<p>Kenya's government and opposition will set up a team that aims to resolve their differences, senior politicians from both sides said on Saturday, after a series of opposition protests over the cost of living and tax increases.</p>

<p>Opposition coalition Azimio la Umoja (Declaration of Unity) held a number of protests earlier this month, causing widespread disruption and in some cases violent confrontations with police in which more than two dozen people were killed and scores injured.</p>

<p>Azimio and the government coalition Kenya Kwanza (Kenya First) issued separate statements confirming the talks.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/melting-swiss-glacier-coughs-up-body-remains-of-hiker-who-went-missing-in-1986-620545">Melting Swiss glacier coughs up body remains of hiker who went missing in 1986</a></p>

<p>Kimani Ichung'wah, Kenya Kwanza's parliamentary majority leader, said in a statement that the talks would look at the makeup of Kenya's election commission and the creation of an office for the leader of the opposition, among other issues.</p>

<p>The statement said the talks would not go into recent tax changes since these were already before a court. On Friday, an appeals court lifted a suspension placed on a law that would double value-added tax on fuel and introduce a new housing levy.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/asian-masalanomics-for-spice-trade-spiced-up-in-vietnam-2000-years-ago-reveals-study-620534">Asian masalanomics for spice trade spiced up in Vietnam 2000 years ago, reveals study</a></p>

<p>The court said the lifting of the suspension may be subject to further appeals, which must be served within 14 days. A separate case challenging the law is also pending.</p>

<p>Opiyo Wandayi, minority leader in parliament for the Azimio la Umoja coalition, whose name appeared on the joint statement, did not sign it. He issued a separate statement on Azimio's behalf confirming the formation of the team for talks, but did not give details on what those talks would entail.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Rains soak Northern China as Doksuri makes its way to Beijing</strong></p>

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<p>President William Ruto said earlier this week he was open to meeting Azimio leader Raila Odinga. Ruto has in the past said he would not enter into any power-sharing agreement with Odinga, while Odinga has also said he is not interested in any such deal.</p>

<p>Talks between the opposition and government earlier this year failed to yield any solid agreement.</p>

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Kenya's government and opposition will set up a team that aims to resolve their differences, senior politicians from both sides said on Saturday, after a series of opposition protests over the cost of living and tax increases.

Kenya's government and opposition will set up a team that aims to resolve their differences, senior politicians from both sides said on Saturday, after a series of opposition protests over the cost of living and tax increases. Opposition coalition Azimio la Umoja (Declaration of Unity) held a number of protests earlier this month, causing widespread disruption and in some cases violent confrontations with police in which more than two dozen people were killed and scores injured. Azimio and the government coalition Kenya Kwanza (Kenya First) issued separate statements confirming the talks. Also Read | Melting Swiss glacier coughs up body remains of hiker who went missing in 1986 Kimani Ichung'wah, Kenya Kwanza's parliamentary majority leader, said in a statement that the talks would look at the makeup of Kenya's election commission and the creation of an office for the leader of the opposition, among other issues. The statement said the talks would not go into recent tax changes since these were already before a court. On Friday, an appeals court lifted a suspension placed on a law that would double value-added tax on fuel and introduce a new housing levy. Also Read | Asian masalanomics for spice trade spiced up in Vietnam 2000 years ago, reveals study The court said the lifting of the suspension may be subject to further appeals, which must be served within 14 days. A separate case challenging the law is also pending. Opiyo Wandayi, minority leader in parliament for the Azimio la Umoja coalition, whose name appeared on the joint statement, did not sign it. He issued a separate statement on Azimio's behalf confirming the formation of the team for talks, but did not give details on what those talks would entail. Watch | Rains soak Northern China as Doksuri makes its way to Beijing × President William Ruto said earlier this week he was open to meeting Azimio leader Raila Odinga. Ruto has in the past said he would not enter into any power-sharing agreement with Odinga, while Odinga has also said he is not interested in any such deal. Talks between the opposition and government earlier this year failed to yield any solid agreement. 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. ×

Kenya's government and opposition agree to talks after protests

<p>The newly formed alliance of 26 opposition parties, INDIA or Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, will be bringing a no-confidence motion in Lok Sabha against the government on Wednesday, July 26,&nbsp;Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury told ANI news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the Manipur issue continues to remain a hot topic in national politics, the alliance has formed a notice draft. The notice needs to be supported by the signatures of at least 50 Members of Parliament. In order for the House Speaker to read the notice, the front needed&nbsp;to submit the same before 10 am on Wednesday, PTI news agency said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition, Congress had&nbsp;also issued a whip in Lok Sabha for the party members to be present in its parliamentary office "to discuss some important issues" by 10:30 am.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/strategic-trust-eroded-indian-nsa-ajit-doval-minces-no-words-in-talks-with-china-619212">‘Strategic trust eroded,’ Indian NSA Ajit Doval minces no words in talks with China</a></p>

<p>The key decision was taken during a meeting of INDIA MPs on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the alliance leaders said the meeting was held to force the Indian government to hold a discussion on the Manipur issue. It is not just in Lok Sabha that the opposition alliance INDIA is trying to target the government. Its strategy is also to continue building pressure on the government in the Rajya Sabha.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-banks-pressed-to-rectify-inaccurate-financial-statements-heres-why-619208">US banks pressed to rectify ‘inaccurate’ financial statements. Here's why</a></p>

<p>"We discussed that if we move a notice of no-confidence motion with 50 MP signatures, the PM will have to speak. If he still doesn't speak, it will send a clear message that he is running away. It is a matter of perception. We are working on it now and we will make sure we submit it before 10 am tomorrow," said a senior leader of the alliance.</p>

<p>"The overall parliamentary strategy is in place for the INDIA parties. Tactics to execute that strategy evolve every day. Rule 198 of the Lok Sabha states the procedure of moving a no-confidence motion. 'Picture abhi baki hai' (the story is still unfolding)!" said Derek O'Brien, Trinamool's leader in Rajya Sabha.</p>

<h2><strong>Indian government ready for discussion&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Indian Union Home Minister Amit Shah has written to the leaders of Opposition in both Houses saying that the Indian government is ready for a discussion. "They (Opposition) are not interested in co-operation, they are not interested in Dalits, nor in the welfare of women, so their sloganeering is very obvious. However, I want to say again that I have written to the leaders of Opposition in both Houses that I am ready for a detailed debate on Manipur. The government has no fear and anyone who wants to discuss is welcome," the home minister said in Lok Sabha.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | UK: Boris Johnson's former aide gets life peerage; controversy over 'young' peers&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>"We don't have anything to hide. We have to go to the polls and people are watching you. Create a conducive atmosphere for a discussion on this sensitive issue of Manipur," Amit Shah added.</p>

<p>The home minister also shared a letter he wrote to Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge and Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition&nbsp;Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on social media platform&nbsp;X (formerly Twitter).</p>

<p>"The government is ready to discuss the issue of Manipur and seeks cooperation from all the parties, rising above party lines. I hope that all the parties will cooperate in resolving this important issue," he wrote.</p>

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The newly formed alliance of 26 opposition parties, INDIA or Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, will be bringing a no-confidence motion in Lok Sabha against the government on Wednesday, July 26, Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury told ANI news agency.

The newly formed alliance of 26 opposition parties, INDIA or Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, will be bringing a no-confidence motion in Lok Sabha against the government on Wednesday, July 26, Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury told ANI news agency. As the Manipur issue continues to remain a hot topic in national politics, the alliance has formed a notice draft. The notice needs to be supported by the signatures of at least 50 Members of Parliament. In order for the House Speaker to read the notice, the front needed to submit the same before 10 am on Wednesday, PTI news agency said. In addition, Congress had also issued a whip in Lok Sabha for the party members to be present in its parliamentary office "to discuss some important issues" by 10:30 am. Also Read | ‘Strategic trust eroded,’ Indian NSA Ajit Doval minces no words in talks with China The key decision was taken during a meeting of INDIA MPs on Tuesday. One of the alliance leaders said the meeting was held to force the Indian government to hold a discussion on the Manipur issue. It is not just in Lok Sabha that the opposition alliance INDIA is trying to target the government. Its strategy is also to continue building pressure on the government in the Rajya Sabha. Also Read | US banks pressed to rectify ‘inaccurate’ financial statements. Here's why "We discussed that if we move a notice of no-confidence motion with 50 MP signatures, the PM will have to speak. If he still doesn't speak, it will send a clear message that he is running away. It is a matter of perception. We are working on it now and we will make sure we submit it before 10 am tomorrow," said a senior leader of the alliance. "The overall parliamentary strategy is in place for the INDIA parties. Tactics to execute that strategy evolve every day. Rule 198 of the Lok Sabha states the procedure of moving a no-confidence motion. 'Picture abhi baki hai' (the story is still unfolding)!" said Derek O'Brien, Trinamool's leader in Rajya Sabha. Indian government ready for discussion Indian Union Home Minister Amit Shah has written to the leaders of Opposition in both Houses saying that the Indian government is ready for a discussion. "They (Opposition) are not interested in co-operation, they are not interested in Dalits, nor in the welfare of women, so their sloganeering is very obvious. However, I want to say again that I have written to the leaders of Opposition in both Houses that I am ready for a detailed debate on Manipur. The government has no fear and anyone who wants to discuss is welcome," the home minister said in Lok Sabha. Watch | UK: Boris Johnson's former aide gets life peerage; controversy over 'young' peers × "We don't have anything to hide. We have to go to the polls and people are watching you. Create a conducive atmosphere for a discussion on this sensitive issue of Manipur," Amit Shah added. The home minister also shared a letter he wrote to Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge and Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). "The government is ready to discuss the issue of Manipur and seeks cooperation from all the parties, rising above party lines. I hope that all the parties will cooperate in resolving this important issue," he wrote. 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. ×

Opposition alliance INDIA to move no-confidence motion against government

The opposition parties in India are challenging the BJP-led Union administration in Parliament during the Monsoon Session. The Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, a newly formed opposition coalition, has asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a reply on the violence in Manipur.

Indian opposition demands discussion on Manipur

The Indian opposition parties have moved to a no-confidence motion against the BJP-led Union government in Parliament. The newly formed opposition tie-up dubbed the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance is demanding a statement from Prime Minister Modi on the violence in Manipur.

India: Centre vs Opposition on Manipur

The race for the 2024 Indian general elections is heating up the two main alliances held their respective meetings on Tuesday starting with prime minister Narendra Modi's attack on the opposition Alliance which earlier in the day called itself INDIA. It's an innovative acronym for Indian National Development Inclusive Alliance. Keep watching to know more.

PM Modi slams opposition parties, flags 'nepotism and corruption'

Indian Political System is taking a new turn as 26 opposition parties get united under the banner of I-N-D-I-A. Watch this video to find out all details.

I-N-D-I-A: The name that has united India's opposition parties against the ruling Modi government

<p>The United States has agreed to hand over cluster munitions to Ukraine, said the White House on Thursday, as human rights groups continued their calls for putting a stop to the use of the controversial weapons known to cause civilian casualties in large numbers.</p>

<h2><strong>What is a cluster munition?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Cluster munitions, which are also known as cluster bombs, are canisters that contain tens to hundreds of smaller bomblets, also called&nbsp;submunitions. The canisters can be launched using missiles, dropped from aircraft, or fired from naval guns, artillery, or rocket launchers.</p>

<p>At a prescribed height, the canisters break open depending upon the intended target, and the bomblets inside it spread out over that area. The bomblets fuse with a timer and explode closer to or on the ground and spread shrapnel that is designed to take out armoured vehicles such as tanks and kill troops.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How dangerous are these bombs?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The bomblets, which are designed in a way that they detonate when they hit the ground, have a high chance of killing or seriously injuring anyone in the area. Apart from the initial damage which the munitions cause upon impact, many bomblets do not detonate at all.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Around 40 per cent of bomblets have not exploded in some recent conflicts, as per the ICRC. Hence, these cluster bombs, like landmines, carry a grave risk to the lives of civilians, long after they are used in&nbsp;wartime. These unexploded bomblets can kill and maim civilians years after the munitions were used.</p>

<p>Hence, human rights groups have been opposing the use of cluster bombs by the army in populated areas, stating that it is a violation of international humanitarian law since the weapons can cause indiscriminate destruction. &nbsp;</p>

<p>As per a Reuters report, 60 per cent of casualties due to cluster bombs are people who get injured while undertaking everyday activities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-mulls-giving-ukraine-lethal-weapons-that-white-house-once-described-as-aiding-war-crimes-612905">White House to give lethal weapons to Ukraine that it once flagged for ‘war crimes’</a></p>

<h2><strong>Is using cluster bombs a war crime?</strong></h2>

<p>The use of cluster bombs cannot be considered as a violation of international law, however, using them against civilians can be seen as a grave violation. As happens in any strike, calling an action a war crime requires understanding if the target was legitimate and if the precautions were adopted to prevent any civilian casualties.</p>

<p>“The part of international law where this starts playing (a role), though, is indiscriminate attacks targeting civilians,” said Human Rights Watch’s associate arms director Mark Hiznay, while speaking to The Associated Press. “So that’s not necessarily related to the weapons, but the way the weapons are used," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>More than 120 countries joined a convention which banned the use of cluster bombs and agreed not to produce, use, stockpile or transfer the weapons and to clear them after they have been used. The convention has not been signed by Ukraine, Russia and the US.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Have cluster bombs been used before?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The cluster munitions were most notably used by Armenia and Azerbaijan last year amid their war over the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh. Since 2012, Syria has continued using cluster munitions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Human Rights Watch arms advocacy director Mary Wareham said that the use of cluster munitions in 2020 was extremely reduced compared to previous years. She stated that the treaty’s success was also seen in the destruction of stockpiles.</p>

<p>"We know that at least 1.5 million cluster munitions and more than 178 million submunitions have been destroyed from stocks," stated Wareham.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"That goes to show that this convention is truly lifesaving because every single one of those explosive submunitions could take a life or a limb," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why are cluster bombs considered more controversial than other bombs?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The impact of bomblets is on a wide area and can endanger non-combatants. As per the International Committee of the Red Cross, around 10 per cent to 40 per cent of munitions fail. The munitions, which fail&nbsp;to explode, have the probability of getting detonated by civilian activity years or even decades later.</p>

<p>Activist group Cluster Munition Coalition has been trying for a ban on these weapons everywhere, and claims that potentially deadly cluster submunitions continue to lie dormant in Vietnam and Laos, even 50 years after their use.</p>

<p>On Friday, Human Rights Watch in a statement said that both Russia and Ukraine have killed civilians with the use of cluster munitions in the ongoing war.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;<a>Gravitas: Will the US provide Ukraine with the 'controversial' cluster bomb?</a></strong></p>

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<p>“Cluster munitions remain one of the world’s most treacherous weapons. They kill and maim indiscriminately and cause widespread human suffering,” said Gilles Carbonnier, vice president of the International Committee of the Red Cross, while speaking at a conference on the munition in Switzerland last year.</p>

<p>“Any use of cluster munitions, anywhere, by anyone, must be condemned,” Carbonnier added.</p>

<h2><strong>Have troops used cluster bombs in Russia-Ukraine war?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Both the Russians and Ukrainians have used cluster bombs since Kyiv was invaded by the forces of Moscow in February 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, Ukrainian forces started use of Turkish cluster munitions on the battlefield. However, Ukrainian officials have been requesting cluster munitions from the US since last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine has stated that more ammunition would be provided by the US for Western-provided artillery and rocket systems, which will help in narrowing the numerical superiority of Russia in artillery.&nbsp;</p>

<main>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The United States has agreed to hand over cluster munitions to Ukraine, said the White House on Thursday, as human rights groups continued their calls for putting a stop to the use of the controversial weapons known to cause civilian casualties in large numbers.

The United States has agreed to hand over cluster munitions to Ukraine, said the White House on Thursday, as human rights groups continued their calls for putting a stop to the use of the controversial weapons known to cause civilian casualties in large numbers. What is a cluster munition? Cluster munitions, which are also known as cluster bombs, are canisters that contain tens to hundreds of smaller bomblets, also called submunitions. The canisters can be launched using missiles, dropped from aircraft, or fired from naval guns, artillery, or rocket launchers. At a prescribed height, the canisters break open depending upon the intended target, and the bomblets inside it spread out over that area. The bomblets fuse with a timer and explode closer to or on the ground and spread shrapnel that is designed to take out armoured vehicles such as tanks and kill troops. How dangerous are these bombs? The bomblets, which are designed in a way that they detonate when they hit the ground, have a high chance of killing or seriously injuring anyone in the area. Apart from the initial damage which the munitions cause upon impact, many bomblets do not detonate at all. Around 40 per cent of bomblets have not exploded in some recent conflicts, as per the ICRC. Hence, these cluster bombs, like landmines, carry a grave risk to the lives of civilians, long after they are used in wartime. These unexploded bomblets can kill and maim civilians years after the munitions were used. Hence, human rights groups have been opposing the use of cluster bombs by the army in populated areas, stating that it is a violation of international humanitarian law since the weapons can cause indiscriminate destruction. As per a Reuters report, 60 per cent of casualties due to cluster bombs are people who get injured while undertaking everyday activities. ALSO READ | White House to give lethal weapons to Ukraine that it once flagged for ‘war crimes’ Is using cluster bombs a war crime? The use of cluster bombs cannot be considered as a violation of international law, however, using them against civilians can be seen as a grave violation. As happens in any strike, calling an action a war crime requires understanding if the target was legitimate and if the precautions were adopted to prevent any civilian casualties. “The part of international law where this starts playing (a role), though, is indiscriminate attacks targeting civilians,” said Human Rights Watch’s associate arms director Mark Hiznay, while speaking to The Associated Press. “So that’s not necessarily related to the weapons, but the way the weapons are used," he added. More than 120 countries joined a convention which banned the use of cluster bombs and agreed not to produce, use, stockpile or transfer the weapons and to clear them after they have been used. The convention has not been signed by Ukraine, Russia and the US. Have cluster bombs been used before? The cluster munitions were most notably used by Armenia and Azerbaijan last year amid their war over the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh. Since 2012, Syria has continued using cluster munitions. Human Rights Watch arms advocacy director Mary Wareham said that the use of cluster munitions in 2020 was extremely reduced compared to previous years. She stated that the treaty’s success was also seen in the destruction of stockpiles. "We know that at least 1.5 million cluster munitions and more than 178 million submunitions have been destroyed from stocks," stated Wareham. "That goes to show that this convention is truly lifesaving because every single one of those explosive submunitions could take a life or a limb," he added. Why are cluster bombs considered more controversial than other bombs? The impact of bomblets is on a wide area and can endanger non-combatants. As per the International Committee of the Red Cross, around 10 per cent to 40 per cent of munitions fail. The munitions, which fail to explode, have the probability of getting detonated by civilian activity years or even decades later. Activist group Cluster Munition Coalition has been trying for a ban on these weapons everywhere, and claims that potentially deadly cluster submunitions continue to lie dormant in Vietnam and Laos, even 50 years after their use. On Friday, Human Rights Watch in a statement said that both Russia and Ukraine have killed civilians with the use of cluster munitions in the ongoing war. WATCH | Gravitas: Will the US provide Ukraine with the 'controversial' cluster bomb? “Cluster munitions remain one of the world’s most treacherous weapons. They kill and maim indiscriminately and cause widespread human suffering,” said Gilles Carbonnier, vice president of the International Committee of the Red Cross, while speaking at a conference on the munition in Switzerland last year. “Any use of cluster munitions, anywhere, by anyone, must be condemned,” Carbonnier added. Have troops used cluster bombs in Russia-Ukraine war? Both the Russians and Ukrainians have used cluster bombs since Kyiv was invaded by the forces of Moscow in February 2022. Recently, Ukrainian forces started use of Turkish cluster munitions on the battlefield. However, Ukrainian officials have been requesting cluster munitions from the US since last year. Ukraine has stated that more ammunition would be provided by the US for Western-provided artillery and rocket systems, which will help in narrowing the numerical superiority of Russia in artillery. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | What are cluster bombs which US is set to provide to Ukraine? Why is it facing opposition?

<p>Opposition parties are together going to defeat the BJP in the 2024 general elections, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said on Friday and claimed a battle was on between his party's "'Bharat Jodo' ideology and the BJP's 'Bharat Todo' thinking".</p>

<p>Underscoring the importance of unity in party ranks, he also claimed the Congress would emerge victorious in the upcoming elections in Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Telangana.</p>

<p>Accusing the BJP of working to "divide India and spread hate and violence", he asserted that a fight of ideologies was going on in India.</p>

<p>"On the one hand, there is the Congress' 'Bharat Jodo' ideology and the BJP and RSS' 'Bharat Todo' thinking is on the other hand," Gandhi said while addressing a large gathering of Congress workers and leaders at the party office in the Sadaqat Ashram area here.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-embarks-on-truck-journey-in-us-engages-in-candid-conversation-with-driver-604564">Rahul Gandhi embarks on truck journey in US, engages in candid conversation with driver</a></strong></p>

<p>That is why we have come here because the DNA of the Congress is in Bihar, the former party chief said.</p>

<p>"All Opposition parties have come here and together we are going to defeat the BJP," he said.</p>

<p>Top leaders of Opposition parties went into a huddle in Patna on Friday to chalk out a roadmap for the formation of an anti-BJP front for next year's general elections. The meeting was hosted by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar of the JD(U) and his deputy Tejashwi Yadav of the RJD.</p>

<p>Gandhi said that in Karnataka, BJP leaders gave speeches and went everywhere "but the result is there for you to see".</p>

<p>"As soon as the Congress stood united, the BJP disappeared in Karnataka. I am saying it from this stage that the BJP will be nowhere in Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh and the Congress will win," Gandhi claimed and added that this would happen because "we stand with the poor".</p>

<p>Asserting that the Congress was working to unite people and spread love, he said, "You know it very well that hate cannot be countered with hate. Only love can counter hate and we fight against hate. That's why we talk about love."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Karnataka Elections 2023: BJP to introspect why it couldn't dominate in the state</strong></p>

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<p>The former Congress chief claimed that the whole country has understood that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP work for the benefit of only two to three people, and are "handing over the entire country's wealth to them".</p>

<p>"The Congress means standing with the poor, meeting them, hugging them and working for them," he said.</p>

<p>Gandhi began his address by asking Congress workers "How is the mood", to which they replied, "It is good". He thanked them for their contribution and support to the Bharat Jodo Yatra.</p>

<p>"(During the yatra) I used to ask people in every state where are you from. Many used to say that 'I come from Bihar'. People from Bihar accompanied us everywhere -- Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra, Telangana, Maharashtra. You helped us in the journey because you believe in our ideology and you understand it deeply."</p>

<p>"I want to remind Congress workers that whether it is Bihar or any other state, you are our 'Babbar Sher (lion)'. You fight for ideology and it is the job of the Congress to protect you. It is the duty of all of us, the leaders, to protect the workers of the Congress," Gandhi told the party workers.</p>

<p>Later in a tweet in Hindi, Gandhi said, "We, the ones who unite India, will defeat those who divide India."</p>

<p>Gandhi along with Congress chief Kharge and a host of other party leaders participated in the Opposition meeting to chart a roadmap to take on the BJP in the 2024 general elections.</p>

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Opposition parties are together going to defeat the BJP in the 2024 general elections, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said on Friday and claimed a battle was on between his party's "'Bharat Jodo' ideology and the BJP's 'Bharat Todo' thinking".

Opposition parties are together going to defeat the BJP in the 2024 general elections, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said on Friday and claimed a battle was on between his party's "'Bharat Jodo' ideology and the BJP's 'Bharat Todo' thinking". Underscoring the importance of unity in party ranks, he also claimed the Congress would emerge victorious in the upcoming elections in Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Telangana. Accusing the BJP of working to "divide India and spread hate and violence", he asserted that a fight of ideologies was going on in India. "On the one hand, there is the Congress' 'Bharat Jodo' ideology and the BJP and RSS' 'Bharat Todo' thinking is on the other hand," Gandhi said while addressing a large gathering of Congress workers and leaders at the party office in the Sadaqat Ashram area here. ALSO READ | Rahul Gandhi embarks on truck journey in US, engages in candid conversation with driver That is why we have come here because the DNA of the Congress is in Bihar, the former party chief said. "All Opposition parties have come here and together we are going to defeat the BJP," he said. Top leaders of Opposition parties went into a huddle in Patna on Friday to chalk out a roadmap for the formation of an anti-BJP front for next year's general elections. The meeting was hosted by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar of the JD(U) and his deputy Tejashwi Yadav of the RJD. Gandhi said that in Karnataka, BJP leaders gave speeches and went everywhere "but the result is there for you to see". "As soon as the Congress stood united, the BJP disappeared in Karnataka. I am saying it from this stage that the BJP will be nowhere in Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh and the Congress will win," Gandhi claimed and added that this would happen because "we stand with the poor". Asserting that the Congress was working to unite people and spread love, he said, "You know it very well that hate cannot be countered with hate. Only love can counter hate and we fight against hate. That's why we talk about love." WATCH | Karnataka Elections 2023: BJP to introspect why it couldn't dominate in the state × The former Congress chief claimed that the whole country has understood that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP work for the benefit of only two to three people, and are "handing over the entire country's wealth to them". "The Congress means standing with the poor, meeting them, hugging them and working for them," he said. Gandhi began his address by asking Congress workers "How is the mood", to which they replied, "It is good". He thanked them for their contribution and support to the Bharat Jodo Yatra. "(During the yatra) I used to ask people in every state where are you from. Many used to say that 'I come from Bihar'. People from Bihar accompanied us everywhere -- Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra, Telangana, Maharashtra. You helped us in the journey because you believe in our ideology and you understand it deeply." "I want to remind Congress workers that whether it is Bihar or any other state, you are our 'Babbar Sher (lion)'. You fight for ideology and it is the job of the Congress to protect you. It is the duty of all of us, the leaders, to protect the workers of the Congress," Gandhi told the party workers. Later in a tweet in Hindi, Gandhi said, "We, the ones who unite India, will defeat those who divide India." Gandhi along with Congress chief Kharge and a host of other party leaders participated in the Opposition meeting to chart a roadmap to take on the BJP in the 2024 general elections. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India: Rahul Gandhi says opposition parties going to defeat BJP together

The dust has settled on Turkish polls. The opposition which until a week ago was being looked at as a tough contender now stands defeated. What does this loss mean for the united opposition and what do they need to learn as local polls near?

The road ahead for Turkey's oppostion

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of the UK is under increasing pressure to look into reports that Interior Minister Swella Braverman was speeding. The UK opposition asserts that by asking her staff to prepare for her penalty driving course for speeding to be completed in private, she violated the ministerial Court.

UK: Opposition questions interior minister's conduct

Amid tight security, voting started for Thailand’s general election on Sunday as Opposition parties are tipped to beat the government of army-backed Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha after almost a decade in power.

Thailand election 2023: Opposition led by Shinawatra emerging as the frontrunner

Over 300 protesters took to the streets in Tunisia's capital. They demanded the release of about 20 opponents of President Kais Saied, who are under arrest since February. The protests were reportedly organised by the national salvation front, the main opposition coalition in the country.

Opposition party in Tunisia protests against President Saied

For the past two weeks, Kenya has been witnessing massive protests by supporters of an opposition leader against the government in high prices of food items till now.

Unrest in Kenya over high food prices

<p>The fractious and divided opposition parties of Turkey finally came together on Monday and selected Kemal Kilicdaroglu as their candidate for fighting the upcoming presidential election in May against incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.</p>

<p>Kilicdaroglu is the leader of the Republican People's Party (CHP), the main secular opposition party. According to the polls, the country is set to witness a tight race amid polarisation after Erdogan's authoritarian rule of two decades.</p>

<p>The country's economic crisis and the errors of the government during the massive earthquakes in February, are likely to make Erdogan more vulnerable compared to the previous elections.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-erdogan-expresses-confidence-amid-opposition-split-568638">Turkey: Erdogan expresses confidence amid opposition split</a></p>

<p>Kilicdaroglu, a bookish former civil servant, was cheered on by a huge crowd of supporters after the six-party opposition alliance chose him as the presidential candidate.</p>

<p>Known as "Gandhi Kemal" or "Turkey's Gandhi" for his stark resemblance to Indian civil rights leader Mahatma Gandhi, Kilicdaroglu gives a different vision in both style and substance compared to that&nbsp;of fiery Erdogan.</p>

<p>However, some of the allies fear that the 74-year-old and soft-spoken Kilicdaroglu lacks crowd-pulling power. He assured his supporters that he would govern the country through consultation and consensus.</p>

<p>"Our table is the table of peace. Our only goal is to take the country to days of prosperity, peace and joy,” he said. He added that Turkey would again have a parliamentary system under his reign, which was changed by Erdogan to a presidential system in 2018.</p>

<p>Turkey's pro-Kurdish HDP co-leader Mithat Sancar said that the party would support Kilicdaroglu after "clear and open" talks.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Gravitas | Turkey Earthquakes: 3,500 Buildings collapse, over 5000 dead. Is Erdogan blameless?</strong></p>

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<p>"Our clear expectation is a transition for a strong democracy. If we can agree on fundamental principles, we may support him in presidential elections," Sancar said.</p>

<p>Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, created the CHP which is the oldest political party in the country. Kilicdaroglu, however, has broadened the party's appeal by accepting minority groups and has joined alliances with right-wing parties.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The fractious and divided opposition parties of Turkey finally came together on Monday and selected Kemal Kilicdaroglu as their candidate for fighting the upcoming presidential election in May against incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

The fractious and divided opposition parties of Turkey finally came together on Monday and selected Kemal Kilicdaroglu as their candidate for fighting the upcoming presidential election in May against incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Kilicdaroglu is the leader of the Republican People's Party (CHP), the main secular opposition party. According to the polls, the country is set to witness a tight race amid polarisation after Erdogan's authoritarian rule of two decades. The country's economic crisis and the errors of the government during the massive earthquakes in February, are likely to make Erdogan more vulnerable compared to the previous elections. ALSO READ | Turkey: Erdogan expresses confidence amid opposition split Kilicdaroglu, a bookish former civil servant, was cheered on by a huge crowd of supporters after the six-party opposition alliance chose him as the presidential candidate. Known as "Gandhi Kemal" or "Turkey's Gandhi" for his stark resemblance to Indian civil rights leader Mahatma Gandhi, Kilicdaroglu gives a different vision in both style and substance compared to that of fiery Erdogan. However, some of the allies fear that the 74-year-old and soft-spoken Kilicdaroglu lacks crowd-pulling power. He assured his supporters that he would govern the country through consultation and consensus. "Our table is the table of peace. Our only goal is to take the country to days of prosperity, peace and joy,” he said. He added that Turkey would again have a parliamentary system under his reign, which was changed by Erdogan to a presidential system in 2018. Turkey's pro-Kurdish HDP co-leader Mithat Sancar said that the party would support Kilicdaroglu after "clear and open" talks. WATCH | Gravitas | Turkey Earthquakes: 3,500 Buildings collapse, over 5000 dead. Is Erdogan blameless? "Our clear expectation is a transition for a strong democracy. If we can agree on fundamental principles, we may support him in presidential elections," Sancar said. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, created the CHP which is the oldest political party in the country. Kilicdaroglu, however, has broadened the party's appeal by accepting minority groups and has joined alliances with right-wing parties. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Opposition chooses 'Turkey's Gandhi' Kemal Kilicdaroglu to fight Erdogan in election

Israel's opposition and a section of the public are coming down heavily on the government's plans to overhaul the judicial system. In the latest, Justice Minister Yariv Levin is willing to discuss the opposition's compromise proposal for the judicial overhaul plan.

Israel Judicial Reforms: Minister Levin willing to discuss the opposition's proposal

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday, ignored the Adani row completely despite repeated disruptions from Opposition lawmakers who raised the issue of his close ties with industrialist Gautam Adani in Parliament.

Adani row: Indian Parliament disruptions continue; PM Modi ignores allegations

In his response to the debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address in Lok Sabha on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi targeted the Opposition Congress, claiming that "2004-2014 was a decade of scams and violence" and that the "UPA's trademark was to let every opportunity turn into crisis from 2004-2014."

BREAKING: Indian Prime Minister Modi addresses Parliament, replies to President's motion of thanks

Amid ongoing political and economical turmoil in the country, the government of Pakistan's Punjab province passed the confidence vote in a chaotic midnight session. Chief Minister Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi managed to win the trust vote after the opposition staged a walkout. Watch to know more.

Pakistan: Punjab CM Parvez Elahi wins trust vote

<p>The police on Friday arrested two main opposition leaders of Bangladesh, a day before the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) had planned a rally to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BNP general secretary Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir along with the former minister and member of the decision-making body of the party Mirza Abbas were arrested from their homes by the police at around 3 am on Friday, head of BNP's media wing Zahiruddin Swapan said.</p>

<p>"They were plainclothes policemen. Alamgir knew their identity. They told him he was being taken away on the order of the high command," said Swapan, adding that the party was unaware of their whereabouts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Spokesman of Dhaka Metropolitan Police Faruq Ahmed said that the police arrested the two leaders over suspicion of obstructing the work of the government and instigating violence during clashes that took place on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-to-go-to-polls-in-jan-2024-sheikh-hasina-seeks-fifth-term-541217">Bangladesh to go to polls in Jan 2024, announces Sheikh Hasina, seeking her fifth term</a></p>

<p>Tensions have escalated in the capital in the wake of BNP's planned rally on Saturday, which the party claimed would draw thousands of its supporters from across the country.</p>

<p>The police have stated that no demonstration would be allowed in front of the party office, which the former called a "crime scene" after Molotov cocktails were discovered by them at the location.</p>

<p>According to the local media, police have set up checkpoints on routes coming into the city to stop the activists of the opposition party, travelling from the rural heartlands, from joining the protest.</p>

<p>However, Alamgir, in a press conference, on Thursday had said that the party will go forward with the rally. BNP spokesperson Swapan said that "around 2,000" activists and supporters of the party have been arrested by the police to stop the rally.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-plunged-in-darkness-following-grid-failure-leaving-millions-without-power-522427">Bangladesh plunged in darkness following grid failure leaving millions without power</a></p>

<p>In recent months, multiple protests have erupted across the country over fuel price hikes and power cuts, further demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina so that fresh elections can be held under a caretaker government,&nbsp;</p>

<p>The arrests took place on Friday, two days after tear gas and rubber bullets were fired by security forces in Dhaka over thousands of supporters of BNP who were preparing for the rally to be held on December 10, which left scores wounded and one dead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Concerns have been expressed by the United Nations, along with the western governments, over Bangladesh's current political climate.&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The police on Friday arrested two main opposition leaders of Bangladesh, a day before the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) had planned a rally to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The police on Friday arrested two main opposition leaders of Bangladesh, a day before the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) had planned a rally to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. BNP general secretary Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir along with the former minister and member of the decision-making body of the party Mirza Abbas were arrested from their homes by the police at around 3 am on Friday, head of BNP's media wing Zahiruddin Swapan said. "They were plainclothes policemen. Alamgir knew their identity. They told him he was being taken away on the order of the high command," said Swapan, adding that the party was unaware of their whereabouts. Spokesman of Dhaka Metropolitan Police Faruq Ahmed said that the police arrested the two leaders over suspicion of obstructing the work of the government and instigating violence during clashes that took place on Wednesday. ALSO READ| Bangladesh to go to polls in Jan 2024, announces Sheikh Hasina, seeking her fifth term Tensions have escalated in the capital in the wake of BNP's planned rally on Saturday, which the party claimed would draw thousands of its supporters from across the country. The police have stated that no demonstration would be allowed in front of the party office, which the former called a "crime scene" after Molotov cocktails were discovered by them at the location. According to the local media, police have set up checkpoints on routes coming into the city to stop the activists of the opposition party, travelling from the rural heartlands, from joining the protest. However, Alamgir, in a press conference, on Thursday had said that the party will go forward with the rally. BNP spokesperson Swapan said that "around 2,000" activists and supporters of the party have been arrested by the police to stop the rally. ALSO READ| Bangladesh plunged in darkness following grid failure leaving millions without power In recent months, multiple protests have erupted across the country over fuel price hikes and power cuts, further demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina so that fresh elections can be held under a caretaker government, The arrests took place on Friday, two days after tear gas and rubber bullets were fired by security forces in Dhaka over thousands of supporters of BNP who were preparing for the rally to be held on December 10, which left scores wounded and one dead. Concerns have been expressed by the United Nations, along with the western governments, over Bangladesh's current political climate.

Police arrest top opposition leaders of Bangladesh, ahead of rally to demand PM's resignation

<p>Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen stepped down from the post of ruling party chief on Saturday (November 26) after her party's poor performance in Taiwan's local elections.&nbsp;The president had projected local elections as being about showing defiance to China. The approach failed to resonate with the voters. Latest reports said that main opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), bagged 13 of the 21 city mayor and county chief seats up for grabs, including the capital Taipei.</p>

<p>Turnout on Saturday was at record low, just 59% for Taiwan's six most important cities, compared to an overall figure of around 75% in 2020.</p>

<p>The elections for mayors, county chiefs and local councillors are ostensibly about domestic issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic and crime, and those elected will not have a direct say on China policy.</p>

<p>President Tsai had sought to project these elections as more than just a local vote. She had said that the world was watching at the elections as an example of how Taiwan defends its democracy.</p>

<p>China claims Taiwan to be its own territory and has not ruled out use of force to retake the self-governing island.</p>

<p>Both the DPP and KMT, which traditionally favours close ties with China though strongly denies being pro-Beijing, had concentrated their campaign efforts in wealthy and populous northern Taiwan, especially Taipei, whose mayor from the small Taiwan People's Party could not run again due to term limits.</p>

<p>"I have let everyone down," the DPP's Taipei mayor candidate Chen Shih-chung told supporters, adding he has offered his "sincere" congratulations to the KMT's Wayne Chiang in a telephone call, and urged people to continue to support Tsai.</p>

<p>"I know this election's results have greatly disappointed everyone, but we can't despair. In the past, the DPP has lost Taipei's elections many times, but we've never been defeated. We must wipe our tears and stand up again."</p>

<p>China carried out war games near Taiwan in August to express anger at a visit to Taipei by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and its military activities have continued, though on a reduced scale.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen stepped down from the post of ruling party chief on Saturday (November 26) after her party's poor performance in Taiwan's local elections.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen stepped down from the post of ruling party chief on Saturday (November 26) after her party's poor performance in Taiwan's local elections. The president had projected local elections as being about showing defiance to China. The approach failed to resonate with the voters. Latest reports said that main opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), bagged 13 of the 21 city mayor and county chief seats up for grabs, including the capital Taipei. Turnout on Saturday was at record low, just 59% for Taiwan's six most important cities, compared to an overall figure of around 75% in 2020. The elections for mayors, county chiefs and local councillors are ostensibly about domestic issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic and crime, and those elected will not have a direct say on China policy. President Tsai had sought to project these elections as more than just a local vote. She had said that the world was watching at the elections as an example of how Taiwan defends its democracy. China claims Taiwan to be its own territory and has not ruled out use of force to retake the self-governing island. Both the DPP and KMT, which traditionally favours close ties with China though strongly denies being pro-Beijing, had concentrated their campaign efforts in wealthy and populous northern Taiwan, especially Taipei, whose mayor from the small Taiwan People's Party could not run again due to term limits. "I have let everyone down," the DPP's Taipei mayor candidate Chen Shih-chung told supporters, adding he has offered his "sincere" congratulations to the KMT's Wayne Chiang in a telephone call, and urged people to continue to support Tsai. "I know this election's results have greatly disappointed everyone, but we can't despair. In the past, the DPP has lost Taipei's elections many times, but we've never been defeated. We must wipe our tears and stand up again." China carried out war games near Taiwan in August to express anger at a visit to Taipei by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and its military activities have continued, though on a reduced scale. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen quits as ruling party chief after poor performance in local polls

Malaysia is in a bit of a political turmoil. This comes after a totally contested general election throughout a hung Parliament for the first time in Malaysian history. Now in the latest, the government has told the political parties to submit their preferred Coalition partners by Monday.

Malaysia Elections 2022: Government asks parties to form new coalition

Malaysia is in a bit of a political turmoil. This comes after a totally contested general election that has resulted in a hung Parliament for the first time in Malaysian history.

Malaysia Elections 2022: Deadline to stake claim to form government extended by 24 hours

Polling has begun in Malaysia's general elections for what is being touted as a very tight race between the candidates. Despite the range course of Malaysians queued up outside several polling stations in the country. It is a very close fight between the coalitions led by the Prime Minister, long time Opposition leader and former premier.

Malaysia's 15th General Elections: Citizens vote for hope & stability in hotly-contested polls

Sri Lanka opposition leader Sajith Premadasa withdrew on Tuesday from the race to become president of the island nation, in order to support a rival candidate.

Sri Lankan Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa withdraws from Presidential election race

Sri Lanka's main Opposition parties officially came to an agreement to form an all-party interim government up on the much-anticipated resignation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on July 13.

Sri Lanka's opposition agrees to form interim govt amid President Rajapaksa's upcoming resignation

Sri Lanka's main Opposition parties agreed to form an all-party interim government after the anticipated resignation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Wednesday.

Sri Lankan opposition plans interim government after President Rajapaksa's resignation

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: India: Opposition picks Prez candidate; Macron rejects PM's resignation

<p>Thailand's opposition parties on Wednesday filed a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha and 10 cabinet ministers, accusing them of graft, economic mismanagement and of undermining democracy and clinging to power.</p>

<p>The opposition expects the censure debate to take place next month and hopes it will bring down Prayuth's 17-party government. It would be the last confidence vote Prayuth, 68, will face before his term ends in March next year.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-giving-away-one-million-marijuana-plants-to-develop-as-cash-crop-486934">Thailand giving away one million marijuana plants to develop as cash crop</a></strong></p>

<p>Prayuth, a retired general who first came to power in a 2014 coup, has weathered three previous confidence motions since a 2019 election that kept him in power.</p>

<p>"(He) is a leader that has a flawed thinking, likes to cling to power, does not respect the rule of law, lacks morals and failed in managing states affairs," Chonlanan Srikaew, the leader of the opposition bloc, told the house.</p>

<p>Analysts say the government's parliamentary majority of 253 seats verses the opposition's 208 makes it likely Prayuth will prevail.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Thailand legalises cannabis – What does this mean? Are there restrictions on use?</strong></p>

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<p>Stithorn Thananithichot, director of the Office of Innovation for Democracy at King Prajadhipok's Institute, said Prayuth should survive as his coalition was still unified, while political analyst Sukhum Nualsakul said the motion was aimed more at next year's election than Prayuth's removal.</p>

<p>Others say the administration's popularity has been declining, highlighted by last month Bangkok governor elections that saw pro-government conservative candidates defeated by a former opposition figure.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-becomes-first-asian-country-to-legalise-consumption-of-marijuana-486464">Thailand becomes first Asian country to legalise consumption of marijuana</a></strong></p>

<p>Government spokesman Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana said had nothing to fear.</p>

<p>"The prime minister is ready to explain to parliament and answers all issues raised by the opposition because the government is confident that it ran the country honestly without corruption that occurred in past governments," Thanakorn said.</p>

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Thailand's opposition parties on Wednesday filed a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha and 10 cabinet ministers, accusing them of graft, economic mismanagement and of undermining democracy and clinging to power.

Thailand's opposition parties on Wednesday filed a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha and 10 cabinet ministers, accusing them of graft, economic mismanagement and of undermining democracy and clinging to power. The opposition expects the censure debate to take place next month and hopes it will bring down Prayuth's 17-party government. It would be the last confidence vote Prayuth, 68, will face before his term ends in March next year. Also read | Thailand giving away one million marijuana plants to develop as cash crop Prayuth, a retired general who first came to power in a 2014 coup, has weathered three previous confidence motions since a 2019 election that kept him in power. "(He) is a leader that has a flawed thinking, likes to cling to power, does not respect the rule of law, lacks morals and failed in managing states affairs," Chonlanan Srikaew, the leader of the opposition bloc, told the house. Analysts say the government's parliamentary majority of 253 seats verses the opposition's 208 makes it likely Prayuth will prevail. Watch | Thailand legalises cannabis – What does this mean? Are there restrictions on use? Stithorn Thananithichot, director of the Office of Innovation for Democracy at King Prajadhipok's Institute, said Prayuth should survive as his coalition was still unified, while political analyst Sukhum Nualsakul said the motion was aimed more at next year's election than Prayuth's removal. Others say the administration's popularity has been declining, highlighted by last month Bangkok governor elections that saw pro-government conservative candidates defeated by a former opposition figure. Also read | Thailand becomes first Asian country to legalise consumption of marijuana Government spokesman Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana said had nothing to fear. "The prime minister is ready to explain to parliament and answers all issues raised by the opposition because the government is confident that it ran the country honestly without corruption that occurred in past governments," Thanakorn said. 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.

Thai opposition files no-confidence motion against 'flawed' PM

<p>A Phnom Penh court convicted around 60 opposition figures including Theary Seng, an outspoken US-Cambodian activist, who came dressed as the Statue of Liberty at the hearing, in a mass trial Tuesday as long-serving leader Hun Sen cracks down on dissent ahead of national elections next year.</p>

<p>Theary Seng is among scores caught up in a push to detain and arrest former members of the now-dissolved opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), human rights defenders, and any dissenting voices.</p>

<p>"I am ready for a guilty verdict because this regime will not let me go free," Seng said before her conviction.</p>

<p>"It will be an unfair and unjust verdict because I am innocent, the others charged with me are innocent," the 51-year-old added.</p>

<p>The defendants faced charges ranging from treason to incitement and conspiracy over opposition leader Sam Rainsy's failed bid to return to Cambodia in 2019, a move characterised by the government as an aborted bid to overthrow Hun Sen.</p>

<p>While some were senior figures in the now-dissolved Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) directly involved in organising the return, many were prosecuted simply for posting support on social media.</p>

<p>Following Seng’s detention, there was a brief scuffle outside the court between police and relatives of those convicted, as well as her supporters.</p>

<p>"We are deeply troubled by today's unjust verdicts," a spokesman for the US embassy in Phnom Penh said, calling for her and others convicted to be released.</p>

<p>The embassy urged Cambodian authorities to "stop politically motivated trials" against political activists, journalists, and human rights campaigners.</p>

<p>"Freedom of expression and association, and tolerance of dissenting views, are vital components of democracy," US ambassador Patrick Murphy added in a tweet.</p>

<p>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/millions-tested-in-beijing-amid-24-hour-bar-emerging-as-covid-epicentre-488114">Millions tested in Beijing amid 24-hour bar emerging as Covid epicentre</a></p>

<p>Sam Rainsy, who has lived in France since 2015 to avoid jail for convictions he says are politically motivated, had another eight years added to his existing sentence.</p>

<p>He said, "The political repression against the opposition gets more and more violent, and I would say also more and more blind. It targets all spheres of society, and actually targets freedom of expression, which is not tolerated under part of the authorities."</p>

<p><em>[with inputs from agencies]</em></p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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A Phnom Penh court convicted around 60 opposition figures including Theary Seng, an outspoken US-Cambodian activist, who came dressed as the Statue of Liberty at the hearing, in a mass trial Tuesday as long-serving leader Hun Sen cracks down on dissent ahead of national elections next year.

A Phnom Penh court convicted around 60 opposition figures including Theary Seng, an outspoken US-Cambodian activist, who came dressed as the Statue of Liberty at the hearing, in a mass trial Tuesday as long-serving leader Hun Sen cracks down on dissent ahead of national elections next year. Theary Seng is among scores caught up in a push to detain and arrest former members of the now-dissolved opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), human rights defenders, and any dissenting voices. "I am ready for a guilty verdict because this regime will not let me go free," Seng said before her conviction. "It will be an unfair and unjust verdict because I am innocent, the others charged with me are innocent," the 51-year-old added. The defendants faced charges ranging from treason to incitement and conspiracy over opposition leader Sam Rainsy's failed bid to return to Cambodia in 2019, a move characterised by the government as an aborted bid to overthrow Hun Sen. While some were senior figures in the now-dissolved Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) directly involved in organising the return, many were prosecuted simply for posting support on social media. Following Seng’s detention, there was a brief scuffle outside the court between police and relatives of those convicted, as well as her supporters. "We are deeply troubled by today's unjust verdicts," a spokesman for the US embassy in Phnom Penh said, calling for her and others convicted to be released. The embassy urged Cambodian authorities to "stop politically motivated trials" against political activists, journalists, and human rights campaigners. "Freedom of expression and association, and tolerance of dissenting views, are vital components of democracy," US ambassador Patrick Murphy added in a tweet. Also Read: Millions tested in Beijing amid 24-hour bar emerging as Covid epicentre Sam Rainsy, who has lived in France since 2015 to avoid jail for convictions he says are politically motivated, had another eight years added to his existing sentence. He said, "The political repression against the opposition gets more and more violent, and I would say also more and more blind. It targets all spheres of society, and actually targets freedom of expression, which is not tolerated under part of the authorities." [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.

Cambodian-American activist dressed as Lady Liberty at her trial in Phnom Penh convicted of treason

The Bangladesh general elections are to be held next year but the opposition has already stepped up its criticism of the Sheikh Hasina-led government with an aggressive rhetoric against the ruling Bangladesh Awami league.

Bangladesh: Opposition steps up criticism of Sheikh Hasina-led government

<p>Early voting began in Australia on Monday two weeks ahead of election day, with surveys showing the opposition centre-left Labor Party extending its lead and Prime Minister Scott Morrison suffering a fall in his approval rating.<br />
<br />
Amid a campaign dominated by cost-of-living pressure, national security and climate change, a widely watched survey conducted for The Australian newspaper showed Labor leading 54%-46% on a two-party preferred basis against the Morrison-led Liberal Party-National Party coalition government.<br />
<br />
Morrison's rating as the country's preferred leader fell a percentage point to 44%, the survey showed, leaving him narrowly in front of Leader of the Opposition Anthony Albanese whose rating rose 3 points to 42%.<br />
<br />
Early voting began a day after a televised debate between Morrison and Albanese who at times yelled at each other, making it hard for either to make a point.<br />
<br />
<strong>Watch | Australian PM Scott Morrison calls federal election for May 21</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australian-pm-scott-morrison-calls-federal-election-for-may-21-469909/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe><br />
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"Scott Morrison didn`t have anything to say except shouting. He only had smears and that smirk throughout it all," Albanese told reporters on Monday.<br />
<br />
Female voters have turned to Labor as the party they believe would better manage worsening cost-of-living pressure, the survey showed, after surging inflation forced the central bank last week to lift its official cash interest rate.<br />
<br />
If the coalition`s shrinking lead is replicated in the May 21 election, Labor could govern on its own, a survey for the Australian Financial Review showed, revealing higher living costs as voters` top issue. The coalition has a one-seat majority in parliament`s lower house.<br />
<br />
Millions of Australians are expected to cast their votes in person over the next two weeks at over 500 early-voting centres nationwide.<br />
<br />
Advance voting has gained popularity in Australia. About 40% of the electorate voted either early or by post in the last national election.<br />
<br />
Electoral Commissioner Tom Rogers told ABC television he expected those numbers to increase during this election.
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Early voting began in Australia on Monday two weeks ahead of election day, with surveys showing the opposition centre-left Labor Party extending its lead and Prime Minister Scott Morrison suffering a fall in his approval rating.

Early voting began in Australia on Monday two weeks ahead of election day, with surveys showing the opposition centre-left Labor Party extending its lead and Prime Minister Scott Morrison suffering a fall in his approval rating. Amid a campaign dominated by cost-of-living pressure, national security and climate change, a widely watched survey conducted for The Australian newspaper showed Labor leading 54%-46% on a two-party preferred basis against the Morrison-led Liberal Party-National Party coalition government. Morrison's rating as the country's preferred leader fell a percentage point to 44%, the survey showed, leaving him narrowly in front of Leader of the Opposition Anthony Albanese whose rating rose 3 points to 42%. Early voting began a day after a televised debate between Morrison and Albanese who at times yelled at each other, making it hard for either to make a point. Watch | Australian PM Scott Morrison calls federal election for May 21 "Scott Morrison didn`t have anything to say except shouting. He only had smears and that smirk throughout it all," Albanese told reporters on Monday. Female voters have turned to Labor as the party they believe would better manage worsening cost-of-living pressure, the survey showed, after surging inflation forced the central bank last week to lift its official cash interest rate. If the coalition`s shrinking lead is replicated in the May 21 election, Labor could govern on its own, a survey for the Australian Financial Review showed, revealing higher living costs as voters` top issue. The coalition has a one-seat majority in parliament`s lower house. Millions of Australians are expected to cast their votes in person over the next two weeks at over 500 early-voting centres nationwide. Advance voting has gained popularity in Australia. About 40% of the electorate voted either early or by post in the last national election. Electoral Commissioner Tom Rogers told ABC television he expected those numbers to increase during this election. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Early voting begins in Australia election with opposition ahead in polls

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