Iranian social media comedian Iraj Maleki to run for parliamentary elections. Maleki was approved by the Guardian Council and is running in Iran's upcoming parliamentary election. Watch to know more!

Iran: Social media comedian Iraj Maleki to run for parliamentary polls

<p>In a surprising turn of events, former Pakistani bureaucrat Liaquat Ali Chattha who leveled accusations that the country's general elections were rigged retracted all his claims saying that he made the statements after "lucrative" promises made by former PM Imran Khan's PTI party.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes days after the former Rawalpindi commissioner claimed that 13 candidates were declared election winners forcefully. While going back on his claims, Chattha said that he was "extremely ashamed and embarrassed."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Chattha, who previously served as the Rawalpindi commissioner, had resigned from his post and took responsibility for the alleged manipulation of election results. Not only this, raising many eyebrows, the former civil servant also levelled accusations against Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa about the alleged poll rigging.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-execute-two-convicted-murderers-in-football-stadium-in-eastern-afghanistan-692811">Taliban execute 2 convicted murderers in football stadium in eastern Afghanistan</a></p>

<p>However, now, in a letter addressed to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Thursday (February 22), Chattha retracted his statements and revealed that his accusations were made after Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party promised him lucrative positions in exchange for supporting their narrative of election rigging and maligning state institutions.</p>

<p>According to Chattha, a PTI leader had approached him after the February 8 elections, offering him favourable positions. He confessed to being swayed by the offer, especially considering his impending retirement after 32 years of civil service.</p>

<p>The former bureaucrat admitted that the proposal initially involved submitting a written resignation containing the fabricated narrative, but it was later decided to stage a press conference to amplify the false claims. The aim, as Chattha revealed, was to create sensationalism and drama.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was in this meeting, that he made an offer to me that if I play a role in supporting the PTI's ongoing narrative of rigging in elections and maligning state institutions, he would ensure a lucrative position for me in future," Chattha said.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pakistani-prime-minister-imran-khan-calls-on-imf-to-conduct-election-audit-his-lawyer-says-692780">Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan calls on IMF to conduct election audit, his lawyer says</a></p>

<p>"This proposal was made by the said individual in consideration of the fact that I was about to retire from service. He was also aware of the fact that I was under pressure due to this forthcoming retirement. After having remained a part of the services for 32 years, it is naturally hard for any civil servant to let go of all perks, privileges, and authorities," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indicating that the plan was also approved by PTI's top&nbsp;leadership, he said, "Initially, it was proposed by me that I would write the entire narrative and submit the same as part of my resignation. However, this proposal was dropped by the said prominent PTI leader as such written resignation would not create any sensations for their narrative building."&nbsp;</p>

<h5>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-ppp-chairman-announces-coalition-government-with-pml-n-692228">Pakistan: PPP Chairman announces coalition government with PML-N</a></h5>

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<p>He mentioned that the PTI leadership instructed him to name Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa and Chief Election Commissioner Sikander Sultan Raja to further their agenda of creating mistrust in the electoral process.</p>

<p>Reacting to Chattha's retraction, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) accused the PTI of attempting to manipulate the elections and tarnishing Pakistan's image.</p>

<p>"In the end, I feel extremely ashamed and embarrassed for making totally false, concocted, anti-state, and malicious statement in the press conference. This activity caused embarrassment for me as well as for the entire bureaucratic fraternity," Chattha added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a surprising turn of events, former Pakistani bureaucrat Liaquat Ali Chattha who leveled accusations that the country's general elections were rigged retracted all his claims saying that he made the statements after "lucrative" promises made by former PM Imran Khan's PTI party.

In a surprising turn of events, former Pakistani bureaucrat Liaquat Ali Chattha who leveled accusations that the country's general elections were rigged retracted all his claims saying that he made the statements after "lucrative" promises made by former PM Imran Khan's PTI party. This comes days after the former Rawalpindi commissioner claimed that 13 candidates were declared election winners forcefully. While going back on his claims, Chattha said that he was "extremely ashamed and embarrassed." Notably, Chattha, who previously served as the Rawalpindi commissioner, had resigned from his post and took responsibility for the alleged manipulation of election results. Not only this, raising many eyebrows, the former civil servant also levelled accusations against Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa about the alleged poll rigging. Also Read | Taliban execute 2 convicted murderers in football stadium in eastern Afghanistan However, now, in a letter addressed to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Thursday (February 22), Chattha retracted his statements and revealed that his accusations were made after Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party promised him lucrative positions in exchange for supporting their narrative of election rigging and maligning state institutions. According to Chattha, a PTI leader had approached him after the February 8 elections, offering him favourable positions. He confessed to being swayed by the offer, especially considering his impending retirement after 32 years of civil service. The former bureaucrat admitted that the proposal initially involved submitting a written resignation containing the fabricated narrative, but it was later decided to stage a press conference to amplify the false claims. The aim, as Chattha revealed, was to create sensationalism and drama. "It was in this meeting, that he made an offer to me that if I play a role in supporting the PTI's ongoing narrative of rigging in elections and maligning state institutions, he would ensure a lucrative position for me in future," Chattha said. Also Read | Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan calls on IMF to conduct election audit, his lawyer says "This proposal was made by the said individual in consideration of the fact that I was about to retire from service. He was also aware of the fact that I was under pressure due to this forthcoming retirement. After having remained a part of the services for 32 years, it is naturally hard for any civil servant to let go of all perks, privileges, and authorities," he added. Indicating that the plan was also approved by PTI's top leadership, he said, "Initially, it was proposed by me that I would write the entire narrative and submit the same as part of my resignation. However, this proposal was dropped by the said prominent PTI leader as such written resignation would not create any sensations for their narrative building." Watch | Pakistan: PPP Chairman announces coalition government with PML-N × He mentioned that the PTI leadership instructed him to name Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa and Chief Election Commissioner Sikander Sultan Raja to further their agenda of creating mistrust in the electoral process. Reacting to Chattha's retraction, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) accused the PTI of attempting to manipulate the elections and tarnishing Pakistan's image. "In the end, I feel extremely ashamed and embarrassed for making totally false, concocted, anti-state, and malicious statement in the press conference. This activity caused embarrassment for me as well as for the entire bureaucratic fraternity," Chattha added. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-Pakistani bureaucrat retracts poll rigging allegations, claims PTI promised him 'lucrative positions'

Indonesia elections are being touted as the world's largest single elections. Indonesians began voting in their presidential polls earlier today. The current defense minister Prabowo Subianto is the front runner in the elections despite concerns over his human rights record and claims of improper support from outgoing leader Joko Widodo. Polls project Prabowo winning a majority with over 50%. Watch to know more!

Indonesia cast ballots in the world's biggest single-day polls

Indonesians have begun voting in their presidential polls current defense minister Prabowo Subianto is the front runner in the elections despite concerns over his human rights record and claims of improper support from outgoing leader Joko Widodo. Over 200 million people in the Southeast Asian Nation are eligible to cast their ballots and choose their next President. Indonesia elections are being touted as the world's largest single elections. Watch to know more!

Indonesia Elections: What's at stake in Indonesia's three-way race?

As Indonesia heads into a presidential election tomorrow on the 14th of February, Tik Tok has emerged as a massive influence for both political campaigns and smear campaigns in the nation. Misinformation spike on TikTok 'attempting to manipulate voters.' With the base of 125 million users and growing let's just take a look at how the site is changing political tides ahead of the polls. Watch to know more!

Indonesia Elections: TikTok 2nd most used source of information after television

<p lang="en-US">The United States, the European Union and Britain on Friday (Feb 9) separately expressed concerns over Pakistan's electoral process&nbsp;in the wake of voting which took place on Thursday (Feb 8) and appealed for an investigation into reported irregularities.<br />
<br />
The election results still remains&nbsp;indecisive as both, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's party and ex-prime minister Imran Khan declared victory.<br />
<br />
The elections were held on&nbsp;265&nbsp;national assembly seats, and to gain simple majority to form the government a party has&nbsp;to secure&nbsp;133 seats.</p>

<p lang="en-US">Till now, of 250 seats officially announced, Independents have 99 seats, PMLN has 71, PPP 53, MQM 17, PMLQ 3, IPP 2, JUI 2, MWM 1, BNP 1 and PMLZ has 1 seat and the&nbsp;results of 15 seats are awaited.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-nawaz-sharif-hints-at-improving-ties-with-india-as-poll-results-drag-on-688825">Pakistan elections: Nawaz Sharif hints at improving ties with India as poll results drag on</a><br />
<br />
The United States and the European Union both made statements regarding allegations of interference, which included arrests of activists and said that claims of interference, fraud and irregularities should be fully investigated.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>US says 'undue restrictions&nbsp;on freedom&nbsp;of expression" during&nbsp;polls</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">The US State Department said Pakistan faced "undue restrictions&nbsp;on freedoms of expression" during the&nbsp; polls and also spoke about violence and attacks on media workers.<br />
<br />
"We join credible international and local election observers in their assessment that these elections included undue restrictions on freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly. We condemn electoral violence, restrictions on the exercise of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including attacks on media workers, and restrictions on access to the Internet and telecommunication services, and are concerned about allegations of interference in the electoral process. Claims of interference or fraud should be fully investigated," said the United States, in a statement.<br />
<br />
The EU, in a statement, emphasised a "lack of a level playing field", and attributed it to "the inability of some political actors to contest the elections" and also emphasised restrictions imposed on freedom of assembly, freedom of expression and internet access.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan Election Result 2024: Nawaz Sharif invites rivals for coalition government</strong></p>

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<p lang="en-US">The UN human rights office, earlier this week, denounced violence against candidates and political parties. It also raised concern over the "pattern of harassment, arrests and prolonged detentions of leaders and supporters" of Khan's party.<br />
<br />
The United States, European Union and Britain said that they are willing to work with Pakistan's next government and did not congratulate any party or candidate.<br />
<br />
In a statement, British Foreign Minister David Cameron noted "serious concerns raised about the fairness and lack of inclusivity of the elections."<br />
<br />
Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan has been facing multiple legal cases because of which he was disqualified as a candidate and sentenced to long prison terms.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Pakistan retorts back</strong></h2>

<p>Reacting to the statements, Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said,&nbsp;"We have taken note of statements from certain countries and organizations on the general elections held in Pakistan on 8 February 2024. We are surprised by the negative tone of some of these statements, which neither take into account the complexity of the electoral process, nor acknowledge the free and enthusiastic exercise of the right to vote by tens of millions of Pakistanis."</p>

<p>"These statements ignore the undeniable fact that Pakistan has held general elections, peacefully and successfully, while dealing with serious security threats resulting primarily from foreign-sponsored terrorism.&nbsp;Some statements are not even factual. There was no nationwide internet shutdown. Only mobile services were suspended for the day to avoid terrorist incidents on the polling day. The elections exercise has demonstrated that the concerns of many commentators were misplaced," it added.</p>

<p>"Pakistan held the elections as part of its commitment to building a stable and democratic society. While we value constructive advice from our friends, making negative commentary even before the completion of the electoral process is neither constructive nor objective. Pakistan will continue to work towards building a vibrant democratic polity. Every election and peaceful transition of power brings us closer to that goal. We do this not on account of the concerns expressed by others but because that is the aspiration of our people and the vision of our founding fathers," the ministry stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States, the European Union and Britain on Friday (Feb 9) separately expressed concerns over Pakistan's electoral process in the wake of voting which took place on Thursday (Feb 8) and appealed for an investigation into reported irregularities.

The United States, the European Union and Britain on Friday (Feb 9) separately expressed concerns over Pakistan's electoral process in the wake of voting which took place on Thursday (Feb 8) and appealed for an investigation into reported irregularities. The election results still remains indecisive as both, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's party and ex-prime minister Imran Khan declared victory. The elections were held on 265 national assembly seats, and to gain simple majority to form the government a party has to secure 133 seats. Till now, of 250 seats officially announced, Independents have 99 seats, PMLN has 71, PPP 53, MQM 17, PMLQ 3, IPP 2, JUI 2, MWM 1, BNP 1 and PMLZ has 1 seat and the results of 15 seats are awaited. Also Read: Pakistan elections: Nawaz Sharif hints at improving ties with India as poll results drag on The United States and the European Union both made statements regarding allegations of interference, which included arrests of activists and said that claims of interference, fraud and irregularities should be fully investigated. US says 'undue restrictions on freedom of expression" during polls The US State Department said Pakistan faced "undue restrictions on freedoms of expression" during the polls and also spoke about violence and attacks on media workers. "We join credible international and local election observers in their assessment that these elections included undue restrictions on freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly. We condemn electoral violence, restrictions on the exercise of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including attacks on media workers, and restrictions on access to the Internet and telecommunication services, and are concerned about allegations of interference in the electoral process. Claims of interference or fraud should be fully investigated," said the United States, in a statement. The EU, in a statement, emphasised a "lack of a level playing field", and attributed it to "the inability of some political actors to contest the elections" and also emphasised restrictions imposed on freedom of assembly, freedom of expression and internet access. Watch: Pakistan Election Result 2024: Nawaz Sharif invites rivals for coalition government The UN human rights office, earlier this week, denounced violence against candidates and political parties. It also raised concern over the "pattern of harassment, arrests and prolonged detentions of leaders and supporters" of Khan's party. The United States, European Union and Britain said that they are willing to work with Pakistan's next government and did not congratulate any party or candidate. In a statement, British Foreign Minister David Cameron noted "serious concerns raised about the fairness and lack of inclusivity of the elections." Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan has been facing multiple legal cases because of which he was disqualified as a candidate and sentenced to long prison terms. Pakistan retorts back Reacting to the statements, Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, "We have taken note of statements from certain countries and organizations on the general elections held in Pakistan on 8 February 2024. We are surprised by the negative tone of some of these statements, which neither take into account the complexity of the electoral process, nor acknowledge the free and enthusiastic exercise of the right to vote by tens of millions of Pakistanis." "These statements ignore the undeniable fact that Pakistan has held general elections, peacefully and successfully, while dealing with serious security threats resulting primarily from foreign-sponsored terrorism. Some statements are not even factual. There was no nationwide internet shutdown. Only mobile services were suspended for the day to avoid terrorist incidents on the polling day. The elections exercise has demonstrated that the concerns of many commentators were misplaced," it added. "Pakistan held the elections as part of its commitment to building a stable and democratic society. While we value constructive advice from our friends, making negative commentary even before the completion of the electoral process is neither constructive nor objective. Pakistan will continue to work towards building a vibrant democratic polity. Every election and peaceful transition of power brings us closer to that goal. We do this not on account of the concerns expressed by others but because that is the aspiration of our people and the vision of our founding fathers," the ministry stated. (With inputs from agencies)

US, EU, UK express concern over irregularities in Pakistan elections, urge for probe

On tonight's episode, we shed the spotlight on the women in Pakistan who are braving the violence in the country and standing up for democracy. While a record number of female candidates are contesting the polls, it still represents a dismal percentage of women participating in the country's politics. In some parts, ordinary women are not even allowed to cast their vote. As challenges multiply in the country, how can Pakistan ensure more political participation for women? What do you think is the way ahead?

Gravitas | Pak Elections: The brave women fighting poll violence, and gender gap

Less than 48 hours on February 8th, 128 million Pakistani voters will cast their ballot to choose a new government for the world's fifth most populous nation. Keep watching to the three main contenders for 2024.

Pakistan elections: 128 million voters preparing to elect a new government

The Indian Prime Minister gives a vote of thanks in parliament, highlighting government achievements so far.

PM Modi addresses parliament highlighting government achievements

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi replied to the Motion of Thanks to the President Droupadi Murmu in Lok Sabha. He launched an attack at Opposition and the INDIA bloc in his last Parliament speech.

PM Modi's Parliament speech: 'Article 370, construction of Ram temple key achievements'

Ahead of the February 8 general elections in Pakistan, the government of Balochistan has implemented a ban on public meetings and election gatherings in the province. Watch to know more!

Balochistan bans public meetings and gatherings ahead of polls

Will Maldives president Muizzu be impeached? Maldives opposition parties claim to have collected enough signatures for Mohamed Muizzu impeachment; government moves court citing a key amendment illegal. Meanwhile, amid the crisis prosecutor general stabbed in male.

MDP plans impeachment motion against President Muizzu: Report

After weeks of protests against Germany's far right AfD, the party lost a district election on Saturday. Can the demonstrations over the far-right's stance on immigration be a sign of things to come for September's state election? Watch to know more!

Germany's far-right party loses district polls

The Hijab issue gains prominence ahead of polls. Iranian clerics divided over Hijab issue. Severe punishment for defying Hijab law sparks unrest. Over 70,000 warnings issued in QOM for Hijab defiance since March. Watch to know more!

Iran: Hijab issue gains prominence ahead of polls | Iran Elections

China's largest show of force near Taiwan since Presidential Polls. Taiwan detects seven Chinese naval ships. Thirteen Chinese aircraft cross median line of Taiwan strait. Two Chinese balloons detected crossing Taiwan strait. Watch to know more!

China-Taiwan tensions: 33 Chinese jets detected around Taiwan

Africa’s 2024 election season – comprising 19 presidential and general polls – got off to an unpromising and alarming start this past week. After the re-election of President Azali Assoumani to an effective fifth term, violent protests against the result broke out in Moroni, the capital of Comoros. The government responded by imposing a night-time curfew and deploying the army on the streets. The United Nations commissioner for human rights appealed for calm and for the authorities to show restraint in dealing with the protests.

Unrest rocks Comoros after presidential polls

PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Sunday called on PTI workers to support his party in the upcoming general election, vowing to “bury politics of revenge”.

Pakistan: Bilawal tells PTI workers to support PPP in polls

Chinese balloons over Taiwan. Latest balloon sightings come after Taiwan's Presidential polls. Five balloons near city of Keelung and one balloon flies near Pingtung county. China has not ruled out the use of force regarding Taiwan. Watch to know more!

China Spy Balloon: Latest balloon sightings come after Taiwan Presidential polls

<p>A recent CNN poll conducted by the University of New Hampshire reveals that the New Hampshire Republican presidential primary is firmly under the sway of former President Donald Trump. Following his decisive win in Iowa's caucuses, Trump commands 50 per cent support among likely Republican primary voters in the Granite State. This substantial lead, coupled with the shrinking field of major contenders, positions Trump as the frontrunner in the race.</p>

<h2><strong>Trump vs. competitors: Haley's gains not enough</strong></h2>

<p>Trump's closest competitor, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, trails significantly with 39 per cent support. While both candidates have seen an increase in support since the previous poll in early January, Haley's gains, particularly since late summer, have not bridged the gap with Trump. The poll underscores Trump's enduring popularity within the GOP base, overshadowing the appeal of his challengers.</p>

<p>Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who previously led in early 2023 polling but scaled back efforts in the state, lags far behind with just 6 per cent&nbsp;support. This places him below the 10 per cent&nbsp;minimum required to win delegates according to Republican Party rules, indicating challenges in maintaining momentum.</p>

<p>New Hampshire has historically been perceived as a battleground offering an opportunity to challenge Trump's dominance. However, the latest survey suggests that Trump's popularity within the GOP base and unwavering support from his followers outweigh the appeal of his competitors.</p>

<p>Nikki Haley exhibits significant support among registered undeclared voters (58 per cent) and those ideologically moderate (71 per cent). She also outpaces Trump among voters with college degrees (50 per cent&nbsp;Haley to 38 per cent Trump). Despite these gains in specific demographics, they represent a minority of likely GOP primary voters in New Hampshire.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-vs-michelle-obama-in-2024-us-elections-reports-say-former-first-lady-could-replace-joe-biden-682065">Also read |&nbsp;Donald Trump Vs Michelle Obama in 2024 US elections? Reports say former first lady could replace Joe Biden</a></p>

<p>In contrast, Trump consolidates his support among registered Republicans (67 per cent), conservatives (71 per cent), and those without a college degree (55 per cent). The majority of Trump's supporters (88 per cent) express unwavering commitment compared to 74 per cent among Haley supporters. This solidifies Trump's position with 45 per cent&nbsp;of the electorate as firmly decided supporters, compared to 30 per cent&nbsp;for Haley.</p>

<p>With days left before the primary, approximately 20 per cent&nbsp;of likely Republican voters remain undecided. Among this group, a majority currently supports Haley (51 per cent), indicating the potential for last-minute shifts. However, overall expectations favor Trump, with 70 per cent&nbsp;believing he will emerge victorious.</p>

<p>Trump continues to hold a more favourable view among the primary electorate (56 per cent) compared to Haley (36 per cent) and DeSantis (28 per cent). Trump's consistent net positive favourability rating throughout the past year distinguishes him from his competitors.</p>

<p>New Hampshire's Republican primary electorate views Trump's first term favorably, with 70 per cent&nbsp;believing he did more to help than hurt the country. The survey also gauges expectations regarding six campaign promises, revealing varying levels of confidence in Trump's ability to achieve them.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US: Frigid temperatures forecast across two-thirds of US, Met office issues advisories</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-frigid-temperatures-forecast-across-two-thirds-of-us-met-office-issues-advisories-682117/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In the Democratic primary, likely voters lean towards a write-in for Joe Biden (63 per cent), who did not file for the primary ballot due to DNC rules. Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips secures 10 per cent&nbsp;support, while author Marianne Williamson follows closely with 9 per cent.</p>

<p>Among likely Democratic primary voters, 70 per cent&nbsp;express satisfaction or enthusiasm with Biden as the nominee, but enthusiasm lags behind Trump's GOP support (31 per cent&nbsp;vs. 46 per cent). Concerns about Biden's electability emerge, with 46 per cent&nbsp;believing he provides the best chance for Democrats to win in 2024.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A recent CNN poll conducted by the University of New Hampshire reveals that the New Hampshire Republican presidential primary is firmly under the sway of former President Donald Trump.

A recent CNN poll conducted by the University of New Hampshire reveals that the New Hampshire Republican presidential primary is firmly under the sway of former President Donald Trump. Following his decisive win in Iowa's caucuses, Trump commands 50 per cent support among likely Republican primary voters in the Granite State. This substantial lead, coupled with the shrinking field of major contenders, positions Trump as the frontrunner in the race. Trump vs. competitors: Haley's gains not enough Trump's closest competitor, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, trails significantly with 39 per cent support. While both candidates have seen an increase in support since the previous poll in early January, Haley's gains, particularly since late summer, have not bridged the gap with Trump. The poll underscores Trump's enduring popularity within the GOP base, overshadowing the appeal of his challengers. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who previously led in early 2023 polling but scaled back efforts in the state, lags far behind with just 6 per cent support. This places him below the 10 per cent minimum required to win delegates according to Republican Party rules, indicating challenges in maintaining momentum. New Hampshire has historically been perceived as a battleground offering an opportunity to challenge Trump's dominance. However, the latest survey suggests that Trump's popularity within the GOP base and unwavering support from his followers outweigh the appeal of his competitors. Nikki Haley exhibits significant support among registered undeclared voters (58 per cent) and those ideologically moderate (71 per cent). She also outpaces Trump among voters with college degrees (50 per cent Haley to 38 per cent Trump). Despite these gains in specific demographics, they represent a minority of likely GOP primary voters in New Hampshire. Also read | Donald Trump Vs Michelle Obama in 2024 US elections? Reports say former first lady could replace Joe Biden In contrast, Trump consolidates his support among registered Republicans (67 per cent), conservatives (71 per cent), and those without a college degree (55 per cent). The majority of Trump's supporters (88 per cent) express unwavering commitment compared to 74 per cent among Haley supporters. This solidifies Trump's position with 45 per cent of the electorate as firmly decided supporters, compared to 30 per cent for Haley. With days left before the primary, approximately 20 per cent of likely Republican voters remain undecided. Among this group, a majority currently supports Haley (51 per cent), indicating the potential for last-minute shifts. However, overall expectations favor Trump, with 70 per cent believing he will emerge victorious. Trump continues to hold a more favourable view among the primary electorate (56 per cent) compared to Haley (36 per cent) and DeSantis (28 per cent). Trump's consistent net positive favourability rating throughout the past year distinguishes him from his competitors. New Hampshire's Republican primary electorate views Trump's first term favorably, with 70 per cent believing he did more to help than hurt the country. The survey also gauges expectations regarding six campaign promises, revealing varying levels of confidence in Trump's ability to achieve them. Also watch | US: Frigid temperatures forecast across two-thirds of US, Met office issues advisories In the Democratic primary, likely voters lean towards a write-in for Joe Biden (63 per cent), who did not file for the primary ballot due to DNC rules. Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips secures 10 per cent support, while author Marianne Williamson follows closely with 9 per cent. Among likely Democratic primary voters, 70 per cent express satisfaction or enthusiasm with Biden as the nominee, but enthusiasm lags behind Trump's GOP support (31 per cent vs. 46 per cent). Concerns about Biden's electability emerge, with 46 per cent believing he provides the best chance for Democrats to win in 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

Double-digit lead for Trump over Haley in New Hampshire, CNN poll says

Strike called by Trade Unions over pay dispute and conditions. More than 1,00,000 public sector workers stage walkout. Schools remain closed in Norther Ireland due to strike.

Northern Ireland witnesses biggest strike amid worsening political crisis

Indonesian presidential candidate Prabowo Subianto has a commanding lead but is stagnating in popularity just a few weeks out from next month's election, an opinion poll showed on Thursday, raising the chance of a second-round runoff in June. The world's third-largest democracy holds an election on Feb. 14. Watch to know more!

Polls show defence minister Prabowo Subianto in the lead | Indonesia Elections

Taiwan's ruling party candidate Lai Ching-te on Saturday, January 13, won the island's presidential election, a vote watched closely from Beijing to Washington. Lai vowed to defend the self-ruled island from Chinese "intimidation".

US delegation in Taiwan for post-poll talks | US congratulates new Taiwanese President

Taiwan's ruling party candidate Lai Ching-te on Saturday, January 13, won the island's presidential election, a vote watched closely from Beijing to Washington. Lai vowed to defend the self-ruled island from Chinese "intimidation". Watch to know more!

Taiwan Elections 2024: Lai Ching-Te pledges to maintain peace & stability in Taiwan strait

President elect Lai vows to defend Taiwan from China intimidation. Democratic Progressive Party to govern Taiwan for third term. China opposes Japan's congratulatory note to Taiwan over results. Watch to know more!

Taiwan Election 2024: Taipei asks Beijing to respect results of election, give up suppressing Taiwan

Taiwan heads to the polls to choose its next leader in a high-stakes presidential election, polls opened at 8:00 AM local time at nearly 18,000 locations. President Tsai Ing-wen is ineligible to seek re-election after serving two straight terms. Taiwan has slammed China for allegedly intimidating its citizens and attempting to influence the island's elections on Saturday. Taiwan's Foreign Minister Joseph Wu criticized China's "repeated interference" in the impending elections on Thursday, accusing Beijing of "once again blatantly intimidating the Taiwanese people and the international community".

Taiwan Elections 2024: Blinken asks China for Cross-Strait stability as Taiwan votes

Polling to elect the next President and the running mate began on Saturday in Taiwan. Polls closely watched as China steps up its rhetoric over self-ruled Island. Taiwanese voters will be choosing a successor to Tsai Ing-wen, the nation's first female president, who cannot seek re-election due to term limits after winning in 2016 and 2020.

Taiwan Elections 2024: Closely watched polls in self-ruled Island

Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China, held its general election on Saturday (Jan 13). The ruling Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te won the election after candidates of opposition parties- Hou Yu-ih of the Kuomintang (KMT) and Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People's Party (TPP) conceded defeat.

Taiwan elections: Lai Ching-te wins presidential vote, vows to defend island from China threats

Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te is set to be the next president of Taiwan after he won Saturday's (Jan 13) election, defeating Hou Yu-ih of the Kuomintang (KMT) and Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People's Party (TPP) by a huge margin. In his victory speech, Lai, 64, said that Taiwan would stand by the side of democracy.

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