With the ongoing Israel-Hezbollah War, the Israeli military has said that for the first time ever a missile fired by the Hezbollah reached the Tel Aviv area and was intercepted by Israel's defense system. Watch to know more.

Israel-Hezbollah War: Hezbollah Missile Reached Tel Aviv Area For the First Time

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Protesters rally against Israeli Bombing of lebanon, Trump promises incentives and Tax breaks.

Protesters Rally Against Israeli Bombing of Lebanon | Trump Promises Tax Breaks

Hezbollah Missile Reaches Tel Aviv Area

The Israel-Hezbollah war continues to escalate as a Hezbollah commander who was a key member of the organization's rocket division was killed by an Israeli airstrike on Tuesday in the southern suburbs of Beirut.

Israel-Hezbollah War: Top Hezbollah Commander Qubaisi Killed In Israeli Airstrike

The Israel Hezbollah War has intensified as Israeli have launched yet another air strike on Beirut. While Hezbollah launched long range Rockets into Israel for the first time since the war broke out between Israel and Hamas on the 7th of October last year. Watch to know more.

Israel-Hezbollah War: US To Discuss 'Concrete Ideas' On Lebanon

US President Joe Biden has said that US is working towards calming the situation in Lebanon. US is sending small number of additional troops to the region. Watch to know more.

Israel-Hezbollah War: US President Biden Says Working To Calm Situation In Lebanon

The Israel Hezbollah War has intensified as Israeli jets have launched yet another air strike on Beirut. While Hezbollah launched long range Rockets into Israel for the first time since the war broke out between Israel and Hamas on the 7th of October last year. Watch to know more.

Israel-Hezbollah War: Israel Says It Struck About 1,600 Hezbollah Targets

The Israel Hezbollah War has intensified, airbase aid sirens sounded deeper inside Israel including the city of Nazareth. Watch to know more.

Israel-Hezbollah War: 650 Attacks On Some 1,600 Hezbollah Targets

We live in an era where wars are not just waged with soldiers and tanks. They are fought with invisible weapons that shape perceptions and influence minds. On WION live conversation we discuss how the face of warfare is changing.

What caused Hezbollah pagers to explode ?

In Algeria military-backed president Abdelmadjid Tebboune has won the presidential elections held on Saturday. The incumbent returned to power for a second term as the country recorded a voter turnout of less than 50%. Watch to know more.

Algeria: President Tebboune reelected for second term

The Election Commission on Wednesday asked state governments to take down all unauthorised political advertisements from government, public and private properties.

Election Commission cracks down on unauthorised political advertisements

Oscars 2024 served as the perfect platform for stars to talk about the ongoing war in the Middle East and Ukraine and promote peace.

Oscars 2024: The Perfect platform for political views

Senegal's parliament voted to postpone a presidential election from Feb. 25 to Dec. 15. It extended President Macky Sall's mandate in an unprecedented break with the country's democratic tradition. Watch this video for all details.

Senegal politcal crisis: What is happening in Senegal and could tensions escalate?

Tensions are high in Senegal after angry citizens turned to the streets to express their anger against the postponed polls. On Saturday President Macky Sall announced an indefinite delay of Elections that would due to take place on February 25th. Watch to know more!

Senegal: Clashes between protesters & police officials | Elections postponed in Senegal

French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne resigned on Monday, as President Emmanuel Macron seeks to give a new impetus to his second mandate ahead of European parliament elections and the Paris Olympics this summer.

France: PM Elisabeth Borne resigns ahead of expected reshuffle

French PM's new Cabinet maintains key Defence, Interior ministers. Post the reshuffle, Emmanuel Macron holds cabinet meeting. The interior Minister, Justice Minister retain their posts in Cabinet. Watch to get more insights!

France: Emmanuel Macron holds first cabinet meeting after reshuffle

The shake-up comes after a year marred by political crisis. French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne resigned on Monday, as President Emmanuel Macron seeks to give a new impetus to his second mandate ahead of European parliament elections and the Paris Olympics this summer.

France: President Macron aims to relaunch his government

Amid the India-Canada diplomatic row over the killing of a terrorist, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar slammed some countries' response to terrorism based on political convenience, in a hard-hitting address at&nbsp;the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on Tuesday (Sep 26).

Jaishankar gave the statement amid escalating tensions between India and Canada, which&nbsp;is a safe haven for Khalistani extremists even as it accused India of being involved in the killing of the terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Jaishankar also attacked "cherry-picking" by member states when it comes to respect for territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs.

“We must never again allow an injustice like vaccine apartheid to recur. Climate Action too cannot continue to witness an evasion of historical responsibilities. The power of markets should not be utilised to steer food and energy from the needy to the wealthy. Nor must we countenance that political convenience determines responses to terrorism, extremism and violence. Similarly, respect for territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs cannot be exercises&nbsp;in cherry-picking. When reality departs from rhetoric, we must have the courage to call it out," he said.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nijjar-murder-row-canada-updates-travel-advisory-for-india-asks-its-citizens-to-remain-vigilant-639585">Nijjar murder row: Canada updates travel advisory for India, asks its citizens to remain vigilant</a>

<h2>'Namaste from Bharat'</h2>

The minister started his speech by greeting the listeners in Indian style 'namaste' and using the name 'Bharat' instead of India, the traditional name of the country which the government is seeking formalise. 
 
“Namaste from Bharat!...Our fullest support to this UNGA's theme of rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity. This is an occasion to take stock of our achievements and challenges even while sharing our aspirations and goals. Indeed, in regard to both, there is much that India has to share," he said. 
 
"The world is witnessing an exception period of turmoil...At this juncture, it was with a sense of exceptional responsibility India took up the presidency of G20. Our vision of 'One Earth, One Family, One Future' sought to focus on the key concerns of the many just the narrow interests of the few,” he added.

<h2>Jaishankar calls for making Security Council 'contemporary'</h2>

The foreign minister backed the UN Security Council reforms, calling for making it 'contemporary'. 
 
“It was noteworthy that at India's initiative, the African Union as a permanent member of the G20. By doing so, we gave voice to an entire continent which has long been its due. This significant step in reform should inspire the United Nations, a much older organisation, to also make the Security Council contemporary,” he added.

WATCH |&nbsp;Trudeau: Canada shared intelligence on murder with India weeks ago

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<h2>'Still few nations shape agenda, this won't go unchallenged'</h2>

Jaishankar pointed out how some nations have been shaping agendas and defining norms and added that it is important that 'rule-makers do not subjugate rule-takers'. 
 
"It is still a few nations who shape the agenda and seek to define the norms. This can't go on indefinitely nor will it go unchallenged. A fair, equitable and democratic order will surely emerge once we all put our minds to it. And for a start, that means ensuring that rule-makers do not subjugate rule-takers,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Amid the India-Canada diplomatic row over the killing of a terrorist, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar slammed some countries' response to terrorism based on political convenience, in a hard-hitting address at the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on Tuesday (Sep 26).

Amid the India-Canada diplomatic row over the killing of a terrorist, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar slammed some countries' response to terrorism based on political convenience, in a hard-hitting address at the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on Tuesday (Sep 26). Jaishankar gave the statement amid escalating tensions between India and Canada, which is a safe haven for Khalistani extremists even as it accused India of being involved in the killing of the terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Jaishankar also attacked "cherry-picking" by member states when it comes to respect for territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs. “We must never again allow an injustice like vaccine apartheid to recur. Climate Action too cannot continue to witness an evasion of historical responsibilities. The power of markets should not be utilised to steer food and energy from the needy to the wealthy. Nor must we countenance that political convenience determines responses to terrorism, extremism and violence. Similarly, respect for territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs cannot be exercises in cherry-picking. When reality departs from rhetoric, we must have the courage to call it out," he said. ALSO READ | Nijjar murder row: Canada updates travel advisory for India, asks its citizens to remain vigilant 'Namaste from Bharat' The minister started his speech by greeting the listeners in Indian style 'namaste' and using the name 'Bharat' instead of India, the traditional name of the country which the government is seeking formalise. “Namaste from Bharat!...Our fullest support to this UNGA's theme of rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity. This is an occasion to take stock of our achievements and challenges even while sharing our aspirations and goals. Indeed, in regard to both, there is much that India has to share," he said. "The world is witnessing an exception period of turmoil...At this juncture, it was with a sense of exceptional responsibility India took up the presidency of G20. Our vision of 'One Earth, One Family, One Future' sought to focus on the key concerns of the many just the narrow interests of the few,” he added. Jaishankar calls for making Security Council 'contemporary' The foreign minister backed the UN Security Council reforms, calling for making it 'contemporary'. “It was noteworthy that at India's initiative, the African Union as a permanent member of the G20. By doing so, we gave voice to an entire continent which has long been its due. This significant step in reform should inspire the United Nations, a much older organisation, to also make the Security Council contemporary,” he added. WATCH | Trudeau: Canada shared intelligence on murder with India weeks ago 'Still few nations shape agenda, this won't go unchallenged' Jaishankar pointed out how some nations have been shaping agendas and defining norms and added that it is important that 'rule-makers do not subjugate rule-takers'. "It is still a few nations who shape the agenda and seek to define the norms. This can't go on indefinitely nor will it go unchallenged. A fair, equitable and democratic order will surely emerge once we all put our minds to it. And for a start, that means ensuring that rule-makers do not subjugate rule-takers,” he said. (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

Political convenience cannot determine response to extremism: India's Jaishankar amid Canada row

Research published in the journals Science and Nature on Thursday deduced that social media platforms’ algorithms do&nbsp;not create political polarisation. The research came years after regulators and activists worried that social media companies’ algorithms were fuelling divide in the US politics through toxic posts and conspiracies.&nbsp;

The research, divided into four studies, was released under the unique partnership between university researchers and Meta’s own analysts to study how social media affects political polarisation.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-qin-gang-references-reappear-on-foreign-ministry-website-620231">Missing or not missing? Qin Gang's references reappear on Chinese foreign ministry site</a>

The partnership was the result of widespread concern from thinkers and regulators regarding the use of social media platforms to funnel political news in order to affect the upcoming presidential election of 2024.

<h2>Research doubts social media platform&nbsp;algorithms fuel political polarisation&nbsp;</h2>

The initial results of the research show that a company’s social media platforms play a critical role in pivoting users to partisan information with which they are likely to agree more. But the results cast doubt on assumptions that the strategies Meta could use to discourage virality and engagement on its social networks would substantially affect people’s political beliefs.

“Algorithms are extremely influential in terms of what people see on the platform, and in terms of shaping their on-platform experience,” Joshua Tucker, co-director of the Center for Social Media and Politics at New York University and one of the leaders of the research project, said in an interview.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-withdraws-from-games-in-china-over-stapled-visa-controversy-620206">India withdraws from games in China over stapled visa controversy</a>

Tucker further said, “Despite the fact that we find this big impact in people’s on-platform experience, we find very little impact in changes to people’s attitudes about politics and even people’s self-reported participation around politics”.

All the studies of the research were peer-reviewed before publication, which is a standard procedure in science in which papers are sent out to other experts in the field who assess the work’s merit.&nbsp;

<h2>How the research was carried out?</h2>

Researchers, as part of the project, altered the feeds of thousands of Facebook and Instagram users in the fall of 2020 to see if that could change political beliefs, knowledge or polarisation by exposing them to different information. The researchers generally concluded that such changes had little to no impact on users.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/time-to-swipe-left-misinformation-drives-vaccine-free-dating-620237">Time to swipe left?: Misinformation drives 'vaccine-free' dating</a>

The collaboration, which is expected to be released over a dozen studies, will also examine data collected after the 6 January 2021, attack on the US Capitol, Tucker said.&nbsp;

<h2>The ever-going debate&nbsp;</h2>

The findings are likely to bolster social media companies’ long-standing arguments that algorithms are not the cause of political polarisation and upheaval. 
 
Meta has claimed in the past that political polarisation and support for civic institutions started declining long before the rise of social media.&nbsp;

But critics and researchers on the other hand, who had seen the research before its release, caution that the results do not give a free hand to tech companies to alter their algorithms indiscriminately.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Research published in the journals Science and Nature on Thursday deduced that social media platforms’ algorithms do not create political polarisation. The research came years after regulators and activists worried that social media companies’ algorithms were fuelling divide in the US politics through toxic posts and conspiracies.

Research published in the journals Science and Nature on Thursday deduced that social media platforms’ algorithms do not create political polarisation. The research came years after regulators and activists worried that social media companies’ algorithms were fuelling divide in the US politics through toxic posts and conspiracies. The research, divided into four studies, was released under the unique partnership between university researchers and Meta’s own analysts to study how social media affects political polarisation. Also Read | Missing or not missing? Qin Gang's references reappear on Chinese foreign ministry site The partnership was the result of widespread concern from thinkers and regulators regarding the use of social media platforms to funnel political news in order to affect the upcoming presidential election of 2024. Research doubts social media platform algorithms fuel political polarisation The initial results of the research show that a company’s social media platforms play a critical role in pivoting users to partisan information with which they are likely to agree more. But the results cast doubt on assumptions that the strategies Meta could use to discourage virality and engagement on its social networks would substantially affect people’s political beliefs. “Algorithms are extremely influential in terms of what people see on the platform, and in terms of shaping their on-platform experience,” Joshua Tucker, co-director of the Center for Social Media and Politics at New York University and one of the leaders of the research project, said in an interview. Also Read | India withdraws from games in China over stapled visa controversy Tucker further said, “Despite the fact that we find this big impact in people’s on-platform experience, we find very little impact in changes to people’s attitudes about politics and even people’s self-reported participation around politics”. All the studies of the research were peer-reviewed before publication, which is a standard procedure in science in which papers are sent out to other experts in the field who assess the work’s merit. How the research was carried out? Researchers, as part of the project, altered the feeds of thousands of Facebook and Instagram users in the fall of 2020 to see if that could change political beliefs, knowledge or polarisation by exposing them to different information. The researchers generally concluded that such changes had little to no impact on users. Also Read | Time to swipe left?: Misinformation drives 'vaccine-free' dating The collaboration, which is expected to be released over a dozen studies, will also examine data collected after the 6 January 2021, attack on the US Capitol, Tucker said. The ever-going debate The findings are likely to bolster social media companies’ long-standing arguments that algorithms are not the cause of political polarisation and upheaval. Meta has claimed in the past that political polarisation and support for civic institutions started declining long before the rise of social media. But critics and researchers on the other hand, who had seen the research before its release, caution that the results do not give a free hand to tech companies to alter their algorithms indiscriminately. (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.

New research shows social media algorithms don’t fuel political polarisation

This is a WION digital series that will tell you the world's biggest stories from the lens of a common man. The pilot is on the ongoing tensions in Pakistan. The crisis has managed to rope in the political parties, the judiciary & the military. But what does the crisis mean in the day-to-day life? Ananya Dutta brings you The Witness.

Youth in Pakistan suffer amid political slugfest

The United States said Wednesday it had reached a deal with Micronesia to extend decades-old political and security ties, forestalling Chinese efforts to build influence in the region.

State Department officials said three documents were signed in Pohnpei, signalling the extension of a 20-year-old arrangement that gives the island nation security and budget guarantees.&nbsp;

In return, Washington gains influence and the right to locate military facilities across a swathe of the central Pacific.

The signing of the agreements will be a blow to China, which has made a concerted effort to increase its influence in Micronesia, prompting unease among some local politicians.&nbsp;

<h2>China accused of political interference&nbsp;</h2>

Then-president David Panuelo in March accused China of engaging in bribery, harassment and espionage as it tried to boost influence.&nbsp;

Beijing, he told parliament, had "demonstrated a keen capability to undermine our sovereignty, rejects our values, and uses our elected and senior officials for their own purposes".

Among the dramatic allegations, Panuelo claimed his own cabinet colleagues transmitted recordings of bilateral meetings directly to China, and officials were bribed.

"We are bribed to be complicit and bribed to be silent. That's a heavy word, but it's an accurate description regardless," he said

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/outgoing-president-of-micronesia-david-panuelo-accuses-china-of-bribery-and-political-interference-570698">ALSO READ |&nbsp;Outgoing Micronesia President David Panuelo accuses China of bribery and political interference</a>

US talks on the so-called "compact" with Micronesia have been taking place for years, alongside similar agreements with neighbouring Palau and the Marshall Islands. All three run out by the end of 2023.

Deals have now been reached with Micronesia and Palau, but talks with the Marshall Islands have been beset by disagreements about the legacy of testing nuclear weapons on the Pacific archipelago more than 70 years ago.

The United States detonated 67 nuclear bombs in the Marshall Islands between 1946 and 1958, and the health and environmental impacts are still felt today.

Marshall Islands negotiators first want the United States to pay more of the compensation awarded by the international Nuclear Claims Tribunal, totalling just over $3 billion, of which around $270 million has been paid so far.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-joe-biden-sees-shift-in-us-china-relationship-594858">WATCH |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden sees shift in US-China relationship</a>

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Taylor Ruggles, the US State Department's Pacific Island Affairs director, said Wednesday that talks with the Marshall Islands were "advancing".

"Clearly the renewal of the compacts is important for the administration," said Ruggles, adding that the agreements still have to be "funded and approved" by the US Congress.

He described Micronesia, Palau and the Marshall Islands as "some of our closest partners in the Pacific".

The United States has major ballistic missile, space surveillance, radar and air force facilities in the region.

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The United States said Wednesday it had reached a deal with Micronesia to extend decades-old political and security ties, forestalling Chinese efforts to build influence in the region.

The United States said Wednesday it had reached a deal with Micronesia to extend decades-old political and security ties, forestalling Chinese efforts to build influence in the region. State Department officials said three documents were signed in Pohnpei, signalling the extension of a 20-year-old arrangement that gives the island nation security and budget guarantees. In return, Washington gains influence and the right to locate military facilities across a swathe of the central Pacific. The signing of the agreements will be a blow to China, which has made a concerted effort to increase its influence in Micronesia, prompting unease among some local politicians. China accused of political interference Then-president David Panuelo in March accused China of engaging in bribery, harassment and espionage as it tried to boost influence. Beijing, he told parliament, had "demonstrated a keen capability to undermine our sovereignty, rejects our values, and uses our elected and senior officials for their own purposes". Among the dramatic allegations, Panuelo claimed his own cabinet colleagues transmitted recordings of bilateral meetings directly to China, and officials were bribed. "We are bribed to be complicit and bribed to be silent. That's a heavy word, but it's an accurate description regardless," he said ALSO READ | Outgoing Micronesia President David Panuelo accuses China of bribery and political interference US talks on the so-called "compact" with Micronesia have been taking place for years, alongside similar agreements with neighbouring Palau and the Marshall Islands. All three run out by the end of 2023. Deals have now been reached with Micronesia and Palau, but talks with the Marshall Islands have been beset by disagreements about the legacy of testing nuclear weapons on the Pacific archipelago more than 70 years ago. The United States detonated 67 nuclear bombs in the Marshall Islands between 1946 and 1958, and the health and environmental impacts are still felt today. Marshall Islands negotiators first want the United States to pay more of the compensation awarded by the international Nuclear Claims Tribunal, totalling just over $3 billion, of which around $270 million has been paid so far. WATCH | US President Joe Biden sees shift in US-China relationship × Taylor Ruggles, the US State Department's Pacific Island Affairs director, said Wednesday that talks with the Marshall Islands were "advancing". "Clearly the renewal of the compacts is important for the administration," said Ruggles, adding that the agreements still have to be "funded and approved" by the US Congress. He described Micronesia, Palau and the Marshall Islands as "some of our closest partners in the Pacific". The United States has major ballistic missile, space surveillance, radar and air force facilities in the region. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US extends security ties with Micronesia, puts China on backfoot

West Asia has been showing signals of change recently, and the change is now profound. Syria has been re-admitted to the Arab League of Nations, ending a 12-year period of political seclusion.

Syria's 12 years of political isolation ends

Sudan's military and civilian leaders signed a deal on Monday aimed at ending a deep crisis that has gripped the northeast African country. Watch this video to know more.

Sudan's military and political parties sign deal to end crisis

In Kuwait's second election in less than two years, voters decided to shake up the assembly, electing two women, two conservative Islamists, and other candidates, according to results announced on Friday.

The outcome of the vote on Thursday, which will add 27 new members to the 50-member assembly, was viewed as a call for change in the midst of a protracted stalemate between the Cabinet, which is chosen by the royal family, and the 50-member assembly, which is democratically elected and more independent than similar bodies in the region.

Growing accusations about government <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-ex-pm-nawaz-sharifs-daughter-maryam-acquitted-in-corruption-case-521082/amp">corruption</a> appear to have influenced voters' decisions. Kuwait's Islamist opposition routinely questions ministers about their role in the improper use of public funds while accusing the government of corruption and poor management.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opec-to-meet-in-vienna-for-the-first-time-since-2020-covid-curbs-521493">OPEC+ to meet in Vienna for the first time since 2020 Covid curbs</a>

But experts say such candidates could push back on social reforms and protections of women’s rights and freedoms.

“If those candidates come forth with conservative social positions it will divide those who are pushing for reforms,” said Kristin Smith Diwan, a senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington.

She mentioned that a "values pledge" that asks for gender segregation in Kuwaiti schools and a prohibition on mixed dance parties was signed by 17 elected MPs, which has drawn considerable criticism. Candidates who were prepared to make this a sharply divisive topic fared well.

After the single female representative in the assembly lost her seat in the most recent elections in 2020, two other women were also elected.

Kuwaiti women are becoming more and more irate that the conservative society's laws protecting women from assault and so-called honour killings have not been passed by the government.

The new assembly will include 27 new members, around a dozen of whom served in previous assemblies, local media reported.

Although Kuwait boasts the most open and engaged assembly in the Persian Gulf, political power is still largely held by the Al Sabah family, who also have the authority to dissolve the assembly at any moment and pick the prime minister and Cabinet.

The sick 85-year-old emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Sabah, has been replaced by the 82-year-old crown prince Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmed Al Jaber, who called Thursday's elections earlier this year when he dissolved parliament.

The long-standing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-forces-arrest-woman-for-eating-at-restaurant-without-hijab-says-family-521414">political</a> impasse in Kuwait has gotten worse since the passing of the former emir, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, two years ago. Ministers have quit out of frustration after being grilled by lawmakers over alleged wrongdoing.

This could refer to the dissolution of the legislature by royal or constitutional order.

The threat is constant, according to Diwan. "These two branches of government must cooperate for the benefit of Kuwaitis."

Despite having enormous oil resources, the parliament has been unable to implement fundamental economic changes, such as a public debt law that would allow borrowing by the government, which has resulted in the depletion of its general reserve fund.

Kuwait is home to 13,500 American service members and has the sixth-largest known oil reserves in the world.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In Kuwait's second election in less than two years, voters decided to shake up the assembly, electing two women, two conservative Islamists, and other candidates, according to results announced on Friday.

In Kuwait's second election in less than two years, voters decided to shake up the assembly, electing two women, two conservative Islamists, and other candidates, according to results announced on Friday. The outcome of the vote on Thursday, which will add 27 new members to the 50-member assembly, was viewed as a call for change in the midst of a protracted stalemate between the Cabinet, which is chosen by the royal family, and the 50-member assembly, which is democratically elected and more independent than similar bodies in the region. Growing accusations about government corruption appear to have influenced voters' decisions. Kuwait's Islamist opposition routinely questions ministers about their role in the improper use of public funds while accusing the government of corruption and poor management. Also read | OPEC+ to meet in Vienna for the first time since 2020 Covid curbs But experts say such candidates could push back on social reforms and protections of women’s rights and freedoms. “If those candidates come forth with conservative social positions it will divide those who are pushing for reforms,” said Kristin Smith Diwan, a senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington. She mentioned that a "values pledge" that asks for gender segregation in Kuwaiti schools and a prohibition on mixed dance parties was signed by 17 elected MPs, which has drawn considerable criticism. Candidates who were prepared to make this a sharply divisive topic fared well. After the single female representative in the assembly lost her seat in the most recent elections in 2020, two other women were also elected. Kuwaiti women are becoming more and more irate that the conservative society's laws protecting women from assault and so-called honour killings have not been passed by the government. The new assembly will include 27 new members, around a dozen of whom served in previous assemblies, local media reported. Although Kuwait boasts the most open and engaged assembly in the Persian Gulf, political power is still largely held by the Al Sabah family, who also have the authority to dissolve the assembly at any moment and pick the prime minister and Cabinet. The sick 85-year-old emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Sabah, has been replaced by the 82-year-old crown prince Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmed Al Jaber, who called Thursday's elections earlier this year when he dissolved parliament. The long-standing political impasse in Kuwait has gotten worse since the passing of the former emir, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, two years ago. Ministers have quit out of frustration after being grilled by lawmakers over alleged wrongdoing. This could refer to the dissolution of the legislature by royal or constitutional order. The threat is constant, according to Diwan. "These two branches of government must cooperate for the benefit of Kuwaitis." Despite having enormous oil resources, the parliament has been unable to implement fundamental economic changes, such as a public debt law that would allow borrowing by the government, which has resulted in the depletion of its general reserve fund. Kuwait is home to 13,500 American service members and has the sixth-largest known oil reserves in the world. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kuwait vote outcome shakes up national assembly; two women, two conservative Islamists elected

According to a new mega survey by medical and public health scientists, at least 50 million Americans, or one in five adults, believe in justified political violence in certain circumstances.

The study titled ‘Views of American Democracy and Society and Support for Political Violence’, has stated that alienation and mistrust from democratic institutions have reached such a peak that substantial US minorities feel that violence is just as long as it serves its political ends, reports The Guardian.

&nbsp;“The prospect of large-scale violence in the near future is entirely plausible,” scientists have warned, adding that this is more than a year after the horrific Jan. 6 riots on Capitol Hill.

The team of scientists at the University of California, Davis, came to the conclusion after collating opinions of almost 9,000 people across the country to find out the acceptance rate of political violence.

The survey was done by scientists Garen Wintemute, Sonia Robinson and Andrew Crawford, and it was conducted over three weeks beginning on May 3.

The survey threw up some alarming statics. It says that 3 per cent of respondents or about 7 million people feel that political violence is usually or always justified. While one in four of the surveyors – equivalent to more than 60 million Americans – believe that violence can be justified “to preserve an American way of life based on western European traditions”.

But the most alarming aspect of the survey revealed that almost 7.1 per cent said that can kill a person to serve an important political goal. The UC Davis team points out that it is equivalent of 18 million Americans.

Apart from that,&nbsp;nearly a third of Americans surveyed among 9,000 believe the lie that the 2020 presidential election was stolen from Donald Trump.

The scientists claimed that extreme political polarisation, scepticism about government and democratic institutions, rising gun violence&nbsp;and increased firearms sales, along with the rampant spread of conspiracy theories and misinformation, have combined into a toxic soup.

(With inputs from agencies)

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According to a new mega survey by medical and public health scientists, at least 50 million Americans, or one in five adults, believe in justified political violence in certain circumstances.

According to a new mega survey by medical and public health scientists, at least 50 million Americans, or one in five adults, believe in justified political violence in certain circumstances. The study titled ‘Views of American Democracy and Society and Support for Political Violence’, has stated that alienation and mistrust from democratic institutions have reached such a peak that substantial US minorities feel that violence is just as long as it serves its political ends, reports The Guardian. “The prospect of large-scale violence in the near future is entirely plausible,” scientists have warned, adding that this is more than a year after the horrific Jan. 6 riots on Capitol Hill. The team of scientists at the University of California, Davis, came to the conclusion after collating opinions of almost 9,000 people across the country to find out the acceptance rate of political violence. The survey was done by scientists Garen Wintemute, Sonia Robinson and Andrew Crawford, and it was conducted over three weeks beginning on May 3. The survey threw up some alarming statics. It says that 3 per cent of respondents or about 7 million people feel that political violence is usually or always justified. While one in four of the surveyors – equivalent to more than 60 million Americans – believe that violence can be justified “to preserve an American way of life based on western European traditions”. But the most alarming aspect of the survey revealed that almost 7.1 per cent said that can kill a person to serve an important political goal. The UC Davis team points out that it is equivalent of 18 million Americans. Apart from that, nearly a third of Americans surveyed among 9,000 believe the lie that the 2020 presidential election was stolen from Donald Trump. The scientists claimed that extreme political polarisation, scepticism about government and democratic institutions, rising gun violence and increased firearms sales, along with the rampant spread of conspiracy theories and misinformation, have combined into a toxic soup. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

1 in 5 Americans believe violence is justified to serve political ends, says survey

In this segment, we will take a look at political crises from around the world. From the leadership crisis in the UK to Maharashtra political crisis in India, Watch all of it here.

Political crises around the globe: Leadership crisis in the UK; Maharashtra political crisis in India; Israel election

Iraq is struggling to form a new government as political crisis worsens. 73 lawmakers have resigned from the parliament. Speaker has now accepted their resignation.

Political turmoil in Iraq: 73 lawmakers resign from parliament

Although there are numerous dog lovers in France, one animal is getting huge attention for a peculiar reason. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Want to know why? Well, the reason is that the dog called Douglas, who lives in Nice on the Côte d’Azur, was allegedly signed up to vote in the primary race for Les Républicains, as per an investigation carried out by the daily newspaper ‘Libération’. The party had chosen Valérie Pécresse as presidential candidate. &nbsp;

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Reservoir Dogs… <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DouglasGate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DouglasGate</a> 🐶 <a href="https://t.co/3fnzrS5xPd">pic.twitter.com/3fnzrS5xPd</a>
— Stéphane Gemmani 🌎ॐ (@stephanegemmani) <a href="https://twitter.com/stephanegemmani/status/1496541485243768832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Not just this, four deceased people along with the dog were members of the party. Their names could be found in confidential membership lists for the primary in December. They were also the 148,000 party members, who signed up for the vote journalists, the paper said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/study-says-that-dogs-also-mourn-the-loss-of-a-companion-456429" hreflang="en">Study says that dogs also mourn the loss of a companion</a>

“Douglas was a discreet party activist. After paying €30 online in November, he received a membership card and the right to vote in the primary. No one saw him at meetings and he never commented on the campaign on social media – for the very good reason that Douglas is a dog,” wrote Libération. &nbsp;

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Douglasgate <a href="https://t.co/I0CgVGnQjR">pic.twitter.com/I0CgVGnQjR</a>
— Laurent GRZESZNIK (@LGrzesznik) <a href="https://twitter.com/LGrzesznik/status/1496524976773554187?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Libération said it contacted owner of the Douglas. He also confirmed that he had signed up the animal using his contact details “to see if it was possible”. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-says-his-country-left-alone-to-fight-russia-claims-enemy-marked-him-as-target-no-1-456242" hreflang="en">Ukrainian President says his country 'left alone' to fight Russia; claims enemy marked him as 'target no. 1'</a>

Pécresse has said that she knows nothing about the dog’s alleged presence and denied any irregularities in the campaign. She said it had been “exemplary” and had never been challenged. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LesAnimauxAvecZemmour?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LesAnimauxAvecZemmour</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/douglasgate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#douglasgate</a> 
Super Douglas arrive!! <a href="https://t.co/q5mOvOCAfH">pic.twitter.com/q5mOvOCAfH</a>
— Rafael Sereti (@RafaelSereti) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelSereti/status/1496592845154787333?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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It has also led to a flurry of jokes on social media, targetting Pécresse. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Although there are numerous dog lovers in France, one animal is getting huge attention for a peculiar reason. Want to know why? Well, the reason is that the dog called Douglas, who lives in Nice on the Côte d’Azur, was allegedly signed up to vote in the primary race for Les Républicains, as per an investigation carried out by the daily newspaper ‘Libération’.

Although there are numerous dog lovers in France, one animal is getting huge attention for a peculiar reason. Want to know why? Well, the reason is that the dog called Douglas, who lives in Nice on the Côte d’Azur, was allegedly signed up to vote in the primary race for Les Républicains, as per an investigation carried out by the daily newspaper ‘Libération’. The party had chosen Valérie Pécresse as presidential candidate. Reservoir Dogs… #DouglasGate 🐶 pic.twitter.com/3fnzrS5xPd — Stéphane Gemmani 🌎ॐ (@stephanegemmani) February 23, 2022 × Not just this, four deceased people along with the dog were members of the party. Their names could be found in confidential membership lists for the primary in December. They were also the 148,000 party members, who signed up for the vote journalists, the paper said. Also Read: Study says that dogs also mourn the loss of a companion “Douglas was a discreet party activist. After paying €30 online in November, he received a membership card and the right to vote in the primary. No one saw him at meetings and he never commented on the campaign on social media – for the very good reason that Douglas is a dog,” wrote Libération. Douglasgate pic.twitter.com/I0CgVGnQjR — Laurent GRZESZNIK (@LGrzesznik) February 23, 2022 × Libération said it contacted owner of the Douglas. He also confirmed that he had signed up the animal using his contact details “to see if it was possible”. Also Read: Ukrainian President says his country 'left alone' to fight Russia; claims enemy marked him as 'target no. 1' Pécresse has said that she knows nothing about the dog’s alleged presence and denied any irregularities in the campaign. She said it had been “exemplary” and had never been challenged. #LesAnimauxAvecZemmour #douglasgate Super Douglas arrive!! pic.twitter.com/q5mOvOCAfH — Rafael Sereti (@RafaelSereti) February 23, 2022 × It has also led to a flurry of jokes on social media, targetting Pécresse. (With inputs from agencies)

Dog creating ripples in political circles in France. But why?

Under immense pressure from widespread pro-democracy protests, Sudan's Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok has announced his resignation on Sunday. &nbsp;

Sudan has been facing political deadlock after a military coup derailed the nation's transition to democratic rule. &nbsp;

Former UN official seen as Sudan transitional government’s civilian face, Hamdok was reinstated as the PM in November after an agreement with the military following the coup in October. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-arrest-man-suspected-to-be-behind-south-african-parliament-fire-441836" hreflang="en">Police arrest man suspected to be behind South African parliament fire</a>

At that time, Hamdok had failed to name a Cabinet. Now, his resignation puts Sudan in a fix. It is facing political uncertainty when security and economic challenges galore. &nbsp;

In a televised national address on Sunday, Hamdok urged for a dialogue to build consensus on a 'national charter' and to 'draw a roadmap' to end the transition to democracy as per the 2019 constitutional document, which governs the period of transition. &nbsp;

"I decided to return the responsibility and declare my resignation as prime minister," Hamdok said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-security-forces-use-tear-gas-against-protesters-media-images-show-441799" hreflang="en">Sudan: Media images show security forces using tear gas against protesters</a>

He added that he is stepping down to allow a chance for another person to lead the nation and end its transition to a ’civilian, democratic country’. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hamdok has not named a successor. &nbsp;

The efforts to bridge gap and settle disputes among political forces of the country have failed, the PM said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"I tried as much as I possibly could to prevent our country from sliding into a disaster. Now, our nation is going through a dangerous turning point that could threaten its survival unless it is urgently rectified," the prime minister said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Under immense pressure from widespread pro-democracy protests, Sudan's Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok has announced his resignation on Sunday. Sudan has been facing political deadlock after a military coup derailed the nation's transition to democratic rule.

Under immense pressure from widespread pro-democracy protests, Sudan's Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok has announced his resignation on Sunday. Sudan has been facing political deadlock after a military coup derailed the nation's transition to democratic rule. Former UN official seen as Sudan transitional government’s civilian face, Hamdok was reinstated as the PM in November after an agreement with the military following the coup in October. Also Read: Police arrest man suspected to be behind South African parliament fire At that time, Hamdok had failed to name a Cabinet. Now, his resignation puts Sudan in a fix. It is facing political uncertainty when security and economic challenges galore. In a televised national address on Sunday, Hamdok urged for a dialogue to build consensus on a 'national charter' and to 'draw a roadmap' to end the transition to democracy as per the 2019 constitutional document, which governs the period of transition. "I decided to return the responsibility and declare my resignation as prime minister," Hamdok said. Also Read | Sudan: Media images show security forces using tear gas against protesters He added that he is stepping down to allow a chance for another person to lead the nation and end its transition to a ’civilian, democratic country’. Hamdok has not named a successor. The efforts to bridge gap and settle disputes among political forces of the country have failed, the PM said. "I tried as much as I possibly could to prevent our country from sliding into a disaster. Now, our nation is going through a dangerous turning point that could threaten its survival unless it is urgently rectified," the prime minister said. (With inputs from agencies)

Failing to build consensus, Sudan's Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok announces resignation

Japanese voters went to the polls on Sunday to decide whether to endorse the conservative government of Fumio Kishida or weaken the new prime minister and possibly return the world's third-largest economy to a period of political uncertainty.

The vote is a test&nbsp;for Kishida, who called the election soon after taking the top post early this month, and for his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which has been battered by its perceived mishandling of the coronavirus pandemic.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-kishida-sends-offering-to-controversial-tokyo-shrine-421460">Japan's Kishida sends offering to controversial Tokyo shrine</a>

Already, Kishida has struggled to advance policies to help poorer people, while securing a big boost in military spending and taking a harder line on China.

With his lacklustre image failing to inspire voters, the LDP is on the brink of losing its sole majority in the lower house of parliament for the first time since 2009, opinion polls show, although its coalition with junior partner Komeito is forecast to remain in control.

Japan's vaccination drive initially lagged other advanced nations. More than 70 per cent&nbsp;of the population is now fully vaccinated and infections have dropped sharply, but some voters remain wary.

"It's hard to say the pandemic is completely snuffed out and society is stable, so we shouldn`t have any big changes in coronavirus policy," said Naoki Okura, a doctor, after voting in Tokyo.

"Rather than demanding a change in government, I think we should demand continuity."

Tough Contests, Revolving Door?

Several key LDP lawmakers are also facing particularly tough contests, including Akira Amari, the party's secretary general.

"Revolving-door prime ministers is a weakness that many outside of Japan fear," Sheila A. Smith, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, wrote in a blog post. "Prime Minister Kishida will need a unified party and a strong electoral showing on October&nbsp;31 if he is to successfully tackle Japan's difficult national agenda."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fukushima-wastewater-release-cant-be-delayed-says-japan-pm-kishida-421707">Fukushima wastewater release can’t be delayed, says Japan PM Kishida</a>

Turnout will be crucial, since higher turnout tends to favour the opposition. As of 10 a.m., three hours after polls opened, turnout stood at 6.32 per cent, down 0.83 point from the previous lower house poll - but 16.6 million voted in advance, the Internal Affairs Ministry said.

The biggest opposition group, the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan is expected to gain seats but not come near toppling Kishida's coalition.

"The only party with policies aimed at people in their 20s and 30s is the Constitutional Democrats, things like income tax and so on," said office worker Daisuke Matsumoto, 27. "It's true other parties have policies aimed at child-raising, but what about those of us who are childless?"

A big loss of LDP seats could lead to party infighting, returning Japan to an era of short-lived administrations that diminished its global stature, until Shinzo Abe helmed the country for a record eight years to September 2020. The dovish Komeito could also gain more clout within the coalition.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-ruling-party-unveils-manifesto-with-focus-on-coronavirus-defence-420125">Japan's ruling party unveils manifesto with focus on coronavirus, defence</a>

Uncertainty is high, with the Nikkei newspaper estimating 40 per cent&nbsp;of single-seat districts have close races and recent polls showing some 40per cent&nbsp;of voters undecided.

Voting ends at 8 p.m. (1100 GMT), with projected results likely to come soon afterward from media exit polls.

Kishida's publicly stated goal is for his coalition to keep a majority, at least 233 seats, of the 465 in the lower house. Before the election, the coalition had a commanding two-thirds majority of 305, with the LDP holding 276.

Investors and political watchers are focussed on whether the LDP - in power for all but brief spells since it was formed in 1955 - can keep its majority as a single party. Losing that would erode Kishida's power base in the factional LDP and the party's standing against the Komeito.

The usually splintered opposition is united, arranging for only one party - including the widely shunned Japanese Communist Party - to face off against the coalition in most districts, with analysts saying this is creating a number of neck-and-neck battles.

But the opposition has failed to capture the hearts of voters, with only 8 per cent&nbsp;supporting the Constitutional Democrats while 39 per cent back the LDP, according to a poll last week by public broadcaster NHK.

"The other political parties are all scattered, so I can't leave it to them with confidence," said Hiroki Kita, 49 and an advertising executive.

"There's only the LDP, but it's a negative choice."

Japanese voters went to the polls on Sunday to decide whether to endorse the conservative government of Fumio Kishida or weaken the new prime minister and possibly return the world's third-largest economy to a period of political uncertainty.

Japanese voters went to the polls on Sunday to decide whether to endorse the conservative government of Fumio Kishida or weaken the new prime minister and possibly return the world's third-largest economy to a period of political uncertainty. The vote is a test for Kishida, who called the election soon after taking the top post early this month, and for his Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which has been battered by its perceived mishandling of the coronavirus pandemic. Also Read | Japan's Kishida sends offering to controversial Tokyo shrine Already, Kishida has struggled to advance policies to help poorer people, while securing a big boost in military spending and taking a harder line on China. With his lacklustre image failing to inspire voters, the LDP is on the brink of losing its sole majority in the lower house of parliament for the first time since 2009, opinion polls show, although its coalition with junior partner Komeito is forecast to remain in control. Japan's vaccination drive initially lagged other advanced nations. More than 70 per cent of the population is now fully vaccinated and infections have dropped sharply, but some voters remain wary. "It's hard to say the pandemic is completely snuffed out and society is stable, so we shouldn`t have any big changes in coronavirus policy," said Naoki Okura, a doctor, after voting in Tokyo. "Rather than demanding a change in government, I think we should demand continuity." Tough Contests, Revolving Door? Several key LDP lawmakers are also facing particularly tough contests, including Akira Amari, the party's secretary general. "Revolving-door prime ministers is a weakness that many outside of Japan fear," Sheila A. Smith, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, wrote in a blog post. "Prime Minister Kishida will need a unified party and a strong electoral showing on October 31 if he is to successfully tackle Japan's difficult national agenda." Also Read | Fukushima wastewater release can’t be delayed, says Japan PM Kishida Turnout will be crucial, since higher turnout tends to favour the opposition. As of 10 a.m., three hours after polls opened, turnout stood at 6.32 per cent, down 0.83 point from the previous lower house poll - but 16.6 million voted in advance, the Internal Affairs Ministry said. The biggest opposition group, the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan is expected to gain seats but not come near toppling Kishida's coalition. "The only party with policies aimed at people in their 20s and 30s is the Constitutional Democrats, things like income tax and so on," said office worker Daisuke Matsumoto, 27. "It's true other parties have policies aimed at child-raising, but what about those of us who are childless?" A big loss of LDP seats could lead to party infighting, returning Japan to an era of short-lived administrations that diminished its global stature, until Shinzo Abe helmed the country for a record eight years to September 2020. The dovish Komeito could also gain more clout within the coalition. Also Read | Japan's ruling party unveils manifesto with focus on coronavirus, defence Uncertainty is high, with the Nikkei newspaper estimating 40 per cent of single-seat districts have close races and recent polls showing some 40per cent of voters undecided. Voting ends at 8 p.m. (1100 GMT), with projected results likely to come soon afterward from media exit polls. Kishida's publicly stated goal is for his coalition to keep a majority, at least 233 seats, of the 465 in the lower house. Before the election, the coalition had a commanding two-thirds majority of 305, with the LDP holding 276. Investors and political watchers are focussed on whether the LDP - in power for all but brief spells since it was formed in 1955 - can keep its majority as a single party. Losing that would erode Kishida's power base in the factional LDP and the party's standing against the Komeito. The usually splintered opposition is united, arranging for only one party - including the widely shunned Japanese Communist Party - to face off against the coalition in most districts, with analysts saying this is creating a number of neck-and-neck battles. But the opposition has failed to capture the hearts of voters, with only 8 per cent supporting the Constitutional Democrats while 39 per cent back the LDP, according to a poll last week by public broadcaster NHK. "The other political parties are all scattered, so I can't leave it to them with confidence," said Hiroki Kita, 49 and an advertising executive. "There's only the LDP, but it's a negative choice."

Japan votes in test for new PM Kishida, political stability

In a clear expression of his political ambitions, Tamil actor C Joseph Vijay met 129 of his fan club members who won in the recently-concluded rural local body elections in Tamil Nadu. While the actor himself did not campaign in the elections, his fan club members were permitted contest as independent candidates, while using the flag and the actor's picture when canvassing for votes.&nbsp;

Thalapathy Vijay Makkal Iyakkam(TVMI) is regarded as a fan club cum precursor to Vijay’s (possible) political party. 129 of the 169 candidates who contested as a part of TVMI had won in the polls, despite the actor not having. This is significant given how other actor-turned-politicians who also fielded their party candidates in the polls had a very dismal show.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/tamil-drama-koozhangal-is-indias-official-entry-for-oscars-2022-423529">Tamil drama 'Koozhangal' is India's official entry for Oscars 2022</a>

In a state where actor-turned-politicians and those with a background in the cinema industry have been elected to the position of Chief Minister, Vijay seems to be testing the waters for an impending foray. In contrast to many personalities who take the top-down approach and foray into politics using their personal brand and charisma, Vijay appears to be trying the reverse - building the party infrastructure from a grassroots level.&nbsp;

A statement issued by the TVMI, mentions that all candidates who emerged victorious met Vijay and sought his wishes. It was also added that these functionaries would highlight the basic problems faced by the people and help find solutions for the same, with the support of the State and Central governments.&nbsp;

When queried about the meeting that Vijay held with the functionaries, N. Anand, General Secretary, TVMI told Zee Media that the actor checked all the certificates of the winning candidates and urged them to work for the people. He also met everyone individually and spoke to each of us for a couple of minutes, he added. Asked specifically about whether Vijay harbors intentions to foray into politics, Anand replied that he wasn’t aware and that he’d have to check with the Actor.&nbsp;

In a clear expression of his political ambitions, Tamil actor C Joseph Vijay met 129 of his fan club members who won in the recently-concluded rural local body elections in Tamil Nadu.

In a clear expression of his political ambitions, Tamil actor C Joseph Vijay met 129 of his fan club members who won in the recently-concluded rural local body elections in Tamil Nadu. While the actor himself did not campaign in the elections, his fan club members were permitted contest as independent candidates, while using the flag and the actor's picture when canvassing for votes. Thalapathy Vijay Makkal Iyakkam(TVMI) is regarded as a fan club cum precursor to Vijay’s (possible) political party. 129 of the 169 candidates who contested as a part of TVMI had won in the polls, despite the actor not having. This is significant given how other actor-turned-politicians who also fielded their party candidates in the polls had a very dismal show. Also Read | Tamil drama 'Koozhangal' is India's official entry for Oscars 2022 In a state where actor-turned-politicians and those with a background in the cinema industry have been elected to the position of Chief Minister, Vijay seems to be testing the waters for an impending foray. In contrast to many personalities who take the top-down approach and foray into politics using their personal brand and charisma, Vijay appears to be trying the reverse - building the party infrastructure from a grassroots level. A statement issued by the TVMI, mentions that all candidates who emerged victorious met Vijay and sought his wishes. It was also added that these functionaries would highlight the basic problems faced by the people and help find solutions for the same, with the support of the State and Central governments. When queried about the meeting that Vijay held with the functionaries, N. Anand, General Secretary, TVMI told Zee Media that the actor checked all the certificates of the winning candidates and urged them to work for the people. He also met everyone individually and spoke to each of us for a couple of minutes, he added. Asked specifically about whether Vijay harbors intentions to foray into politics, Anand replied that he wasn’t aware and that he’d have to check with the Actor.

Vijay’s teaser for political foray? Actor meets fans who won rural local body polls

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