the country is lacking funds for conducting elections, reported ARY News. The revelation was made by Asif while speaking to the international media during a joint press conference along with the country's Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb.

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that the finance ministry of the country is lacking funds for conducting elections, reported ARY News. The revelation was made by Asif while speaking to the international media during a joint press conference along with the country's Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb. As per ARY News, Khawaja Asif also criticised PTI chief Imran Khan and claimed that the allegation of an assassination attempt levelled by the latter was a lie. Former army chief General Qamar Javaid Bajwa's tenure was first extended by Khan and now he is blaming Bajwa, the defence minister said. ALSO READ | Pakistan: IMF asks govt to explain its fuel-pricing scheme before signing loan deal The defence minister said that Imran also blamed the United States for his ouster. The minister further said that the provincial assemblies were dissolved unconstitutionally by Khan, however, through a vote of no confidence he was ousted from his seat constitutionally and now he is not willing to appear before the courts. Asif further blamed the PTI chairman for imprisoning the leaders of PML-N during his tenure. He stated that he was jailed during the three-year tenure of Khan and his party leaders also had to face court trials in fake cases. Asif added that everyday crises are being created by Khan but those are being tackled by the government and soon Pakistan will resolve all the crises. He added that a false narrative was made by the former prime minister about the US conspiracy but due to the interference of the Supreme Court, the country was saved from a constitutional crisis. Meanwhile, Imran Khan appealed that judges look into the constitutional violations that have taken place because of the general elections' postponement, reported ARY News. WATCH | Gravitas: 'No more easy money', Saudi Arabia refuses to bailout Pakistan While speaking to PTI workers and supporters through a video link, Khan said that the rule of law is the nation's fundamental right. Appealing to judges to take notice of the moves of the government, he said that Pakistan is passing through a decisive phase. The PTI chief added that the constitution was attacked by "the ruling mafia". He asked who will guarantee that the general elections will be held on October 8. (With inputs from agencies) 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

Pakistan's finance ministry does not have funds to conduct elections, says defence minister

The IMF has approved a $3 billion bailout programme to help debt-ridden Sri Lanka overcome its economic crisis and catalyse financial support from other development partners, a move welcomed by Colombo on Tuesday as a "historic milestone" in the critical period.

IMF approves $3 billion in financial assistance for debt-ridden Sri Lanka

Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's party is expected to win a big victory in snap elections, voting for which took place on Sunday (March 19). A stronger mandate from the voters is likely to help the president to find way through regional turmoil caused by Russia's invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

Although he formally became president in 2019, Tokayev, 69, had remained in the shadow of his predecessor and former patron Nursultan Nazarbayev until January 2022, when the two fell out amid an attempted coup and violent unrest.

After he suppressed the political unrest in the oil-rich Central Asian country, Tojkayev sidelined Nazarbayev and had number of his associates removed from senior public sector positions. Some of those who were removed would late face corruption charges.

While Tokayev has reshuffled the government, the lower house of parliament - elected when Nazarbayev still had sweeping powers and led the ruling Nur Otan party - was not due for election until 2026, and the president called a snap vote.

Unlike Nazarbayev, Tokayev has chosen not to lead the ruling party, rebranded Amanat, but polls show it is likely to retain a comfortable majority and form the core of his support base in the legislature, especially in the absence of strong opposition parties on the ballot.

However, in what is a first in almost twenty years, several opposition figures are running as independents. This has created space for some government critics to win a limited number of seats.

Still, in Almaty, Kazakhstan's biggest city which usually shows most support for opposition, voting appeared slow on Sunday morning amid heavy police presence on the streets.

"We keep complaining that nothing changes in our country and we ourselves take no part in our country's political life," said Yevgeniya, a 36-year-old marketing executive who declined to give her last name or say for whom she voted. "Going out and voting is the least we can do to bring about change."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's party is expected to win a big victory in snap elections, voting for which took place on Sunday (March 19). A stronger mandate from the voters is likely to help the president to find way through regional turmoil caused by Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's party is expected to win a big victory in snap elections, voting for which took place on Sunday (March 19). A stronger mandate from the voters is likely to help the president to find way through regional turmoil caused by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Although he formally became president in 2019, Tokayev, 69, had remained in the shadow of his predecessor and former patron Nursultan Nazarbayev until January 2022, when the two fell out amid an attempted coup and violent unrest. After he suppressed the political unrest in the oil-rich Central Asian country, Tojkayev sidelined Nazarbayev and had number of his associates removed from senior public sector positions. Some of those who were removed would late face corruption charges. While Tokayev has reshuffled the government, the lower house of parliament - elected when Nazarbayev still had sweeping powers and led the ruling Nur Otan party - was not due for election until 2026, and the president called a snap vote. Unlike Nazarbayev, Tokayev has chosen not to lead the ruling party, rebranded Amanat, but polls show it is likely to retain a comfortable majority and form the core of his support base in the legislature, especially in the absence of strong opposition parties on the ballot. However, in what is a first in almost twenty years, several opposition figures are running as independents. This has created space for some government critics to win a limited number of seats. Still, in Almaty, Kazakhstan's biggest city which usually shows most support for opposition, voting appeared slow on Sunday morning amid heavy police presence on the streets. "We keep complaining that nothing changes in our country and we ourselves take no part in our country's political life," said Yevgeniya, a 36-year-old marketing executive who declined to give her last name or say for whom she voted. "Going out and voting is the least we can do to bring about change." (With inputs from agencies) 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 ×

Kazakhstan elections: Ruling party expected to solidify grip on power

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Turkey will hold presidential and parliamentary elections on may 14. With Erdogan in power for 20 years, the elections could be Erdogan's biggest challenge as the country still reels under the aftereffects of the devastating earthquake last month.

The West Asia Post: Turkey to hold elections on May 14

Sri Lanka’s Election Commission recently told the country’s Supreme Court that it does not have the funds to conduct the local body polls. Watch the video to know more.

Sri Lanka economic crisis hurts local polls

The Tunisian parliament held its first session with the recently elected members, on Monday (March 13), nearly 20 months after it was suspended in July 2021. The members who were chosen in an election which took place in December and January with a voter turnout of 11 per cent, began the session which was closed to all but the state media. Reportedly, independent or foreign journalists were barred from entering the parliament building.&nbsp;

The north African country has recently witnessed widespread protests organised by different groups including the opposition coalition, its powerful labour union UGTT, journalists, and so on. In 2021, incumbent President Kais Saied shut down the previously elected parliament, a move which has been described as a power grab and a coup by many in the country.&nbsp;

What happened during the session?

Being the oldest in the new parliament, MP Saleh Mbarki from the Kabaria constituency chaired the opening session and said, “Our duties as people's representatives are to work in partnership with the executive authority for the unity of the state,” reported Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisian-president-calls-for-expulsion-of-migrants-as-wave-of-crackdowns-on-dissents-continues-565946">Tunisian president calls for expulsion of migrants as crackdown on his critics continues</a>

Meanwhile, the main opposition coalition, The National Salvation Front, in a statement said they will not recognise this parliament and said that it came about via a “putschist constitution and elections shunned by the overwhelming majority of voters.”&nbsp;

The low voter turnout has been attributed to most parties boycotting the election which left candidates without party affiliation contesting in the elections. Therefore, most of the new parliament members are political independents who will not be an effective check on executive power, Tunisian activists have warned, reported the Guardian.&nbsp;

Out of the 161 seats of the Tunisian parliament, only 154 are occupied due to the lack of candidates for representatives of Tunisians living abroad. During the first session of the new parliament, on Monday, lawmakers elected their speaker, Ibrahim Bouderbala, the former president of the Bar Association and supposedly a staunch supporter of Saied, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tunisia-elections-tunisians-turn-their-back-on-election-and-presidents-agenda-557123">Tunisia Elections: Tunisians turn their back on election and President's agenda</a>

Notably, the new parliament will not have the same power that the previous one did as Saied sacked the government, froze parliament, and seized almost total power of the country in 2021 after which he also wrote a new constitution last year.&nbsp;

According to this new constitution, the parliament cannot impeach the president or even hold the government accountable for their actions, as per media reports. Additionally, bills proposed by the president, in this Saied, will be prioritised as opposed to those put forward by other lawmakers.&nbsp;

Journalists barred from attending the first session

For the first time since the 2011 revolution when ousted late dictator Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali was in power Tunisia witnessed a ban on journalists. As only journalists from state-controlled media like the state TV, radio, and news agency were allowed to cover the proceedings of the first session of the new parliament on Monday. Meanwhile, journalists from foreign and private outlets were barred from the parliament building.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tunisia-thousands-protests-against-pres-policies-govt-expels-european-trade-union-chief-for-participating-563644">Tunisia: Govt expels ETUC chief for participating in protests against president’s policies</a> 
 
“Lawmakers it is a shame. The press is under siege”, journalists outside the building chanted as per Reuters. The move was also defended by Fatma Mseddi, a newly elected MP who said that the decision was taken to avoid “disorder” and convey an “inappropriate image”. The national union of journalists in Tunisia also issued a statement which draws parallels between the current situation and the pre-revolution time.&nbsp;

Amira Mohamed, vice president of the SNJT, told Reuters how the move is a “scandal and a serious violation of press freedom”. She added, “It harms the image of Tunisia and attacks the citizen's right to a free and pluralistic media.” Previously, speaking to the independent radio station Mosaique FM in Tunisia she had also said that media was being censored and that the union would “opt for escalation” if this ban continues.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The Tunisian parliament held its first session with the recently elected members, on Monday (March 13), nearly 20 months after it was suspended in July 2021. The members who were chosen in an election which took place in December and January with a voter turnout of 11 per cent, began the session which was closed to all but the state media.

The Tunisian parliament held its first session with the recently elected members, on Monday (March 13), nearly 20 months after it was suspended in July 2021. The members who were chosen in an election which took place in December and January with a voter turnout of 11 per cent, began the session which was closed to all but the state media. Reportedly, independent or foreign journalists were barred from entering the parliament building. The north African country has recently witnessed widespread protests organised by different groups including the opposition coalition, its powerful labour union UGTT, journalists, and so on. In 2021, incumbent President Kais Saied shut down the previously elected parliament, a move which has been described as a power grab and a coup by many in the country. What happened during the session? Being the oldest in the new parliament, MP Saleh Mbarki from the Kabaria constituency chaired the opening session and said, “Our duties as people's representatives are to work in partnership with the executive authority for the unity of the state,” reported Reuters. ALSO READ | Tunisian president calls for expulsion of migrants as crackdown on his critics continues Meanwhile, the main opposition coalition, The National Salvation Front, in a statement said they will not recognise this parliament and said that it came about via a “putschist constitution and elections shunned by the overwhelming majority of voters.” The low voter turnout has been attributed to most parties boycotting the election which left candidates without party affiliation contesting in the elections. Therefore, most of the new parliament members are political independents who will not be an effective check on executive power, Tunisian activists have warned, reported the Guardian. Out of the 161 seats of the Tunisian parliament, only 154 are occupied due to the lack of candidates for representatives of Tunisians living abroad. During the first session of the new parliament, on Monday, lawmakers elected their speaker, Ibrahim Bouderbala, the former president of the Bar Association and supposedly a staunch supporter of Saied, reported Reuters. ALSO WATCH | Tunisia Elections: Tunisians turn their back on election and President's agenda Notably, the new parliament will not have the same power that the previous one did as Saied sacked the government, froze parliament, and seized almost total power of the country in 2021 after which he also wrote a new constitution last year. According to this new constitution, the parliament cannot impeach the president or even hold the government accountable for their actions, as per media reports. Additionally, bills proposed by the president, in this Saied, will be prioritised as opposed to those put forward by other lawmakers. Journalists barred from attending the first session For the first time since the 2011 revolution when ousted late dictator Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali was in power Tunisia witnessed a ban on journalists. As only journalists from state-controlled media like the state TV, radio, and news agency were allowed to cover the proceedings of the first session of the new parliament on Monday. Meanwhile, journalists from foreign and private outlets were barred from the parliament building. ALSO READ | Tunisia: Govt expels ETUC chief for participating in protests against president’s policies “Lawmakers it is a shame. The press is under siege”, journalists outside the building chanted as per Reuters. The move was also defended by Fatma Mseddi, a newly elected MP who said that the decision was taken to avoid “disorder” and convey an “inappropriate image”. The national union of journalists in Tunisia also issued a statement which draws parallels between the current situation and the pre-revolution time. Amira Mohamed, vice president of the SNJT, told Reuters how the move is a “scandal and a serious violation of press freedom”. She added, “It harms the image of Tunisia and attacks the citizen's right to a free and pluralistic media.” Previously, speaking to the independent radio station Mosaique FM in Tunisia she had also said that media was being censored and that the union would “opt for escalation” if this ban continues. (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.

Tunisian parliament convenes for the first time since 2021 suspension. Here's what happened

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is seeking to continue his two decades in office,&nbsp;officially set the country's parliamentary&nbsp;and presidential elections on May 14, in spite of last month's deadly earthquake, as reported by AFP.

The country could see the biggest vote in decades during the election. Whether the nation moves in the direction of more democracy or stays on the strongman politician's increasingly authoritarian road depends on this.

Erdogan has been in power in Turkey&nbsp;since 2003, first as prime minister and since 2014 as president, but this year's elections may present him with his greatest challenge.

The economy of the nation is in turmoil, inflation is out of control, and the country is still dealing with the effects of a devastating earthquake that killed more than 46,000 people and caused hundreds of thousands of people in 11 Turkish provinces to seek temporary refuge in tents.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="Turkey-Syria earthquake: UN estimates damages of over $100 billion">Turkey-Syria earthquake: UN estimates damages of over $100 billion</a>

Several have criticised his government's reaction to the earthquake and charged that it did not adequately prepare the seismically active nation for an impending tragedy.

The failure to enforce construction rules, according to experts, was a key factor in the earthquake's high death toll, as per an AFP report.&nbsp;

The fragmented opposition groups in Turkey, which include nationalists, Islamists, and conservatives, put an end to a month of uncertainty earlier this week by endorsing a unified candidate to challenge Erdogan.

The 74-year-old head of the centrist, secular Republican People's Party, or CHP, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, has the support of the six opposition parties, who have vowed to stop the erosion of rights and freedoms.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is seeking to continue his two decades in office, officially set the country's parliamentary and presidential elections on May 14, in spite of last month's deadly earthquake, as reported by AFP.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is seeking to continue his two decades in office, officially set the country's parliamentary and presidential elections on May 14, in spite of last month's deadly earthquake, as reported by AFP. The country could see the biggest vote in decades during the election. Whether the nation moves in the direction of more democracy or stays on the strongman politician's increasingly authoritarian road depends on this. Erdogan has been in power in Turkey since 2003, first as prime minister and since 2014 as president, but this year's elections may present him with his greatest challenge. The economy of the nation is in turmoil, inflation is out of control, and the country is still dealing with the effects of a devastating earthquake that killed more than 46,000 people and caused hundreds of thousands of people in 11 Turkish provinces to seek temporary refuge in tents. ALSO READ | Turkey-Syria earthquake: UN estimates damages of over $100 billion Several have criticised his government's reaction to the earthquake and charged that it did not adequately prepare the seismically active nation for an impending tragedy. The failure to enforce construction rules, according to experts, was a key factor in the earthquake's high death toll, as per an AFP report. The fragmented opposition groups in Turkey, which include nationalists, Islamists, and conservatives, put an end to a month of uncertainty earlier this week by endorsing a unified candidate to challenge Erdogan. The 74-year-old head of the centrist, secular Republican People's Party, or CHP, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, has the support of the six opposition parties, who have vowed to stop the erosion of rights and freedoms. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Turkey: Erdogan schedules presidential, parliamentary elections for May 14

Ram Chandra Poudel of the Nepali Congress was elected as the third president of Nepal on Thursday (March 9).&nbsp;Poudel, a common candidate of an eight-party coalition that comprised the Nepali Congress and the CPN (Maoist Centre), won the support of 214 members of parliament and 352 members of provincial assemblies.

A total of 882 voters, including 332 members of the parliament and 550 representatives from each of the seven provincial assembly, voted to elect the president.

“Hearty congratulations to my friend Ram Candra Poudelji for being elected as the President,” Nepali Congress chief Sher Bahadur Deuba tweeted.

Shaligram, the spokesperson for the Election Commission, stated that 313 members of the Federal Parliament and 518 members of Provincial Assemblies voted in the presidential election.

Nepal is witnessing its third presidential election since the country became a republic in 2008.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is Ram Chandra Poudel?</h2>

Aside from being a prominent figure in the Nepali Congress and a member of its central committee, Poudel&nbsp;is also a well-known writer who has authored several novels and has won numerous literary honours, said a&nbsp;report by the Hindustan Times.&nbsp;

He presided over the lowest chamber of the Nepalese Parliament, the Pratinidhi Sabha (House of Representatives). His tenure as a member of parliament spans many terms.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/who-is-faiz-hamid-former-spy-chief-of-pakistan-why-is-maryam-nawaz-demanding-his-court-martial-570215">Who is Faiz Hamid—former spy chief of Pakistan? Why is Maryam Nawaz demanding his court martial?</a>

Over his political career, the senior figure held a number of significant positions, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs, among others.

He earned his MA in literature from Tribhuvan University in Kathmandu in 1970.&nbsp;He took his exams while under detention as an anti-panchayat leader.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Ram Chandra Poudel of the Nepali Congress was elected as the third president of Nepal on Thursday (March 9). Poudel, a common candidate of an eight-party coalition that comprised the Nepali Congress and the CPN (Maoist Centre), won the support of 214 members of parliament and 352 members of provincial assemblies.

Ram Chandra Poudel of the Nepali Congress was elected as the third president of Nepal on Thursday (March 9). Poudel, a common candidate of an eight-party coalition that comprised the Nepali Congress and the CPN (Maoist Centre), won the support of 214 members of parliament and 352 members of provincial assemblies. A total of 882 voters, including 332 members of the parliament and 550 representatives from each of the seven provincial assembly, voted to elect the president. “Hearty congratulations to my friend Ram Candra Poudelji for being elected as the President,” Nepali Congress chief Sher Bahadur Deuba tweeted. Shaligram, the spokesperson for the Election Commission, stated that 313 members of the Federal Parliament and 518 members of Provincial Assemblies voted in the presidential election. Nepal is witnessing its third presidential election since the country became a republic in 2008. Who is Ram Chandra Poudel? Aside from being a prominent figure in the Nepali Congress and a member of its central committee, Poudel is also a well-known writer who has authored several novels and has won numerous literary honours, said a report by the Hindustan Times. He presided over the lowest chamber of the Nepalese Parliament, the Pratinidhi Sabha (House of Representatives). His tenure as a member of parliament spans many terms. ALSO READ | Who is Faiz Hamid—former spy chief of Pakistan? Why is Maryam Nawaz demanding his court martial? Over his political career, the senior figure held a number of significant positions, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs, among others. He earned his MA in literature from Tribhuvan University in Kathmandu in 1970. He took his exams while under detention as an anti-panchayat leader. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Who is Ram Chandra Poudel? The newly-elected president of Nepal

The Reform party of Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas won the parliamentary election on Sunday (March 5), with Tallinn's (the capital and most populous city of Estonia) administration remaining one of Europe's most ardently pro-Kyiv, as reported by Reuters.

With 98 per cent&nbsp;of the votes tallied, the results put Kallas' liberal party in second place with 16.1 per cent of the vote behind the far-right EKRE party's 31.5 per cent, reflecting voter concerns over rising living costs following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The Baltic nation's pro-European direction would be cemented if Kallas, 45, is successful in putting together a coalition.

After the election, Kallas claimed that her party was in a good position to create a coalition administration that would continue to put pressure on Russia.

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungarian-mps-plan-to-visit-sweden-on-march-7-to-discuss-nato-bid-stockholm-567720">Hungarian MPs plan to visit Sweden on March 7 to discuss NATO bid: Stockholm</a>

"We ... have to invest in our security, our aggressive neighbour has not vanished and will not vanish, so we have to work with that", she told reporters at a central Tallin hotel where party supporters gathered for the evening.

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A man casts his vote during a general election in Parnu,&nbsp;Estonia&nbsp;March 5, 2023. Photo credits: Reuters

2019 saw the Reform party win an election, but the three smaller parties that eventually formed a government prevented it from taking office. It split in 2021, paving the way for Kallas to take leadership and form a coalition.

The opposition party, EKRE had pledged to reduce energy costs by resisting the switch to green energy and to avoid taking in new Ukrainian conflict refugees throughout the campaign.

The party also criticised Kallas' strategy of transferring large amounts of weaponry to Ukraine, claiming it ignored that nation's own defence requirements.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Reform party of Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas won the parliamentary election on Sunday (March 5), with Tallinn's (the capital and most populous city of Estonia) administration remaining one of Europe's most ardently pro-Kyiv, as reported by Reuters.

The Reform party of Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas won the parliamentary election on Sunday (March 5), with Tallinn's (the capital and most populous city of Estonia) administration remaining one of Europe's most ardently pro-Kyiv, as reported by Reuters. With 98 per cent of the votes tallied, the results put Kallas' liberal party in second place with 16.1 per cent of the vote behind the far-right EKRE party's 31.5 per cent, reflecting voter concerns over rising living costs following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Baltic nation's pro-European direction would be cemented if Kallas, 45, is successful in putting together a coalition. After the election, Kallas claimed that her party was in a good position to create a coalition administration that would continue to put pressure on Russia. #UPDATE Prime Minister Kaja Kallas's centre-right Reform Party won Estonia's general election by a wide margin on Sunday, according to near-complete results, beating out a far-right rival that had campaigned against further arms deliveries to Ukrainehttps://t.co/OxbHZNb1Bo pic.twitter.com/f0UbioUNSw — AFP News Agency (@AFP) March 6, 2023 × ALSO READ | Hungarian MPs plan to visit Sweden on March 7 to discuss NATO bid: Stockholm "We ... have to invest in our security, our aggressive neighbour has not vanished and will not vanish, so we have to work with that", she told reporters at a central Tallin hotel where party supporters gathered for the evening. A man casts his vote during a general election in Parnu, Estonia March 5, 2023. Photo credits: Reuters 2019 saw the Reform party win an election, but the three smaller parties that eventually formed a government prevented it from taking office. It split in 2021, paving the way for Kallas to take leadership and form a coalition. The opposition party, EKRE had pledged to reduce energy costs by resisting the switch to green energy and to avoid taking in new Ukrainian conflict refugees throughout the campaign. The party also criticised Kallas' strategy of transferring large amounts of weaponry to Ukraine, claiming it ignored that nation's own defence requirements. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Estonia elections: PM Kallas secures big win for Reform party, to continue backing Ukraine

Nagaland&nbsp;elected its first female Member of the Legislative Assembly&nbsp;(MLA) on Thursday (March 2). Hekani Jakhalu, a member of the&nbsp;Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party, a regional political party in the Indian state of Nagaland&nbsp;(NDPP), an ally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has won the Dimapur-III seat.

Jakhalu won the Dimapur III seat by defeating Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) leader Azheto Zhimomi by 1,536 votes, as per PTI reports.&nbsp;

Out of the 183 candidates that ran in the Nagaland assembly elections, the lawyer and activist, 48, was one of four women.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-says-northeastern-states-neither-far-from-delhi-nor-from-our-heart-567815">PM Modi says Northeastern states neither far from Delhi nor from 'our heart'</a>

Four women candidates - Hekhani Jakhaulu, Salhoutuo Kruse, Hukali Sema and Rosy Thompson contested the Nagaland Assembly election this year.

Salhoutuonuo Kruse, another female contender and member of the NDPP, is in the lead for the Western Angami seat.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Indian Supreme Court's 'Historic' ruling

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As counting continues, the NDPP-BJP coalition, which won three seats, is expected to retain power in&nbsp;Nagaland, where counting has already begun, as per NDTV reports.&nbsp;

The Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party, led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, has been associated&nbsp;with the BJP since the last elections in 2018. The alliance had won 30 seats in the previous elections while the Naga&nbsp;People's Front (NPF) won 26, as per PTI.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Nagaland elected its first female Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) on Thursday (March 2). Hekani Jakhalu, a member of the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party, a regional political party in the Indian state of Nagaland (NDPP), an ally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has won the Dimapur-III seat.

Nagaland elected its first female Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) on Thursday (March 2). Hekani Jakhalu, a member of the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party, a regional political party in the Indian state of Nagaland (NDPP), an ally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has won the Dimapur-III seat. Jakhalu won the Dimapur III seat by defeating Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) leader Azheto Zhimomi by 1,536 votes, as per PTI reports. Out of the 183 candidates that ran in the Nagaland assembly elections, the lawyer and activist, 48, was one of four women. ALSO READ | PM Modi says Northeastern states neither far from Delhi nor from 'our heart' Four women candidates - Hekhani Jakhaulu, Salhoutuo Kruse, Hukali Sema and Rosy Thompson contested the Nagaland Assembly election this year. Salhoutuonuo Kruse, another female contender and member of the NDPP, is in the lead for the Western Angami seat. ALSO WATCH | Indian Supreme Court's 'Historic' ruling As counting continues, the NDPP-BJP coalition, which won three seats, is expected to retain power in Nagaland, where counting has already begun, as per NDTV reports. The Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party, led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, has been associated with the BJP since the last elections in 2018. The alliance had won 30 seats in the previous elections while the Naga People's Front (NPF) won 26, as per PTI. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Nagaland election results 2023: Hekani Jakhalu becomes first woman MLA of the state

The former Vice President of the United States Mike Pence refrain from voicing his support for Donald Trump's 2024 re-election bid with some critics noting that sometimes silence can speak louder than words.

Mike Pence: 'Different times call for different leadership'

Tripura Election 2023: The ruling BJP has won for the second time in Tripura after it secured 32 seats, in alliance with the Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT). The Congress has secured victory in 3 seats and its ally, CPI(M), has won in 11 seats.

India: Clean sweep for BJP in Tripura elections

The PDP's Atiku Abubakar and Labour's Peter Obi are the main opposition presidential candidates in the elections held on Saturday. Opposition parties in Nigeria have called for the presidential election to be scrapped, describing it as a sham.

NIGERIA ELECTIONS: What we know so far

Bola Tinubu, the president-elect of Nigeria, has largely operated from behind the scenes during his political stint.&nbsp;He is considered a "godfather" who supports political candidates via his extensive network of patrons. With Tinubu's help, former president Muhammadu Buhari was successful in obtaining two terms in office, in 2015 and 2019.&nbsp;And Tinubu has chosen each succeeding victor to lead the greatest city in Africa since he stepped down as governor of Lagos in 2007, as per a Reuters report.&nbsp;

Tinubu’s power will now be put to the test as he works to address Nigeria's challenges and surpass Buhari's poor track record.

<h2>Bola Tinubu:&nbsp;Early life&nbsp;</h2>

Tinubu was born in Lagos, Nigeria, in 1952, to a Muslim family of the Yoruba ethnic group, which makes up the majority in southwest Nigeria, according to a biography on his <a href="https://batcampaign2023.site/">campaign website</a>.

He immigrated to the United States in the 1970s and supported his academic pursuits by working as a night guard, dishwasher, and taxi driver. He earned his business administration degree from Chicago State University in 1979, as per a Reuters report.

When he returned to Nigeria in the 1980s after working for US consulting firms, he took a job as an auditor with a branch of the Mobil oil company.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-elections-bola-tinubu-declared-president-elect-567000">Nigeria elections: Ruling party's Bola Tinubu declaared president-elect in spite of oppn uproar</a>

<h2>What is Nigeria going through?</h2>

Nigeria's economy is barely keeping up with population growth amid &nbsp;inflation and crippling cash shortages as a result of a botched launch of new banknotes, as armed groups have made large portions of the nation ungovernable.

As Tinubu ran for president under Buhari, many of these issues grew worse. While he helped shape the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party, when asked at a weekend press briefing why people should elect him, he said, “My track record should speak for me. Look at Lagos: Before I came, we had dead bodies on the road, a chaotic traffic system, and robbery daytime, and nighttime.”

“Come on: clap for me,” he added in an appearance typical of the hubris that often marks leaders of Africa’s top oil producer and most populous country, reports&nbsp;Reuters.&nbsp;

<h2>What do Tinubu's supporters view him as?</h2>

Supporters of Tinubu view him as a capable technocrat who has a history of being a successful administrator.

He co-founded and provided funding for the Alliance for Democracy, which later changed its name to the Action Congress of Nigeria, and then assisted in the formation of the APC. His supporters describe&nbsp;him as a shrewd political strategist.

He played a key role in uniting the All Progressives Congress (APC) divisions, enabling Buhari to win in 2015 and overthrow the opposition People's Democratic Party&nbsp;(PDP) after 16 years in office.

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Tinubu's political clout was largely responsible for Buhari's election, the first triumph for the opposition in the nation, and his re-election in 2019.

Opponents claim he rewards loyalists with lucrative contracts and high-paying jobs and has in the past used so-called "area boys," who formally run Lagos' streets and frequently show up at his rallies, to threaten opponents if he doesn't get his way.

The 70-year-old tends to disregard such accusations rather than respond to them. In spite of persistent attempts to respond, Tinubu's campaign spokesperson remained silent.&nbsp;

<h2>Corruption charges&nbsp;</h2>

Concerns have been raised about Tinubu's financial transactions while in office.

He is regarded&nbsp;as one of Nigeria's wealthiest politicians, and when he left the government, he was charged with money laundering, corruption, and running more than a dozen overseas bank accounts. He says he did nothing illegal and was never prosecuted, says&nbsp;a report&nbsp;by Aljazeera.&nbsp;

He was described as "wobbly, wonky, and narcotic-devastated" by PDP opponents on the campaign trail in reference to his health issues and a 1993 US court document that detailed a "drug-related confiscation of property" from his US bank account.

He has stakes in a variety of businesses, including media, aviation, tax consulting, hotels, and real estate holdings, although it is unknown where his fortune comes from.

A critic called him "a greedy politician" who had exhausted&nbsp;significant sources of income in Lagos, as per Al Jazeera.

<h2>A tight race in Nigeria</h2>

For the first time since Nigeria's military coup ended in 1999, the election was tight when Obi, 61, attracted younger voters with his message of change.

In Lagos, Tinubu's traditional stronghold and the state with the most registered voters, he achieved a significant win, as reported by AFP.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigerian-opposition-parties-protest-election-results-566845">Nigerian opposition parties protest election results</a>

The 76-year-old businessman and former vice president Abubakar failed in his sixth bid for the presidency.

The vote on Saturday was largely calm but was marred by protracted wait times at some polling places and some claims of intimidation.

Concerns of vote tampering increased when technical difficulties prevented the results from being uploaded to INEC's main website.

"The election is irretrievably compromised," Labour Party chairman Julius Abure told AFP&nbsp;on Tuesday. "We demand that this sham of an election should be immediately cancelled," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Bola Tinubu, the president-elect of Nigeria, has largely operated from behind the scenes during his political stint. He is considered a "godfather" who supports political candidates via his extensive network of patrons.

Bola Tinubu, the president-elect of Nigeria, has largely operated from behind the scenes during his political stint. He is considered a "godfather" who supports political candidates via his extensive network of patrons. With Tinubu's help, former president Muhammadu Buhari was successful in obtaining two terms in office, in 2015 and 2019. And Tinubu has chosen each succeeding victor to lead the greatest city in Africa since he stepped down as governor of Lagos in 2007, as per a Reuters report. Tinubu’s power will now be put to the test as he works to address Nigeria's challenges and surpass Buhari's poor track record. Bola Tinubu: Early life Tinubu was born in Lagos, Nigeria, in 1952, to a Muslim family of the Yoruba ethnic group, which makes up the majority in southwest Nigeria, according to a biography on his campaign website. He immigrated to the United States in the 1970s and supported his academic pursuits by working as a night guard, dishwasher, and taxi driver. He earned his business administration degree from Chicago State University in 1979, as per a Reuters report. When he returned to Nigeria in the 1980s after working for US consulting firms, he took a job as an auditor with a branch of the Mobil oil company. ALSO READ | Nigeria elections: Ruling party's Bola Tinubu declaared president-elect in spite of oppn uproar What is Nigeria going through? Nigeria's economy is barely keeping up with population growth amid inflation and crippling cash shortages as a result of a botched launch of new banknotes, as armed groups have made large portions of the nation ungovernable. As Tinubu ran for president under Buhari, many of these issues grew worse. While he helped shape the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party, when asked at a weekend press briefing why people should elect him, he said, “My track record should speak for me. Look at Lagos: Before I came, we had dead bodies on the road, a chaotic traffic system, and robbery daytime, and nighttime.” “Come on: clap for me,” he added in an appearance typical of the hubris that often marks leaders of Africa’s top oil producer and most populous country, reports Reuters. What do Tinubu's supporters view him as? Supporters of Tinubu view him as a capable technocrat who has a history of being a successful administrator. He co-founded and provided funding for the Alliance for Democracy, which later changed its name to the Action Congress of Nigeria, and then assisted in the formation of the APC. His supporters describe him as a shrewd political strategist. He played a key role in uniting the All Progressives Congress (APC) divisions, enabling Buhari to win in 2015 and overthrow the opposition People's Democratic Party (PDP) after 16 years in office. Tinubu's political clout was largely responsible for Buhari's election, the first triumph for the opposition in the nation, and his re-election in 2019. Opponents claim he rewards loyalists with lucrative contracts and high-paying jobs and has in the past used so-called "area boys," who formally run Lagos' streets and frequently show up at his rallies, to threaten opponents if he doesn't get his way. The 70-year-old tends to disregard such accusations rather than respond to them. In spite of persistent attempts to respond, Tinubu's campaign spokesperson remained silent. Corruption charges Concerns have been raised about Tinubu's financial transactions while in office. He is regarded as one of Nigeria's wealthiest politicians, and when he left the government, he was charged with money laundering, corruption, and running more than a dozen overseas bank accounts. He says he did nothing illegal and was never prosecuted, says a report by Aljazeera. He was described as "wobbly, wonky, and narcotic-devastated" by PDP opponents on the campaign trail in reference to his health issues and a 1993 US court document that detailed a "drug-related confiscation of property" from his US bank account. He has stakes in a variety of businesses, including media, aviation, tax consulting, hotels, and real estate holdings, although it is unknown where his fortune comes from. A critic called him "a greedy politician" who had exhausted significant sources of income in Lagos, as per Al Jazeera. A tight race in Nigeria For the first time since Nigeria's military coup ended in 1999, the election was tight when Obi, 61, attracted younger voters with his message of change. In Lagos, Tinubu's traditional stronghold and the state with the most registered voters, he achieved a significant win, as reported by AFP. ALSO READ | Nigerian opposition parties protest election results The 76-year-old businessman and former vice president Abubakar failed in his sixth bid for the presidency. The vote on Saturday was largely calm but was marred by protracted wait times at some polling places and some claims of intimidation. Concerns of vote tampering increased when technical difficulties prevented the results from being uploaded to INEC's main website. "The election is irretrievably compromised," Labour Party chairman Julius Abure told AFP on Tuesday. "We demand that this sham of an election should be immediately cancelled," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

EXPLAINED | Everything about Bola Tinubu, Nigeria's president-elect

Nigeria announced initial results on Sunday after a tight election for the presidency of Africa’s most populous nation, marked by widespread voting delays and early accusations of attempts to manipulate ballot counts. Nearly 90 million were eligible to vote on Saturday for a successor to President Muhammadu Buhari, with many hoping a new leader would do a better job tackling insecurity, economic malaise and growing poverty.

Nigeria presidential polls: Delay in results sparks malpractice worries

Nigeria's poll panel has started announcing state-by-state results from the presidential election. A historically tight poll has energised Africa's most populous nation. There have been reports of violence and intimidation, though not on the scale of previous elections. Votes for the presidency are being tallied by hand, and results are being uploaded online to the election commission's central database. According to initial tallies on Monday, Nigeria's ruling party candidate, Bola Tinubu has taken an early lead in the race for the presidency.

Ruling party candidate ahead in Nigeria election, opposition parties reject vote | Key details

Nigeria's two main opposition parties on Tuesday called for the cancellation of the weekend presidential elections, alleging manipulation of results, and demanded a new ballot. WION's Louisa Olaniyi brings you more insights.

Nigeria Presidential Elections 2023: Opposition parties call for cancellation of 'sham' elections

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