The voters of a village on the Sino-India border in Himachal Pradesh have boycotted the Lok Sabha poll as the government "failed" to find a permanent solution to frequent floods they face.

Located at an altitude of 10,000 feet and around 350 km from state capital Shimla, voters at Geu village in Lahaul and Spiti district said they had been demanding their resettlement but their demands remained unheard.

"We have to take the decision as none of the governments have found a permanent solution to frequent floods due to a nearby nullah," a villager said.

According to the district election office, there are 167 voters registered at the village and none of them have voted so far.

The district officials and election staff is in the village to persuade them to withdraw the boycott and exercise their franchise.

Only five votes have been cast at the Geu polling station, that too were cast by the poll staff, a district spokesperson said.

The five members of the poll staff do not belong to the village but they cast their votes on the basis of election duty certificates issued to them by AROs concerned, he added.

The voters of a village on the Sino-India border in Himachal Pradesh have boycotted the Lok Sabha poll as the government "failed" to find a permanent solution to frequent floods they face.

The voters of a village on the Sino-India border in Himachal Pradesh have boycotted the Lok Sabha poll as the government "failed" to find a permanent solution to frequent floods they face. Located at an altitude of 10,000 feet and around 350 km from state capital Shimla, voters at Geu village in Lahaul and Spiti district said they had been demanding their resettlement but their demands remained unheard. "We have to take the decision as none of the governments have found a permanent solution to frequent floods due to a nearby nullah," a villager said. According to the district election office, there are 167 voters registered at the village and none of them have voted so far. The district officials and election staff is in the village to persuade them to withdraw the boycott and exercise their franchise. Only five votes have been cast at the Geu polling station, that too were cast by the poll staff, a district spokesperson said. The five members of the poll staff do not belong to the village but they cast their votes on the basis of election duty certificates issued to them by AROs concerned, he added.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Villagers boycott voting in Himachal as government failed to find solution to frequent floods

Watch this segment to know latest updates of Lok Sabha elections 2019.

Lok Sabha elections 2019: Watch latest election news

Watch this segment to know Lok Sabha elections related latest news.

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Congress North East Delhi candidate Sheila Dikshit holded a roadshow in Delhi on Wednesday. Watch this video to know more.

Priyanka Gandhi & PM Modi's war of words

Supreme Court of India dismisses second plea against Rahul Gandhi, Petition sought to debar Congress President from contesting elections. Watch this video to know more.

SC dismisses second plea against Rahul Gandhi

Polling in 51 parliamentary constituencies across 7 states is being held in the 5th phase of Lok Sabha election 2019 Monday. The 5th phase of polling will decide the fate of several key leaders including Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Home Minister Rajnath Singh, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Union Minister Smriti Irani.

India Votes: 51 seats across 7 states go to polls

Watch Key battles in phase 5 of Lok Sabha elections 2019.

India Votes: Key battles in phase 5 of Lok Sabha elections 2019

India Votes: Lok Sabha elections phase 5 voting underway

Polling in 51 parliamentary constituencies across 7 states is being held in the 5th phase of Lok Sabha election 2019 Monday. The 5th phase of polling will decide the fate of several key leaders including Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Home Minister Rajnath Singh, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Union Minister Smriti Irani. Watch this video to know more.

India Votes: Is U.P. heading for a tight finish?

India Votes: Which way will Bihar sway

Violence took place in Shopian and Pulwama, Kashmir before 5th phase of LS polls. Watch this video to know more.

Clashes broke out in Shopian & Pulwama

India Votes: Voting begins in Gandhi bastions

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - May 6th, 2019

As Amethi parliamentary constituency went into polls in the 5th phase of the Lok Sabha elections on Monday, Union Minister and BJP candidate Smriti Irani hit out at opponent Congress President Rahul Gandhi alleging booth capturing in the constituency. Watch this video to know more.

Smriti Irani alleges voters being forced to vote for Congress

Watch this segment for top election news story updates.

Lok Sabha elections 2019: Latest polling news

India Votes: 9 crore voters to decide fate of 674 candidates

272 Indonesian staff died from overwork related illnesses after Single-Day Elections in Indonesia. Watch this video to know more.

Indonesian Polls: 272 Indonesian staff died from overwork related illnesses

Polling is underway Thursday for the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-polls-2019-voting-underway-in-91-seats-in-first-phase-209404"> first phase of seven-phase Lok Sabha elections</a>.

Here are some interesting facts about phase one.

* Constituencies: 91 Lok Sabha constituencies spread across 18 states and two Union territories.

* Total number of polling stations: 1,70,664

* In Mizoram, 15 special polling booths have been set up in Kanhmun at Mizoram-Tripura border for Bru (Reang) refugees who are living in camps in Tripura.

* Mizoram also holds the unique distinction among the parliamentary constituencies with 100 per cent voters having Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC).

* 52 per cent voters in Meghalaya are women.

* Over 142,054,000 voters to decide fate of 1,279 candidates in the 91 constituencies.&nbsp;

* 7,764 'third gender' voters eligible to cast ballots

* Voting for 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th phase of the elections will take place on April 18, April 23, April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19, respectively.

* The counting of votes to constitute the 17th Lok Sabha will take place on May 23.

Polling is underway Thursday for the first phase of seven-phase Lok Sabha elections. Here are some interesting facts about phase one. * Constituencies: 91 Lok Sabha constituencies spread across 18 states and two Union territories.

Polling is underway Thursday for the first phase of seven-phase Lok Sabha elections. Here are some interesting facts about phase one. * Constituencies: 91 Lok Sabha constituencies spread across 18 states and two Union territories. * Total number of polling stations: 1,70,664 * In Mizoram, 15 special polling booths have been set up in Kanhmun at Mizoram-Tripura border for Bru (Reang) refugees who are living in camps in Tripura. * Mizoram also holds the unique distinction among the parliamentary constituencies with 100 per cent voters having Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC). * 52 per cent voters in Meghalaya are women. * Over 142,054,000 voters to decide fate of 1,279 candidates in the 91 constituencies. * 7,764 'third gender' voters eligible to cast ballots * Voting for 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th phase of the elections will take place on April 18, April 23, April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19, respectively. * The counting of votes to constitute the 17th Lok Sabha will take place on May 23.

Key facts about phase-I of Lok Sabha polls

Turkey voted in local elections on Sunday in a test for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, with his ruling party fighting to keep hold of the country's two key cities as an economic slowdown takes hold.

Erdogan and his Justice and Development Party (AKP) have won every vote since the party first came to power in 2002 but this time, analysts say, the party risks losing Turkey's capital Ankara and even its economic hub Istanbul.

Sunday's poll was the first municipal ballot since Turks approved constitutional reforms in 2017 to create an executive presidency that gave Erdogan wider powers after a decade and a half in office.

But Erdogan, whose ability to win continuously at the ballot box is unparalleled in Turkish history, appears more vulnerable with the country's economy in recession, unemployment up and inflation in double digits.

Voting closed at 1400 GMT in Sunday's ballot, which was held mostly without incident, with the exception of the deaths of two men killed in a fight at a polling station in the east of Turkey.

Much of the AKP's success has been down to his perceived economic prowess, but days before the vote, the Turkish lira was sliding again, provoking memories of the 2018 currency crisis that badly hurt Turkish households.

Erdogan, who began his own political career as Istanbul mayor, personally campaigned hard across Turkey, often with several rallies a day, even though he is not on the ballot.

Looking to galvanize his base among conservative Turks, the president cast the election as a matter of survival, attacking opposition candidates by branding them as linked to PKK Kurdish militants.

"The economy is terrible," said Husnu Acar, 53, after voting in a school in Beylikduzu on the outskirts of Istanbul.

"They are the ones with a survival problem," he said of the AKP.

Voters are to elect scores of mayors, municipal councils and other local officials. Preliminary results are expected soon after polls close with official results released early in the week.

Two members of Saadet (Felicity), a religiously conservative party, were killed after an attack by an AKP candidate's nephew in a polling station in Malatya, eastern Turkey, Saadet chairman Temel Karamollaoglu said on Twitter.&nbsp;

The two men, one of whom was also an election observer, died after a fight between two groups in Puturge district, private DHA news agency reported. The Malatya governorate said four individuals were detained.

Erdogan said the incident was "upsetting" after he voted in Istanbul, and he called Karamollaoglu shortly afterwards to offer his condolences, the presidency said.

Charges of an unfair vote 
For his supporters, Erdogan remains the strong leader they believe Turkey needs and they tout the country's economic development over the 16 years he and the AKP have been in power.&nbsp;

But rights activists and even Turkey's Western allies say that under his leadership, democracy has been eroded, particularly after a failed 2016 coup that led to tens of thousands of people being arrested.

"The economy isn't doing so good for sure, but I have confidence in our president and things will be better after the election," said Koksal Karacan, a retiree voting in Istanbul's Kasimpasa, where Erdogan grew up.

The vote will be the first time since 2002 that the AKP is fielding candidates with its alliance partner, the rightwing Nationalist Movement Party (MHP).

The opposition pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) has refused to field candidates in several cities, saying the elections are unfair. Some of its leaders have been jailed on terror charges, accusations they reject.

The HDP criticised the detentions of candidates and its members in the run-up to the vote in a statement on Sunday, accusing the government of trying "to paralyse the HDP organisationally, and render the playing field even more uneven".

Observers say that with most media either pro-government or controlled by the president's supporters, opposition parties campaigned at a disadvantage because Erdogan's daily rallies dominated TV coverage.

"What has happened during the campaign for Sunday's local elections is unprecedented and demonstrates that — unlike during its first years in power — the AKP is no longer confident of being able to win a fair election," said Gareth Jenkins, a non-resident senior research fellow at the Silk Road Studies Programme.

'Boss of the economy' 
In Istanbul, where the race is expected to be tight, Erdogan has fielded one of his loyalists, former prime minister Binali Yildirim.

But in Ankara, Mansur Yavas — the candidate for both the opposition Republican People's Party or CHP and the nationalist Good Party — might have a stronger chance of winning, according to a number of recent polls.

With inflation at just under 20 percent and unemployment at a near 10-year high in December, Erdogan has sought to reassure voters about the economy.

"I am the boss of the economy right now as the president of this country," Erdogan told a rally on Saturday.

Turkey's finance minister, Berat Albayrak, who is Erdogan's son-in-law, said economic reforms would be announced the week of April 8.

Turkey voted in local elections on Sunday in a test for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, with his ruling party fighting to keep hold of the country's two key cities as an economic slowdown takes hold.

Turkey voted in local elections on Sunday in a test for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, with his ruling party fighting to keep hold of the country's two key cities as an economic slowdown takes hold. Erdogan and his Justice and Development Party (AKP) have won every vote since the party first came to power in 2002 but this time, analysts say, the party risks losing Turkey's capital Ankara and even its economic hub Istanbul. Sunday's poll was the first municipal ballot since Turks approved constitutional reforms in 2017 to create an executive presidency that gave Erdogan wider powers after a decade and a half in office. But Erdogan, whose ability to win continuously at the ballot box is unparalleled in Turkish history, appears more vulnerable with the country's economy in recession, unemployment up and inflation in double digits. Voting closed at 1400 GMT in Sunday's ballot, which was held mostly without incident, with the exception of the deaths of two men killed in a fight at a polling station in the east of Turkey. Much of the AKP's success has been down to his perceived economic prowess, but days before the vote, the Turkish lira was sliding again, provoking memories of the 2018 currency crisis that badly hurt Turkish households. Erdogan, who began his own political career as Istanbul mayor, personally campaigned hard across Turkey, often with several rallies a day, even though he is not on the ballot. Looking to galvanize his base among conservative Turks, the president cast the election as a matter of survival, attacking opposition candidates by branding them as linked to PKK Kurdish militants. "The economy is terrible," said Husnu Acar, 53, after voting in a school in Beylikduzu on the outskirts of Istanbul. "They are the ones with a survival problem," he said of the AKP. Voters are to elect scores of mayors, municipal councils and other local officials. Preliminary results are expected soon after polls close with official results released early in the week. Two members of Saadet (Felicity), a religiously conservative party, were killed after an attack by an AKP candidate's nephew in a polling station in Malatya, eastern Turkey, Saadet chairman Temel Karamollaoglu said on Twitter. The two men, one of whom was also an election observer, died after a fight between two groups in Puturge district, private DHA news agency reported. The Malatya governorate said four individuals were detained. Erdogan said the incident was "upsetting" after he voted in Istanbul, and he called Karamollaoglu shortly afterwards to offer his condolences, the presidency said. Charges of an unfair vote For his supporters, Erdogan remains the strong leader they believe Turkey needs and they tout the country's economic development over the 16 years he and the AKP have been in power. But rights activists and even Turkey's Western allies say that under his leadership, democracy has been eroded, particularly after a failed 2016 coup that led to tens of thousands of people being arrested. "The economy isn't doing so good for sure, but I have confidence in our president and things will be better after the election," said Koksal Karacan, a retiree voting in Istanbul's Kasimpasa, where Erdogan grew up. The vote will be the first time since 2002 that the AKP is fielding candidates with its alliance partner, the rightwing Nationalist Movement Party (MHP). The opposition pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) has refused to field candidates in several cities, saying the elections are unfair. Some of its leaders have been jailed on terror charges, accusations they reject. The HDP criticised the detentions of candidates and its members in the run-up to the vote in a statement on Sunday, accusing the government of trying "to paralyse the HDP organisationally, and render the playing field even more uneven". Observers say that with most media either pro-government or controlled by the president's supporters, opposition parties campaigned at a disadvantage because Erdogan's daily rallies dominated TV coverage. "What has happened during the campaign for Sunday's local elections is unprecedented and demonstrates that — unlike during its first years in power — the AKP is no longer confident of being able to win a fair election," said Gareth Jenkins, a non-resident senior research fellow at the Silk Road Studies Programme. 'Boss of the economy' In Istanbul, where the race is expected to be tight, Erdogan has fielded one of his loyalists, former prime minister Binali Yildirim. But in Ankara, Mansur Yavas — the candidate for both the opposition Republican People's Party or CHP and the nationalist Good Party — might have a stronger chance of winning, according to a number of recent polls. With inflation at just under 20 percent and unemployment at a near 10-year high in December, Erdogan has sought to reassure voters about the economy. "I am the boss of the economy right now as the president of this country," Erdogan told a rally on Saturday. Turkey's finance minister, Berat Albayrak, who is Erdogan's son-in-law, said economic reforms would be announced the week of April 8.

Turks vote in test for Erdogan as recession hits home

Polling underway for Ukraine presidential election

Thailand heads to polls after 8 years

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/love-him-or-loathe-him-israeli-election-is-all-about-benjamin-netanyahu-197372">in full campaign mode ahead of April 9 polls</a>, on Sunday said Israel "was not a state of all its citizens" in a reference to the country's Arab population.

The prime minister, in comments on Instagram, went on to say all citizens, including Arabs, had equal rights, but referred to a deeply controversial law passed last year declaring Israel the nation-state of the Jewish people.

"Israel is not a state of all its citizens," Netanyahu wrote in response to comments from an Israeli actress.

"According to the basic nationality law we passed, Israel is the nation-state of the Jewish people -- and only it.

"As you wrote, there is no problem with the Arab citizens of Israel. They have equal rights like all of us and the Likud government has invested more in the Arab sector than any other government," he said of his right-wing party.

As the comments caused waves in Israel, Netanyahu again spoke of the issue at the start of a cabinet meeting, making similar comments.

He called Israel a "Jewish, democratic state" with equal rights, but "the nation-state not of all its citizens, but only of the Jewish people".

Netanyahu has been accused of demonising Israeli Arabs, who make up some 17.5 percent of the population, ahead of April polls in a bid to boost right-wing turnout.

He has continually warned that his opponents will receive the support of Arab parties and that they will make significant concessions to the Palestinians.

Netanyahu, under threat of indictment for corruption, is facing a tough challenge from a centrist political alliance led by former military chief of staff Benny Gantz and ex-finance minister Yair Lapid.

The alliance's centrist positions and its security credentials -- it includes three former military chiefs of staff -- have helped it beat back Netanyahu's claims that its leaders are "weak" leftists.

Arab parties would be extremely unlikely to be part of any coalition government after elections.

Arab Israelis are Palestinians who remained on their land after the 1948 creation of Israel and are largely supportive of the Palestinian cause.

Netanyahu leads what is seen as the most right-wing government in Israel's history and says he wants a similar coalition after the upcoming polls.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in full campaign mode ahead of April 9 polls, on Sunday said Israel "was not a state of all its citizens" in a reference to the country's Arab population.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in full campaign mode ahead of April 9 polls, on Sunday said Israel "was not a state of all its citizens" in a reference to the country's Arab population. The prime minister, in comments on Instagram, went on to say all citizens, including Arabs, had equal rights, but referred to a deeply controversial law passed last year declaring Israel the nation-state of the Jewish people. "Israel is not a state of all its citizens," Netanyahu wrote in response to comments from an Israeli actress. "According to the basic nationality law we passed, Israel is the nation-state of the Jewish people -- and only it. "As you wrote, there is no problem with the Arab citizens of Israel. They have equal rights like all of us and the Likud government has invested more in the Arab sector than any other government," he said of his right-wing party. As the comments caused waves in Israel, Netanyahu again spoke of the issue at the start of a cabinet meeting, making similar comments. He called Israel a "Jewish, democratic state" with equal rights, but "the nation-state not of all its citizens, but only of the Jewish people". Netanyahu has been accused of demonising Israeli Arabs, who make up some 17.5 percent of the population, ahead of April polls in a bid to boost right-wing turnout. He has continually warned that his opponents will receive the support of Arab parties and that they will make significant concessions to the Palestinians. Netanyahu, under threat of indictment for corruption, is facing a tough challenge from a centrist political alliance led by former military chief of staff Benny Gantz and ex-finance minister Yair Lapid. The alliance's centrist positions and its security credentials -- it includes three former military chiefs of staff -- have helped it beat back Netanyahu's claims that its leaders are "weak" leftists. Arab parties would be extremely unlikely to be part of any coalition government after elections. Arab Israelis are Palestinians who remained on their land after the 1948 creation of Israel and are largely supportive of the Palestinian cause. Netanyahu leads what is seen as the most right-wing government in Israel's history and says he wants a similar coalition after the upcoming polls.

Netanyahu says Israel 'not a state of all its citizens'

Nigerians began voting for a new president on Saturday, after a week-long delay that has raised political tempers, sparked conspiracy claims and stoked fears of violence.

President Muhammadu Buhari was one of the first in the queue when the nearly 120,000 polling stations began opening at 0700 GMT. He voted in his hometown of Daura, in northwest Nigeria.

Buhari, 76, of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party was accompanied by his wife, Aisha, and surrounded by a crowd of supporters.&nbsp;

As he emerged from the polling booth, he was asked whether he was confident of winning. "I will congratulate myself. I'm going to be the winner," he told reporters.

Buhari is seeking a second term of office but is facing a strong challenge from Atiku Abubakar, a former vice-president from the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Abubakar was due to vote in his home state of Adamawa, in northeast Nigeria.

Blasts heard in Maiduguri

A series of explosions was heard in the northeast Nigerian city of Maiduguri just hours before the opening of polls in presidential and parliamentary elections.

Multiple blasts were heard at about 6:00 am, locals told AFP. There was no immediate indication of the cause but the city has been repeatedly attacked by Boko Haram Islamists.

Nigerians began voting for a new president on Saturday, after a week-long delay that has raised political tempers, sparked conspiracy claims and stoked fears of violence.

Nigerians began voting for a new president on Saturday, after a week-long delay that has raised political tempers, sparked conspiracy claims and stoked fears of violence. President Muhammadu Buhari was one of the first in the queue when the nearly 120,000 polling stations began opening at 0700 GMT. He voted in his hometown of Daura, in northwest Nigeria. Buhari, 76, of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party was accompanied by his wife, Aisha, and surrounded by a crowd of supporters. As he emerged from the polling booth, he was asked whether he was confident of winning. "I will congratulate myself. I'm going to be the winner," he told reporters. Buhari is seeking a second term of office but is facing a strong challenge from Atiku Abubakar, a former vice-president from the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Abubakar was due to vote in his home state of Adamawa, in northeast Nigeria. Blasts heard in Maiduguri A series of explosions was heard in the northeast Nigerian city of Maiduguri just hours before the opening of polls in presidential and parliamentary elections. Multiple blasts were heard at about 6:00 am, locals told AFP. There was no immediate indication of the cause but the city has been repeatedly attacked by Boko Haram Islamists.

Polls open in Nigerian election after a week-long delay

Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission met late on Friday, just hours before polling was due to open in the country's presidential and parliamentary election.

Sources close to the two main parties confirmed to AFP only that a meeting was taking place at the body's headquarters in the capital Abuja.

An AFP correspondent outside the building said there was no access and no immediate comment from the electoral watchdog, which is responsible for organising Saturday's vote.

A record 84 million voters have been registered for the election, at which President Muhammadu Buhari, of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), is seeking a second term.

Local media reported that senior officials were discussing apparent logistical challenges, prompting a flurry of speculation that the vote could be postponed.

The Premium Times website said the INEC was "considering postponing" Saturday's vote.

It quoted multiple unnamed sources as saying there had been difficulties in the distribution of "sensitive electoral materials" in several states.

The commission postponed the last election in 2015 just one week before it was due to take place.

The then-chairman of the body, Attahiru Jega, said security chiefs advised a six-week delay because military operations left troops unavailable to secure the vote.

That excuse was dismissed as police and civil defence forces provide election day security, not the military.

Analysts instead saw the postponement as a way for president Goodluck Jonathan to claw back votes in the face of a strong challenge from opposition candidate Buhari.

Buhari and his All Progressives Congress (APC) accused Jonathan and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of trying to scupper the vote.

There have been similar claims from the PDP this time round that the APC is attempting to rig the election, including by buying biometric voter cards.

Three fires have also broken out in three INEC offices in the past two weeks, destroying unclaimed voter cards and other election materials, including smart card readers and ballot boxes.

Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission met late on Friday, just hours before polling was due to open in the country's presidential and parliamentary election.

Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission met late on Friday, just hours before polling was due to open in the country's presidential and parliamentary election. Sources close to the two main parties confirmed to AFP only that a meeting was taking place at the body's headquarters in the capital Abuja. An AFP correspondent outside the building said there was no access and no immediate comment from the electoral watchdog, which is responsible for organising Saturday's vote. A record 84 million voters have been registered for the election, at which President Muhammadu Buhari, of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), is seeking a second term. Local media reported that senior officials were discussing apparent logistical challenges, prompting a flurry of speculation that the vote could be postponed. The Premium Times website said the INEC was "considering postponing" Saturday's vote. It quoted multiple unnamed sources as saying there had been difficulties in the distribution of "sensitive electoral materials" in several states. The commission postponed the last election in 2015 just one week before it was due to take place. The then-chairman of the body, Attahiru Jega, said security chiefs advised a six-week delay because military operations left troops unavailable to secure the vote. That excuse was dismissed as police and civil defence forces provide election day security, not the military. Analysts instead saw the postponement as a way for president Goodluck Jonathan to claw back votes in the face of a strong challenge from opposition candidate Buhari. Buhari and his All Progressives Congress (APC) accused Jonathan and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of trying to scupper the vote. There have been similar claims from the PDP this time round that the APC is attempting to rig the election, including by buying biometric voter cards. Three fires have also broken out in three INEC offices in the past two weeks, destroying unclaimed voter cards and other election materials, including smart card readers and ballot boxes.

Nigerian election officials meet just hours before polls

Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora on Friday sought an explanation from the Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar after he skipped the two-day Election Commission’s review meeting in the state.

“Kolkata Police commissioner was replaced by the special commissioner. We asked him where was he and said that he doesn’t know the whereabouts of the commissioner and added that he had been asked to attend the meet. We have sought an explanation from the controlling officer of the Police Commissioner. They will give us in writing why he skipped the meet,” said Arora, adding “Someone told me it was his birthday.”

&nbsp;According to sources, the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) had asked the ADG Law and Order to convey to the Kolkata Police Commissioner that he must attend the meet on the second day, however, he stayed away today too. Reacting strongly to the move of the Kolkata Police Commissioner staying away from the meeting, the CEC sought an explanation from the home secretary – the controlling officer of the police commissioner.

On being quizzed whether the present prevailing conditions in the state are conducive to hold free and fair polls, the CEC said that there is room for improvement.

Sources reveal that commission was unhappy with the police in relation to the execution of non-bailable warrants. “The Commission has directed the District Magistrates and police officers to carefully look into law and order concerns. They have been asked to ensure speedy execution of non-bailable warrants (NBWs) and speedy disposal of pending cases of the electoral offences from last elections,” added Arora.

The full bench of Election Commission of India (ECI) was on a two-day visit to Kolkata to review poll preparedness in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections.

On the first day of the visit, the Election Commission officials held a meeting with all the political parties in the state. The second meeting was held with all the district Superintend of Police, District Magistrate and DEOs. The third meeting was held with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) and nodal officers from the Bengal Police.

On the second day, the Election Commission held meetings with the Excise department, IT department, transport department. Later in the day, the commission held a meeting with the West Bengal Chief Secretary and Director General of West Bengal Police.

Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora on Friday sought an explanation from the Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar after he skipped the two-day Election Commission’s review meeting in the state.

Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora on Friday sought an explanation from the Kolkata Police commissioner Rajeev Kumar after he skipped the two-day Election Commission’s review meeting in the state. “Kolkata Police commissioner was replaced by the special commissioner. We asked him where was he and said that he doesn’t know the whereabouts of the commissioner and added that he had been asked to attend the meet. We have sought an explanation from the controlling officer of the Police Commissioner. They will give us in writing why he skipped the meet,” said Arora, adding “Someone told me it was his birthday.” According to sources, the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) had asked the ADG Law and Order to convey to the Kolkata Police Commissioner that he must attend the meet on the second day, however, he stayed away today too. Reacting strongly to the move of the Kolkata Police Commissioner staying away from the meeting, the CEC sought an explanation from the home secretary – the controlling officer of the police commissioner. On being quizzed whether the present prevailing conditions in the state are conducive to hold free and fair polls, the CEC said that there is room for improvement. Sources reveal that commission was unhappy with the police in relation to the execution of non-bailable warrants. “The Commission has directed the District Magistrates and police officers to carefully look into law and order concerns. They have been asked to ensure speedy execution of non-bailable warrants (NBWs) and speedy disposal of pending cases of the electoral offences from last elections,” added Arora. The full bench of Election Commission of India (ECI) was on a two-day visit to Kolkata to review poll preparedness in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. On the first day of the visit, the Election Commission officials held a meeting with all the political parties in the state. The second meeting was held with all the district Superintend of Police, District Magistrate and DEOs. The third meeting was held with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) and nodal officers from the Bengal Police. On the second day, the Election Commission held meetings with the Excise department, IT department, transport department. Later in the day, the commission held a meeting with the West Bengal Chief Secretary and Director General of West Bengal Police.

CEC seeks explanation from Kolkata Police commissioner over his absence in poll review meet

Union Minister Smriti Irani on Wednesday mounted a scathing attack on Congress while asserting that Congress MP Shashi Tharoor`s alleged defamatory statement on Kumbh and Hindu beliefs was made with the tactical support of the Congress president Rahul Gandhi.

Speaking to media, Irani said, "It is appalling that a Congress MP, with the tactical support of his president Rahul Gandhi, has indulged in smearing of the Kumbh. Crores of Hindus across the world consider Kumbh not only as a part of their faith but they throng to Prayagraj, as Sanatan Dharm tells us that Kumbh is a place where Tapasvis (sage) come for the betterment of mankind."

"Shashi Tharoor has made a statement which tantamounts to a religious slur. This has been done with the tactical support of Congress party and the question needs to be asked to Rahul Gandhi who strategically wears a ‘Janau’ only when there are polls. He must be asked as to why he has allowed this attack on the beliefs of millions of Hindus across the world," she further added.

Intensifying her attack on the Congress president, she further said that Rahul's silence on the issue was an evidence that it was done at his behest only.

"The fact that Rahul Gandhi chooses to be quiet and the Congress party representative continues his attack on Hindu traditions and faith are an indication to the entire community that this attack on Kumbh has been mounted at the direction of the Congress president," Irani stated.

BJP's criticism comes a day after, the Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram posted on Twitter, "Ganga bhi swachh rakhni hain, aur paap bhi yahi dhone hain. Iss Sangam mein sab nange hain. Jai Ganga Maiya ki!" (Ganga has to be kept clean and sins also have to be washed there. In this Sangam everyone is naked. Hail Goddess Ganga!).”

Earlier in the day, BJP spokesman Nalin Kohli had also stated that such comments on Hindu practices by an educated person like Tharoor is very unfortunate.

"This is very unfortunate. An extremely educated and respected person like Tharoor always comes up with such kind of comments related to practices of the Hindu religion," Kohli said.&nbsp;

Union Minister Smriti Irani on Wednesday mounted a scathing attack on Congress while asserting that Congress MP Shashi Tharoor`s alleged defamatory statement on Kumbh and Hindu beliefs was made with the tactical support of the Congress president Rahul Gandhi.

Union Minister Smriti Irani on Wednesday mounted a scathing attack on Congress while asserting that Congress MP Shashi Tharoor`s alleged defamatory statement on Kumbh and Hindu beliefs was made with the tactical support of the Congress president Rahul Gandhi. Speaking to media, Irani said, "It is appalling that a Congress MP, with the tactical support of his president Rahul Gandhi, has indulged in smearing of the Kumbh. Crores of Hindus across the world consider Kumbh not only as a part of their faith but they throng to Prayagraj, as Sanatan Dharm tells us that Kumbh is a place where Tapasvis (sage) come for the betterment of mankind." "Shashi Tharoor has made a statement which tantamounts to a religious slur. This has been done with the tactical support of Congress party and the question needs to be asked to Rahul Gandhi who strategically wears a ‘Janau’ only when there are polls. He must be asked as to why he has allowed this attack on the beliefs of millions of Hindus across the world," she further added. Intensifying her attack on the Congress president, she further said that Rahul's silence on the issue was an evidence that it was done at his behest only. "The fact that Rahul Gandhi chooses to be quiet and the Congress party representative continues his attack on Hindu traditions and faith are an indication to the entire community that this attack on Kumbh has been mounted at the direction of the Congress president," Irani stated. BJP's criticism comes a day after, the Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram posted on Twitter, "Ganga bhi swachh rakhni hain, aur paap bhi yahi dhone hain. Iss Sangam mein sab nange hain. Jai Ganga Maiya ki!" (Ganga has to be kept clean and sins also have to be washed there. In this Sangam everyone is naked. Hail Goddess Ganga!).” Earlier in the day, BJP spokesman Nalin Kohli had also stated that such comments on Hindu practices by an educated person like Tharoor is very unfortunate. "This is very unfortunate. An extremely educated and respected person like Tharoor always comes up with such kind of comments related to practices of the Hindu religion," Kohli said.

Rahul strategically wears Janau only near polls, must clarify Tharoor's statement: Smriti Irani

The self-proclaimed Indian cyber expert, who alleged that the 2014 general election was ‘rigged’, was not an employee of the Electronic Corporation of India Ltd (ECIL) as claimed by him, the public sector undertaking said Tuesday.

Addressing a press conference in London via Skype, the man, identified as Syed Shuja, had on Monday claimed that the 2014 general election was rigged through the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

The EVMs are designed and developed by the ECIL. The Election Commission has already rejected the charges and asked the Delhi Police to lodge an FIR against the self-proclaimed cyber expert.

Meanwhile, Election Commission (EC) has already lodged a police complaint against Shuja under Sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) pertaining to "public mischief".

In its complaint to the Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi District), the poll panel asked the police to investigate the matter "promptly" for violation of certain sections of the Indian Penal Code dealing with spreading the rumour to alarm the public and other provisions of related laws.

Shuja had also claimed he was part of a team at the ECIL. In a letter to Deputy Election Commissioner Sudeep Jain, the ECIL said that Syed Shuja has neither been in the rolls of the ECIL as a regular employee nor was he in any way associated in the design and development of EVMs between 2009 to 2014.

“The records of this company have been verified and it is found that Mr Syed Shuja has neither been in the rolls of ECIL as a regular employee nor was he in any way associated in the design and development of EVMs in ECIL produced between 2009 to 2014,” the letter by ECIL chairman and managing director Rear Adm. (retd) Sanjay Chaudey said.

The self-proclaimed Indian cyber expert, who alleged that the 2014 general election was ‘rigged’, was not an employee of the Electronic Corporation of India Ltd (ECIL) as claimed by him, the public sector undertaking said Tuesday.

The self-proclaimed Indian cyber expert, who alleged that the 2014 general election was ‘rigged’, was not an employee of the Electronic Corporation of India Ltd (ECIL) as claimed by him, the public sector undertaking said Tuesday. Addressing a press conference in London via Skype, the man, identified as Syed Shuja, had on Monday claimed that the 2014 general election was rigged through the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). The EVMs are designed and developed by the ECIL. The Election Commission has already rejected the charges and asked the Delhi Police to lodge an FIR against the self-proclaimed cyber expert. Meanwhile, Election Commission (EC) has already lodged a police complaint against Shuja under Sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) pertaining to "public mischief". In its complaint to the Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi District), the poll panel asked the police to investigate the matter "promptly" for violation of certain sections of the Indian Penal Code dealing with spreading the rumour to alarm the public and other provisions of related laws. Shuja had also claimed he was part of a team at the ECIL. In a letter to Deputy Election Commissioner Sudeep Jain, the ECIL said that Syed Shuja has neither been in the rolls of the ECIL as a regular employee nor was he in any way associated in the design and development of EVMs between 2009 to 2014. “The records of this company have been verified and it is found that Mr Syed Shuja has neither been in the rolls of ECIL as a regular employee nor was he in any way associated in the design and development of EVMs in ECIL produced between 2009 to 2014,” the letter by ECIL chairman and managing director Rear Adm. (retd) Sanjay Chaudey said.

ECIL says ‘cyber expert’ who claimed 2014 polls rigged was not its employee

Over 1.36 crore voters are there in Delhi in the final electoral roll published Friday ahead of the 2019 general elections, an increase of nearly 8 per cent from the total number of electors in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kejriwal-to-not-contest-lok-sabha-polls-from-varanasi-party-to-field-another-candidate-190060">the last Lok Sabha polls</a>, officials said.

However, the figure is 0.87 per cent less than <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ec-may-announce-lok-sabha-poll-schedule-in-march-first-week-sources-191262">the total number of electors</a> in the last electoral roll, 1,38,14,866, published on January 10, 2018, according to the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) here.

"The total number electors (in Delhi) during last general elections in 2014 were 1,27,06,366, whereas the count of electors as per the final roll published January 18, stands at 1,36,95,291, an increase of 9,88,925 (or 7.78 per cent)," according to the CEO office.

The number of electors is likely to increase during continuous update process undertaken before the next elections due in 2019, it said.

Also, there was a decrease in the number of both male and female voters vis-a-vis the one published last year.

The number of male, female and third gender electors are 75,56,146, 61,38,335 and 810 respectively, according to the latest draft roll. The corresponding numbers for the final roll last year were 76,42,521, 61,71,469 and 876.

Names of 9,326 electors, who have died, have been deleted from the electoral roll since the last final publication of the roll, it said.

The gender ratio of electors registered in the final roll has increased to 812 as compared to 808 in the last one&nbsp;

"There has been a substantive increase in the gender ratio of voters of age-group 18-19, from 632 last year to 706 in the present year," it added.

The CEO office said a detailed exercise of rationalisation of polling stations was also carried out as a pre-revision activity to the Special Summary Revision 2019 in July-August, 2018 to decongest the existing polling stations.

"As a result of this exercise, the number of polling stations has increased from 13,418 to 13,816 and number of polling locations has increased from 2,670 to 2,696," a senior official said.

A house-to-house verification was carried out as part of the Special Summary Revision 2019 from June 1-30, 2018 wherein such visits were conducted by the Booth Level Officers (BLOs) for identification and removal of the dead/permanently shifted electors and inclusion of left out unenrolled/prospective electors in Delhi, he said.

Delhi's draft electoral roll published September 1 last year had shown a dip of over 1.4 lakh in the total number of electors in the city compared to the draft list the previous year, with authorities attributing "death and migration" of voters as the main reasons behind the fall in number.

The total number of electors in Delhi stood at 1,36,15,776 in the draft roll and there was a decrease in the number of both male and female voters vis-a-vis the corresponding one published on October 23, 2017.&nbsp;

The number of electors is likely to increase during continuous update process undertaken before the next elections due in 2019, the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) said.

Over 1.36 crore voters are there in Delhi in the final electoral roll published Friday ahead of the 2019 general elections, an increase of nearly 8 per cent from the total number of electors in the last Lok Sabha polls, officials said. However, the figure is 0.87 per cent less than the total number of electors in the last electoral roll, 1,38,14,866, published on January 10, 2018, according to the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) here. "The total number electors (in Delhi) during last general elections in 2014 were 1,27,06,366, whereas the count of electors as per the final roll published January 18, stands at 1,36,95,291, an increase of 9,88,925 (or 7.78 per cent)," according to the CEO office. The number of electors is likely to increase during continuous update process undertaken before the next elections due in 2019, it said. Also, there was a decrease in the number of both male and female voters vis-a-vis the one published last year. The number of male, female and third gender electors are 75,56,146, 61,38,335 and 810 respectively, according to the latest draft roll. The corresponding numbers for the final roll last year were 76,42,521, 61,71,469 and 876. Names of 9,326 electors, who have died, have been deleted from the electoral roll since the last final publication of the roll, it said. The gender ratio of electors registered in the final roll has increased to 812 as compared to 808 in the last one "There has been a substantive increase in the gender ratio of voters of age-group 18-19, from 632 last year to 706 in the present year," it added. The CEO office said a detailed exercise of rationalisation of polling stations was also carried out as a pre-revision activity to the Special Summary Revision 2019 in July-August, 2018 to decongest the existing polling stations. "As a result of this exercise, the number of polling stations has increased from 13,418 to 13,816 and number of polling locations has increased from 2,670 to 2,696," a senior official said. A house-to-house verification was carried out as part of the Special Summary Revision 2019 from June 1-30, 2018 wherein such visits were conducted by the Booth Level Officers (BLOs) for identification and removal of the dead/permanently shifted electors and inclusion of left out unenrolled/prospective electors in Delhi, he said. Delhi's draft electoral roll published September 1 last year had shown a dip of over 1.4 lakh in the total number of electors in the city compared to the draft list the previous year, with authorities attributing "death and migration" of voters as the main reasons behind the fall in number. The total number of electors in Delhi stood at 1,36,15,776 in the draft roll and there was a decrease in the number of both male and female voters vis-a-vis the corresponding one published on October 23, 2017.

Lok Sabha polls: Over 1.36 crore voters from Delhi in final electoral roll

Unveiling the poll strategy for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi on Saturday said that he was proud that his government has won the trust of the people and has a spotless image.

Addressing the Bhartiya Janata Party's National Convention meeting in Delhi, Modi said that&nbsp;his party's only mantra was 'sabka saath sabka vikas' and they have shown 'how it can take the nation to its peak'.

"It has happened for the first time in the history of the country that a government that came into power with an absolute majority has not been accused of corruption. We can take pride in the fact that there is no taint on us," Modi said.

He also hailed the government's decision of providing 10&nbsp;per cent quota for the poor.

"10&nbsp;per cent quota given to economically backward classes to meet expectations of youths who were not getting opportunities due to poverty, " Modi&nbsp;said.

He said his government was working for the welfare of the farmers and to double their income by 2022.

"Earlier governments saw annadata (farmers) as only matdata (voters), we are constantly trying to address challenges faced by them. We are working day and night to double farmers' income by 2022, ".

The prime minister also took aim at the opposition's effort to build&nbsp;a grand alliance against his party.

"These days, a campaign is going on to publicise a failed experiment in the history of Indian politics by the name of "mahagathbandhan". These people are trying to make a 'majboor sarkaar'. They don't want a 'majboot sarkar' to get formed &amp; their shop to get closed again," Modi said.

"Important initiatives have been taken up in last four years for women empowerment. People made fun of ' Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' for political opposition, but we have come a long way to free society of wrong beliefs that existed for decades," he said.

"Bank gave loans of Rs 18 lakh crore in 60 years and Rs 34 lakh crore in last six years of Congress governance. There were two means of taking loans in the country. One common process and the other Congress process. In the Congress process, banks were forced to give loans to fraudster friends," he added.

Targeting the UPA government, the prime minister said the previous government was tainted with corruption.

"The government before us pushed the country into darkness. It won't be wrong if I say that India lost ten important years (2004-2014) in scams and corruption, "he said.

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PM Narendra Modi at BJP National Convention in Delhi: The government before us pushed the country into darkness. It won't be wrong if I say that India lost 10 important years (2004-2014) in scams and corruption. <a href="https://t.co/5Or2XzTOrW">pic.twitter.com/5Or2XzTOrW</a>
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(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Unveiling the poll strategy for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that he was proud that his government has won the trust of the people and has a spotless image.

Unveiling the poll strategy for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that he was proud that his government has won the trust of the people and has a spotless image. Addressing the Bhartiya Janata Party's National Convention meeting in Delhi, Modi said that his party's only mantra was 'sabka saath sabka vikas' and they have shown 'how it can take the nation to its peak'. "It has happened for the first time in the history of the country that a government that came into power with an absolute majority has not been accused of corruption. We can take pride in the fact that there is no taint on us," Modi said. He also hailed the government's decision of providing 10 per cent quota for the poor. "10 per cent quota given to economically backward classes to meet expectations of youths who were not getting opportunities due to poverty, " Modi said. He said his government was working for the welfare of the farmers and to double their income by 2022. "Earlier governments saw annadata (farmers) as only matdata (voters), we are constantly trying to address challenges faced by them. We are working day and night to double farmers' income by 2022, ". The prime minister also took aim at the opposition's effort to build a grand alliance against his party. "These days, a campaign is going on to publicise a failed experiment in the history of Indian politics by the name of "mahagathbandhan". These people are trying to make a 'majboor sarkaar'. They don't want a 'majboot sarkar' to get formed & their shop to get closed again," Modi said. "Important initiatives have been taken up in last four years for women empowerment. People made fun of ' Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' for political opposition, but we have come a long way to free society of wrong beliefs that existed for decades," he said. "Bank gave loans of Rs 18 lakh crore in 60 years and Rs 34 lakh crore in last six years of Congress governance. There were two means of taking loans in the country. One common process and the other Congress process. In the Congress process, banks were forced to give loans to fraudster friends," he added. Targeting the UPA government, the prime minister said the previous government was tainted with corruption. "The government before us pushed the country into darkness. It won't be wrong if I say that India lost ten important years (2004-2014) in scams and corruption, "he said. PM Narendra Modi at BJP National Convention in Delhi: The government before us pushed the country into darkness. It won't be wrong if I say that India lost 10 important years (2004-2014) in scams and corruption. pic.twitter.com/5Or2XzTOrW — ANI (@ANI) January 12, 2019 × (With inputs from agencies)

We can take pride in the fact that there is no taint on us: PM Modi

Polling stations in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo opened on Sunday for a presidential election that could lead to the country`s first democratic transfer of power but has been marred by campaign violence and chaotic preparations.&nbsp;

President Joseph Kabila, in power since his father's assassination in 2001, is due to step down after the vote in a milestone for a country plagued by authoritarian rule, coups and civil wars since independence from Belgium in 1960.

A Reuters witness in the eastern city of Goma said polls opened at 6 a.m (0400 GMT). Due to the time difference, voting is scheduled to start an hour later in western parts of the country. The last polls close at 5 p.m., although voting will continue for those still in line.&nbsp;

Kabila`s agreement to stick to constitutional term limits should represent progress for the mineral-rich central African country.

Critics, however, say the vote will be tarnished by fraud, and that Kabila could continue to rule from the sidelines. He has not ruled out running again for president in 2023.

Despite repeated delays to the election, which was originally meant to take place in 2016, diplomats and poll observers say authorities are ill-prepared, raising fears of a repeat of the violence that followed elections in 2006 and 2011.

Security forces killed more than half a dozen opposition supporters on the campaign trail and violent protests erupted this week after authorities announced that three opposition strongholds, accounting for more than 1.2 million out of 40 million voters nationwide, would not be able to vote due to health risks from an ongoing Ebola outbreak and ethnic violence.&nbsp;

Foreign diplomats told Reuters on Friday that only about 60 per cent of voting materials across the country were in place, and election observers said polling stations in the capital Kinshasa would struggle to accommodate all voters during voting hours.&nbsp;

Opponents fear vote rigging

Opponents of Kabila say the government is trying to tip the election in favour of his preferred successor, former interior minister Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, whom opinion polls show trailing two opposition candidates.&nbsp;

The most recent poll released by New York University's Congo Research Group on Friday showed former Exxon Mobil manager and opposition lawmaker Martin Fayulu leading the race on 47 per cent.&nbsp;

Another opposition leader, Felix Tshisekedi, trailed with 24 per cent, while Shadary got 19 per cent.&nbsp;

Both Fayulu and Tshisekedi have spoken confidently of victory, but Shadary has big institutional advantages, including round-the-clock coverage on state media. Kabila appointees also dominate national institutions.

"Tomorrow I will be president," Shadary told Reuters on Saturday by phone.&nbsp;

His opponents accuse the ruling coalition of preparing outright vote rigging, with much of their scepticism focused on largely untested electronic voting machines that are being used for the first time.&nbsp;

The national electoral commission (CENI) has tried to reassure the opposition by saying that only print-outs from the machines counted by hand will be factored into the official results.&nbsp;

But any disputed outcome could lead to a wider security breakdown across Congo, particularly along its eastern borders with Rwanda, Uganda and Burundi, where dozens of armed militia are active.

Polling stations in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo opened on Sunday for a presidential election that could lead to the country`s first democratic transfer of power but has been marred by campaign violence and chaotic preparations.

Polling stations in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo opened on Sunday for a presidential election that could lead to the country`s first democratic transfer of power but has been marred by campaign violence and chaotic preparations. President Joseph Kabila, in power since his father's assassination in 2001, is due to step down after the vote in a milestone for a country plagued by authoritarian rule, coups and civil wars since independence from Belgium in 1960. A Reuters witness in the eastern city of Goma said polls opened at 6 a.m (0400 GMT). Due to the time difference, voting is scheduled to start an hour later in western parts of the country. The last polls close at 5 p.m., although voting will continue for those still in line. Kabila`s agreement to stick to constitutional term limits should represent progress for the mineral-rich central African country. Critics, however, say the vote will be tarnished by fraud, and that Kabila could continue to rule from the sidelines. He has not ruled out running again for president in 2023. Despite repeated delays to the election, which was originally meant to take place in 2016, diplomats and poll observers say authorities are ill-prepared, raising fears of a repeat of the violence that followed elections in 2006 and 2011. Security forces killed more than half a dozen opposition supporters on the campaign trail and violent protests erupted this week after authorities announced that three opposition strongholds, accounting for more than 1.2 million out of 40 million voters nationwide, would not be able to vote due to health risks from an ongoing Ebola outbreak and ethnic violence. Foreign diplomats told Reuters on Friday that only about 60 per cent of voting materials across the country were in place, and election observers said polling stations in the capital Kinshasa would struggle to accommodate all voters during voting hours. Opponents fear vote rigging Opponents of Kabila say the government is trying to tip the election in favour of his preferred successor, former interior minister Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, whom opinion polls show trailing two opposition candidates. The most recent poll released by New York University's Congo Research Group on Friday showed former Exxon Mobil manager and opposition lawmaker Martin Fayulu leading the race on 47 per cent. Another opposition leader, Felix Tshisekedi, trailed with 24 per cent, while Shadary got 19 per cent. Both Fayulu and Tshisekedi have spoken confidently of victory, but Shadary has big institutional advantages, including round-the-clock coverage on state media. Kabila appointees also dominate national institutions. "Tomorrow I will be president," Shadary told Reuters on Saturday by phone. His opponents accuse the ruling coalition of preparing outright vote rigging, with much of their scepticism focused on largely untested electronic voting machines that are being used for the first time. The national electoral commission (CENI) has tried to reassure the opposition by saying that only print-outs from the machines counted by hand will be factored into the official results. But any disputed outcome could lead to a wider security breakdown across Congo, particularly along its eastern borders with Rwanda, Uganda and Burundi, where dozens of armed militia are active.

Congo heads to polls for tense, long-delayed presidential vote

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