Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has further tightened his control over the country, consolidating power in the face of continuous political and economic turmoil. His actions are raising alarm regarding the future of democracy and governance in Venezuela.

Nicolas Maduro strengthens his hold on Venezuela as he consolidates power

Edmundo Gonzalez, a prominent opposition leader in Venezuela, has confirmed his intentions to return to the country, marking a significant move in the political landscape as tensions continue to rise.

Venezuela's opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez plans his return to Venezuela

Venezuelan authorities announced Thursday they are offering $100,000 for information leading to the capture of opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, who has left exile in Spain and is on his way to Argentina.
Gonzalez Urrutia, who insists he beat Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro at the polls in July, was expected in Buenos Aires in the coming hours, a presidential source there told AFP.
"Our tour of Latin America begins. First stop: Argentina," wrote Gonzalez Urrutia on X, sharing a statement that said he would meet with Argentine leader Javier Milei on Saturday, and calling on Venezuelans to rally in the central Plaza de Mayo.
The 75-year-old has pledged to return to his country to be sworn in as president on January 10 in place of Maduro, who is set to take the oath of office that day with the backing of the loyal military.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-maduro-opponents-stuck-in-embassy-accuse-government-of-siege-8574228" rel="dofollow">Also read: Venezuela: Maduro opponents stuck in embassy accuse government of 'siege'</a>
Venezuelan police published on social media Thursday a photo of the previously little-known ex-diplomat with the word "wanted" under the image.
Judicial sources confirmed to AFP that the poster will be displayed at airports and police checkpoints across the country.
Gonzales Urrutia fled to Spain in September after Maduro claimed victory in the troubled, economically distressed country's July 28 election and cracked down hard on dissent.
Spain granted him asylum on December 20 after Venezuela announced conspiracy and racketeering charges against him.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/argentina-court-orders-arrest-of-venezuelas-maduro-in-a-tit-for-tat-move-761417" rel="dofollow">Also read: Argentina court orders arrest of Venezuela's Maduro in a tit-for-tat move</a>
Venezuela declared Maduro the winner of a third six-year term in the July vote but the opposition cried foul, saying it has detailed polling station numbers that show Gonzalez Urrutia won handily.&nbsp;
The government has resisted intense pressure at home and abroad to release vote results that prove its claim of victory.
Street protests erupted after the election and degenerated into clashes with police, with 28 people dead, 200 injured and more than 2,400 arrested.
At least three detainees died in prison, while nearly 1,400 of those originally arrested have been released.
Maduro is a former bus driver hand-picked by the late socialist icon Hugo Chaves to succeed him upon his death in 2013.
Maduro has overseen the oil-rich country's decline into economic ruin and has been accused of acting like a dictator as he cracks down on dissent and clings to power.
Only a handful of countries, including Venezuelan ally Russia, have recognized Maduro as the winner of the July election.
Argentina does not recognize Maduro's reelection, alongside the United States, the European Union, and several other Latin American countries.
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.

World: Gonzalez Urrutia, who insists he beat Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro at the polls in July, was expected in Buenos Aires in the coming hours, a presidential source said.

Venezuelan authorities announced Thursday they are offering $100,000 for information leading to the capture of opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, who has left exile in Spain and is on his way to Argentina. Gonzalez Urrutia, who insists he beat Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro at the polls in July, was expected in Buenos Aires in the coming hours, a presidential source there told AFP. "Our tour of Latin America begins. First stop: Argentina," wrote Gonzalez Urrutia on X, sharing a statement that said he would meet with Argentine leader Javier Milei on Saturday, and calling on Venezuelans to rally in the central Plaza de Mayo. The 75-year-old has pledged to return to his country to be sworn in as president on January 10 in place of Maduro, who is set to take the oath of office that day with the backing of the loyal military. Also read: Venezuela: Maduro opponents stuck in embassy accuse government of 'siege' Venezuelan police published on social media Thursday a photo of the previously little-known ex-diplomat with the word "wanted" under the image. Judicial sources confirmed to AFP that the poster will be displayed at airports and police checkpoints across the country. Gonzales Urrutia fled to Spain in September after Maduro claimed victory in the troubled, economically distressed country's July 28 election and cracked down hard on dissent. Spain granted him asylum on December 20 after Venezuela announced conspiracy and racketeering charges against him. Also read: Argentina court orders arrest of Venezuela's Maduro in a tit-for-tat move Venezuela declared Maduro the winner of a third six-year term in the July vote but the opposition cried foul, saying it has detailed polling station numbers that show Gonzalez Urrutia won handily. The government has resisted intense pressure at home and abroad to release vote results that prove its claim of victory. Street protests erupted after the election and degenerated into clashes with police, with 28 people dead, 200 injured and more than 2,400 arrested. At least three detainees died in prison, while nearly 1,400 of those originally arrested have been released. Maduro is a former bus driver hand-picked by the late socialist icon Hugo Chaves to succeed him upon his death in 2013. Maduro has overseen the oil-rich country's decline into economic ruin and has been accused of acting like a dictator as he cracks down on dissent and clings to power. Only a handful of countries, including Venezuelan ally Russia, have recognized Maduro as the winner of the July election. Argentina does not recognize Maduro's reelection, alongside the United States, the European Union, and several other Latin American countries. 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.

Venezuela offers USD 100,000 in reward for information leading to exiled opposition candidate

New Delhi, India
Congress MPs Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Manish Tewari, Sukhdev Bhagat, and Randeep Singh Surjewala will be in the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for deliberations on the 'One Nation One Election' Bill, party sources said on Wednesday.
The bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, proposes simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies across India. However, the proposal has faced strong resistance from opposition parties, who voiced concerns about its potential impact on democracy.
The opposition raised concerns that the change could disproportionately benefit the ruling party, giving it undue influence over the electoral process in states, and could undermine the autonomy of regional parties.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-slams-one-nation-one-election-bill-in-lok-sabha-784576">'Assault on basic structure of Constitution': Opposition slams 'One Nation, One Election' bill in Lok Sabha</a>
These Bills, which were approved by the Cabinet last week, seek to pave the way for holding simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies across India.
Opposition members opposed the bill's introduction. In the division, 269 members voted in favour of the bill's introduction, while 196 voted against it.
The bills will now be sent to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for further deliberations.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/one-nation-one-election-bills-introduced-in-lok-sabha-269-mps-vote-in-favour-198-oppose-784662">One Nation, One Election bills introduced in Lok Sabha; 269 MPs vote in favour, 198 oppose</a>
Union Law Minister Arjun Meghwal tabled two crucial bills: the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill 2024 and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment Bill) 2024.
The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024' and 'The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024', which propose simultaneous elections for both Lok Sabha and state assemblies, were introduced in the lower house on Tuesday. The bills were introduced in Lok Sabha by Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal.
Watch | One Nation One Election Bills for Simultaneous Polls Introduced in Lok Sabha
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/17/1712_MNV_BILL_230PM-1734429318-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1712_MNV_BILL_230PM.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=190&tags=india,One nation one election,parliament,lok sabha" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>
Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that when One Nation, One Election Bill was taken up in the cabinet for approval, PM Modi had said that it should be sent to the JPC for detailed discussion.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

These Bills, which were approved by the Cabinet last week, seek to pave the way for holding simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies across India



New Delhi, India Congress MPs Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Manish Tewari, Sukhdev Bhagat, and Randeep Singh Surjewala will be in the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for deliberations on the 'One Nation One Election' Bill, party sources said on Wednesday. The bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, proposes simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies across India. However, the proposal has faced strong resistance from opposition parties, who voiced concerns about its potential impact on democracy. The opposition raised concerns that the change could disproportionately benefit the ruling party, giving it undue influence over the electoral process in states, and could undermine the autonomy of regional parties. Also read | 'Assault on basic structure of Constitution': Opposition slams 'One Nation, One Election' bill in Lok Sabha These Bills, which were approved by the Cabinet last week, seek to pave the way for holding simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies across India. Opposition members opposed the bill's introduction. In the division, 269 members voted in favour of the bill's introduction, while 196 voted against it. The bills will now be sent to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for further deliberations. Also read | One Nation, One Election bills introduced in Lok Sabha; 269 MPs vote in favour, 198 oppose Union Law Minister Arjun Meghwal tabled two crucial bills: the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill 2024 and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment Bill) 2024. The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024' and 'The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024', which propose simultaneous elections for both Lok Sabha and state assemblies, were introduced in the lower house on Tuesday. The bills were introduced in Lok Sabha by Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal. Watch | One Nation One Election Bills for Simultaneous Polls Introduced in Lok Sabha × Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that when One Nation, One Election Bill was taken up in the cabinet for approval, PM Modi had said that it should be sent to the JPC for detailed discussion. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Manish Tewari in Joint Parliamentary Committee on 'One Nation One Election' bill

Congress MPs Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Manish Tewari, Sukhdev Bhagat, and Randeep Singh Surjewala will be in the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for deliberations on the 'One Nation One Election' Bill, party sources said on Wednesday.

The bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, proposes simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies across India. However, the proposal has faced strong resistance from opposition parties, who voiced concerns about its potential impact on democracy.

The opposition raised concerns that the change could disproportionately benefit the ruling party, giving it undue influence over the electoral process in states, and could undermine the autonomy of regional parties.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-slams-one-nation-one-election-bill-in-lok-sabha-784576">'Assault on basic structure of Constitution': Opposition slams 'One Nation, One Election' bill in Lok Sabha</a>

These Bills, which were approved by the Cabinet last week, seek to pave the way for holding simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies across India.

Opposition members opposed the bill's introduction. In the division, 269 members voted in favour of the bill's introduction, while 196 voted against it.

The bills will now be sent to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for further deliberations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/one-nation-one-election-bills-introduced-in-lok-sabha-269-mps-vote-in-favour-198-oppose-784662">One Nation, One Election bills introduced in Lok Sabha; 269 MPs vote in favour, 198 oppose</a>

Union Law Minister Arjun Meghwal tabled two crucial bills: the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill 2024 and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment Bill) 2024.

The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024' and 'The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024', which propose simultaneous elections for both Lok Sabha and state assemblies, were introduced in the lower house on Tuesday. The bills were introduced in Lok Sabha by Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal.

Watch |&nbsp;One Nation One Election Bills for Simultaneous Polls Introduced in Lok Sabha

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/one-nation-one-election-bills-for-simultaneous-polls-introduced-in-lok-sabha-784636/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that when One Nation, One Election Bill was taken up in the cabinet for approval, PM Modi had said that it should be sent to the JPC for detailed discussion.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Congress MPs Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Manish Tewari, Sukhdev Bhagat, and Randeep Singh Surjewala will be in the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for deliberations on the 'One Nation One Election' Bill, party sources said on Wednesday.

Congress MPs Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Manish Tewari, Sukhdev Bhagat, and Randeep Singh Surjewala will be in the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for deliberations on the 'One Nation One Election' Bill, party sources said on Wednesday. The bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, proposes simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies across India. However, the proposal has faced strong resistance from opposition parties, who voiced concerns about its potential impact on democracy. The opposition raised concerns that the change could disproportionately benefit the ruling party, giving it undue influence over the electoral process in states, and could undermine the autonomy of regional parties. Also read | 'Assault on basic structure of Constitution': Opposition slams 'One Nation, One Election' bill in Lok Sabha These Bills, which were approved by the Cabinet last week, seek to pave the way for holding simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies across India. Opposition members opposed the bill's introduction. In the division, 269 members voted in favour of the bill's introduction, while 196 voted against it. The bills will now be sent to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) for further deliberations. Also read | One Nation, One Election bills introduced in Lok Sabha; 269 MPs vote in favour, 198 oppose Union Law Minister Arjun Meghwal tabled two crucial bills: the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill 2024 and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment Bill) 2024. The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill, 2024' and 'The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024', which propose simultaneous elections for both Lok Sabha and state assemblies, were introduced in the lower house on Tuesday. The bills were introduced in Lok Sabha by Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal. Watch | One Nation One Election Bills for Simultaneous Polls Introduced in Lok Sabha × Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that when One Nation, One Election Bill was taken up in the cabinet for approval, PM Modi had said that it should be sent to the JPC for detailed discussion. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

On Thursday, the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas leader Mohammed Diab Ibrahim al-Masri. The warrants were issued for their alleged war crimes related to the Gaza War. Netanyahu has rejected these warrants, calling them "anti-Semitic."

Netanyahu Rejects ICC Arrest Warrants against him and Gallant, Calls it 'Anti-Semitic

Israel's opposition leaders have called for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to step down, declaring him unfit to serve due to his controversial handling of various national issues, including the ongoing conflict with Gaza and internal political divisions. Critics argue that Netanyahu's leadership has undermined Israel's democracy and security, particularly amid protests over judicial reforms and the recent military escalation. The opposition's calls for his resignation reflect growing dissatisfaction with his governance and increasing demands for a change in leadership.

'Netanyahu Unfit To Serve As Israel's Prime Minister': Israel Opposition

There has been ongoing speculation about Cameroon President Paul Biya's health and potential succession, due to his advanced age. Even with all the rumours and assurances, the president is still missing in action.

Spotlight On Cameroon President Biya Who Defies Death Rumours

On 30 Sept, Albanian opposition politicians set fire to a pile of wooden chairs outside parliament in protest against the imprisonment of a fellow member. During the start of the regular parliamentary session, opposition members removed chairs from the chamber and ignited them on the steps of the building. Security guards promptly extinguished the flames.

Albanian Opposition Protest By Setting Chairs Ablaze Outside Parliament

Albanian Opposition Stages Protest, Setting Chairs on Fire Outside Parliament

Budget 2024-25:&nbsp;Soon after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the first budget of the Modi 3.0 government on Tuesday, July 23, the opposition was swift to voice their disapproval.

Opposition MPs from the INDIA alliance staged a protest at Parliament premises today, alleging biased provisions in the newly unveiled Union Budget.

This decision emerged during a meeting on Tuesday evening, led by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, following Sitharaman's budget presentation.

Although the budget introduced several benefits for Bihar and Andhra Pradesh and&nbsp;states governed by significant BJP allies, the opposition claims that numerous other states were largely overlooked.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-chidambaram-accuses-sitharaman-of-copying-ideas-from-congress-manifesto-743528">Union Budget: Chidambaram accuses Sitharaman of copying ideas from Congress manifesto</a>

Telugu Desam Party (TDP) National President Chandrababu Naidu praised the Union Budget and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for addressing the needs of Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

In a post on social media platform X, Naidu wrote, "On behalf of the people of Andhra Pradesh, I thank PM Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for recognising the needs of our State and focusing on a Capital, Polavaram, industrial nodes and development of backward areas in AP in the union budget."

<h2>How the opposition reacts to the budget:</h2>

Rahul Gandhi took to the social media platform X to criticise the budget, stating it was crafted to appease allies and cronies at the expense of other states and the common Indian. He also accused the government of copying from the Congress manifesto and previous budgets.

In his tweet, Gandhi wrote:

“Kursi Bachao” Budget. 
- Appease Allies: Hollow promises to them at the cost of other states. 
- Appease Cronies: Benefits to AA with no relief for the common Indian. 
- Copy and Paste: Congress manifesto and previous budgets.

Senior party leader P Chidambaram posted on X, formerly Twitter:

"I am glad that the Hon'ble FM has read the Congress Manifesto LS 2024 after the election results. I am happy she has virtually adopted the Employment-linked incentive (ELI) outlined on page 30 of the Congress Manifesto... I wish the FM had copied some other ideas in the Congress Manifesto. I shall shortly list the missed opportunities."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reopens-embassy-in-libya-after-five-years-743562">India 'reopens' embassy in Libya after five years</a>

Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav claimed that the budget has neglected the interests of youth, employment, women, and farmers.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor expressed his disappointment over the absence of provisions for Kerala, particularly in the health sector.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi criticised the Centre, saying that the Budget should be named ‘PM Sarkaar Bachao Yojana’.

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kalyan Banerjee criticised the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, stating that the budget serves the interests of the ruling NDA rather than the nation's. “This is a 'kursi bachao budget' (budget to save the chair),” Banerjee said.

“It’s designed to protect Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s position. This budget is for the NDA, not for India.," he further said. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Budget 2024-25: Soon after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the first budget of the Modi 3.0 government on Tuesday, July 23, the opposition was swift to voice their disapproval.

Budget 2024-25: Soon after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the first budget of the Modi 3.0 government on Tuesday, July 23, the opposition was swift to voice their disapproval. Opposition MPs from the INDIA alliance staged a protest at Parliament premises today, alleging biased provisions in the newly unveiled Union Budget. This decision emerged during a meeting on Tuesday evening, led by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, following Sitharaman's budget presentation. Although the budget introduced several benefits for Bihar and Andhra Pradesh and states governed by significant BJP allies, the opposition claims that numerous other states were largely overlooked. Also read | Union Budget: Chidambaram accuses Sitharaman of copying ideas from Congress manifesto Telugu Desam Party (TDP) National President Chandrababu Naidu praised the Union Budget and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for addressing the needs of Andhra Pradesh. In a post on social media platform X, Naidu wrote, "On behalf of the people of Andhra Pradesh, I thank PM Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for recognising the needs of our State and focusing on a Capital, Polavaram, industrial nodes and development of backward areas in AP in the union budget." How the opposition reacts to the budget: Rahul Gandhi took to the social media platform X to criticise the budget, stating it was crafted to appease allies and cronies at the expense of other states and the common Indian. He also accused the government of copying from the Congress manifesto and previous budgets. In his tweet, Gandhi wrote: “Kursi Bachao” Budget. - Appease Allies: Hollow promises to them at the cost of other states. - Appease Cronies: Benefits to AA with no relief for the common Indian. - Copy and Paste: Congress manifesto and previous budgets. Senior party leader P Chidambaram posted on X, formerly Twitter: "I am glad that the Hon'ble FM has read the Congress Manifesto LS 2024 after the election results. I am happy she has virtually adopted the Employment-linked incentive (ELI) outlined on page 30 of the Congress Manifesto... I wish the FM had copied some other ideas in the Congress Manifesto. I shall shortly list the missed opportunities." Also read | India 'reopens' embassy in Libya after five years Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav claimed that the budget has neglected the interests of youth, employment, women, and farmers. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor expressed his disappointment over the absence of provisions for Kerala, particularly in the health sector. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi criticised the Centre, saying that the Budget should be named ‘PM Sarkaar Bachao Yojana’. Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kalyan Banerjee criticised the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, stating that the budget serves the interests of the ruling NDA rather than the nation's. “This is a 'kursi bachao budget' (budget to save the chair),” Banerjee said. “It’s designed to protect Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s position. This budget is for the NDA, not for India.," he further said. (With inputs from agencies)

Budget 2024-25: Opposition leaders stage protest | Here’s an overview of their reaction

Turkiye’s wealth per adult surged by over 157% between 2022 and 2023, outpacing all other countries, according to UBS’s global wealth report 2024.

Turkiye leads world in wealth growth

BJP's Kota MP Om Birla has been re-elected as the Speaker of Lok Sabha after winning a rare election against the opposition candidate and Kerala Congress MP K Suresh. He won by voice vote. Birla will now serve his second term as Speaker.

India: NDA's Om Birla wins rare elections for Lok Sabha speaker

South Korea's main opposition leader is in trouble, Lee Jae-Myung the leader of South Korea's Democratic party has been indicted on charges of bribery.

South Korea: Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-Myung indicted on bribery charges

According to persons familiar with the situation, India is expected to invite the leaders of several of its neighbors, including Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in event this coming weekend.

Modi 3.0: Who are the neighboring leaders of India invited to Narendra Modi's third swearing-in

State-by-state predictions offer fascinating details for the later-in-the-year elections in Maharashtra, Haryana, and Jharkhand. Reportedly, the Opposition now possesses more territory in these states than the NDA did.

BJP now anxious about the upcoming assembly polls?

Predictions by state provide intriguing information for the Maharashtra, Haryana, and Jharkhand votes that are scheduled later this year. According to reports, the Opposition now has more space in these states than the NDA did.

Upcoming Assembly Elections in India: Haryana, Maharashtra and Jharkhand in focus

As the nation braces itself for the announcement of Lok Sabha election results on June 4, leaders from the opposition INDIA bloc visited the Election Commission of India (ECI) with a flurry of demands. At the same time, adding to the charged political atmosphere, Union Ministers and prominent BJP figures, Piyush Goyal and Nirmala Sitharaman, also made their presence felt at the ECI.&nbsp;

Union Minister Piyush Goyal criticised what BJP perceived as attempts by INDIA bloc to tarnish the sanctity of India's democratic processes.&nbsp;

"We had to call upon ECI today, in light of the repeated attempts by a section of the political parties led by the Indian National Congress and their INDI alliance partners and certain motivated civil society groups and NGOs who are trying their level best to undermine the integrity of India's electoral process. Their efforts against India's robust electoral process are a direct attack on our democratic institutions," Goyal said post-meeting with the full bench of Election Commission members.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assembly-polls-2024-sikkims-ruling-skm-registers-thumping-victory-wins-31-out-of-32-seats-728054">Assembly Polls 2024: Sikkim's ruling SKM registers thumping victory, wins 31 out of 32 seats</a>

Goyal elaborated on the BJP's four demands made during their meeting.&nbsp;Goyal said, "We have requested EC every official engaged in the counting process be fully conversant with the minutest details of the prescribed process and engage diligently with all EC protocols...second, to ensure safety and security of the electoral process during the counting and announcement of results...third, to take cognisance of the systematic attempts to undermine the electoral process and take stringent action against those responsible."&nbsp;

<h2>INDIA bloc meets EC officials&nbsp;</h2>

INDIA bloc's delegation also met with the Election Commission, with Sitaram Yechury of the CPI(M) calling for adhering to their demands, including that the postal ballots&nbsp;be counted first and announced and after that, the EVM counting should begin. "We are saying that it should be followed."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/assembly-polls-2024-bjp-returns-to-power-in-arunachal-pradesh-secures-46-out-of-60-seats-728034">Assembly Polls 2024: BJP storms back to power in Arunachal Pradesh, secures 46 out of 60 seats</a>

D Raja of the CPI underscored the importance of upholding the Conduct of Election rules 1961.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pune-porsche-horror-wion-exclusive-teen-mother-evasive-on-probe-crime-branch-interrogates-minor-728022">Pune Porsche horror | WION Exclusive: Teen, mother evasive on probe; crime branch interrogates minor</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pune-porsche-horror-wion-exclusive-teen-mother-evasive-on-probe-crime-branch-interrogates-minor-728022/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Congress leader Salman Khurshid expressed optimism saying, "We requested for very strict vigilance during the counting process and they gave us a satisfactory reply... We didn't question any rules but made sure they are adhered to and followed faithfully. The meeting has been very promising."

Meanwhile, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the Congress, outlined a specific concern regarding the counting order of postal ballots and EVMs.

"Our complaint is that this statutory rule of this 2019 guideline has been given goodbye. The Election Commission has repealed this 2019 practice. The net result is that by method of practice, EVMs can be counted and if EVMs counting gets over before the postal ballot, it will still be completed," Singhvi said.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the nation braces itself for the announcement of Lok Sabha election results on June 4, leaders from the opposition INDIA bloc visited the Election Commission of India (ECI) with a flurry of demands.

As the nation braces itself for the announcement of Lok Sabha election results on June 4, leaders from the opposition INDIA bloc visited the Election Commission of India (ECI) with a flurry of demands. At the same time, adding to the charged political atmosphere, Union Ministers and prominent BJP figures, Piyush Goyal and Nirmala Sitharaman, also made their presence felt at the ECI. Union Minister Piyush Goyal criticised what BJP perceived as attempts by INDIA bloc to tarnish the sanctity of India's democratic processes. "We had to call upon ECI today, in light of the repeated attempts by a section of the political parties led by the Indian National Congress and their INDI alliance partners and certain motivated civil society groups and NGOs who are trying their level best to undermine the integrity of India's electoral process. Their efforts against India's robust electoral process are a direct attack on our democratic institutions," Goyal said post-meeting with the full bench of Election Commission members. Also Read | Assembly Polls 2024: Sikkim's ruling SKM registers thumping victory, wins 31 out of 32 seats Goyal elaborated on the BJP's four demands made during their meeting. Goyal said, "We have requested EC every official engaged in the counting process be fully conversant with the minutest details of the prescribed process and engage diligently with all EC protocols...second, to ensure safety and security of the electoral process during the counting and announcement of results...third, to take cognisance of the systematic attempts to undermine the electoral process and take stringent action against those responsible." INDIA bloc meets EC officials INDIA bloc's delegation also met with the Election Commission, with Sitaram Yechury of the CPI(M) calling for adhering to their demands, including that the postal ballots be counted first and announced and after that, the EVM counting should begin. "We are saying that it should be followed." Also Read | Assembly Polls 2024: BJP storms back to power in Arunachal Pradesh, secures 46 out of 60 seats D Raja of the CPI underscored the importance of upholding the Conduct of Election rules 1961. Watch | Pune Porsche horror | WION Exclusive: Teen, mother evasive on probe; crime branch interrogates minor × Congress leader Salman Khurshid expressed optimism saying, "We requested for very strict vigilance during the counting process and they gave us a satisfactory reply... We didn't question any rules but made sure they are adhered to and followed faithfully. The meeting has been very promising." Meanwhile, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the Congress, outlined a specific concern regarding the counting order of postal ballots and EVMs. "Our complaint is that this statutory rule of this 2019 guideline has been given goodbye. The Election Commission has repealed this 2019 practice. The net result is that by method of practice, EVMs can be counted and if EVMs counting gets over before the postal ballot, it will still be completed," Singhvi said. (With inputs from agencies)

INDIA bloc urges ECI to count postal ballots first; BJP alleges opposition undermining process

In Venezuela, the opposition has a presidential candidate who is not banned from the presidential contesting elections that'll be held on the 28th of July. The country's main opposition block has unanimously agreed to support a rather low-profile candidate and a former diplomat Edmundo Gonzalez for the upcoming polls.

Venezuela: Opposition picks former diplomat as Presidential Candidate

In Canada where elections might be over a year away that did not deter the top leaders from taking a swipe at each other. However the personal remarks made by Canada's opposition leader raised many eyebrows and also got him ousted from the House of Commons.

Canada: Political slugfest in House of Commons

Venezuela is going to polls this July the incumbent government of Nicholas Maduro has come under the scanner for silencing his opposition. In the latest to take notice is the United States the Joe Biden Administration has imposed sanctions on its oil industry.

Venezuela: US to sanction Venezuela's oil industry as Washington wary about free and fair polls

South Korea's opposition has emerged victorious in an action-packed election and the ruling party's leadership including the Prime Minister have tendered the resignations in the face of defeat but what does this mean for president Yoon Suk Yeol is the question? Watch in for more details!

South Korea Elections: Opposition registers sweeping win in parliamentary polls

A war of words has broken out between the BJP and the opposition over the Katchatheevu island. Prime Minister Modi has hit out at the Congress for the "callous" handling of the matter.

Gravitas | War of words: BJP and opposition clash over Katchatheevu Island

Bruised and fractured by Recep Tayyip Erdogan's victory in 2023 general elections, Turkey's opposition aims to land a blow in Sunday's local polls, with the future of its biggest hope, Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, tied to the outcome.

Turkey elections: Turkiye local elections results

In an unexpected but significant blow to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkey's main opposition party clinched major election victories in the cities of Istanbul and Ankara.

The election results of the local polls were a major setback for Erdogan since he had hoped to take back control of the cities soon after clinching a third term as the president.

The Turkish president had carried out a campaign across Istanbul - a city where he had grown up and also once held the position of mayor.

However, Ekrem Imamoglu, who had for the first time won local polls in the city in 2019, clinched a second victory for the secular opposition CHP.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/voting-begins-in-turkeys-high-stakes-municipal-elections-as-erdogan-seeks-to-reclaim-control-of-istanbul-706166">Voting ends in Turkey's high-stakes municipal elections, Erdogan's rival leads</a>

Declaring his victory, an overjoyed Imamoglu said, “My dear Istanbulites, you opened the door to a new future today. Starting from tomorrow, Turkey will be a different Turkey. You opened the door to the rise of democracy, equality and freedom … You ignited hope at the ballot box.”

Meanwhile, the head of the CHP Ozgur Ozel, while addressing the supporters with tears in his eyes, said, "These election results show that voters decided to establish a new politics in Turkey."

<h2>Erdogan tastes defeat for the first time in 21 years&nbsp;</h2>

For the first time since Erdogan came to power 21 years ago, AKP faced a defeat at the ballot box.

After 92.92 per cent of ballot boxes were opened in Istanbul, Imamoglu had 50.92 per cent votes in comparison to 40.05 per cent of votes which was with AKP challenger Murat Kurum.

In the capital city Ankara, opposition mayor Mansur Yavas was able to declare victory when less than half of the votes were in, as he had already clinched more than 59 per cent of votes at the time.

Meanwhile, the CHP was also seeing victory in other big cities like Izmir and Bursa, Adana and the resort town of Antalya.

<h2>Not an end but a turning point, says Erdogan after historic defeat</h2>

Acknowledging his historic defeat in the polls, President Erdogan said that the elections did not end as they had hoped, however, he said it would mark "not an end for us but rather a turning point".

Watch:&nbsp;Turkey Municipal Elections: Fierce contest for Istanbul, Ankara

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkey-municipal-elections-fierce-contest-for-istanbul-ankara-706264/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“Regardless of the results, the winner of this election is primarily democracy. Unfortunately, we couldn’t get the result we wanted in local elections … Everything happens for a reason. We will rebuild trust in places where our nation has chosen someone else," he added.

"If we made a mistake, we will fix it. If we have anything missing, we will complete it," he said.

Addressing his supporters at AKP headquarters in Ankara, Erdogan, at one point, said, “I am madly in love with you.”

(With inputs from agencies)

In an unexpected but significant blow to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkey's main opposition party clinched major election victories in the cities of Istanbul and Ankara.

In an unexpected but significant blow to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkey's main opposition party clinched major election victories in the cities of Istanbul and Ankara. The election results of the local polls were a major setback for Erdogan since he had hoped to take back control of the cities soon after clinching a third term as the president. The Turkish president had carried out a campaign across Istanbul - a city where he had grown up and also once held the position of mayor. However, Ekrem Imamoglu, who had for the first time won local polls in the city in 2019, clinched a second victory for the secular opposition CHP. Also Read: Voting ends in Turkey's high-stakes municipal elections, Erdogan's rival leads Declaring his victory, an overjoyed Imamoglu said, “My dear Istanbulites, you opened the door to a new future today. Starting from tomorrow, Turkey will be a different Turkey. You opened the door to the rise of democracy, equality and freedom … You ignited hope at the ballot box.” Meanwhile, the head of the CHP Ozgur Ozel, while addressing the supporters with tears in his eyes, said, "These election results show that voters decided to establish a new politics in Turkey." Erdogan tastes defeat for the first time in 21 years For the first time since Erdogan came to power 21 years ago, AKP faced a defeat at the ballot box. After 92.92 per cent of ballot boxes were opened in Istanbul, Imamoglu had 50.92 per cent votes in comparison to 40.05 per cent of votes which was with AKP challenger Murat Kurum. In the capital city Ankara, opposition mayor Mansur Yavas was able to declare victory when less than half of the votes were in, as he had already clinched more than 59 per cent of votes at the time. Meanwhile, the CHP was also seeing victory in other big cities like Izmir and Bursa, Adana and the resort town of Antalya. Not an end but a turning point, says Erdogan after historic defeat Acknowledging his historic defeat in the polls, President Erdogan said that the elections did not end as they had hoped, however, he said it would mark "not an end for us but rather a turning point". Watch: Turkey Municipal Elections: Fierce contest for Istanbul, Ankara “Regardless of the results, the winner of this election is primarily democracy. Unfortunately, we couldn’t get the result we wanted in local elections … Everything happens for a reason. We will rebuild trust in places where our nation has chosen someone else," he added. "If we made a mistake, we will fix it. If we have anything missing, we will complete it," he said. Addressing his supporters at AKP headquarters in Ankara, Erdogan, at one point, said, “I am madly in love with you.” (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey local elections: Opposition pulls off surprise win as Erdogan calls it a 'turning point'

Turkey elections: Opposition sweeps Turkiye local polls

Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in a speech slammed the leaders of the opposition Bangladesh nationalist party the BNP for running a boycott Indian products campaign. Watch in for more details!

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina: 'Burn your wives' Indian sarees'

Turkey elections: Voting ends in high-stakes elections, three killed in poll-related violence

Bruised and fractured by Tayyip Erdogan's victory in 2023 general elections, Turkey's opposition aims to land a blow in Sunday's local polls, with the future of its biggest hope, Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, tied to the outcome.

Turkey local election 2024: Opposition aims to hit back at Erdogan

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's arrest has triggered a political storm just a month ahead of the Lok Sabha Elections. While the Aam Aadmi Party leader's future remains bleak the big question is this can this adverse situation for the party bring the opposition INDIA bloc closer?

Will Kejriwal's arrest bind the opposition bloc?

Political storm over Kejriwal arrest

opposition

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