Ordinary<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/civilians-fall-victim-to-us-led-military-actions-in-afghanistan-analyst-250702"> Afghans </a>are divided on whether to defy the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/collapse-of-us-taliban-talks-an-awkward-blow-for-pakistan-251534">Taliban</a>'s threats and cast their ballots in a presidential election this week, and even those who are willing to vote fear the poll will be tainted by fraud.

"It is a chance to bring changes," says teacher Mohsen Karimi, 30, from the western city of Herat near the Iranian border.

The country's fourth presidential elections since the Taliban's fall from power in 2001 will be held as increasing uncertainty grips the country.&nbsp;

Fighting between the government and insurgents is killing record numbers of people, while the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-now-dead-us-taliban-talks-lacked-strategic-vision-248969">collapse of US-Taliban talks</a> earlier this month has raised fresh questions about how long Washington plans to keep troops on the ground. &nbsp;

Civilians continue to pay a heavy price in the nearly 18-year-long conflict.

More than 1,500 civilians were killed or wounded in July, according to the UN, the highest monthly toll this year.

The Taliban have already threatened to target the polls.

"In most areas, people cannot vote due to the Taliban threats. Even if a candidate is elected, it is not the absolute choice of all Afghans," said Mohamad Qasim from the southern province of Kandahar.

Among the students, shopkeepers and teachers interviewed by AFP in Kabul and provinces across Afghanistan, several said they did not plan to vote on Saturday. &nbsp;

"I want to vote, but I'm scared," said Samim from the eastern city of Jalalabad, which is frequently targeted by both the Taliban and Islamic State militants.&nbsp;

However it is fraud that deters the 33-year-old shopkeeper the most.

"The last election was full of irregularities. If I was sure there would be no fraud in this election, then I would vote and call on my friends to vote," he said.

The 2014 presidential election was so badly tainted by fraud allegations that it required US intervention. &nbsp;

A power-sharing deal brokered by then US secretary of state John Kerry was needed to prevent confrontation between Ashraf Ghani, who was handed the presidency, and Abdullah Abdullah, who became chief executive.

Following a bitter five-year partnership, the two rivals are squaring off again and are seen as the main contenders to lead a country where more than half the population lives in poverty, making under two dollars a day.

'I will vote'

Candidates have done little campaigning in the run-up to this year's contest, which was largely overshadowed by talks seeking a potential US-Taliban deal. Many thought the talks would delay the poll but they have since been suspended.

"I have not decided whether to vote or not," explained Abdul Ahmad, a 56-year-old businessman in the northern city of Mazar-i-Sharif.

"I also don't know if any good government would come to power."

Meanwhile, fears of more attacks on campaign events and polling centres are swelling.

The first day of campaigning saw the Taliban target President Ghani's running-mate Amrullah Saleh in an attack that killed 20 people in July.

Last week, another 26 people were killed in the central province of Parwan near Kabul when the Taliban targeted a Ghani campaign rally.

Many residents of Kabul, one of the deadliest places for civilians in the country, were split on whether to vote.

While labourer Mohammad Akbar, 51, said none of the candidates seemed "right" to him and he would stay away from the polls, restaurant manager Mohamad Sadeq, 53, said he was ready to vote.

"Although there will be many security challenges, people will still get out and vote and I will go and vote as well," added Arash Rasuli, an insurance executive. &nbsp;

Zainab Sepehri, 20, a student in Herat, hoped her vote would help "change the lives of the women in this country" -- a sentiment echoed by fellow student Monisa Qarizada, 22.

"I will vote. Because as a woman, I don't want to go back, I don't want women to be oppressed again," she said from Mazar-i-Sharif.

For some Afghans, voting is the only voice they have.&nbsp;

"Don't let others decide for you," said Karimi, the teacher from Herat.&nbsp;

"You must vote to have a say in your country." 
&nbsp;

Ordinary Afghans are divided on whether to defy the Taliban's threats and cast their ballots in a presidential election this week, and even those who are willing to vote fear the poll will be tainted by fraud.

Ordinary Afghans are divided on whether to defy the Taliban's threats and cast their ballots in a presidential election this week, and even those who are willing to vote fear the poll will be tainted by fraud. "It is a chance to bring changes," says teacher Mohsen Karimi, 30, from the western city of Herat near the Iranian border. The country's fourth presidential elections since the Taliban's fall from power in 2001 will be held as increasing uncertainty grips the country. Fighting between the government and insurgents is killing record numbers of people, while the collapse of US-Taliban talks earlier this month has raised fresh questions about how long Washington plans to keep troops on the ground. Civilians continue to pay a heavy price in the nearly 18-year-long conflict. More than 1,500 civilians were killed or wounded in July, according to the UN, the highest monthly toll this year. The Taliban have already threatened to target the polls. "In most areas, people cannot vote due to the Taliban threats. Even if a candidate is elected, it is not the absolute choice of all Afghans," said Mohamad Qasim from the southern province of Kandahar. Among the students, shopkeepers and teachers interviewed by AFP in Kabul and provinces across Afghanistan, several said they did not plan to vote on Saturday. "I want to vote, but I'm scared," said Samim from the eastern city of Jalalabad, which is frequently targeted by both the Taliban and Islamic State militants. However it is fraud that deters the 33-year-old shopkeeper the most. "The last election was full of irregularities. If I was sure there would be no fraud in this election, then I would vote and call on my friends to vote," he said. The 2014 presidential election was so badly tainted by fraud allegations that it required US intervention. A power-sharing deal brokered by then US secretary of state John Kerry was needed to prevent confrontation between Ashraf Ghani, who was handed the presidency, and Abdullah Abdullah, who became chief executive. Following a bitter five-year partnership, the two rivals are squaring off again and are seen as the main contenders to lead a country where more than half the population lives in poverty, making under two dollars a day. 'I will vote' Candidates have done little campaigning in the run-up to this year's contest, which was largely overshadowed by talks seeking a potential US-Taliban deal. Many thought the talks would delay the poll but they have since been suspended. "I have not decided whether to vote or not," explained Abdul Ahmad, a 56-year-old businessman in the northern city of Mazar-i-Sharif. "I also don't know if any good government would come to power." Meanwhile, fears of more attacks on campaign events and polling centres are swelling. The first day of campaigning saw the Taliban target President Ghani's running-mate Amrullah Saleh in an attack that killed 20 people in July. Last week, another 26 people were killed in the central province of Parwan near Kabul when the Taliban targeted a Ghani campaign rally. Many residents of Kabul, one of the deadliest places for civilians in the country, were split on whether to vote. While labourer Mohammad Akbar, 51, said none of the candidates seemed "right" to him and he would stay away from the polls, restaurant manager Mohamad Sadeq, 53, said he was ready to vote. "Although there will be many security challenges, people will still get out and vote and I will go and vote as well," added Arash Rasuli, an insurance executive. Zainab Sepehri, 20, a student in Herat, hoped her vote would help "change the lives of the women in this country" -- a sentiment echoed by fellow student Monisa Qarizada, 22. "I will vote. Because as a woman, I don't want to go back, I don't want women to be oppressed again," she said from Mazar-i-Sharif. For some Afghans, voting is the only voice they have. "Don't let others decide for you," said Karimi, the teacher from Herat. "You must vote to have a say in your country."

Afghans fear violence, fraud as presidential vote looms

BJP will not allocate assembly tickets to relatives of its incumbent MPs, Mayors or district council chairpersons in the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-announces-assembly-election-dates-for-maharashtra-and-haryana-250946"> upcoming elections </a>in Haryana.&nbsp;

The party has also decided not to field anyone above the age of 75 years in the crucial polls.

The decision was taken at a meeting of BJP`s Haryana election committee on Sunday.&nbsp;

Sources in the party said that the decision was taken after several MPs and senior state party leaders demanded tickets for their kin for the elections.

It may be noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has time and again targeted opposition parties in Haryana including Congress, INLD and Jannayak Janata Party for supporting dynastic politics.

"We have decided that relatives of MPs, mayors and district Council heads won`t get tickets in the upcoming assembly elections. In fact, MLAs will also be discouraged from seeking tickets for their family members. Unless there is an absolute emergency, we won`t be giving tickets to any relatives", said a senior party leader from the state.

It is learnt that both Khattar and Haryana BJP chief Subhash Barala were of a clear view that the party should not promote dynastic politics in the state.&nbsp;

State party leaders reiterated that there is no place for dynastic politics in the BJP and only people committed to the party`s ideology and the cause will be fielded in the polls.

The BJP feels that giving tickets to the kin of its leaders would send a wrong message to its cadre ahead of the Assembly polls.&nbsp;

"The party doesn`t want to disrespect workers who put in a lot of efforts and show commitment towards the organisation. We want to respect their sentiments by not offering tickets to the kin of leaders, as they may be perceived as outsiders," the sources said.&nbsp;

The 90-member state Assembly goes to polls on October 21. The counting of votes will take place on October 24.

In Haryana, BJP with the leadership of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar looks confident of a comeback, while the Congress seems to be engrossed in internal rivalries between various factions.

In 2014 elections, BJP won 47 seats limiting Congress to only 15 in Haryana.

After winning an unprecedented 10 seats in the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls in Haryana, the state party unit has now been tasked with securing a two-third majority in the 90 member legislature.

BJP will not allocate assembly tickets to relatives of its incumbent MPs, Mayors or district council chairpersons in the upcoming elections in Haryana. The party has also decided not to field anyone above the age of 75 years in the crucial polls.

BJP will not allocate assembly tickets to relatives of its incumbent MPs, Mayors or district council chairpersons in the upcoming elections in Haryana. The party has also decided not to field anyone above the age of 75 years in the crucial polls. The decision was taken at a meeting of BJP`s Haryana election committee on Sunday. Sources in the party said that the decision was taken after several MPs and senior state party leaders demanded tickets for their kin for the elections. It may be noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has time and again targeted opposition parties in Haryana including Congress, INLD and Jannayak Janata Party for supporting dynastic politics. "We have decided that relatives of MPs, mayors and district Council heads won`t get tickets in the upcoming assembly elections. In fact, MLAs will also be discouraged from seeking tickets for their family members. Unless there is an absolute emergency, we won`t be giving tickets to any relatives", said a senior party leader from the state. It is learnt that both Khattar and Haryana BJP chief Subhash Barala were of a clear view that the party should not promote dynastic politics in the state. State party leaders reiterated that there is no place for dynastic politics in the BJP and only people committed to the party`s ideology and the cause will be fielded in the polls. The BJP feels that giving tickets to the kin of its leaders would send a wrong message to its cadre ahead of the Assembly polls. "The party doesn`t want to disrespect workers who put in a lot of efforts and show commitment towards the organisation. We want to respect their sentiments by not offering tickets to the kin of leaders, as they may be perceived as outsiders," the sources said. The 90-member state Assembly goes to polls on October 21. The counting of votes will take place on October 24. In Haryana, BJP with the leadership of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar looks confident of a comeback, while the Congress seems to be engrossed in internal rivalries between various factions. In 2014 elections, BJP won 47 seats limiting Congress to only 15 in Haryana. After winning an unprecedented 10 seats in the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls in Haryana, the state party unit has now been tasked with securing a two-third majority in the 90 member legislature.

BJP will not field relatives of MPs, other elected representatives for Haryana polls

Sri Lanka's Election Commission on Wednesday announced that it will hold presidential polls on November 16, nearly two months before the incumbent's term ends.

Commission chairman Mahinda Deshapriya said nominations would be called on October 7 allowing a short campaign of less than six weeks.

"We are calling nominations on October 7 and voting will be on November 16th," Deshapriya told AFP. "We have 15.99 million people eligible to vote at this election", he added.

President Maithripala Sirisena is yet to announce if he will seek a second term, but a breakaway faction of his party has already announced it will field Gotabaya Rajapakse, 70, a younger brother of former strongman president Mahinda Rajapakse.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe who is in an uneasy cohabitation government with Sirisena has said that he wants to contest the presidency.

However, Wickremesinghe, 70, faces a challenge from two others from his own party -- deputy leader Sajith Premadasa, 52, and parliamentary Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, 78, to secure the nomination.

Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP) is likely to hold an internal party vote to decide on its candidate.

The election is seen as a head to head between a UNP candidate and Rajapakse who was Secretary to the Ministry of Defence during his brother's decade in power that ended in January 2015.

Sri Lanka's Election Commission on Wednesday announced that it will hold presidential polls on November 16, nearly two months before the incumbent's term ends. Commission chairman Mahinda Deshapriya said nominations would be called on October 7 allowing a short campaign of less than six weeks.

Sri Lanka's Election Commission on Wednesday announced that it will hold presidential polls on November 16, nearly two months before the incumbent's term ends. Commission chairman Mahinda Deshapriya said nominations would be called on October 7 allowing a short campaign of less than six weeks. "We are calling nominations on October 7 and voting will be on November 16th," Deshapriya told AFP. "We have 15.99 million people eligible to vote at this election", he added. President Maithripala Sirisena is yet to announce if he will seek a second term, but a breakaway faction of his party has already announced it will field Gotabaya Rajapakse, 70, a younger brother of former strongman president Mahinda Rajapakse. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe who is in an uneasy cohabitation government with Sirisena has said that he wants to contest the presidency. However, Wickremesinghe, 70, faces a challenge from two others from his own party -- deputy leader Sajith Premadasa, 52, and parliamentary Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, 78, to secure the nomination. Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP) is likely to hold an internal party vote to decide on its candidate. The election is seen as a head to head between a UNP candidate and Rajapakse who was Secretary to the Ministry of Defence during his brother's decade in power that ended in January 2015.

Sri Lanka sets November date for Presidential elections

Justin Trudeau Of 2019 Is An Embattled Prime Minister Locked In A Tense Battle For Re-election.

Gravitas: Scandals Puncture Trudeau's Popularity

Justin Trudeau Of 2019 Is An Embattled Prime Minister Locked In A Tense Battle For Re-election

Gravitas: Scandals puncher Trudeau's Popularity

Impact Of Immigration On Canada's Elections

Gravitas: Canada is in Election mode

Hundreds of Venezuelan government supporters marched through the streets of Caracas on Thursday in a show of support to President Nicolás Maduro.

Hundreds of Venezuelans march in support of Maduro

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) on Tuesday announced three candidates for upcoming Maharashtra Assembly polls.

AIMIM Maharashtra president Syed Imtiaz Jaleel released the list which named Daniel Ramesh Landge Vadgaonsheri from Pune, Mufti Mohd Ismail Abdul Khalik from Malegaon Central and Mohd Feroz Khan (Lala) - Nanded North.

The Assembly election is due in October-November.

Earlier, AIMIM broke ties with Prakash Ambedkar-led Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) saying that the parties could not reach a "comfortable figure" of seat distribution.

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) on Tuesday announced three candidates for upcoming Maharashtra Assembly polls. AIMIM Maharashtra president Syed Imtiaz Jaleel released the list which named Daniel Ramesh Landge Vadgaonsheri from Pune, Mufti Mohd Ismail Abdul Khalik from Malegaon Central and Mohd Feroz Khan (Lala) - Nanded North.

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) on Tuesday announced three candidates for upcoming Maharashtra Assembly polls. AIMIM Maharashtra president Syed Imtiaz Jaleel released the list which named Daniel Ramesh Landge Vadgaonsheri from Pune, Mufti Mohd Ismail Abdul Khalik from Malegaon Central and Mohd Feroz Khan (Lala) - Nanded North. The Assembly election is due in October-November. Earlier, AIMIM broke ties with Prakash Ambedkar-led Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) saying that the parties could not reach a "comfortable figure" of seat distribution.

AIMIM announces 3 candidates for Maharashtra polls

Elections in two east German states on Sunday are set to yield a surge in support for the far right and raise the pressure on conservative Chancellor Angela Merkel`s Social Democrat (SPD) coalition partners to quit her government.

Both Merkel`s Christian Democrats (CDU) and the SPD are expected to lose support to the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in Brandenburg and Saxony.

But polls show that the SPD will be the bigger losers when the voting ends at 1600 GMT. Exit polls are due then.

The AfD is harnessing voter anger over refugees and the planned closure of coal mines in the two regions and cast themselves as the heirs of the demonstrators who brought about the fall of the Berlin Wall three decades ago.&nbsp;

The SPD is almost tied with the anti-immigrant AfD in Brandenburg, where an unprecedented victory for the far-right party would amplify leftist voices in the centre-left party who want out of the coalition to rebuild in opposition.

The latest poll put the Social Democrats on 22%, just 1 point ahead of the AfD in Brandenburg, the state neighbouring Poland that has been governed by the SPD since German reunification three decades ago.&nbsp;

"Earthquake in the east, earthquake in Berlin?," headlined the Munich-based Merkur newspaper. "A resounding (SPD) defeat in the east would be grist to the mill of critics (of the coalition)."

The SPD has been run by an interim leadership team since their leader stepped down in June after painful losses in the elections for the European Parliament and support for the party nationally is at a record low of about 15%.

SPD delegates are expected to elect a new leader in December and the party has promised members to assess the partnership with Merkel`s conservatives at the end of this year.

Cracks in coalition

A coalition breakdown could trigger a snap federal election before 2021, an unappealing option for the SPD given that national polls have put Merkel`s conservatives first, with the Greens close behind and the SPD trailing on a par with the AfD.

Another option would be a conservative minority government, anathema to stability-loving Germans.

To tame opponents of continuing to serve in Merkel`s government, SPD leaders could demand painful concessions from the conservatives, such as generous state pensions for low-income workers and higher taxes for the rich.

This would anger many conservatives who prefer tax relief for companies and widen cracks in an unwieldy coalition that has been weakened by disputes over asylum policy, tax and pensions.

"The coalition is no end in itself for us," Ralph Brinkhaus, conservative leader in the national parliament warned the SPD in an interview with Focus Magazine. "We as conservatives are surely not going to bend over backwards just to reach 2021."&nbsp;

Merkel`s CDU has widened their lead over the AfD in Saxony, where they have governed since 1990.

But support for the conservatives in the state of 4 million people on the border with Poland and the Czech Republic is expected to fall by more than 7 points to 32% as they lose voters to both the AfD and Greens.

A humiliating outcome in Saxony is likely to renew debate among conservatives about whether CDU leader and Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, aka AKK, is the right person to lead them into the next national election.

Kramp-Karrenbauer, widely seen as the most likely successor to Merkel who will not run as chancellor in the 2021 federal election, has seen her popularity slide since taking over as CDU leader last year after damaging gaffes.

"It`s going to be tough for AKK. She has to prove she is fit for the defence minister post. As CDU leader she would also be needed to deal with any SPD moves to leave the coalition," wrote the Berliner Morgenpost.

"Will her authority suffice? Her popularity is at the bottom and bad election results will lead to a discussion among conservatives about her future," the newspaper added.&nbsp;

Elections in two east German states on Sunday are set to yield a surge in support for the far right and raise the pressure on conservative Chancellor Angela Merkel`s Social Democrat (SPD) coalition partners to quit her government.

Elections in two east German states on Sunday are set to yield a surge in support for the far right and raise the pressure on conservative Chancellor Angela Merkel`s Social Democrat (SPD) coalition partners to quit her government. Both Merkel`s Christian Democrats (CDU) and the SPD are expected to lose support to the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in Brandenburg and Saxony. But polls show that the SPD will be the bigger losers when the voting ends at 1600 GMT. Exit polls are due then. The AfD is harnessing voter anger over refugees and the planned closure of coal mines in the two regions and cast themselves as the heirs of the demonstrators who brought about the fall of the Berlin Wall three decades ago. The SPD is almost tied with the anti-immigrant AfD in Brandenburg, where an unprecedented victory for the far-right party would amplify leftist voices in the centre-left party who want out of the coalition to rebuild in opposition. The latest poll put the Social Democrats on 22%, just 1 point ahead of the AfD in Brandenburg, the state neighbouring Poland that has been governed by the SPD since German reunification three decades ago. "Earthquake in the east, earthquake in Berlin?," headlined the Munich-based Merkur newspaper. "A resounding (SPD) defeat in the east would be grist to the mill of critics (of the coalition)." The SPD has been run by an interim leadership team since their leader stepped down in June after painful losses in the elections for the European Parliament and support for the party nationally is at a record low of about 15%. SPD delegates are expected to elect a new leader in December and the party has promised members to assess the partnership with Merkel`s conservatives at the end of this year. Cracks in coalition A coalition breakdown could trigger a snap federal election before 2021, an unappealing option for the SPD given that national polls have put Merkel`s conservatives first, with the Greens close behind and the SPD trailing on a par with the AfD. Another option would be a conservative minority government, anathema to stability-loving Germans. To tame opponents of continuing to serve in Merkel`s government, SPD leaders could demand painful concessions from the conservatives, such as generous state pensions for low-income workers and higher taxes for the rich. This would anger many conservatives who prefer tax relief for companies and widen cracks in an unwieldy coalition that has been weakened by disputes over asylum policy, tax and pensions. "The coalition is no end in itself for us," Ralph Brinkhaus, conservative leader in the national parliament warned the SPD in an interview with Focus Magazine. "We as conservatives are surely not going to bend over backwards just to reach 2021." Merkel`s CDU has widened their lead over the AfD in Saxony, where they have governed since 1990. But support for the conservatives in the state of 4 million people on the border with Poland and the Czech Republic is expected to fall by more than 7 points to 32% as they lose voters to both the AfD and Greens. A humiliating outcome in Saxony is likely to renew debate among conservatives about whether CDU leader and Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, aka AKK, is the right person to lead them into the next national election. Kramp-Karrenbauer, widely seen as the most likely successor to Merkel who will not run as chancellor in the 2021 federal election, has seen her popularity slide since taking over as CDU leader last year after damaging gaffes. "It`s going to be tough for AKK. She has to prove she is fit for the defence minister post. As CDU leader she would also be needed to deal with any SPD moves to leave the coalition," wrote the Berliner Morgenpost. "Will her authority suffice? Her popularity is at the bottom and bad election results will lead to a discussion among conservatives about her future," the newspaper added.

'Earthquake' elections in east Germany could jolt Merkel's coalition

Italian Prime Minister&nbsp;Giuseppe&nbsp;Conte&nbsp;said Tuesday he would resign, lashing out at far-right Interior Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosive-situation-on-migrant-rescue-boat-in-limbo-off-italy-243498">Matteo Salvini</a> for pursuing his own interests by pulling the plug on the government coalition.

"I'm ending this government experience here... I will go to the president of the republic (Sergio Mattarella) to inform him of my resignation", after a Senate debate,&nbsp;Conte&nbsp;said after an almost hour-long speech to the chamber.

"It is irresponsible to initiate a government crisis,"&nbsp;Conte&nbsp;said after Salvini began his efforts to bring down the government in the hope of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italys-deputy-prime-minister-salvinis-quest-for-snap-election-faces-hurdles-242302">snap elections</a> he hoped would make him premier.

"It shows personal and party interests,"&nbsp;Conte&nbsp;said of the end of the alliance between the anti-migrant League and the anti-establishment Five Star Movement.

Conte&nbsp;was speaking following a week of fallout from Salvini's decision to back out of the alliance on August 8, plunging the eurozone's third-largest economy into political turmoil.

Afer&nbsp;Conte&nbsp;announced his intention to resign, Salvini hit back saying: "Thank you, finally, I would do it all again."

Salvini "violated the solemn promise he took when the government began that if there were differences they should be discussed in good faith and with loyal collaboration,"&nbsp;Conte&nbsp;said as League senators booed and hissed.

"Making citizens vote is the essence of democracy, asking them to vote every year is irresponsible,"&nbsp;Conte&nbsp;added.

"I heard you calling for 'full powers' and invoke (demonstrations in) the piazzas to support you, which worries me,"&nbsp;Conte said.

Italian dictator Benito Mussolini in 1922 assumed so-called full powers to govern the country at his whim.

"We don't need full powers but leaders who have a sense of institutions,"&nbsp;Conte&nbsp;said.

A small group of protesters heckled League senators as they arrived at the Senate.

"Get out, buffoons, get out mafia," the protesters shouted, prompting a League senator to wave his middle finger at them.

Other protesters held banners reading "I'm with Salvini".

The likely end of the 14-month-old government would open the way for Mattarella to begin consultations with political parties, with a range of options available.&nbsp;

A snap election, the forming of a new coalition without holding a new vote and, although unlikely, the continuation of the current government, would all be considered.

Ahead of the premier's speech, protesters unfurled a banner near parliament that read: "Conte,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tensions-build-on-migrant-ship-off-italy-10-jump-overboard-244377"> Italy</a> loves you".

But Salvini told Radio 24 that the other parties feared new elections: "What is the point of a government with everyone 'against Salvini'? A government must be strong to be able to act."

Debt laden economy

The political crisis has raised concerns about the Italian economy, whose debt ratio at 132 per cent of gross domestic product is the second-biggest in the eurozone after Greece.

Since the unwieldy government was formed in June 2018, uncertainty under the coalition has cost the country an extra five billion euros ($5.54 billion) in interest on its debt, the Il Sole 24 Ore financial newspaper reported.

Salvini's plan for a snap election -- more than three years early -- had envisioned a vote in October followed by him being crowned as prime minister.

According to opinion polls, the League could form a coalition with the anti-immigration, anti-LGBT Brothers of Italy, and possibly Silvio Berlusconi's centre-right Forza Italia.&nbsp;

But a bid by his rivals to put aside their differences and forge an alliance could derail Salvini's plan, with a coalition between M5S and the opposition centre-left Democratic Party (PD) being discussed.

While there is bad blood between the two parties, M5S is languishing in the polls and wants to avoid an early election.

A PD-M5S coalition could lead to the opposite of what Salvini intended -- with him out of government altogether instead of being its sole leader.

Untrustworthy Traitor

According to some analysts,&nbsp;Conte&nbsp;could also stay on as premier while trying to form an alliance with PD.

M5S leader Luigi Di Maio sent an open letter on Tuesday calling for&nbsp;Conte&nbsp;to take this option, describing him as a "rare pearl, a servant of the nation that Italy cannot lose".

Caught on the back foot, Salvini has sought to re-establish some coalition ties and said he would be willing to back an M5S proposal to cut the number of lawmakers from 950 to 605, but only if new elections were then swiftly held.

Salvini has been furious at the idea of being squeezed out by an M5S-PD alliance, saying he would get his supporters to "peacefully take to the streets" if it came about.

Salvini has also softened his tone regarding the premier, saying: "Conte&nbsp;remains my prime minister and my phone is always on."

But M5S founder, the comedian Beppe Grillo, has rejected talk of reconciliation with Salvini, whom he reportedly described as an "untrustworthy traitor".

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said Tuesday he would resign, lashing out at far-right Interior Minister Matteo Salvini for pursuing his own interests by pulling the plug on the government coalition.

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said Tuesday he would resign, lashing out at far-right Interior Minister Matteo Salvini for pursuing his own interests by pulling the plug on the government coalition. "I'm ending this government experience here... I will go to the president of the republic (Sergio Mattarella) to inform him of my resignation", after a Senate debate, Conte said after an almost hour-long speech to the chamber. "It is irresponsible to initiate a government crisis," Conte said after Salvini began his efforts to bring down the government in the hope of snap elections he hoped would make him premier. "It shows personal and party interests," Conte said of the end of the alliance between the anti-migrant League and the anti-establishment Five Star Movement. Conte was speaking following a week of fallout from Salvini's decision to back out of the alliance on August 8, plunging the eurozone's third-largest economy into political turmoil. Afer Conte announced his intention to resign, Salvini hit back saying: "Thank you, finally, I would do it all again." Salvini "violated the solemn promise he took when the government began that if there were differences they should be discussed in good faith and with loyal collaboration," Conte said as League senators booed and hissed. "Making citizens vote is the essence of democracy, asking them to vote every year is irresponsible," Conte added. "I heard you calling for 'full powers' and invoke (demonstrations in) the piazzas to support you, which worries me," Conte said. Italian dictator Benito Mussolini in 1922 assumed so-called full powers to govern the country at his whim. "We don't need full powers but leaders who have a sense of institutions," Conte said. A small group of protesters heckled League senators as they arrived at the Senate. "Get out, buffoons, get out mafia," the protesters shouted, prompting a League senator to wave his middle finger at them. Other protesters held banners reading "I'm with Salvini". The likely end of the 14-month-old government would open the way for Mattarella to begin consultations with political parties, with a range of options available. A snap election, the forming of a new coalition without holding a new vote and, although unlikely, the continuation of the current government, would all be considered. Ahead of the premier's speech, protesters unfurled a banner near parliament that read: "Conte, Italy loves you". But Salvini told Radio 24 that the other parties feared new elections: "What is the point of a government with everyone 'against Salvini'? A government must be strong to be able to act." Debt laden economy The political crisis has raised concerns about the Italian economy, whose debt ratio at 132 per cent of gross domestic product is the second-biggest in the eurozone after Greece. Since the unwieldy government was formed in June 2018, uncertainty under the coalition has cost the country an extra five billion euros ($5.54 billion) in interest on its debt, the Il Sole 24 Ore financial newspaper reported. Salvini's plan for a snap election -- more than three years early -- had envisioned a vote in October followed by him being crowned as prime minister. According to opinion polls, the League could form a coalition with the anti-immigration, anti-LGBT Brothers of Italy, and possibly Silvio Berlusconi's centre-right Forza Italia. But a bid by his rivals to put aside their differences and forge an alliance could derail Salvini's plan, with a coalition between M5S and the opposition centre-left Democratic Party (PD) being discussed. While there is bad blood between the two parties, M5S is languishing in the polls and wants to avoid an early election. A PD-M5S coalition could lead to the opposite of what Salvini intended -- with him out of government altogether instead of being its sole leader. Untrustworthy Traitor According to some analysts, Conte could also stay on as premier while trying to form an alliance with PD. M5S leader Luigi Di Maio sent an open letter on Tuesday calling for Conte to take this option, describing him as a "rare pearl, a servant of the nation that Italy cannot lose". Caught on the back foot, Salvini has sought to re-establish some coalition ties and said he would be willing to back an M5S proposal to cut the number of lawmakers from 950 to 605, but only if new elections were then swiftly held. Salvini has been furious at the idea of being squeezed out by an M5S-PD alliance, saying he would get his supporters to "peacefully take to the streets" if it came about. Salvini has also softened his tone regarding the premier, saying: "Conte remains my prime minister and my phone is always on." But M5S founder, the comedian Beppe Grillo, has rejected talk of reconciliation with Salvini, whom he reportedly described as an "untrustworthy traitor".

Italy Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte set to resign

British officials will stop attending most EU meetings from September 1 except for those on "matters of ongoing national interest" such as security, the government said on Tuesday.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-uk-faces-food-fuel-and-drugs-shortages-in-no-deal-brexit-times-citing-official-documents-243834">Brexit</a> ministry said in a statement that the time spent preparing for the meetings in Brussels would be better used in readying the country for leaving the European Union on October 31.

"This decision reflects the fact that the UK's exit from the EU on 31 October is now very close and many of the discussions in EU meetings will be about the future of the union after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-immediately-end-freedom-of-movement-for-people-from-european-union-after-brexit-244264">UK</a> has left," the statement said.

The ministry added that it made sense to "unshackle officials from these EU meetings to enable them to better focus their talents on our immediate national priorities".

"This decision is not intended in any way to frustrate the functioning of the EU.

The UK's vote will be delegated in a way that does not obstruct the ongoing business of the remaining 27 EU members," it added.

Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay said: "From now on we will only go to the meetings that really matter, reducing attendance by over half and saving hundreds of hours".

The ministry said decisions on whether or not to attend a particular meeting would be made on a case by case basis.

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-parliament-cannot-stop-brexit-johnson-to-tell-macron-and-merkel-243838/amp">Boris Johnson</a>, who came to power nearly a month ago, has promised to take Britain out of the EU on October 31 with or without a divorce deal with Brussels.

EU officials have rejected Johnson's demand to scrap a key part of the draft deal which was agreed by his predecessor Theresa May and has been voted down by Britain's parliament.

British officials will stop attending most EU meetings from September 1 except for those on "matters of ongoing national interest" such as security, the government said on Tuesday.

British officials will stop attending most EU meetings from September 1 except for those on "matters of ongoing national interest" such as security, the government said on Tuesday. The Brexit ministry said in a statement that the time spent preparing for the meetings in Brussels would be better used in readying the country for leaving the European Union on October 31. "This decision reflects the fact that the UK's exit from the EU on 31 October is now very close and many of the discussions in EU meetings will be about the future of the union after the UK has left," the statement said. The ministry added that it made sense to "unshackle officials from these EU meetings to enable them to better focus their talents on our immediate national priorities". "This decision is not intended in any way to frustrate the functioning of the EU. The UK's vote will be delegated in a way that does not obstruct the ongoing business of the remaining 27 EU members," it added. Brexit Secretary Steve Barclay said: "From now on we will only go to the meetings that really matter, reducing attendance by over half and saving hundreds of hours". The ministry said decisions on whether or not to attend a particular meeting would be made on a case by case basis. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who came to power nearly a month ago, has promised to take Britain out of the EU on October 31 with or without a divorce deal with Brussels. EU officials have rejected Johnson's demand to scrap a key part of the draft deal which was agreed by his predecessor Theresa May and has been voted down by Britain's parliament.

UK says to skip most European Union meetings from September 1: government

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will on Friday address a grand public rally in Haryana`s Jind district.

The "Astha Rally" assumes significance as it is happening following the announcement of dates for the Haryana assembly elections.

Shah, through the rally, will set the tone for the party`s election campaign.

Elections to the 90-member Assembly are due in the state later this year.

The rally will be attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Dinesh Sharma.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will on Friday address a grand public rally in Haryana`s Jind district. The "Astha Rally" assumes significance as it is happening following the announcement of dates for the Haryana assembly elections.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will on Friday address a grand public rally in Haryana`s Jind district. The "Astha Rally" assumes significance as it is happening following the announcement of dates for the Haryana assembly elections. Shah, through the rally, will set the tone for the party`s election campaign. Elections to the 90-member Assembly are due in the state later this year. The rally will be attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Dinesh Sharma.

Amit Shah to address 'Astha Rally' in Haryana's Jind today

Almost 50,000 opposition supporters rallied in Moscow Saturday at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-opposition-plans-major-moscow-protest-after-crackdown-241936">one of the largest protests </a>since President Vladimir Putin's return to the Kremlin in 2012.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-accuses-us-of-encouraging-people-to-protest-in-moscow-241853">Protesters</a> crowded the central Prospekt Andreya Sakharova street, where city authorities deployed a massive police presence, including officers in riot gear, after giving permission for the rally to go ahead.

The White Counter, an NGO that tracks participants in rallies, counted 49,900 people, while Moscow police gave a much lower attendance figure of 20,000.

In recent weeks, thousands have attended street protests calling for free and fair elections after the exclusion of several opposition figures, including allies of top Putin critic Alexei Navalny, from local Moscow polls next month.

On Saturday, some protesters carried placards with slogans such as "Give us the right to vote!" and "You've lied to us enough" while others held up pictures of activists arrested at earlier demonstrations.&nbsp;

"I'm outraged by this injustice at every level. They're not letting candidates stand who have collected all the necessary signatures. They are arresting people who are protesting peacefully," said one protester, Irina Dargolts, a 60-year-old engineer.

"It feels like the country is a prisoner and its citizens are hostages... No one represents the people," said Dmitry Khobbotovsky, an activist for the Open Russia movement funded by Kremlin foe and former oligarch Mikhail Khodorkovsky.

Showing the movement's appeal to young Russians, one of the country's most famous rappers, Oxxxymiron, attended the rally and another popular rapper Face performed on stage.

"I'm performing here today so that my people have freedom and the right to choose," said Face, 22, known for his facial tattoos.

Riot police and the national guard detained more than 2,000 at the previous two rallies, which were not authorised by city officials, and a dozen protesters face criminal charges of "mass disorder".

Most opposition candidates who have been banned from participating in the vote have also now been jailed for violating protest laws. &nbsp;

One of the rally speakers was the wife of opposition politician Dmitry Gudkov, who is serving a 30-day sentence.

"Each of us has the right to run for office and they are very afraid of that," said Valeriya Gudkova.&nbsp;

"We have real support from the public and they just have criminals in their electoral commissions."&nbsp;

While Saturday's rally was authorised, Navalny, who is currently in jail, urged supporters to walk peacefully through the city afterwards, when they would risk detention for illegal protests.

One of Navalny's associates, Boris Zolotarevsky, at the end of the rally urged protesters to go to Putin's presidential administration offices in central Moscow. He was detained by police shortly afterwards.

Moscow police and the powerful Investigative Committee issued a warning ahead of the rally saying unsanctioned protests would be "immediately halted."

Eight people were detained in Moscow at Saturday's demonstration, while 51 were detained at protests in Russia's second largest city of Saint Petersburg, according to OVD-Info, an NGO that monitors protests.

- 'Attempt to gag us' -

As he enters his third decade in power, Putin's approval ratings have dropped significantly and critics say the authorities fear any outlet calling for wider political change.

The latest demonstration came this week as authorities mounted their harshest attack yet on Navalny's team, focusing on his anti-corruption foundation which publishes investigations of officials close to Putin.

One of the foundation's lawyers, Lyubov Sobol, was detained Saturday morning at her campaign office by police in riot gear, she wrote on social media.&nbsp;

Riot police also raided the studio where Navalny's supporters were set to run a live broadcast of the protest, activists said.

On Thursday, investigators raided the foundation's office as part of a probe into alleged acceptance of donations of laundered money and a court froze the foundation's accounts.

"This is the most aggressive attempt yet to gag us," Navalny wrote in a blog entry he issued through lawyers while serving a 30-day sentence. 
&nbsp;

Almost 50,000 opposition supporters rallied in Moscow Saturday at one of the largest protests since President Vladimir Putin's return to the Kremlin in 2012. Protesters crowded the central Prospekt Andreya Sakharova street, where city authorities deployed a massive police presence, including officers in riot gear, after giving permission for the rally to go ahead.

Almost 50,000 opposition supporters rallied in Moscow Saturday at one of the largest protests since President Vladimir Putin's return to the Kremlin in 2012. Protesters crowded the central Prospekt Andreya Sakharova street, where city authorities deployed a massive police presence, including officers in riot gear, after giving permission for the rally to go ahead. The White Counter, an NGO that tracks participants in rallies, counted 49,900 people, while Moscow police gave a much lower attendance figure of 20,000. In recent weeks, thousands have attended street protests calling for free and fair elections after the exclusion of several opposition figures, including allies of top Putin critic Alexei Navalny, from local Moscow polls next month. On Saturday, some protesters carried placards with slogans such as "Give us the right to vote!" and "You've lied to us enough" while others held up pictures of activists arrested at earlier demonstrations. "I'm outraged by this injustice at every level. They're not letting candidates stand who have collected all the necessary signatures. They are arresting people who are protesting peacefully," said one protester, Irina Dargolts, a 60-year-old engineer. "It feels like the country is a prisoner and its citizens are hostages... No one represents the people," said Dmitry Khobbotovsky, an activist for the Open Russia movement funded by Kremlin foe and former oligarch Mikhail Khodorkovsky. Showing the movement's appeal to young Russians, one of the country's most famous rappers, Oxxxymiron, attended the rally and another popular rapper Face performed on stage. "I'm performing here today so that my people have freedom and the right to choose," said Face, 22, known for his facial tattoos. Riot police and the national guard detained more than 2,000 at the previous two rallies, which were not authorised by city officials, and a dozen protesters face criminal charges of "mass disorder". Most opposition candidates who have been banned from participating in the vote have also now been jailed for violating protest laws. One of the rally speakers was the wife of opposition politician Dmitry Gudkov, who is serving a 30-day sentence. "Each of us has the right to run for office and they are very afraid of that," said Valeriya Gudkova. "We have real support from the public and they just have criminals in their electoral commissions." While Saturday's rally was authorised, Navalny, who is currently in jail, urged supporters to walk peacefully through the city afterwards, when they would risk detention for illegal protests. One of Navalny's associates, Boris Zolotarevsky, at the end of the rally urged protesters to go to Putin's presidential administration offices in central Moscow. He was detained by police shortly afterwards. Moscow police and the powerful Investigative Committee issued a warning ahead of the rally saying unsanctioned protests would be "immediately halted." Eight people were detained in Moscow at Saturday's demonstration, while 51 were detained at protests in Russia's second largest city of Saint Petersburg, according to OVD-Info, an NGO that monitors protests. - 'Attempt to gag us' - As he enters his third decade in power, Putin's approval ratings have dropped significantly and critics say the authorities fear any outlet calling for wider political change. The latest demonstration came this week as authorities mounted their harshest attack yet on Navalny's team, focusing on his anti-corruption foundation which publishes investigations of officials close to Putin. One of the foundation's lawyers, Lyubov Sobol, was detained Saturday morning at her campaign office by police in riot gear, she wrote on social media. Riot police also raided the studio where Navalny's supporters were set to run a live broadcast of the protest, activists said. On Thursday, investigators raided the foundation's office as part of a probe into alleged acceptance of donations of laundered money and a court froze the foundation's accounts. "This is the most aggressive attempt yet to gag us," Navalny wrote in a blog entry he issued through lawyers while serving a 30-day sentence.

Tens of thousands call for fair elections at Moscow rally

The leader of Italy's ruling League party, Deputy Prime Minister Matteo&nbsp;Salvini, declared the governing coalition to be unworkable on Thursday after months of internal bickering and said the only way forward was to hold fresh elections.

The shock announcement follows a period of intense public feuding between the right-wing League and its coalition partner, the anti-establishment 5-Star Movement, and it throws the euro zone's third-largest economy into deeper political uncertainty.

Salvini&nbsp;said in a statement he had told Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, who belongs to neither coalition party, that the alliance with 5-Star had collapsed after barely a year in power and "we should quickly give the choice back to the voters".

Parliament, which is now in its summer recess, could reconvene next week to carry out the necessary steps,&nbsp;Salvini&nbsp;said, referring to the need for a no-confidence vote in the government and the resignation of the premier.

Conte said later in a brief televised statement that&nbsp;Salvini&nbsp;must explain to Italians why he wanted to bring down the government and that "the crisis he has unleashed" should be the most transparent "in the history of the republic".

Conte said he would no longer accept&nbsp;Salvini's attacks on his ministers and accused him of relying on "slogans".

Until a few weeks ago&nbsp;Salvini&nbsp;had repeatedly said that the government would last a full five-year term, but he brushed off Conte's criticisms and said 5-Star was holding up the policies the country needed to boost its stagnant economy.

"Italy can no longer put up with the no's, we need yes's, we need to unblock, to build, to work -- enough is enough, we must go to elections," he told reporters after a rally in Pescara, on the Adriatic coast.

Tensions came to a head on Wednesday when 5-Star and the League voted against each other in parliament over the future of a project for a high-speed train link with France.

5-Star has more parliamentary seats than the League, but&nbsp;Salvini's party now has twice as much voter support, according to opinion polls, and it has recently threatened to try to capitalise on that surge in popularity with new elections.

However, it remains to be seen if things will go as&nbsp;Salvini&nbsp;plans. Pushing the nation back into election mode in August, when Italians are on holiday and parliament is closed for the summer recess, is unusual and could be unpopular and risky.

President Sergio Mattarella is the only person with the power to dissolve parliament and may be unwilling to do so ahead of preparatory work in September for the 2020 budget, which must then be presented to parliament the following month.

Italy, which has Europe's second-largest sovereign debt burden after Greece, has already angered the European Union with an expansionary 2019 budget and&nbsp;Salvini&nbsp;wants to make major tax cuts next year, setting up the prospect of another EU clash.

Italy has not held an election in the autumn in all the post-war period.

"WE ARE READY"

If Mattarella decides not to dissolve parliament, he could try to install an unelected "technocrat" administration of which there have been several examples in Italy's recent history, though an alternative parliamentary majority appears elusive.

5-Star Leader Luigi Di Maio said his party did not fear elections.

"We are ready, we don't care in the least about occupying government posts and we never have," he said in a statement. He accused Salvini of "taking the country for a ride" and said sooner or later Italians would turn against him for it.

Speculation of a government crisis mounted late on Wednesday when&nbsp;Salvini, speaking at a rally south of Rome, peppered his speech with hints that he had had enough of 5-Star, accusing it of stalling the League's key policies.

Markets sold off Italian government bonds early on Thursday and the day proceeded with closed-door meetings between&nbsp;Salvini&nbsp;and Conte and between Conte and Mattarella.

The League issued a statement listing a raft of areas in which it had a "different vision" from 5-Star, including infrastructure, taxes, justice and relations with the EU.

The two parties were fierce adversaries ahead of an inconclusive election in March 2018, before forming their unlikely alliance which has often ruffled the feathers of financial markets and the European Commission.

5-Star was the largest party at last year's elections but it has struggled since the government was formed, while&nbsp;Salvini&nbsp;has prospered thanks to his popular hard line on immigration and a charismatic and informal "man of the people" public image.

The leader of Italy's ruling League party, Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, declared the governing coalition to be unworkable on Thursday after months of internal bickering and said the only way forward was to hold fresh elections.

The leader of Italy's ruling League party, Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, declared the governing coalition to be unworkable on Thursday after months of internal bickering and said the only way forward was to hold fresh elections. The shock announcement follows a period of intense public feuding between the right-wing League and its coalition partner, the anti-establishment 5-Star Movement, and it throws the euro zone's third-largest economy into deeper political uncertainty. Salvini said in a statement he had told Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, who belongs to neither coalition party, that the alliance with 5-Star had collapsed after barely a year in power and "we should quickly give the choice back to the voters". Parliament, which is now in its summer recess, could reconvene next week to carry out the necessary steps, Salvini said, referring to the need for a no-confidence vote in the government and the resignation of the premier. Conte said later in a brief televised statement that Salvini must explain to Italians why he wanted to bring down the government and that "the crisis he has unleashed" should be the most transparent "in the history of the republic". Conte said he would no longer accept Salvini's attacks on his ministers and accused him of relying on "slogans". Until a few weeks ago Salvini had repeatedly said that the government would last a full five-year term, but he brushed off Conte's criticisms and said 5-Star was holding up the policies the country needed to boost its stagnant economy. "Italy can no longer put up with the no's, we need yes's, we need to unblock, to build, to work -- enough is enough, we must go to elections," he told reporters after a rally in Pescara, on the Adriatic coast. Tensions came to a head on Wednesday when 5-Star and the League voted against each other in parliament over the future of a project for a high-speed train link with France. 5-Star has more parliamentary seats than the League, but Salvini's party now has twice as much voter support, according to opinion polls, and it has recently threatened to try to capitalise on that surge in popularity with new elections. However, it remains to be seen if things will go as Salvini plans. Pushing the nation back into election mode in August, when Italians are on holiday and parliament is closed for the summer recess, is unusual and could be unpopular and risky. President Sergio Mattarella is the only person with the power to dissolve parliament and may be unwilling to do so ahead of preparatory work in September for the 2020 budget, which must then be presented to parliament the following month. Italy, which has Europe's second-largest sovereign debt burden after Greece, has already angered the European Union with an expansionary 2019 budget and Salvini wants to make major tax cuts next year, setting up the prospect of another EU clash. Italy has not held an election in the autumn in all the post-war period. "WE ARE READY" If Mattarella decides not to dissolve parliament, he could try to install an unelected "technocrat" administration of which there have been several examples in Italy's recent history, though an alternative parliamentary majority appears elusive. 5-Star Leader Luigi Di Maio said his party did not fear elections. "We are ready, we don't care in the least about occupying government posts and we never have," he said in a statement. He accused Salvini of "taking the country for a ride" and said sooner or later Italians would turn against him for it. Speculation of a government crisis mounted late on Wednesday when Salvini, speaking at a rally south of Rome, peppered his speech with hints that he had had enough of 5-Star, accusing it of stalling the League's key policies. Markets sold off Italian government bonds early on Thursday and the day proceeded with closed-door meetings between Salvini and Conte and between Conte and Mattarella. The League issued a statement listing a raft of areas in which it had a "different vision" from 5-Star, including infrastructure, taxes, justice and relations with the EU. The two parties were fierce adversaries ahead of an inconclusive election in March 2018, before forming their unlikely alliance which has often ruffled the feathers of financial markets and the European Commission. 5-Star was the largest party at last year's elections but it has struggled since the government was formed, while Salvini has prospered thanks to his popular hard line on immigration and a charismatic and informal "man of the people" public image.

Italy's Salvini pulls plug on government, calls for elections

Sri&nbsp;Lanka's tourism industry, badly hurt by Easter day bombings, is showing signs of gradual recovery, industry executives say, although a national election later this year is likely to weigh on holiday season arrivals.

The island nation's tourism sector, one of the country's top revenue streams, suffered a massive blow following April 21 Islamist militant bombings of churches and luxury hotels, which killed more than 250 people, including 42 foreign nationals.

Tourist arrivals from Europe and Asia-Pacific, which together account for 90 per cent&nbsp;of the total visitors to&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka, nearly halved in July from a year ago, according to the latest data from the country's Tourism Development Authority.

SriLankan Airlines, the country's lone carrier, will likely post a loss of as much as $160 million in the financial year to end-March 2020 as it lost business after the attacks, its chief executive officer told Reuters.

To be sure,&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;is trying to woo tourists back: it has offered a raft of discount deals, scrapped the fee on tourist visas for 48 nations, including China, India and the United Kingdom, and simplified the visa process for visitors from those countries.

Those moves have started to pay off, hospitality executives said.

"(We are) almost 50 per cent&nbsp;booked for the winter and see a pickup in bookings," said Sanjeewani Yogarajah, an executive at Hikkaduwa Beach Hotels in the southern coastal belt of Hikkaduwa, 112 km (69 miles) from the capital Colombo and popular for water sports.

"This time also we hope we will get around 90 per cent&nbsp;(bookings) by winter," she added.

Tourist footfall is gradually reviving, said the high-end Taj Samudra and Shangri-La hotels in Colombo.

While the Taj, operated by the Indian Hotels Company, said it was hoping for a recovery as the winter holiday season draws nearer, the Shangri-La hotel, which is part of Shangri-La Asia, said the pace of winter bookings was slower than previous years.

The holiday season, from November through January, is the busiest time of the year for&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka's tourism industry, which accounts for nearly 5 per cent&nbsp;of the country's GDP and was its third-biggest source of foreign exchange in 2018.

Even though arrivals to&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;have improved in the months since the attack, tourist inflow in July was almost half of what it was a year ago, hurting revenues and profits for hotel chains and tour operators.

Revenue from the sector in the first half of 2019 has fallen 13.4 per cent&nbsp;to $1.89 billion, according to official data.

Boosting it will likely be a challenge as an impending presidential election, preceded by political campaigning, could persuade tourists to steer clear of&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka.

Given&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka's volatile ethnic and religious mix there will become concerns about communal violence.

The politically powerful Sinhala Buddhists make up about 70 per cent&nbsp;of&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka's 21 million population, Hindu's constitute almost 13 per cent, Muslims 10 per cent, while about 7 per cent&nbsp;are Christians.

The country was plagued by 26 years of civil war which ended with the defeat of the Tamil Tigers in 2009, allowing peace to return to the island.

"Of course, the election will have an impact on tourism," said Sanath Ukwatta, chairman of the&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;Hoteliers Association.

"We have to convince people to come here. There is still fear psychosis among consumers that&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;is not safe."

Sri Lanka's tourism industry, badly hurt by Easter day bombings, is showing signs of gradual recovery, industry executives say, although a national election later this year is likely to weigh on holiday season arrivals.

Sri Lanka's tourism industry, badly hurt by Easter day bombings, is showing signs of gradual recovery, industry executives say, although a national election later this year is likely to weigh on holiday season arrivals. The island nation's tourism sector, one of the country's top revenue streams, suffered a massive blow following April 21 Islamist militant bombings of churches and luxury hotels, which killed more than 250 people, including 42 foreign nationals. Tourist arrivals from Europe and Asia-Pacific, which together account for 90 per cent of the total visitors to Sri Lanka, nearly halved in July from a year ago, according to the latest data from the country's Tourism Development Authority. SriLankan Airlines, the country's lone carrier, will likely post a loss of as much as $160 million in the financial year to end-March 2020 as it lost business after the attacks, its chief executive officer told Reuters. To be sure, Sri Lanka is trying to woo tourists back: it has offered a raft of discount deals, scrapped the fee on tourist visas for 48 nations, including China, India and the United Kingdom, and simplified the visa process for visitors from those countries. Those moves have started to pay off, hospitality executives said. "(We are) almost 50 per cent booked for the winter and see a pickup in bookings," said Sanjeewani Yogarajah, an executive at Hikkaduwa Beach Hotels in the southern coastal belt of Hikkaduwa, 112 km (69 miles) from the capital Colombo and popular for water sports. "This time also we hope we will get around 90 per cent (bookings) by winter," she added. Tourist footfall is gradually reviving, said the high-end Taj Samudra and Shangri-La hotels in Colombo. While the Taj, operated by the Indian Hotels Company, said it was hoping for a recovery as the winter holiday season draws nearer, the Shangri-La hotel, which is part of Shangri-La Asia, said the pace of winter bookings was slower than previous years. The holiday season, from November through January, is the busiest time of the year for Sri Lanka's tourism industry, which accounts for nearly 5 per cent of the country's GDP and was its third-biggest source of foreign exchange in 2018. Even though arrivals to Sri Lanka have improved in the months since the attack, tourist inflow in July was almost half of what it was a year ago, hurting revenues and profits for hotel chains and tour operators. Revenue from the sector in the first half of 2019 has fallen 13.4 per cent to $1.89 billion, according to official data. Boosting it will likely be a challenge as an impending presidential election, preceded by political campaigning, could persuade tourists to steer clear of Sri Lanka. Given Sri Lanka's volatile ethnic and religious mix there will become concerns about communal violence. The politically powerful Sinhala Buddhists make up about 70 per cent of Sri Lanka's 21 million population, Hindu's constitute almost 13 per cent, Muslims 10 per cent, while about 7 per cent are Christians. The country was plagued by 26 years of civil war which ended with the defeat of the Tamil Tigers in 2009, allowing peace to return to the island. "Of course, the election will have an impact on tourism," said Sanath Ukwatta, chairman of the Sri Lanka Hoteliers Association. "We have to convince people to come here. There is still fear psychosis among consumers that Sri Lanka is not safe."

Sri Lanka tourism industry begins to recover after attacks

A public Democratic debate watch party at The Denver Press Club in Denver, Colorado, on Tuesday night drew a mixture of Democrats and independent voters.

No clear candidate yet for Denver debate watchers

Russia's jailed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-opposition-leader-navalny-in-satisfactory-condition-hospital-239204">opposition leader Alexei Navalny</a> said Monday he might have been "poisoned" in his prison cell amid a crackdown on anti-Kremlin protesters.

Navalny, who has been in jail since last week for calling an unauthorised rally, released a picture of himself in hospital with his face puffy, especially around the eyes.

His lawyer and personal physician earlier said that Navalny, President Vladimir Putin's top opponent, was exposed to an unidentified toxic substance and that doctors had sent him back to jail despite his condition.

The 43-year-old lawyer was rushed to hospital from jail on Sunday, a day after nearly 1,400 people were arrested at an unauthorised protest -- the largest police crackdown on dissent in recent years.

Writing on his blog, Navalny, who has never suffered from allergies, said he woke up at night because his face, ears and neck burnt.

"I might have been poisoned," he said he thought at the time.&nbsp;

When he woke up Sunday morning his face was swollen and his eyelids "the size of ping pong balls", he said.

The swelling subsided after he was treated with steroids in hospital and he now looks like someone "who has been drinking for a week," he said.

He ruled out any foul play by local police, saying they themselves have been "shocked" by his appearance, but suggested that someone might have entered his cell when he was not there.

Earlier on Monday his lawyer Olga Mikhailova told reporters: "It is indeed poisoning by some unknown chemical substance."

The opposition politician's physician Anastasia Vasilyeva slammed doctors for sending him back to the jail despite needing to continue treatment.

"Alexei has been clearly sent back to the detention centre on orders from above," she said.

Vasilyeva accused the hospital doctors of not wanting to find out what caused Navalny's condition.&nbsp;

She said his health was in danger in prison and warned that his cell could be contaminated.

Vasilyeva, an ophthalmologist, previously treated Navalny after he nearly lost the sight in one eye following an attack in 2017.

- 'Rotten system' -

The Russian opposition leader is serving a 30-day jail sentence for calling a rally after authorities blocked prominent independent candidates from taking part in upcoming Moscow parliament elections in September.

Ahead of the rally, police detained a number of popular opposition politicians who have fought to get on the ballot.

They included the director of Navalny's Anti-Corruption Fund, Ivan Zhdanov -- who was sentenced to 15 days in jail on Monday -- and prominent opposition politician and another would-be candidate Ilya Yashin who was jailed for 10 days, also Monday.

"I am not afraid of your rotten system, your arrests or your detention centres," Yashin said in court, according to an account that he published on social media.

Despite the crackdown, thousands of protesters -- many in their 20s and early 30s -- turned up on Saturday in central Moscow to demonstrate over the blocking of opposition candidates and to urge the authorities to open up the tightly-controlled system.

Police beat up protesters with batons and indiscriminately arrested people including the elderly and passers-by.&nbsp;

As riot police assaulted the peaceful protesters, Putin dived to the bottom of the Gulf of Finland aboard a submersible.

On social media, Russians seethed with anger over the brutality of police tactics, sharing stories of injuries and detentions.

Liberal Russian media estimated the rally turnout was up to 15,000 people.&nbsp;

While the Kremlin scrambled to contain the fallout, Germany slammed "the disproportionately tough police action" and urged the detained protesters' release.

France expressed concern over the recent developments in Russia, noting the "sudden deterioration" of Navalny's health.

The opposition has called for a new protest on Saturday.

- Activists 'banged up' -&nbsp;

The Bell, a respected Russian-language online publication, said the Kremlin had underestimated Muscovites' anger and readiness to protest.

"Now we'll have to think what to do with all of this," it quoted a Kremlin source as saying.

A person familiar with the Kremlin thinking told the Bell that the most prominent activists would be "banged up", while the rest would be intimidated into no longer protesting.

More than 21,000 people signed a petition calling on Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin to resign. 
&nbsp;

Russia's jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny said Monday he might have been "poisoned" in his prison cell amid a crackdown on anti-Kremlin protesters. Navalny, who has been in jail since last week for calling an unauthorised rally, released a picture of himself in hospital with his face puffy, especially around the eyes.

Russia's jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny said Monday he might have been "poisoned" in his prison cell amid a crackdown on anti-Kremlin protesters. Navalny, who has been in jail since last week for calling an unauthorised rally, released a picture of himself in hospital with his face puffy, especially around the eyes. His lawyer and personal physician earlier said that Navalny, President Vladimir Putin's top opponent, was exposed to an unidentified toxic substance and that doctors had sent him back to jail despite his condition. The 43-year-old lawyer was rushed to hospital from jail on Sunday, a day after nearly 1,400 people were arrested at an unauthorised protest -- the largest police crackdown on dissent in recent years. Writing on his blog, Navalny, who has never suffered from allergies, said he woke up at night because his face, ears and neck burnt. "I might have been poisoned," he said he thought at the time. When he woke up Sunday morning his face was swollen and his eyelids "the size of ping pong balls", he said. The swelling subsided after he was treated with steroids in hospital and he now looks like someone "who has been drinking for a week," he said. He ruled out any foul play by local police, saying they themselves have been "shocked" by his appearance, but suggested that someone might have entered his cell when he was not there. Earlier on Monday his lawyer Olga Mikhailova told reporters: "It is indeed poisoning by some unknown chemical substance." The opposition politician's physician Anastasia Vasilyeva slammed doctors for sending him back to the jail despite needing to continue treatment. "Alexei has been clearly sent back to the detention centre on orders from above," she said. Vasilyeva accused the hospital doctors of not wanting to find out what caused Navalny's condition. She said his health was in danger in prison and warned that his cell could be contaminated. Vasilyeva, an ophthalmologist, previously treated Navalny after he nearly lost the sight in one eye following an attack in 2017. - 'Rotten system' - The Russian opposition leader is serving a 30-day jail sentence for calling a rally after authorities blocked prominent independent candidates from taking part in upcoming Moscow parliament elections in September. Ahead of the rally, police detained a number of popular opposition politicians who have fought to get on the ballot. They included the director of Navalny's Anti-Corruption Fund, Ivan Zhdanov -- who was sentenced to 15 days in jail on Monday -- and prominent opposition politician and another would-be candidate Ilya Yashin who was jailed for 10 days, also Monday. "I am not afraid of your rotten system, your arrests or your detention centres," Yashin said in court, according to an account that he published on social media. Despite the crackdown, thousands of protesters -- many in their 20s and early 30s -- turned up on Saturday in central Moscow to demonstrate over the blocking of opposition candidates and to urge the authorities to open up the tightly-controlled system. Police beat up protesters with batons and indiscriminately arrested people including the elderly and passers-by. As riot police assaulted the peaceful protesters, Putin dived to the bottom of the Gulf of Finland aboard a submersible. On social media, Russians seethed with anger over the brutality of police tactics, sharing stories of injuries and detentions. Liberal Russian media estimated the rally turnout was up to 15,000 people. While the Kremlin scrambled to contain the fallout, Germany slammed "the disproportionately tough police action" and urged the detained protesters' release. France expressed concern over the recent developments in Russia, noting the "sudden deterioration" of Navalny's health. The opposition has called for a new protest on Saturday. - Activists 'banged up' - The Bell, a respected Russian-language online publication, said the Kremlin had underestimated Muscovites' anger and readiness to protest. "Now we'll have to think what to do with all of this," it quoted a Kremlin source as saying. A person familiar with the Kremlin thinking told the Bell that the most prominent activists would be "banged up", while the rest would be intimidated into no longer protesting. More than 21,000 people signed a petition calling on Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin to resign.

I might have been poisoned: Vladimir Putin's opponent Alexei Navalny 

Candidates jockeying to become Afghanistan's next president lashed out at the incumbent Ashraf Ghani on Monday after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-death-toll-rises-to-20-in-kabul-suicide-attack-239144">deadly violence</a> cast a shadow over the first official day of campaigning.&nbsp;

At least 20 people -- most of them civilians -- were killed and 50 others wounded Sunday when a suicide attacker and gunmen targeted the Kabul office of Ghani's running mate, Amrullah Saleh.

The violence served as a grim reminder of Afghanistan's woeful security situation and the sort of mayhem and murder that have beset previous polls.

"The government has not paid attention to the candidates' security," said Qadir Shah, the spokesman for Hanif Atmar, one of the top contenders looking to stop Ghani securing a second term at September 28 elections.

Shah told AFP that he and 12 other candidates had delayed plans to launch their campaigns, primarily over security concerns but also because they see Ghani as using his office for an unfair advantage.

Mohammad Hakim Torsan, considered a long-shot candidate, said his supporters worry about a repeat of the kind of violence that marred previous polls when insurgents launched frequent attacks.

"Most of the candidates are worried about the security, but they still have to campaign. The government must provide security for us and the people," Torsan said.

Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said security forces had been preparing for the elections for eight months and taken "serious measures" to protect candidates, including the provision of armoured vehicles.

No group has claimed responsibility for Sunday's attack.

Boycott threats&nbsp;

Saleh, who escaped without serious injury, is the former head of Afghan intelligence and an outspoken critic of the Taliban and Pakistan -- a country he blames for backing the insurgents.

The Taliban, along with some Afghan stakeholders, made a vague pledge this month to reduce civilian casualties. Security officials have said the insurgent group is now distancing itself from attacks killing ordinary Afghans.&nbsp;

A Taliban spokesman did not respond to a request for comment.

Afghanistan's presidential election, the fourth since the Taliban were ousted in a US-led invasion in 2001, is off to a rocky start.

The poll has been delayed twice this year as the US leads a push to forge a peace deal with the Taliban, and voters have little faith in the system following widespread fraud allegations in 2014.

Atmar, who was Ghani's former national security advisor, and 12 other candidates have even threatened to boycott the election unless the international community can help ensure it is "clean".

Candidates jockeying to become Afghanistan's next president lashed out at the incumbent Ashraf Ghani on Monday after deadly violence cast a shadow over the first official day of campaigning.

Candidates jockeying to become Afghanistan's next president lashed out at the incumbent Ashraf Ghani on Monday after deadly violence cast a shadow over the first official day of campaigning. At least 20 people -- most of them civilians -- were killed and 50 others wounded Sunday when a suicide attacker and gunmen targeted the Kabul office of Ghani's running mate, Amrullah Saleh. The violence served as a grim reminder of Afghanistan's woeful security situation and the sort of mayhem and murder that have beset previous polls. "The government has not paid attention to the candidates' security," said Qadir Shah, the spokesman for Hanif Atmar, one of the top contenders looking to stop Ghani securing a second term at September 28 elections. Shah told AFP that he and 12 other candidates had delayed plans to launch their campaigns, primarily over security concerns but also because they see Ghani as using his office for an unfair advantage. Mohammad Hakim Torsan, considered a long-shot candidate, said his supporters worry about a repeat of the kind of violence that marred previous polls when insurgents launched frequent attacks. "Most of the candidates are worried about the security, but they still have to campaign. The government must provide security for us and the people," Torsan said. Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said security forces had been preparing for the elections for eight months and taken "serious measures" to protect candidates, including the provision of armoured vehicles. No group has claimed responsibility for Sunday's attack. Boycott threats Saleh, who escaped without serious injury, is the former head of Afghan intelligence and an outspoken critic of the Taliban and Pakistan -- a country he blames for backing the insurgents. The Taliban, along with some Afghan stakeholders, made a vague pledge this month to reduce civilian casualties. Security officials have said the insurgent group is now distancing itself from attacks killing ordinary Afghans. A Taliban spokesman did not respond to a request for comment. Afghanistan's presidential election, the fourth since the Taliban were ousted in a US-led invasion in 2001, is off to a rocky start. The poll has been delayed twice this year as the US leads a push to forge a peace deal with the Taliban, and voters have little faith in the system following widespread fraud allegations in 2014. Atmar, who was Ghani's former national security advisor, and 12 other candidates have even threatened to boycott the election unless the international community can help ensure it is "clean".

Afghan presidential candidates fear for safety after Sunday attack

People in North Korea began voting in local elections on Sunday.The elections, which take place every four years, are to endorse candidates for provincial, city, and county people's assemblies

Election of local representatives in North Korea

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/europe/british-pm-race-top-horse-boris-johnson-faces-court-hearing-for-brexit-lies-222520">Boris Johnson</a>, who has pledged to deliver Brexit on October&nbsp;31, edged closer to power on Thursday when he won by far the most support from Conservative Party lawmakers in the first round of the contest to replace Prime Minister Theresa May.

Johnson got 114 votes, with Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt in second place on 43 votes and Environment Minister Michael Gove third with 37 votes.

Three candidates -- Andrea Leadsom, Esther McVey and Mark Harper -- were eliminated after they failed to receive the required minimum of 17 votes.

The former foreign secretary, 54, says he would get Britain out of the EU "deal or no deal" when the October 31 deadline set by EU leaders comes around.

But he has also said a no-deal Brexit would be "a last resort, not something that anybody desires".

He has threatened to withhold the country's Brexit bill if the EU does not offer improved withdrawal terms, and to scrap a controversial provision for the Irish border contained in the current divorce deal -- both of which would be unacceptable to Brussels.

A figurehead in the 2016 Brexit campaign, he was May's foreign secretary until he resigned over her Brexit strategy.

Charismatic and popular with grassroots Conservatives, he is seen as the favourite in the race, scooping up a growing number of pledges of support from cabinet members and MPs.

Johnson picked up 114 votes in the first round of voting by Conservative MPs in the leadership race on Thursday.

Boris Johnson, who has pledged to deliver Brexit on October 31, edged closer to power on Thursday when he won by far the most support from Conservative Party lawmakers in the first round of the contest to replace Prime Minister Theresa May.

Boris Johnson, who has pledged to deliver Brexit on October 31, edged closer to power on Thursday when he won by far the most support from Conservative Party lawmakers in the first round of the contest to replace Prime Minister Theresa May. Johnson got 114 votes, with Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt in second place on 43 votes and Environment Minister Michael Gove third with 37 votes. Three candidates -- Andrea Leadsom, Esther McVey and Mark Harper -- were eliminated after they failed to receive the required minimum of 17 votes. The former foreign secretary, 54, says he would get Britain out of the EU "deal or no deal" when the October 31 deadline set by EU leaders comes around. But he has also said a no-deal Brexit would be "a last resort, not something that anybody desires". He has threatened to withhold the country's Brexit bill if the EU does not offer improved withdrawal terms, and to scrap a controversial provision for the Irish border contained in the current divorce deal -- both of which would be unacceptable to Brussels. A figurehead in the 2016 Brexit campaign, he was May's foreign secretary until he resigned over her Brexit strategy. Charismatic and popular with grassroots Conservatives, he is seen as the favourite in the race, scooping up a growing number of pledges of support from cabinet members and MPs. Johnson picked up 114 votes in the first round of voting by Conservative MPs in the leadership race on Thursday.

Boris Johnson 'delighted' to win first round of race for British Prime Minister

Israeli lawmakers voted to dissolve parliament on Thursday (May 30), paving the way for a new election after veteran Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu failed to form a coalition government before a midnight deadline.

Israelis angered as they face second election in months

Israel Heads back to Elections and parliament votes 74 against 45 to dissolve itself. Netanyahu fails to build coalition

Israel Heads back to Elections

PM Modi has met his mother in Gandhi Nagar and took blessings from her. Watch this video to know more.

PM Modi meets his mother in Gandhi Nagar

For the German island of Langeoog and its residents, the politics of climate change has become an issue of survival.

Climate concerns spur Green surge in Germany

Soon after the exit polls results came out, many media channels voiced their reservations about the return of Modi, the print media was also not far behind started bashing Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Meanwhile Britain's acclaimed newspaper The Guardian perhaps has a meanest take on India and PM Modi. The Guardian piece has a title, "Five more years of Narendra Modi will take India to a dark place."

India Election Watch: The Inherent bias of the western media

In a big blow to the opposition parties, the Election Commission has rejected their demand regarding VVPAT slips saying that the counting will take place as planned. Watch this video to know more.

India Election Watch: Election commission rejects VVPAT demand

According to CSDS Post Poll Survey, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal has increased among Non-BJP voters over time. Watch this video to know more.

India Election Watch: Decoding the "Pro-incumbency wave"

UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi will be chairing a meeting of Opposition leaders in New Delhi on May 23, the day election results will be announced. UPA ally DMK has confirmed the meeting, saying that party chief M K Stalin has received an invite from Gandhi. Watch this video to know more.

India Election Watch: UPA reaches out to regional parties

Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz on Saturday announced fresh elections after his coalition collapsed following a video sting that forced his deputy, far-right leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/austrian-far-right-leader-resigns-over-ibiza-affair-219615">Heinz-Christian Strache, to resign</a>.

"I have suggested to the president of the republic that new elections be carried out, at the earliest possible date," said Kurz.

Media reports emerged on Friday alleging that Strache promised public contracts in return for campaign help from a fake Russian backer he met on the Spanish island of Ibiza a few months before 2017's parliamentary elections in Austria.

"After yesterday's video, I must say quite honestly: Enough is enough," said Kurz.

"The serious part of this (video) was the attitude towards abuse of power, towards dealing with taxpayers' money, towards the media in this country," Kurz said, adding that he had been personally insulted in the footage.

The latest scandal appears to have been the last straw after a string of controversies over extremist sympathies among officials from Strache's Freedom Party (FPOe).

"Even if I didn't express myself publicly at the time, there were many situations that I found difficult to swallow," Kurz said of his time in government with the FPOe since December 2017.

He said that the FPOe was damaging Austria's reputation abroad and that meetings with FPOe representatives on Saturday had left him with the impression that it was not prepared to make the changes necessary to stay in government.

Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz on Saturday announced fresh elections after his coalition collapsed following a video sting that forced his deputy, far-right leader Heinz-Christian Strache, to resign.

Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz on Saturday announced fresh elections after his coalition collapsed following a video sting that forced his deputy, far-right leader Heinz-Christian Strache, to resign. "I have suggested to the president of the republic that new elections be carried out, at the earliest possible date," said Kurz. Media reports emerged on Friday alleging that Strache promised public contracts in return for campaign help from a fake Russian backer he met on the Spanish island of Ibiza a few months before 2017's parliamentary elections in Austria. "After yesterday's video, I must say quite honestly: Enough is enough," said Kurz. "The serious part of this (video) was the attitude towards abuse of power, towards dealing with taxpayers' money, towards the media in this country," Kurz said, adding that he had been personally insulted in the footage. The latest scandal appears to have been the last straw after a string of controversies over extremist sympathies among officials from Strache's Freedom Party (FPOe). "Even if I didn't express myself publicly at the time, there were many situations that I found difficult to swallow," Kurz said of his time in government with the FPOe since December 2017. He said that the FPOe was damaging Austria's reputation abroad and that meetings with FPOe representatives on Saturday had left him with the impression that it was not prepared to make the changes necessary to stay in government.

Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz announces new elections over corruption scandal

Watch this segment to know latest updates of Lok Sabha elections 2019.

Lok Sabha elections 2019: Watch latest election news

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, May 16th 2019

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