South Korea's embattled President Yoon Suk Yeol, in a shocking televised address on Thursday (Dec 12), defended his decision to declare martial law in the country last week which left the people shocked.

South Korea's embattled President Yoon Suk Yeol, in a shocking televised address on Thursday (Dec 12), defended his decision to declare martial law in the country last week which left the people shocked. President Yoon said that he took the decision to protect the democracy of the country and said that the attempt was a legal decision to "prevent the collapse" of democracy and counter the "parliamentary dictatorship" of the opposition. Amid the increasing calls for the president to either face impeachment or resign, Yoon hinted that he would not step down. "I will stand firm whether I'm impeached or investigated. I will fight to the end," he said. Currently, the president and his allies are facing a probe on insurrection charges and have also been slapped with a travel ban. However, President Yoon said that his martial law order was not an act of insurrection and claimed that "false incitement" was being created by his political rivals to bring him down. Also Read: Martial law in South Korea: Will maintain law until lifted by president, says military In his first televised address since he apologised for imposing martial law on Saturday (Dec 7), Yoon repeated many arguments that he had used on the night when martial law was imposed like the step taken to defend democracy and protect the public and that the opposition was dangerous. However, President Yoon said that he will not avoid his "legal and political responsibilities". Ruling party backs impeachment of President Yoon The ruling party of South Korea, meanwhile, threw its support behind the factions who are making an effort to impeach President Yoon. The announcement was made moments before the defiant speech was delivered by President Yoon in which he justified his decision. Watch: South Korea Ex-Minister Attempts Suicide Using Underwear In Detention Earlier, the People Power Party (PPP) refused to support impeachment, hoping that the president would resign from office. However, the party's leadership said that there has been no progress in the attempts made to persuade President Yoon. “We tried to find a better way than impeachment, but that other way is invalid,” said party leader Han Dong-hoon. “Suspending the president from his duties through impeachment is the only way for now, to defend democracy and the republic," he added. A new impeachment motion against President Yoon is being prepared by the main opposition Democratic Party and the voting is likely to happen on Saturday (Dec 14). Meanwhile, another raid was launched by the South Korean police on Thursday (Dec 12) on the presidential office compound as part of an investigation into the botched martial law bid of President Yoon, reported Yonhap news agency. The police dispatched authorities to the presidential office compound to "obtain documents and materials". (With inputs from agencies)

S Korea President Yoon remains defiant over martial law, says 'will fight to the end'

The South Korean National Assembly on Saturday (Dec 7) tabled the impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk-yeol. Before the voting started, all the members of the ruling People Power Party (PPP) walked out, however, only one member stayed, Ahn Cheol-soo.&nbsp;

Yoon shocked the whole nation after announcing martial law on Tuesday night. However, he was forced into a U-turn. Later, the opposition parties, which hold 192 seats in the 300-seat parliament filed the impeachment motion, which&nbsp;needs 200 votes to pass.&nbsp;

South Korea's National Assembly Speaker&nbsp;Woo Won-shik later announced that the impeachment motion against President Yoon&nbsp;Suk Yeol failed.

The motion was led by opposition parties to impeach President Yoon&nbsp;over his brief declaration of martial law.

"With a total of 195 votes, the number of members who voted did not reach the required two-thirds majority of the total members. Therefore, I declare that the vote on this matter is not valid," National Assembly Speaker Woo said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-president-impeachment-vote-ppp-members-walk-out-except-one-follow-live-782253">Also read:&nbsp;South Korean President impeachment vote: Yoon close to averting impeachment | Follow LIVE</a>

Tens of thousands of people started protesting outside the South Korean parliament, demanding Yoon's resignation.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is Ahn Cheol-soo?</h2>

Ahn Cheol-soo is a three-time presidential candidate and member of the ruling People Power Party.&nbsp;

He is also a physician, educator, politician and computer entrepreneur, who founded AhnLab, Inc, which is South Korea's largest Internet security firm.&nbsp;

In 2012, Ahn announced his candidacy in the presidential election. However, after speculations that his presidency could split the opposition vote, he walked out of the race in late November.

Then in&nbsp;2020, Ahn created a new People’s Party and in 2022, he was the party’s candidate in the presidential election. However, after remaining behind in the elections, he dropped out of the race just days before the elections. Then, he started supporting Yoon's party, which then won the elections.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol Apologizes After Abortive Imposition Of Martial Law

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Coming back to the present scenario, Ahn broke from the official stance of Yoon's party&nbsp;earlier today, as he announced his support for a motion to impeach South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, The Korea Herald reported.&nbsp;

The party was moving further in against to President's impeachment, however, Ahn urged Yoon and the party to set a timeline for his resignation and propose a plan for forming a neutral national unity cabinet.&nbsp;

"Now that President Yoon has entrusted his future to the party, it is imperative for the party to clarify the timeline for his resignation and the formation of a neutral national unity cabinet before the vote," Ahn said in a statement.

"I believe this is a fundamental requirement for achieving an 'orderly resignation' that the public can accept."

Ahn's statement came as another member from the ruling party Rep. Cho Kyeong-tae, who expressed support for the impeachment motion a day earlier, changed his stance and vowed to align with the party's official position.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The South Korean National Assembly on Saturday (Dec 7) tabled the impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk-yeol. Before the voting started, all the members of the ruling People Power Party (PPP) walked out, however, only one member stayed, Ahn Cheol-soo.

The South Korean National Assembly on Saturday (Dec 7) tabled the impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk-yeol. Before the voting started, all the members of the ruling People Power Party (PPP) walked out, however, only one member stayed, Ahn Cheol-soo. Yoon shocked the whole nation after announcing martial law on Tuesday night. However, he was forced into a U-turn. Later, the opposition parties, which hold 192 seats in the 300-seat parliament filed the impeachment motion, which needs 200 votes to pass. South Korea's National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik later announced that the impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk Yeol failed. The motion was led by opposition parties to impeach President Yoon over his brief declaration of martial law. "With a total of 195 votes, the number of members who voted did not reach the required two-thirds majority of the total members. Therefore, I declare that the vote on this matter is not valid," National Assembly Speaker Woo said. Also read: South Korean President impeachment vote: Yoon close to averting impeachment | Follow LIVE Tens of thousands of people started protesting outside the South Korean parliament, demanding Yoon's resignation. Who is Ahn Cheol-soo? Ahn Cheol-soo is a three-time presidential candidate and member of the ruling People Power Party. He is also a physician, educator, politician and computer entrepreneur, who founded AhnLab, Inc, which is South Korea's largest Internet security firm. In 2012, Ahn announced his candidacy in the presidential election. However, after speculations that his presidency could split the opposition vote, he walked out of the race in late November. Then in 2020, Ahn created a new People’s Party and in 2022, he was the party’s candidate in the presidential election. However, after remaining behind in the elections, he dropped out of the race just days before the elections. Then, he started supporting Yoon's party, which then won the elections. Watch | South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol Apologizes After Abortive Imposition Of Martial Law × Coming back to the present scenario, Ahn broke from the official stance of Yoon's party earlier today, as he announced his support for a motion to impeach South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, The Korea Herald reported. The party was moving further in against to President's impeachment, however, Ahn urged Yoon and the party to set a timeline for his resignation and propose a plan for forming a neutral national unity cabinet. "Now that President Yoon has entrusted his future to the party, it is imperative for the party to clarify the timeline for his resignation and the formation of a neutral national unity cabinet before the vote," Ahn said in a statement. "I believe this is a fundamental requirement for achieving an 'orderly resignation' that the public can accept." Ahn's statement came as another member from the ruling party Rep. Cho Kyeong-tae, who expressed support for the impeachment motion a day earlier, changed his stance and vowed to align with the party's official position. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Ahn Cheol-soo? Lone lawmaker from South Korea ruling party who stayed during impeachment vote

Around 150,000 people protested&nbsp;outside South Korea's parliament, calling for President Yoon Suk Yeol to step down as lawmakers, on Saturday (Dec 7), are voting in the incumbent president’s impeachment hearing, news agency Yonhap reported.&nbsp;

"Police estimated that around 149,000 people had joined the gathering as of 5:30 pm (0830 GMT) while organizers claimed the turnout was one million," according to a report by the South Korean news agency.&nbsp;

Yoon's fate will be decided in the parliament today as the motion to impeach him is put to a vote.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-president-impeachment-vote-ppp-members-walk-out-except-one-follow-live-782253">Also read:&nbsp;South Korean President impeachment vote: PPP members walk out, 3 return</a>

Before the voting started, all the members of the ruling party walked out, except one. Before the proceedings began, Yoon's party said that it would oppose it.&nbsp;

<h2>'Traitors, go back in'</h2>

As they exited, opposition MPs started shouting, "Traitors, go back in". Only one member from the People Power Party (PPP), Ahn Cheol-soo, was in the voting chamber who had said that he would back Yoon's impeachment. The speaker condemned the walkout, saying, "This is ignoring the will of the people."

South Korean parliamentary speaker Woo Won-shik, who is in the opposition Democratic Party, called for the PPP lawmakers to vote in an impeachment hearing.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Own Party Wants South Korean President Out | GRAVITAS | WION | World News

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"The Republic of Korea is a democracy that's made of people's blood and tears," he said. "Are you not afraid of being judged by history, by the people, and by the world?"

Notably, the PPP lawmakers walked out from the National Assembly without enough members to reach the two-thirds majority needed to pass the impeachment motion.&nbsp;

Later, two more MPs from the PPP returned to the chamber as opposition lawmakers welcomed them with applause.

(With inputs from agencies)

Around 150,000 people protested outside South Korea's parliament, calling for President Yoon Suk Yeol to step down as lawmakers, on Saturday (Dec 7), are voting in the incumbent president’s impeachment hearing, news agency Yonhap reported.

Around 150,000 people protested outside South Korea's parliament, calling for President Yoon Suk Yeol to step down as lawmakers, on Saturday (Dec 7), are voting in the incumbent president’s impeachment hearing, news agency Yonhap reported. "Police estimated that around 149,000 people had joined the gathering as of 5:30 pm (0830 GMT) while organizers claimed the turnout was one million," according to a report by the South Korean news agency. Yoon's fate will be decided in the parliament today as the motion to impeach him is put to a vote. Also read: South Korean President impeachment vote: PPP members walk out, 3 return Before the voting started, all the members of the ruling party walked out, except one. Before the proceedings began, Yoon's party said that it would oppose it. 'Traitors, go back in' As they exited, opposition MPs started shouting, "Traitors, go back in". Only one member from the People Power Party (PPP), Ahn Cheol-soo, was in the voting chamber who had said that he would back Yoon's impeachment. The speaker condemned the walkout, saying, "This is ignoring the will of the people." South Korean parliamentary speaker Woo Won-shik, who is in the opposition Democratic Party, called for the PPP lawmakers to vote in an impeachment hearing. Watch | Own Party Wants South Korean President Out | GRAVITAS | WION | World News × "The Republic of Korea is a democracy that's made of people's blood and tears," he said. "Are you not afraid of being judged by history, by the people, and by the world?" Notably, the PPP lawmakers walked out from the National Assembly without enough members to reach the two-thirds majority needed to pass the impeachment motion. Later, two more MPs from the PPP returned to the chamber as opposition lawmakers welcomed them with applause. (With inputs from agencies)

Nearly 150,000 people protest outside South Korea parliament asking Yoon to quit as impeachment fails

Fresh legal challenges mounted for embattled Philippine vice president Sara Duterte Wednesday (Dec. 4) as a second impeachment complaint was filed against her by leftist groups. The recent complaint accuses her of misusing public funds and "betrayal of public trust" in misspending 612.5 million pesos ($10.49 million).

According to the complaint filed at the House of Representatives, she ordered her subordinates to forge fake reports to cover up the alleged misuse of funds. She also reportedly failed to defend her budget before the Congress. Targeting Sara, the complaint said the Philippine constitution "does not permit such cynical disregard for public trust".

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwio-uvu842KAxUX1DQHHUhoBJIQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-talked-to-assassin-to-kill-you-filipino-vice-president-issues-open-threat-to-prez-marcos-778632" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/have-talked-to-assassin-to-kill-you-filipino-vice-president-issues-open-threat-to-prez-marcos-778632&amp;ved=2ahUKEwio-uvu842KAxUX1DQHHUhoBJIQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE">‘Have talked to assassin to kill you,’ Filipino vice president issues open threat to Prez Marcos</a>

"It does not allow the Vice President to treat public funds as a personal war chest while stonewalling all attempts at oversight," it added.

Earlier on Monday (Dec. 2), Philippine civil society groups, religious leaders, and former government officials filed their first impeachment complaint against the vice president, accusing her of incompetence, graft, and amassing ill-gotten wealth while in office.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwio-uvu842KAxUX1DQHHUhoBJIQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippine-vp-faces-impeachment-complaint-after-she-issued-death-threat-against-president-780846" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/philippine-vp-faces-impeachment-complaint-after-she-issued-death-threat-against-president-780846&amp;ved=2ahUKEwio-uvu842KAxUX1DQHHUhoBJIQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE">Philippine VP faces impeachment complaint after she issued death threat against president</a>

The complaints further add to legal troubles for the vice president, who last month set the cat among the pigeons by saying she will get President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his wife and cousin, who is the House speaker, killed if she were to be assassinated.

Law enforcement agencies have now opened a slew of criminal cases against her, with police already having filed a formal criminal complaint of assault, disobedience, and coercion.

<h2>Will Sara Duterte get impeached?</h2>

The impeachment process begins at the lower house of the Congress. The proposal must receive support from at least a third of the 308-member House of Representatives to qualify at the House of Representatives.

Once approved, the proposal will then be discussed at the Senate, with the assembly effectively acting as an impeachment court. A conviction would require support from two-thirds of the 23-member upper Congress. All in all, the proposal would require approval of at least 16 members.

Once impeached, Sara Duterte will have to vacate her office and would be barred from holding any public office.

Fresh legal challenges mounted for embattled Philippine vice president Sara Duterte Wednesday (Dec. 4) as a second impeachment complaint was filed against her by leftist groups.

Fresh legal challenges mounted for embattled Philippine vice president Sara Duterte Wednesday (Dec. 4) as a second impeachment complaint was filed against her by leftist groups. The recent complaint accuses her of misusing public funds and "betrayal of public trust" in misspending 612.5 million pesos ($10.49 million). According to the complaint filed at the House of Representatives, she ordered her subordinates to forge fake reports to cover up the alleged misuse of funds. She also reportedly failed to defend her budget before the Congress. Targeting Sara, the complaint said the Philippine constitution "does not permit such cynical disregard for public trust". Also read: ‘Have talked to assassin to kill you,’ Filipino vice president issues open threat to Prez Marcos "It does not allow the Vice President to treat public funds as a personal war chest while stonewalling all attempts at oversight," it added. Earlier on Monday (Dec. 2), Philippine civil society groups, religious leaders, and former government officials filed their first impeachment complaint against the vice president, accusing her of incompetence, graft, and amassing ill-gotten wealth while in office. Also read: Philippine VP faces impeachment complaint after she issued death threat against president The complaints further add to legal troubles for the vice president, who last month set the cat among the pigeons by saying she will get President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., his wife and cousin, who is the House speaker, killed if she were to be assassinated. Law enforcement agencies have now opened a slew of criminal cases against her, with police already having filed a formal criminal complaint of assault, disobedience, and coercion. Will Sara Duterte get impeached? The impeachment process begins at the lower house of the Congress. The proposal must receive support from at least a third of the 308-member House of Representatives to qualify at the House of Representatives. Once approved, the proposal will then be discussed at the Senate, with the assembly effectively acting as an impeachment court. A conviction would require support from two-thirds of the 23-member upper Congress. All in all, the proposal would require approval of at least 16 members. Once impeached, Sara Duterte will have to vacate her office and would be barred from holding any public office.

More trouble for Philippine VP Sara Duterte as second impeachment complaint filed in parliament

Kenya's senate voted to dismiss Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from office by impeachment on five out of 11 charges levelled against him on Thursday, in an unprecedented move that risks pushing the country towards a political crisis.

The National Assembly voted last week to impeach Gachagua, who helped President William Ruto win an election two years ago but has been assailed by allies of the president over alleged disloyalty and a series of provocative public comments.

Fifty-four out of 67 senators voted to dismiss Gachagua on the first count of "gross violation of the constitution", more than the two-thirds majority required under the law, making him the first Kenyan president or deputy president forced from office by impeachment.

"Accordingly, His Excellency Rigathi Gachagua... ceases to hold office," said Senate Speaker Amason Kingi.

The process, however, is unlikely to stop there. Gachagua has filed several petitions challenging the push to oust him, and the chief justice has appointed a panel of three judges to examine them.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-hezbollah-to-escalate-war-with-israel-after-killing-of-hamas-leader-yahya-sinwar-768527">Hezbollah to escalate war with Israel after killing of Hamas leader Sinwar</a>

Gachagua, who has denied the allegations, had been due to defend himself against the charges in the Senate on Thursday afternoon ahead of the vote.

When he failed to show up, his lawyer Paul Muite said the deputy president had been hospitalised with intense chest pains, urging the Senate to pause proceedings for a couple of days.

But the senate declined to do so, prompting Gachagua's legal team to leave the chambers in protest.

Dan Gikonyo, a doctor treating Gachagua, told reporters the deputy president was admitted to a Nairobi hospital with heart trouble on Thursday afternoon, but was now stable and would likely have to remain in hospital for 24-72 hours.

Some senators questioned the decision to proceed with the vote, despite Gachagua's absence.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sinwar-was-killed-accidentally-heres-how-idf-troops-who-didnt-have-intel-about-hamas-chief-neutralised-him-768508">IDF troops did not have intel Hamas chief Sinwar was hiding in Gaza building</a>

"We are to try a man in hospital because the only crime that Rigathi Gachagua has committed is a political crime, so he has to be removed out of the way, whatever it will take," said Senator John Methu.

But Senator Moses Otieno Kajwang defended the move to impeach Gachagua, saying, "we must drain the swamp".

<h2>RISKS FOR RUTO</h2>

Ruto, who has fallen out with Gachagua in recent months, has not commented on the proceedings, but could face a public backlash following the impeachment, political analysts said.

Many Kenyans view the impeachment process as politically motivated, and a distraction from the aftermath of the deadly anti-tax protests in June and July that exposed deep discontent with government policies and alleged corruption.

The hearings, which have involved in-depth scrutiny of Gachagua's finances, could boomerang back at Ruto, said Karuti Kanyinga, a professor at the University of Nairobi's Institute for Development Studies.

"We are going to hear people demanding that the same thing that has been done on Gachagua be done to the president," Kanyinga said.

Gachagua, who has previously called the impeachment process a political lynching based on falsehoods, had been due to respond to a litany of accusations laid out on Wednesday by lawmaker Mwengi Mutuse, who accused him of inciting ethnic hatred.

Mutuse also accused Gachagua of acquiring properties worth over $40 million since becoming deputy president, despite reporting a net worth of only around $6 million before entering office.

Elisha Ongoya, a member of Gachagua's legal team, said the allegations lacked evidence and were based on speculation.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Kenya's senate voted to dismiss Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from office by impeachment on five out of 11 charges levelled against him on Thursday, in an unprecedented move that risks pushing the country towards a political crisis.

Kenya's senate voted to dismiss Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua from office by impeachment on five out of 11 charges levelled against him on Thursday, in an unprecedented move that risks pushing the country towards a political crisis. The National Assembly voted last week to impeach Gachagua, who helped President William Ruto win an election two years ago but has been assailed by allies of the president over alleged disloyalty and a series of provocative public comments. Fifty-four out of 67 senators voted to dismiss Gachagua on the first count of "gross violation of the constitution", more than the two-thirds majority required under the law, making him the first Kenyan president or deputy president forced from office by impeachment. "Accordingly, His Excellency Rigathi Gachagua... ceases to hold office," said Senate Speaker Amason Kingi. The process, however, is unlikely to stop there. Gachagua has filed several petitions challenging the push to oust him, and the chief justice has appointed a panel of three judges to examine them. Also Read | Hezbollah to escalate war with Israel after killing of Hamas leader Sinwar Gachagua, who has denied the allegations, had been due to defend himself against the charges in the Senate on Thursday afternoon ahead of the vote. When he failed to show up, his lawyer Paul Muite said the deputy president had been hospitalised with intense chest pains, urging the Senate to pause proceedings for a couple of days. But the senate declined to do so, prompting Gachagua's legal team to leave the chambers in protest. Dan Gikonyo, a doctor treating Gachagua, told reporters the deputy president was admitted to a Nairobi hospital with heart trouble on Thursday afternoon, but was now stable and would likely have to remain in hospital for 24-72 hours. Some senators questioned the decision to proceed with the vote, despite Gachagua's absence. Also Read | IDF troops did not have intel Hamas chief Sinwar was hiding in Gaza building "We are to try a man in hospital because the only crime that Rigathi Gachagua has committed is a political crime, so he has to be removed out of the way, whatever it will take," said Senator John Methu. But Senator Moses Otieno Kajwang defended the move to impeach Gachagua, saying, "we must drain the swamp". RISKS FOR RUTO Ruto, who has fallen out with Gachagua in recent months, has not commented on the proceedings, but could face a public backlash following the impeachment, political analysts said. Many Kenyans view the impeachment process as politically motivated, and a distraction from the aftermath of the deadly anti-tax protests in June and July that exposed deep discontent with government policies and alleged corruption. The hearings, which have involved in-depth scrutiny of Gachagua's finances, could boomerang back at Ruto, said Karuti Kanyinga, a professor at the University of Nairobi's Institute for Development Studies. "We are going to hear people demanding that the same thing that has been done on Gachagua be done to the president," Kanyinga said. Gachagua, who has previously called the impeachment process a political lynching based on falsehoods, had been due to respond to a litany of accusations laid out on Wednesday by lawmaker Mwengi Mutuse, who accused him of inciting ethnic hatred. Mutuse also accused Gachagua of acquiring properties worth over $40 million since becoming deputy president, despite reporting a net worth of only around $6 million before entering office. Elisha Ongoya, a member of Gachagua's legal team, said the allegations lacked evidence and were based on speculation. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Kenyan Senate impeaches deputy president Rigathi Gachagua over 'corruption'

Kenya's High Court has suspended the Senate’s impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Watch in for more details!

Kenya: High Court Suspends Gachagua's Impeachment Process Till October 24

Kenya’s deputy president, who faces impeachment, pleaded not guilty Wednesday to all allegations including corruption. Watch for more details!

Kenya: Senate Announces 11 Charges, Deputy President Pleads 'Not Guilty'

Impeachment proceedings against Kenya's deputy president are constitutional, a court said on Wednesday, clearing the way for the Senate to hold hearings and vote on his dismissal this week.

Kenya's National Assembly voted on Tuesday last week to impeach the deputy president, Rigathi Gachagua, on 11 charges which included corruption, undermining the government and stirring ethnic hatred. Gachagua has denied all charges.

Gachagua has said the impeachment motion, backed by opposition lawmakers and allies of President William Ruto, was based on falsehoods that constituted a political lynching, according to court documents seen by Reuters.

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He launched an appeal in the high court, but Judge Erick Ogolla said the process could go ahead.

"At this stage, the process is a lawful, constitutional process, and the Senate will conduct a trial where all the issues being raised before the court will be raised and determined at the moment," the judge said in court.

The deputy president was Ruto's running mate in their 2022 election win, helping secure vital votes from the populous central Kenya region. But the men have since fallen out and political alliances have shifted.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-said-18-of-the-19-people-who-work-for-netanyahu-are-liars-in-major-revelation-767945">Joe Biden said ‘18 of the 19 people who work for Netanyahu are liars' in major revelation</a>

Ruto fired most of his cabinet and appointed members of the opposition to what he called a unity government after nationwide protests against tax increases in which more than 50 people were killed.

The Senate is expected to hold hearings on Wednesday and vote on Thursday. A two-thirds majority would be needed to dismiss Gachagua.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Impeachment proceedings against Kenya's deputy president are constitutional, a court said on Wednesday, clearing the way for the Senate to hold hearings and vote on his dismissal this week.

Impeachment proceedings against Kenya's deputy president are constitutional, a court said on Wednesday, clearing the way for the Senate to hold hearings and vote on his dismissal this week. Kenya's National Assembly voted on Tuesday last week to impeach the deputy president, Rigathi Gachagua, on 11 charges which included corruption, undermining the government and stirring ethnic hatred. Gachagua has denied all charges. Gachagua has said the impeachment motion, backed by opposition lawmakers and allies of President William Ruto, was based on falsehoods that constituted a political lynching, according to court documents seen by Reuters. Also Read | Trump claims Democrats 'stole' election nomination from Biden: 'Like candy from a baby' He launched an appeal in the high court, but Judge Erick Ogolla said the process could go ahead. "At this stage, the process is a lawful, constitutional process, and the Senate will conduct a trial where all the issues being raised before the court will be raised and determined at the moment," the judge said in court. The deputy president was Ruto's running mate in their 2022 election win, helping secure vital votes from the populous central Kenya region. But the men have since fallen out and political alliances have shifted. Also Read | Joe Biden said ‘18 of the 19 people who work for Netanyahu are liars' in major revelation Ruto fired most of his cabinet and appointed members of the opposition to what he called a unity government after nationwide protests against tax increases in which more than 50 people were killed. The Senate is expected to hold hearings on Wednesday and vote on Thursday. A two-thirds majority would be needed to dismiss Gachagua. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Court says impeachment proceedings against Kenya deputy president are constitutional

Lawmakers in Kenya have voted to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for abuse of office. Gachagua faces a host of charges from lawmakers including corruption. Watch for more details!

Kenya Lawmakers Vote Overwhelming to Impeach Deputy President Gachagua

The US Senate on Wednesday (April 17) quickly dismissed two articles of impeachment against Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, calling them "unconstitutional."

The trial brought to an end a months-long plan to take action against the secretary for the way he is handling the southern border.

The trial against top border security official Mayorkas, who has been&nbsp;a target of Republican criticism&nbsp;over the way he is handling southern border and immigration policy, continued for only three hours after senators were sworn in as jurors.

In the Senate, a 51-member Democratic majority voted to dismiss the two charges as unconstitutional, rejecting Republican members' objections.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meet-the-four-republicans-who-rescued-alejandro-mayorkas-from-impeachment-687680">Meet the four Republicans who rescued Alejandro Mayorkas from impeachment</a>

The Senate passed a motion in which it declared the first impeachment article, which accused Mayorkas of not being able to enforce immigration laws, “does not allege conduct that rises to the level of a high crime or misdemeanour” and “is therefore unconstitutional.”&nbsp;

In the Senate, 51 people voted to reject the impeachment charges, as Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, voted “present.” After this, the Senate then voted to end the trial "sine die," which means for good in, less than 3 1/2 hours after it started.

"Once and for all, the Senate has rightly voted down this baseless impeachment that even conservative legal scholars said was unconstitutional," said Ian Sams, a White House spokesperson.

“President Biden and Secretary Mayorkas will continue doing their jobs to keep America safe and pursue actual solutions at the border, and Congressional Republicans should join them, instead of wasting time on baseless political stunts while killing real bipartisan border security reforms," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Mayorkas becomes second Cabinet secretary to face impeachment in US history</h2>

In the history of the United States, Mayorkas became the second Cabinet secretary to face impeachment when he was charged with "willful and systemic refusal to comply with the law" and a "breach of public trust" by the House in February.&nbsp;

The impeachment effort was strongly opposed by the Democrats who called it a political stunt and said that the allegations included a policy disagreement which fell short of the constitutional threshold for impeachment.

Watch:&nbsp;US: President Biden's immigration Chief Alejandro Mayorkas impeached over border crisis

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"We felt very strongly that we had to set a precedent that impeachment should never be used to settle policy disagreements," said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, on Wednesday evening (April 17).&nbsp;

"If we allowed that to happen, it would set a disastrous precedent for Congress — could throw our system of checks and balances into cycles of chaos," he added.&nbsp;

The Senate, under the Constitution, is responsible for conducting a trial to determine if impeached officials are guilty and need to be removed from office.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US Senate on Wednesday (April 17) quickly dismissed two articles of impeachment against Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, calling them "unconstitutional.

The US Senate on Wednesday (April 17) quickly dismissed two articles of impeachment against Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, calling them "unconstitutional." The trial brought to an end a months-long plan to take action against the secretary for the way he is handling the southern border. The trial against top border security official Mayorkas, who has been a target of Republican criticism over the way he is handling southern border and immigration policy, continued for only three hours after senators were sworn in as jurors. In the Senate, a 51-member Democratic majority voted to dismiss the two charges as unconstitutional, rejecting Republican members' objections. Also Read: Meet the four Republicans who rescued Alejandro Mayorkas from impeachment The Senate passed a motion in which it declared the first impeachment article, which accused Mayorkas of not being able to enforce immigration laws, “does not allege conduct that rises to the level of a high crime or misdemeanour” and “is therefore unconstitutional.” In the Senate, 51 people voted to reject the impeachment charges, as Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, voted “present.” After this, the Senate then voted to end the trial "sine die," which means for good in, less than 3 1/2 hours after it started. "Once and for all, the Senate has rightly voted down this baseless impeachment that even conservative legal scholars said was unconstitutional," said Ian Sams, a White House spokesperson. “President Biden and Secretary Mayorkas will continue doing their jobs to keep America safe and pursue actual solutions at the border, and Congressional Republicans should join them, instead of wasting time on baseless political stunts while killing real bipartisan border security reforms," he added. Mayorkas becomes second Cabinet secretary to face impeachment in US history In the history of the United States, Mayorkas became the second Cabinet secretary to face impeachment when he was charged with "willful and systemic refusal to comply with the law" and a "breach of public trust" by the House in February. The impeachment effort was strongly opposed by the Democrats who called it a political stunt and said that the allegations included a policy disagreement which fell short of the constitutional threshold for impeachment. Watch: US: President Biden's immigration Chief Alejandro Mayorkas impeached over border crisis "We felt very strongly that we had to set a precedent that impeachment should never be used to settle policy disagreements," said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, on Wednesday evening (April 17). "If we allowed that to happen, it would set a disastrous precedent for Congress — could throw our system of checks and balances into cycles of chaos," he added. The Senate, under the Constitution, is responsible for conducting a trial to determine if impeached officials are guilty and need to be removed from office. (With inputs from agencies)

US Senate rejects impeachment charges against Biden's top border official Mayorkas

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Indonesians call for President Widodo's impeachment

The failed attempt to impeach Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas on Tuesday&nbsp;night (Feb 7) marked a significant setback for House Speaker Mike Johnson, shedding light on the disarray within the chamber.

Despite a historic attempt – the first to impeach a Cabinet member since 1876 – the vote fell short by a mere two votes, concluding with a tally of 214 to 216.

Notably, the defection of four Republicans, including Reps. Mike Gallagher, Ken Buck, Tom McClintock, and Blake Moore, who sided with the unanimous Democrats, played a pivotal role in the outcome.

<h2>Moore's last-minute change</h2>

Blake Moore's last-second change of vote to "no" allowed for the possibility of revisiting the issue later, while House Majority Leader Steve Scalise's absence due to health reasons further complicated the situation, leaving uncertainties about a potential future attempt by the GOP to impeach Mayorkas.

The failed impeachment also sheds light on the&nbsp;diminished power of the GOP in the House, following the slim majority they held after the 2022 midterms, which they lost after the resignation of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-homeland-security-chief-narrowly-survives-impeachment-in-republican-majority-house-687668">Also read |&nbsp;Biden Homeland security chief narrowly survives impeachment in Republican-majority House</a>

<h2>What's the historical context?</h2>

Earlier, the House made history by voting to expel Rep. George Santos of New York, a move that was met with mockery by Santos himself on social media.

Rep. Gallagher's unexpected vote against impeachment, despite his prominent role as the chair of the House's select committee on China and his potential for a US Senate run, drew attention and speculation.

Republicans Buck and McClintock, who also voted "no",&nbsp;expressed doubts about the impeachment case, questioning its constitutional threshold and warning about dangerous precedents that could be set.

While Mayorkas' impeachment was unlikely to succeed in the Senate due to the Democrats' narrow majority, senators from both parties voiced displeasure with the impeachment effort, citing concerns about the constitutional standards and the potential repercussions of such actions.

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Before the vote, McClintock slammed his fellow Republicans' impeachment push in a 10-page harshly worded letter, highlighting&nbsp;its negative implications both politically and constitutionally.

“[T]aking the course outlined by the [Homeland Security Committee] is bad politics and bad policy. It is bad politics because it taints with partisanship what would otherwise be overwhelming national opposition to Democrats’ open borders policy. It is bad policy because it strengthens a dangerous constitutional precedent the Democrats will surely use against conservatives on the Supreme Court and a future Republican administration the moment they have that opportunity,” McClintock wrote in his letter.

(With inputs from agencies)

The failed attempt to impeach Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas on Tuesday night (Feb 7) marked a significant setback for House Speaker Mike Johnson, shedding light on the disarray within the chamber.

The failed attempt to impeach Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas on Tuesday night (Feb 7) marked a significant setback for House Speaker Mike Johnson, shedding light on the disarray within the chamber. Despite a historic attempt – the first to impeach a Cabinet member since 1876 – the vote fell short by a mere two votes, concluding with a tally of 214 to 216. Notably, the defection of four Republicans, including Reps. Mike Gallagher, Ken Buck, Tom McClintock, and Blake Moore, who sided with the unanimous Democrats, played a pivotal role in the outcome. Moore's last-minute change Blake Moore's last-second change of vote to "no" allowed for the possibility of revisiting the issue later, while House Majority Leader Steve Scalise's absence due to health reasons further complicated the situation, leaving uncertainties about a potential future attempt by the GOP to impeach Mayorkas. The failed impeachment also sheds light on the diminished power of the GOP in the House, following the slim majority they held after the 2022 midterms, which they lost after the resignation of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Also read | Biden Homeland security chief narrowly survives impeachment in Republican-majority House What's the historical context? Earlier, the House made history by voting to expel Rep. George Santos of New York, a move that was met with mockery by Santos himself on social media. Rep. Gallagher's unexpected vote against impeachment, despite his prominent role as the chair of the House's select committee on China and his potential for a US Senate run, drew attention and speculation. Republicans Buck and McClintock, who also voted "no", expressed doubts about the impeachment case, questioning its constitutional threshold and warning about dangerous precedents that could be set. While Mayorkas' impeachment was unlikely to succeed in the Senate due to the Democrats' narrow majority, senators from both parties voiced displeasure with the impeachment effort, citing concerns about the constitutional standards and the potential repercussions of such actions. Before the vote, McClintock slammed his fellow Republicans' impeachment push in a 10-page harshly worded letter, highlighting its negative implications both politically and constitutionally. “[T]aking the course outlined by the [Homeland Security Committee] is bad politics and bad policy. It is bad politics because it taints with partisanship what would otherwise be overwhelming national opposition to Democrats’ open borders policy. It is bad policy because it strengthens a dangerous constitutional precedent the Democrats will surely use against conservatives on the Supreme Court and a future Republican administration the moment they have that opportunity,” McClintock wrote in his letter. (With inputs from agencies)

Meet the four Republicans who rescued Alejandro Mayorkas from impeachment

In a setback to the Republicans, US President Joe Biden's immigration chief escaped impeachment over his handling of the southern border by a razor-thin margin on Tuesday (Feb 6).

In a setback to the Republicans, US President Joe Biden's immigration chief escaped impeachment over his handling of the southern border by a razor-thin margin on Tuesday (Feb 6). A sustained campaign to oust Alejandro Mayorkas collapsed in the GOP-majority House of Representatives after Democrats and a trio of sceptical Republicans voted to reject the impeachment motion. Mayorkas averted an exit following a 214-216 vote which marked a blow for Speaker Mike Johnson and other GOP lawmakers who have constantly blamed the Biden aide for allowing the migrant situation to deteriorate. Had Tuesday's vote been successful, Mayorkas would have become only the second cabinet secretary to be impeached in US history. The dramatic vote finished with a 215-215 tie after a Republican member changed his vote so that the House could bring up the impeachment issue once again. "I'm frustrated. But we will bring it back up, obviously when Scalise and others are here and it will pass. It's a delay is all this is," said Tennessee Republican leader and Homeland Security Chair Mark Green after the failed vote. Watch | US: Senate negotiators reach bipartisan deal on border policy Border crisis Notably, Colorado Rep. Ken Buck, Wisconsin Rep. Mike Gallagher and California Rep. Tom McClintock were the three Republicans who halted Mayorkas' exit after Green, who presides over the Homeland Security Committee, sent the impeachment articles. The Republicans have repeatedly attacked the Democrats by pointing to the statistics which show that migrant encounters reached a record high of 302,000 in December alone at the southern border. Mayorkas has been held responsible for the alarming situation as more and more undocumented immigrants enter American cities. A Harvard-Harris survey conducted earlier this month showed that immigration was now an important concern for voters, with 35 per cent of respondents citing the issue as their top priority. Also read | US authorities start closing bridges with Mexico to contain surge in immigration However, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries accused Republicans of blowing the situation out of proportion and pandering to Trump's White House ambitions. Jeffries said the GOP lawmakers could have been working to fix the "broken immigration system". "Instead, what you have to offer the American people is this sham impeachment, this political stunt, this waste of time. But you will not fool the American people," he added. A US Senate bill passed over the weekend seeks to overhaul the immigration policy but its future remains uncertain as Republicans threaten to trash it once it reaches the House. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden Homeland security chief narrowly survives impeachment in Republican-majority House

Amid the opposition's move to impeach Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, the ruling dispensation has taken its concerns over recent amendments to Parliament's standing orders to the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

This comes as the legislative body, consisting of 87 members, recently amended its standing orders, simplifying the process of initiating an impeachment motion.&nbsp;Several pro-Muizzu lawmakers resigned from the Maldivian Parliament in November so that they could attain cabinet positions, however, the opposition amended the rules which barred these vacated seats when counting the total number of MPs.&nbsp;

The amendment card played by the opposition reduced the required votes for impeachment from 58 to 54.

It is worth noting that the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the Democrats command 56 Members of Parliament, with 43 hailing from the MDP and 13 from the Democrats. This has become a major issue for Muizzu's ruling People’s National Congress party as the MDP-Democrats alliance now possesses the potential to impeach the president.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kenya-discovers-first-deposits-of-coltan-a-valuable-mineral-used-in-electronic-devices-685238">Kenya discovers first deposits of Coltan, a valuable mineral used in electronic devices</a>

Earlier, a special parliamentary session was convened to secure approval for President Muizzu's cabinet ministers. While 18 out of 22 names obtained parliamentary endorsement, four-faced disapproval, leading to a halt in proceedings and a heated confrontation among lawmakers.

Notably, the ruling PPM-PNC alliance, lacking a parliamentary majority, clashed with the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). The dispute arose over the approval of cabinet members and escalated into a conflict between pro-government and opposition MPs.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/imf-improves-world-growth-forecast-india-to-grow-by-67-per-cent-685223">IMF raises world economy growth forecast, pegs up India’s growth to 6.5 per cent</a>

The Attorney General’s Office filed the case on Sunday (Jan 28), coinciding with clashes in the parliament over the cabinet approvals. Attorney General Ahmed Usham confirmed the filing of the case on Sunday, expressing that the Supreme Court had yet to register it, media reports said.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/can-biden-afford-to-expand-the-war-685248">Can Biden afford to expand the war?</a>

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Meanwhile, the MDP, having collected enough signatures for an impeachment motion, has not submitted it as of now.

President Muizzu, who defeated the India-friendly&nbsp;Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in September, has faced heavy criticism from Maldives lawmakers for his anti-India stance.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the opposition's move to impeach Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, the ruling dispensation has taken its concerns over recent amendments to Parliament's standing orders to the Supreme Court.

Amid the opposition's move to impeach Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, the ruling dispensation has taken its concerns over recent amendments to Parliament's standing orders to the Supreme Court. This comes as the legislative body, consisting of 87 members, recently amended its standing orders, simplifying the process of initiating an impeachment motion. Several pro-Muizzu lawmakers resigned from the Maldivian Parliament in November so that they could attain cabinet positions, however, the opposition amended the rules which barred these vacated seats when counting the total number of MPs. The amendment card played by the opposition reduced the required votes for impeachment from 58 to 54. It is worth noting that the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the Democrats command 56 Members of Parliament, with 43 hailing from the MDP and 13 from the Democrats. This has become a major issue for Muizzu's ruling People’s National Congress party as the MDP-Democrats alliance now possesses the potential to impeach the president. Also Read | Kenya discovers first deposits of Coltan, a valuable mineral used in electronic devices Earlier, a special parliamentary session was convened to secure approval for President Muizzu's cabinet ministers. While 18 out of 22 names obtained parliamentary endorsement, four-faced disapproval, leading to a halt in proceedings and a heated confrontation among lawmakers. Notably, the ruling PPM-PNC alliance, lacking a parliamentary majority, clashed with the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). The dispute arose over the approval of cabinet members and escalated into a conflict between pro-government and opposition MPs. Also Read | IMF raises world economy growth forecast, pegs up India’s growth to 6.5 per cent The Attorney General’s Office filed the case on Sunday (Jan 28), coinciding with clashes in the parliament over the cabinet approvals. Attorney General Ahmed Usham confirmed the filing of the case on Sunday, expressing that the Supreme Court had yet to register it, media reports said. Watch | Can Biden afford to expand the war? × Meanwhile, the MDP, having collected enough signatures for an impeachment motion, has not submitted it as of now. President Muizzu, who defeated the India-friendly Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in September, has faced heavy criticism from Maldives lawmakers for his anti-India stance. (With inputs from agencies)

Maldives govt moves Supreme Court over rules changes simplifying oppn’s impeachment bid on president

In a significant blow to Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, the nation's main opposition party, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)&nbsp;is reportedly gearing up to initiate an impeachment motion against him.

Reports indicate that the MDP has amassed enough signatures to proceed with the impeachment inquiry, although the submission is pending.

<h2>When will the impeachment motion be submitted?</h2>

According to a lawmaker from the MDP, "They have yet to submit it," as quoted by Sun.com.&nbsp;

Another local media report, as quoted by the Business Standard, mentioned that the decision to pursue the impeachment bid was unanimous in the parliamentary group meeting of the MDP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-government-files-case-over-rules-changes-simplifying-oppositions-impeachment-bid-685252">Maldives government files case over rules changes simplifying opposition’s impeachment bid</a>

In an exclusive conversation with WION, one of the MDP leaders said that the impeachment motion had been brought as the current government has jeopardised relations with old ally India.&nbsp;

<h2>How many votes are needed for the impeachment?</h2>

For an impeachment motion, a two-thirds majority is needed. Currently, the Maldivian Parliament consists of 80 members, down from the earlier 87.

According to local media, impeachment charges can be brought against the President with 56 votes.

The MDP and Democrats collectively hold more than 56 seats—45&nbsp;from the MDP and 13 from the Democrats. Additionally, the People's National Congress has 13, while there are three independents, and the Jumhooree Party and the Maldives Development Alliance (MDA) each have two members.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-opposition-appointed-prosecutor-general-stabbed-amid-political-crisis-685352">Maldives' opposition-appointed prosecutor general stabbed amid political crisis</a>

<h2>Impeachment amendment</h2>

In a political manoeuvre with strategic implications, seven lawmakers resigned from the Maldives Parliament in November. They did this to assume key roles in President Mohamed Muizzu's government. Despite the significance of this reshuffle, the country's election&nbsp;commission chose to forgo organising by-elections, citing the upcoming parliamentary polls set for 2024.

Seizing the moment, the primary opposition force, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), which boasts a majority in Parliament, deftly amended the standing orders.&nbsp;

They brought the amendment so that the seats left vacant by departing lawmakers are not factored into the overall count of members of Parliament. As a result, the total number of MPs has undergone a reduction, shrinking from the initial 87 to a revised count of 80.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-opposition-agrees-to-submit-impeachment-motion-against-president-muizzu-684759">Maldives: Opposition to submit impeachment motion against President Muizzu</a>

This is particularly important in the context of impeachment proceedings against President Mohamed Muizzu. The amendment has effectively lowered the threshold for impeachment votes, now standing at 54, down from the prior requirement of 58.&nbsp;

As per the Hindustan Times, the country's attorney general's office has filed a case with the Supreme Court regarding the recent amendment to parliament's standing orders that allow opposition lawmakers to launch impeachment proceedings against the president.

Attorney General Ahmed Usham confirmed the filing of case on Sunday. However, the Supreme Court has yet to issue a statement.

In a related development, a day before the reported impeachment plans, the PPM-PNC coalition submitted no-confidence motions&nbsp;against Maldives Parliament Speaker Mohamed Aslam and Deputy Speaker Ahmed Saleem, both belonging to the MDP.&nbsp;

The political landscape in the Maldives appears to be undergoing significant turbulence, as various factions assert their positions within the parliament.

<h2>Scuffle in parliament</h2>

The simmering tensions amid the government and opposition resulted in&nbsp;clashes amid legislators in the country's parliament over the approval of four members of the President's cabinet on Sunday.&nbsp;

The impeachment motion comes barely 24 hours after the clashes in the Maldivian Parliament.&nbsp;Members of the government's PPM and PNC, in a disruptive move, clashed over parliamentary proceedings and the functioning of the speaker.

The scuffle unfolded after the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) declared its decision not to vote in favour of approving Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, Attorney General Ahmed Usham, Minister of Housing, Land and Urban Development Dr Ali Haidar, and Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed.

Videos capturing the scuffle between pro-government MPs and opposition lawmakers circulated widely on social media.

Exclusive visuals obtained by WION showed a heated altercation among lawmakers. Take a look here:

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The video showcases the dramatic scenes in the Maldives Parliament, depicting opposition MPs being prevented from entering the Parliament floor just ahead of the crucial parliamentary vote for Muizzu's Cabinet approval.

The ruling PPM-PNC coalition contends that denying parliamentary approval to Muizzu's cabinet equates to obstructing essential services provided by the government to its citizens.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maldives-parliament-proceedings-halted-as-mps-come-to-blows-684656">Watch |&nbsp;Maldives parliament proceedings halted as MPs come to blows</a>

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<h2>Who is Mohamed Muizzu?</h2>

Defeating the India-friendly former president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who leads MDP, 45-year-old Mohamed Muizzu assumed the nation's presidency in November.&nbsp;

During his winning campaign, Muizzu had cast China's regional rival, India, and its influence as a threat to sovereignty.

Muizzu, who is perceived as pro-China, made headlines shortly after assuming the position by demanding the withdrawal of the Indian military stationed in the Maldives by March 15. The nation also sent a formal request to New Delhi in this regard.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a significant blow to Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, the nation's main opposition party, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) is reportedly gearing up to initiate an impeachment motion against him.

In a significant blow to Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, the nation's main opposition party, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) is reportedly gearing up to initiate an impeachment motion against him. Reports indicate that the MDP has amassed enough signatures to proceed with the impeachment inquiry, although the submission is pending. When will the impeachment motion be submitted? According to a lawmaker from the MDP, "They have yet to submit it," as quoted by Sun.com. Another local media report, as quoted by the Business Standard, mentioned that the decision to pursue the impeachment bid was unanimous in the parliamentary group meeting of the MDP. Also read | Maldives government files case over rules changes simplifying opposition’s impeachment bid In an exclusive conversation with WION, one of the MDP leaders said that the impeachment motion had been brought as the current government has jeopardised relations with old ally India. How many votes are needed for the impeachment? For an impeachment motion, a two-thirds majority is needed. Currently, the Maldivian Parliament consists of 80 members, down from the earlier 87. According to local media, impeachment charges can be brought against the President with 56 votes. The MDP and Democrats collectively hold more than 56 seats—45 from the MDP and 13 from the Democrats. Additionally, the People's National Congress has 13, while there are three independents, and the Jumhooree Party and the Maldives Development Alliance (MDA) each have two members. Also read | Maldives' opposition-appointed prosecutor general stabbed amid political crisis Impeachment amendment In a political manoeuvre with strategic implications, seven lawmakers resigned from the Maldives Parliament in November. They did this to assume key roles in President Mohamed Muizzu's government. Despite the significance of this reshuffle, the country's election commission chose to forgo organising by-elections, citing the upcoming parliamentary polls set for 2024. Seizing the moment, the primary opposition force, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), which boasts a majority in Parliament, deftly amended the standing orders. They brought the amendment so that the seats left vacant by departing lawmakers are not factored into the overall count of members of Parliament. As a result, the total number of MPs has undergone a reduction, shrinking from the initial 87 to a revised count of 80. Also read | Maldives: Opposition to submit impeachment motion against President Muizzu This is particularly important in the context of impeachment proceedings against President Mohamed Muizzu. The amendment has effectively lowered the threshold for impeachment votes, now standing at 54, down from the prior requirement of 58. As per the Hindustan Times, the country's attorney general's office has filed a case with the Supreme Court regarding the recent amendment to parliament's standing orders that allow opposition lawmakers to launch impeachment proceedings against the president. Attorney General Ahmed Usham confirmed the filing of case on Sunday. However, the Supreme Court has yet to issue a statement. In a related development, a day before the reported impeachment plans, the PPM-PNC coalition submitted no-confidence motions against Maldives Parliament Speaker Mohamed Aslam and Deputy Speaker Ahmed Saleem, both belonging to the MDP. The political landscape in the Maldives appears to be undergoing significant turbulence, as various factions assert their positions within the parliament. Scuffle in parliament The simmering tensions amid the government and opposition resulted in clashes amid legislators in the country's parliament over the approval of four members of the President's cabinet on Sunday. The impeachment motion comes barely 24 hours after the clashes in the Maldivian Parliament. Members of the government's PPM and PNC, in a disruptive move, clashed over parliamentary proceedings and the functioning of the speaker. The scuffle unfolded after the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) declared its decision not to vote in favour of approving Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, Attorney General Ahmed Usham, Minister of Housing, Land and Urban Development Dr Ali Haidar, and Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed. Videos capturing the scuffle between pro-government MPs and opposition lawmakers circulated widely on social media. Exclusive visuals obtained by WION showed a heated altercation among lawmakers. Take a look here: #WATCH | Dramatic visuals from Maldives Parliament as opposition MPs are prevented from entering Parliament floor ahead of Parliamentary approval of Muizzu's Cabinet. pic.twitter.com/mVc6TT1yp4 — WION (@WIONews) January 28, 2024 × The video showcases the dramatic scenes in the Maldives Parliament, depicting opposition MPs being prevented from entering the Parliament floor just ahead of the crucial parliamentary vote for Muizzu's Cabinet approval. The ruling PPM-PNC coalition contends that denying parliamentary approval to Muizzu's cabinet equates to obstructing essential services provided by the government to its citizens. Watch | Maldives parliament proceedings halted as MPs come to blows Who is Mohamed Muizzu? Defeating the India-friendly former president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who leads MDP, 45-year-old Mohamed Muizzu assumed the nation's presidency in November. During his winning campaign, Muizzu had cast China's regional rival, India, and its influence as a threat to sovereignty. Muizzu, who is perceived as pro-China, made headlines shortly after assuming the position by demanding the withdrawal of the Indian military stationed in the Maldives by March 15. The nation also sent a formal request to New Delhi in this regard. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Impeachment drama unfolds in Maldives against anti-India President Mohamed Muizzu

The U.S. House of Representatives has voted to start a formal impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden in connection to his son Hunter Biden's business dealings. The Biden family is being accused of profiting from Joe Biden's position as Vice President during the Obama administration. Joe Biden has called the allegations baseless.

Will Joe Biden be impeached? | The big allegations against the U.S. President

US House of Representatives is expected to vote shortly for its impeachment inquiry against the sitting president Joe Biden. The voting is expected to take place behind closed doors.

US House of Representatives to vote on Biden impeachment inquiry

The date for US President Joe Biden's impeachment inquiry is scheduled for September 28th. It will focus on constitutional and legal questions that surround Biden's involvement in his son Hunter Biden's overseas business dealings.

US: First Donald Trump, now Joe Biden; latter becomes second President to face impeachment inquiry

Republicans in the United States House of Representatives have opened an impeachment investigation targeting Democratic President Joe Biden following months of inquiries into his son Hunter Biden's overseas business transactions. They have found no evidence of Biden's wrongdoing. The White House claims that Biden did nothing illegal and that the Republican Party has no basis for an impeachment investigation.

Republican lawmakers move ahead with Biden impeachment inquiry

Biden Impeachment Inquiry: Impeachment probe ordered without full vote of the house

US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announced on Wednesday that House Republicans will move ahead with an impeachment inquiry into US President Joe Biden. More details coming in McCarthy has made it clear that there will be a vote for an impeachment inquiry but as of now, he doesn't appear to have the votes to open one.

Biden impeachment inquiry: 7 accusations against Joe Biden

Gravitas: US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy announces impeachment inquiry of Biden

The White House has reportedly established a war room to aggressively counter House Republicans who are pushing for an impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden. Nearly two dozen lawyers, legislative experts, and communications staff are being mobilised for what's emerging as a high-stakes showdown in the lead-up to a critical election year, NBC News reported.&nbsp;

Kevin McCarthy, a Republican and the House Speaker, has indicated an impeachment inquiry against Biden when Congress reconvenes this week.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mccarthy-biden-probes-rising-to-the-level-of-impeachment-inquiry-619410">McCarthy: Biden probes rising to the level of impeachment inquiry</a>

The potential move to impeach Joe Biden would mark a significant escalation in the Republican investigations into Biden and his son Hunter.

<h2>How White House is ramping up efforts to fight a potential impeachment against Biden?</h2>

The White House is signaling its intention to fight any impeachment, claiming that it is a partisan effort encouraged by Donald Trump and his allies to divert attention from Trump's legal issues.&nbsp;

Trump, who has been impeached twice, is currently facing four criminal indictments, including for attempts to overturn the 2020 election, as he seeks to return to the White House next year.

<h2>White House calls impeachment move 'baseless'</h2>

The administration has criticised the impeachment move as "baseless".&nbsp;

A White House aide told NBC News: "Never in modern history has an impeachment been based on no evidence whatsoever."

However, House Speaker McCarthy has branded an impeachment inquiry as a "natural step forward" in the Republican investigations into Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden.&nbsp;

"So, if you look at all the information we have been able to gather so far, it is a natural step forward that you would have to go to an impeachment inquiry," McCarthy told Fox News in an interview.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;US Congressman Greg Steube moves to impeach President Biden | World DNA

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While these probes have produced evidence of Hunter's overseas dealings, the Republicans have accused President Biden of trying to protect his son's business affairs.

The White House, however, has accused the House Republicans of "prioritising a baseless impeachment stunt over high-stakes needs Americans care about deeply".

Last week, former US President Donald Trump posted on his Truth Social platform that during his presidential tenure, he faced no impeachment inquiries.

He wrote in all capitals: "I never had an impeachment inquiry, I had an impeachment, which I won! It was started immediately, no meetings, no study, no delays."

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The White House has reportedly established a war room to aggressively counter House Republicans who are pushing for an impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden.

The White House has reportedly established a war room to aggressively counter House Republicans who are pushing for an impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden. Nearly two dozen lawyers, legislative experts, and communications staff are being mobilised for what's emerging as a high-stakes showdown in the lead-up to a critical election year, NBC News reported. Kevin McCarthy, a Republican and the House Speaker, has indicated an impeachment inquiry against Biden when Congress reconvenes this week. Also read | McCarthy: Biden probes rising to the level of impeachment inquiry The potential move to impeach Joe Biden would mark a significant escalation in the Republican investigations into Biden and his son Hunter. How White House is ramping up efforts to fight a potential impeachment against Biden? The White House is signaling its intention to fight any impeachment, claiming that it is a partisan effort encouraged by Donald Trump and his allies to divert attention from Trump's legal issues. Trump, who has been impeached twice, is currently facing four criminal indictments, including for attempts to overturn the 2020 election, as he seeks to return to the White House next year. White House calls impeachment move 'baseless' The administration has criticised the impeachment move as "baseless". A White House aide told NBC News: "Never in modern history has an impeachment been based on no evidence whatsoever." However, House Speaker McCarthy has branded an impeachment inquiry as a "natural step forward" in the Republican investigations into Joe Biden and his son Hunter Biden. "So, if you look at all the information we have been able to gather so far, it is a natural step forward that you would have to go to an impeachment inquiry," McCarthy told Fox News in an interview. Also watch | US Congressman Greg Steube moves to impeach President Biden | World DNA × While these probes have produced evidence of Hunter's overseas dealings, the Republicans have accused President Biden of trying to protect his son's business affairs. The White House, however, has accused the House Republicans of "prioritising a baseless impeachment stunt over high-stakes needs Americans care about deeply". Last week, former US President Donald Trump posted on his Truth Social platform that during his presidential tenure, he faced no impeachment inquiries. He wrote in all capitals: "I never had an impeachment inquiry, I had an impeachment, which I won! It was started immediately, no meetings, no study, no delays." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

White House ramps up efforts against potential impeachment inquiry against Biden

Georgia's ruling party said on Friday that it would begin impeachment proceedings against the president over her visits to the European Union, made against the will of the government, the Georgian news agency Interpress reported.

Georgian Dream party leader Irakli Kobakhidze said President Salome Zourabichvili had "flagrantly violated" the constitution, according to Interpress.

Zourabichvili met German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Berlin on Thursday and was scheduled to meet European Council President Charles Michel in Brussels on Friday to drum up support for Georgia's campaign to receive EU candidate status, on which a decision is expected by the end of the year.

Kobakhidze said the government had sent a letter denying her permission to hold the meetings. Zourabichvili did not immediately respond directly, but posted a photo of herself on Instagram, holding a smartphone and smiling.

Kobakhidze accepted that impeachment would be unlikely to succeed as Georgian Dream, which only has a simple majority in parliament, would need to attract votes from opposition parties.

A former French diplomat of Georgian descent, Zourabichvili was elected to Georgia's mostly ceremonial presidency in 2018 with Georgian Dream's backing.

She has since broken with the party, which she has repeatedly accused of being pro-Russian and insufficiently committed to Georgia joining the European Union and the U.S.-led NATO defence alliance. Georgian Dream says it wants Georgia to join both blocs.

In March, Zourabichvili said she would veto a controversial bill to require non-government organisations (NGOs) receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as "foreign agents". Critics said the bill was inspired by Russian laws used to crush dissent and in the end it was withdrawn.

The European Union, which last year declined to give Georgia candidate status alongside Ukraine and Moldova, has repeatedly warned that a deepening of authoritarianism could derail Georgia's EU application.

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Georgia's ruling party said on Friday that it would begin impeachment proceedings against the president over her visits to the European Union, made against the will of the government, the Georgian news agency Interpress reported.

Georgia's ruling party said on Friday that it would begin impeachment proceedings against the president over her visits to the European Union, made against the will of the government, the Georgian news agency Interpress reported. Georgian Dream party leader Irakli Kobakhidze said President Salome Zourabichvili had "flagrantly violated" the constitution, according to Interpress. Zourabichvili met German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Berlin on Thursday and was scheduled to meet European Council President Charles Michel in Brussels on Friday to drum up support for Georgia's campaign to receive EU candidate status, on which a decision is expected by the end of the year. Kobakhidze said the government had sent a letter denying her permission to hold the meetings. Zourabichvili did not immediately respond directly, but posted a photo of herself on Instagram, holding a smartphone and smiling. Kobakhidze accepted that impeachment would be unlikely to succeed as Georgian Dream, which only has a simple majority in parliament, would need to attract votes from opposition parties. A former French diplomat of Georgian descent, Zourabichvili was elected to Georgia's mostly ceremonial presidency in 2018 with Georgian Dream's backing. She has since broken with the party, which she has repeatedly accused of being pro-Russian and insufficiently committed to Georgia joining the European Union and the U.S.-led NATO defence alliance. Georgian Dream says it wants Georgia to join both blocs. In March, Zourabichvili said she would veto a controversial bill to require non-government organisations (NGOs) receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as "foreign agents". Critics said the bill was inspired by Russian laws used to crush dissent and in the end it was withdrawn. The European Union, which last year declined to give Georgia candidate status alongside Ukraine and Moldova, has repeatedly warned that a deepening of authoritarianism could derail Georgia's EU application. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Georgia's ruling party plans to impeach president over her EU visits

The US speaker Kevin McCarthy has pointed to the possibility of an impeachment inquiry on President Joe Biden.

McCarthy: Biden probes rising to the level of impeachment inquiry

South Korea's constitutional court on Tuesday overturned the impeachment of the Interior Minister. This comes after the minister was accused of washing up in response to a deadly Halloween Crush in Seoul last October. The ruling against the Parliamentary vote the court has also said that it was difficult to solely attribute the responsibility to Interior Minister Lee Sang-min as the incident was not caused by a single cause or by a specific person.

South Korean Court: Halloween incident 'not caused by specific person'

The Texas House moved to impeach the state’s Attorney General Ken Paxton, on Saturday (May 27), in a historic vote, alleging that his conduct included a slew of abuses of his office. The impeachment, which was the first time in decades, followed a vote from the 149-member Republican-led Texas House where Paxton had been accused of abuse of office by his fellow GOP members.&nbsp;

<h2>Proceedings and the vote&nbsp;</h2>

The three-term attorney general and former United States President Donald Trump ally,&nbsp;Paxton, was immediately suspended after the House of Representatives in Texas voted 121-23 to impeach him&nbsp;after hours of debate on the 20 articles, which included allegations of bribery and abuse of public trust filed against him.&nbsp;

During the debate, the House chamber heard speeches from both supporters and opponents of the impeachment. The decision followed a majority vote against Paxton, with two members present but not voting, while three were absent. After the vote, the now-suspended attorney general took to Twitter and denied the accusations and denounced the proceedings as “illegal, unethical, and profoundly unjust.”&nbsp;

He added, “I look forward to a quick resolution in the Texas Senate, where I have full confidence the process will be fair and just.” However, Paxton’s permanent ouster is still pending trial from the US Senate where his wife Angela Paxton is a senator. As per the Texas Senate website, they are in recess until 1:00 pm (local time), on Sunday.&nbsp; 
 
The debate also comes after the five-member Texas House General Investigating Committee voted unanimously, on Thursday, and recommended that Paxton be impeached and removed from office.&nbsp;

The development also comes at a time when divides inside the Republican Party are becoming more apparent in Texas. “Attorney General Paxton continuously and blatantly violated laws, rules, policies and procedures,” said Representative David Spiller.&nbsp;

Spiller, who was also a part of the House investigative committee,&nbsp;also revealed that the investigation against Paxton has been going on for months. On the other hand, John Smithee, a long-time conservative member of the chamber, said while he is not defending Paxton’s actions, he criticised the process and said there was not sufficient evidence for the proceedings.&nbsp;

“There is not one word, not one sentence in the testimony before you that would be admissible in any Texas court of law,” said Smithee, adding that “It is hearsay within hearsay within hearsay.” Ahead of the vote, on Saturday, Trump had also taken to his social media platform Truth Social and vowed to “fight” if the Republican-led Texas House were to impeach Paxton.&nbsp;

<h2>Why is Paxton being impeached?</h2>

The Republican-led committee had 20 articles of impeachment against Paxton following the vote, accusing him of a long list of abuses, including accepting bribes, failing to perform his official duties, obstructing justice in a separate securities fraud case that is pending against him, lying on official documents and reports, and abusing the public trust.

This includes&nbsp;conducting an alleged sham investigation against whistleblowers in his office whom he fired, felony securities fraud charges from 2015, and an ongoing FBI investigation into corruption accusations, among other offences.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The Texas House moved to impeach the state’s Attorney General Ken Paxton, on Saturday (May 27), in a historic vote, alleging that his conduct included a slew of abuses of his office.

The Texas House moved to impeach the state’s Attorney General Ken Paxton, on Saturday (May 27), in a historic vote, alleging that his conduct included a slew of abuses of his office. The impeachment, which was the first time in decades, followed a vote from the 149-member Republican-led Texas House where Paxton had been accused of abuse of office by his fellow GOP members. Proceedings and the vote The three-term attorney general and former United States President Donald Trump ally, Paxton, was immediately suspended after the House of Representatives in Texas voted 121-23 to impeach him after hours of debate on the 20 articles, which included allegations of bribery and abuse of public trust filed against him. During the debate, the House chamber heard speeches from both supporters and opponents of the impeachment. The decision followed a majority vote against Paxton, with two members present but not voting, while three were absent. After the vote, the now-suspended attorney general took to Twitter and denied the accusations and denounced the proceedings as “illegal, unethical, and profoundly unjust.” He added, “I look forward to a quick resolution in the Texas Senate, where I have full confidence the process will be fair and just.” However, Paxton’s permanent ouster is still pending trial from the US Senate where his wife Angela Paxton is a senator. As per the Texas Senate website, they are in recess until 1:00 pm (local time), on Sunday. The debate also comes after the five-member Texas House General Investigating Committee voted unanimously, on Thursday, and recommended that Paxton be impeached and removed from office. The development also comes at a time when divides inside the Republican Party are becoming more apparent in Texas. “Attorney General Paxton continuously and blatantly violated laws, rules, policies and procedures,” said Representative David Spiller. Spiller, who was also a part of the House investigative committee, also revealed that the investigation against Paxton has been going on for months. On the other hand, John Smithee, a long-time conservative member of the chamber, said while he is not defending Paxton’s actions, he criticised the process and said there was not sufficient evidence for the proceedings. “There is not one word, not one sentence in the testimony before you that would be admissible in any Texas court of law,” said Smithee, adding that “It is hearsay within hearsay within hearsay.” Ahead of the vote, on Saturday, Trump had also taken to his social media platform Truth Social and vowed to “fight” if the Republican-led Texas House were to impeach Paxton. Why is Paxton being impeached? The Republican-led committee had 20 articles of impeachment against Paxton following the vote, accusing him of a long list of abuses, including accepting bribes, failing to perform his official duties, obstructing justice in a separate securities fraud case that is pending against him, lying on official documents and reports, and abusing the public trust. This includes conducting an alleged sham investigation against whistleblowers in his office whom he fired, felony securities fraud charges from 2015, and an ongoing FBI investigation into corruption accusations, among other offences. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: Texas House votes to impeach Attorney General Ken Paxton amid fraud, bribery allegations

In an impeachment that could become a first in decades in Texas history, a Republican-led committee of the state's House of Representatives recommended Thursday to impeach the state’s attorney general, Ken Paxton alleging that his conduct included a slew of abuses of his office.&nbsp;

As per the investigators on the committee, Paxton's actions are believed to be accounted for crimes.&nbsp;This comes as Texas is holding its 88th Legislature's regular session which kicked off on 10 January and will go on through 29 May.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/more-than-5000-new-species-discovered-in-planned-mining-zone-of-pacific-ocean-596583">More than 5,000 new species discovered on seabed of Pacific Ocean</a>

Since 2015, Paxton has been under a criminal indictment. He would have to temporarily step down from his position while he is tried in the State Senate. “There’s really no precedent — we’ve really only had two impeachments under the Constitution of 1876,” said a professor of political science at Rice University Mark P. Jones, reported New York Times.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musks-neuralink-cleared-for-human-test-of-brain-implants-596576">Elon Musk's Neuralink cleared for human test of brain implants</a>

“Overturning elections begins behind closed doors,” Paxton tweeted earlier while sharing a video of his office lawyer who was seen arguing against his impeachment in conversation with media personnel at a committee room. It came when the committee was holding its deliberations over the impeachment.&nbsp;

<h2>Past impeachments&nbsp;</h2>

The impeachment, if goes forward, will be one of the few others that were conducted in the state’s history decades ago. They include the 1917 governor, who resigned the day before the Senate found him guilty, and the 1970s district judge who was found guilty and expelled. The committee convened in a private executive session before going for the vote.

The committee filed 20 articles of impeachment against Paxton following the vote, accusing him of a long list of abuses including accepting bribes, failing to perform his official duties, obstructing justice in a separate securities fraud case that is pending against him, lying on official documents and reports, and abusing the public trust.

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The committee claimed that many of the accusations pertained to the different ways Paxton had allegedly exploited his authority to promote a specific donor and subsequently fired people in the office who objected to his behaviour. The chairman of the committee and a Republican Andrew Murr termed the abuses “grave offenses” and said that he is intending to bring the accusations against him up for a vote by the House.

The extraordinary developments were likely to test the Republican Party in Texas in new and unpredictable ways, at a time when divisions in the party have increasingly been exposed.

The development also comes at a time when divides inside Republican Party are becoming more apparent in Texas. Speaker Dade Phelan, a Republican representing Beaumont who is regarded as a conservative is in charge of the Texas House. In contrast, Paxton has sided with Texas' most adamant Republican lawmakers as well as former President Donald Trump.

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In an impeachment that could become a first in decades in Texas history, a Republican-led committee of the state's House of Representatives recommended Thursday to impeach the state’s attorney general, Ken Paxton alleging that his conduct included a slew of abuses of his office.

In an impeachment that could become a first in decades in Texas history, a Republican-led committee of the state's House of Representatives recommended Thursday to impeach the state’s attorney general, Ken Paxton alleging that his conduct included a slew of abuses of his office. As per the investigators on the committee, Paxton's actions are believed to be accounted for crimes. This comes as Texas is holding its 88th Legislature's regular session which kicked off on 10 January and will go on through 29 May. Also Read | More than 5,000 new species discovered on seabed of Pacific Ocean Since 2015, Paxton has been under a criminal indictment. He would have to temporarily step down from his position while he is tried in the State Senate. “There’s really no precedent — we’ve really only had two impeachments under the Constitution of 1876,” said a professor of political science at Rice University Mark P. Jones, reported New York Times. Also Read | Elon Musk's Neuralink cleared for human test of brain implants “Overturning elections begins behind closed doors,” Paxton tweeted earlier while sharing a video of his office lawyer who was seen arguing against his impeachment in conversation with media personnel at a committee room. It came when the committee was holding its deliberations over the impeachment. Past impeachments The impeachment, if goes forward, will be one of the few others that were conducted in the state’s history decades ago. They include the 1917 governor, who resigned the day before the Senate found him guilty, and the 1970s district judge who was found guilty and expelled. The committee convened in a private executive session before going for the vote. The committee filed 20 articles of impeachment against Paxton following the vote, accusing him of a long list of abuses including accepting bribes, failing to perform his official duties, obstructing justice in a separate securities fraud case that is pending against him, lying on official documents and reports, and abusing the public trust. Watch | Battleground Bakhmut: Russia vs Ukraine | WION Wideangle × The committee claimed that many of the accusations pertained to the different ways Paxton had allegedly exploited his authority to promote a specific donor and subsequently fired people in the office who objected to his behaviour. The chairman of the committee and a Republican Andrew Murr termed the abuses “grave offenses” and said that he is intending to bring the accusations against him up for a vote by the House. The extraordinary developments were likely to test the Republican Party in Texas in new and unpredictable ways, at a time when divisions in the party have increasingly been exposed. The development also comes at a time when divides inside Republican Party are becoming more apparent in Texas. Speaker Dade Phelan, a Republican representing Beaumont who is regarded as a conservative is in charge of the Texas House. In contrast, Paxton has sided with Texas' most adamant Republican lawmakers as well as former President Donald Trump. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Texas Republican-led Panel files 20 articles of impeachment against state attorney general

Ecuadoran President Guillermo Lasso, who was facing through impeachment proceedings over alleged corruption, has issued a decree on Wednesday, May 17, to dissolve the legislature.&nbsp;

The decree released by the Ecuadorian president’s office states that Lasso is "dissolving the National Assembly due to a grave political crisis and national commotion."

President Lasso made his stance clear in a tweet stating: “I have signed Executive Decree 741, with the objective of dissolving the National Assembly and requesting the electoral council to call elections. Ecuadoreans: this is the best decision to give a constitutional solution to the political crisis.”&nbsp;

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<h2>Corruption charges against Lasso</h2>

The decree issued by the Ecuadorian President comes at a time when the opposition-dominated National Assembly was trying to oust the Lasso over alleged corruption.&nbsp; 
Impeachment proceedings against Lasso started on Tuesday, May 16, following the vote of 88 lawmakers who voted on May 10, to continue the impeachment trial against Lasso.&nbsp;

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<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Decoding the impeachment charges</h2>

Supporters of self-exiled former president Rafael Correa, and centre-left parties Pachakutik and Democratic Left claim that Lasso is guilty of embezzlement for failing to cancel an oil shipping contract. Whereas, Lasso has denied these allegations repeatedly and further maintained that under his watch, FLOPEC, the state shipping company made a record profit.&nbsp;

Lawmakers also accused Lasso of not ending a contract between the state-owned oil transport company Flota Petrolera Ecuatoriana (FLOPEC) and the private entity Amazonas Tankers, even after knowing that the contract was full of irregularities. Lasso has denied these allegations repeatedly and further maintained that under his watch, FLOPEC, the state shipping company made a record profit. &nbsp;

Following the commencement of the impeachment proceedings on Tuesday, May 16, Lasso stated that "There is no evidence, nor relevant testimonies. Rather, all there is, is information that proves my total, evident and unquestionable innocence." &nbsp;

<h2>Dissolution of the Congress</h2>

The National Electoral Council now has seven days to call presidential and legislative elections, which must be held within 90 days. Those elected will finish the terms of Lasso and the lawmakers he ousted, set to end in May 2025.

<h2>Denying claims of corruption&nbsp;</h2>

In a televised message, Lasso called his move as ‘democratic’ while accusing the National Assembly of “destabilising the government.” He further added that his move gave the local people of Ecuador the “the power to decide their future in the next elections.”

<h2>Lasso’s supporters come out in his support</h2>

Supporters of President Lasso protested peacefully outside the parliament. Protesters waved Ecuadorean flags, held up banners and shouted angry chants against the legislators.&nbsp;

Interior Minister Henry Cucalon stated, "The only thing that interests the opposition is the destabilization&nbsp;of the country's institutions. Meanwhile, the Organisation of American States (OAS) urged the parliament to guarantee justice and respect the rules of due process." 
 
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Ecuadoran President Guillermo Lasso, who was facing through impeachment proceedings over alleged corruption, has issued a decree on Wednesday, May 17, to dissolve the legislature.

Ecuadoran President Guillermo Lasso, who was facing through impeachment proceedings over alleged corruption, has issued a decree on Wednesday, May 17, to dissolve the legislature. The decree released by the Ecuadorian president’s office states that Lasso is "dissolving the National Assembly due to a grave political crisis and national commotion." President Lasso made his stance clear in a tweet stating: “I have signed Executive Decree 741, with the objective of dissolving the National Assembly and requesting the electoral council to call elections. Ecuadoreans: this is the best decision to give a constitutional solution to the political crisis.” × Corruption charges against Lasso The decree issued by the Ecuadorian President comes at a time when the opposition-dominated National Assembly was trying to oust the Lasso over alleged corruption. Impeachment proceedings against Lasso started on Tuesday, May 16, following the vote of 88 lawmakers who voted on May 10, to continue the impeachment trial against Lasso. ALSO READ | At least 12 inmates were killed after gang clashes in Ecuador prison Decoding the impeachment charges Supporters of self-exiled former president Rafael Correa, and centre-left parties Pachakutik and Democratic Left claim that Lasso is guilty of embezzlement for failing to cancel an oil shipping contract. Whereas, Lasso has denied these allegations repeatedly and further maintained that under his watch, FLOPEC, the state shipping company made a record profit. Lawmakers also accused Lasso of not ending a contract between the state-owned oil transport company Flota Petrolera Ecuatoriana (FLOPEC) and the private entity Amazonas Tankers, even after knowing that the contract was full of irregularities. Lasso has denied these allegations repeatedly and further maintained that under his watch, FLOPEC, the state shipping company made a record profit. Following the commencement of the impeachment proceedings on Tuesday, May 16, Lasso stated that "There is no evidence, nor relevant testimonies. Rather, all there is, is information that proves my total, evident and unquestionable innocence." Dissolution of the Congress The National Electoral Council now has seven days to call presidential and legislative elections, which must be held within 90 days. Those elected will finish the terms of Lasso and the lawmakers he ousted, set to end in May 2025. Denying claims of corruption In a televised message, Lasso called his move as ‘democratic’ while accusing the National Assembly of “destabilising the government.” He further added that his move gave the local people of Ecuador the “the power to decide their future in the next elections.” Lasso’s supporters come out in his support Supporters of President Lasso protested peacefully outside the parliament. Protesters waved Ecuadorean flags, held up banners and shouted angry chants against the legislators. Interior Minister Henry Cucalon stated, "The only thing that interests the opposition is the destabilization of the country's institutions. Meanwhile, the Organisation of American States (OAS) urged the parliament to guarantee justice and respect the rules of due process." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ecuador’s president Lasso dissolves National Assembly to forestall impeachment action against self

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa is embroiled in a 'farmgate' scandal. He faces charges of money laundering & accusations of covering up a theft at his farmhouse. Priyanka Sharma reports.

Gravitas: Did Ramaphosa sell buffaloes worth $4 Million?

South Africa's parliament is set to debate Tuesday whether to initiate proceedings to remove scandal-engulfed President Cyril Ramaphosa from office. President Ramaphosa will be fighting for political survival this week, both in Parliament and from within his own party.

WION Dispatch: South Africa parliament to vote on impeachment of Ramaphosa

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