The countdown for electing a new president in Sri Lanka has now begun and it's going to be a three-way fight as three candidates were nominated today to replace the former Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa. The Sri Lankan parliament will vote for a new leader of the country tomorrow.

Sri Lanka to elect new President, 3 candidates file nomination for Presidential race

United States is coming closer to hold the midterm elections in the state of Alaska. Former US president Donald Trump was seen campaigning in the save America rally for Sarah Palin & Kelly Tshibaka.

Donald Trump endorses Sarah Palin & Kelly Tshibaka for mid-term election

Sara Duterte-Carpio has been sworn in as the 15th Vice President of Philippines. She's the daughter of the outgoing Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte and she's called for national unity following a very divisive election campaign.

Philippines Vice President sworn-in: Sara Duterte-Carpio calls for national unity

In a huge shock, French President Emmanuel Macron has lost absolute majority in the National Assembly in legislative elections on Sunday. The loss of control of the National Assembly is a major setback as it can throw the nation into political paralysis. Now, Macron needs to get support from other parties and build a stable alliance. In the near-final results, a left-wing alliance has become the biggest opposition groups. The far-right has witnessed record-high wins while the conservatives seem to have become likely kingmakers. The outcome of the elections was a "democratic shock", said Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire. He added that if the other blocs do not cooperate, "this would block our capacity to reform and protect the French." &nbsp;

Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne said, "The result is a risk for our country in view of the challenges we have to face." From Monday, Macron's camp will work to seek alliances, the leader added.&nbsp;If gridlock ensues, the president can also call a snap election. "The rout of the presidential party is complete and there is no clear majority in sight," hard-left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon told supporters.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moment-of-reckoning-for-macron-as-2nd-round-of-french-parliamentary-elections-kick-off-489661" hreflang="en">Moment of reckoning for Macron as French Parliamentary elections kick-off</a>

Not just this, National Rally party of far-right leader Marine Le Pen has posted a ten-fold increase in MPs. It will get around 90-95 seats as per the initial projections by OpinionWay, pollsters Ifop, Elabe and Ipsos. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Big win for the French left alliance as France stares at a political gridlock

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Macron’s Ensemble alliance seems to have got around 230-250 seats, the left-wing Nupes alliance bagged 141-175 and Les Republicains secured 60-75.&nbsp;For an absolute majority, at least 289 seats are needed in the lower house.

"There are moderates on the benches, on the right, on the left. There are moderate Socialists and there are people on the right who, perhaps, on legislation, will be on our side," government spokeswoman Olivia Gregoire said. &nbsp;

Watch WION's live TV here:

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

In a huge shock, French President Emmanuel Macron has lost absolute majority in the National Assembly in legislative elections on Sunday. The loss of control of the National Assembly is a major setback as it can throw the nation into political paralysis.

In a huge shock, French President Emmanuel Macron has lost absolute majority in the National Assembly in legislative elections on Sunday. The loss of control of the National Assembly is a major setback as it can throw the nation into political paralysis. Now, Macron needs to get support from other parties and build a stable alliance. In the near-final results, a left-wing alliance has become the biggest opposition groups. The far-right has witnessed record-high wins while the conservatives seem to have become likely kingmakers. The outcome of the elections was a "democratic shock", said Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire. He added that if the other blocs do not cooperate, "this would block our capacity to reform and protect the French." Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne said, "The result is a risk for our country in view of the challenges we have to face." From Monday, Macron's camp will work to seek alliances, the leader added. If gridlock ensues, the president can also call a snap election. "The rout of the presidential party is complete and there is no clear majority in sight," hard-left leader Jean-Luc Melenchon told supporters. Also Read: Moment of reckoning for Macron as French Parliamentary elections kick-off Not just this, National Rally party of far-right leader Marine Le Pen has posted a ten-fold increase in MPs. It will get around 90-95 seats as per the initial projections by OpinionWay, pollsters Ifop, Elabe and Ipsos. Watch: Big win for the French left alliance as France stares at a political gridlock × Macron’s Ensemble alliance seems to have got around 230-250 seats, the left-wing Nupes alliance bagged 141-175 and Les Republicains secured 60-75. For an absolute majority, at least 289 seats are needed in the lower house. "There are moderates on the benches, on the right, on the left. There are moderate Socialists and there are people on the right who, perhaps, on legislation, will be on our side," government spokeswoman Olivia Gregoire said. Watch WION's live TV here: (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

In legislative polls, French President Emmanuel Macron loses majority in parliament

It is a battle of former mayors as Colombia's Presidential polls underway. On one side is Gustavo Petro a rebel-turned politician who was the former mayor of Bogota, on the other hand, is Rodolfo Hernández Suárez so-called TikTok king. For more perspective on this, we're joined by Emily Hart, Journalist from Colombia.

Colombia's Presidential polls: Will Petro become Colombia's first left-wing president?

The French people will vote in the final round of the general election on June 19. One month after his re-election as French president, Emmanuel Macron is expecting to keep his majority in parliament, but he is up against a new left-wing super alliance.

Macron's legislators and the left-wing alliance both received 25% of first-round votes last week, putting them in a dead heat heading into Sunday's election. The French people will vote in a national election for the fourth and last time this year.

The critical, last vote for all 577 French MPs will take place this Sunday, following two rounds of presidential elections and the first round of the general election.

Watch | French Parliamentary Elections: A majority far from certain for Macron?

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The president is urging voters to give his party a majority in parliament so he can carry out proposed reforms like increasing the retirement age and restructuring the pension system.

While his party's poll numbers remain stagnant, the president has been making efforts, including his first trip to Ukraine since the war began. The opposition denounced the visit as opportunistic.

The left's super-coalition, which did well in the first round, aims to promote social justice and far-reaching environmental legislation. Its triumph has sparked speculation about the possibility of a 'cohabitation' government, in which the president and prime minister are from rival political parties.

Macron's programme will only be implemented if he can secure a majority in parliament.

If he fails this Sunday, the opposition will have more power to delay and oppose his policy initiatives. 
&nbsp;

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The French people will vote in the final round of the general election on June 19. One month after his re-election as French president, Emmanuel Macron is expecting to keep his majority in parliament, but he is up against a new left-wing super alliance.

The French people will vote in the final round of the general election on June 19. One month after his re-election as French president, Emmanuel Macron is expecting to keep his majority in parliament, but he is up against a new left-wing super alliance. Macron's legislators and the left-wing alliance both received 25% of first-round votes last week, putting them in a dead heat heading into Sunday's election. The French people will vote in a national election for the fourth and last time this year. The critical, last vote for all 577 French MPs will take place this Sunday, following two rounds of presidential elections and the first round of the general election. Watch | French Parliamentary Elections: A majority far from certain for Macron? The president is urging voters to give his party a majority in parliament so he can carry out proposed reforms like increasing the retirement age and restructuring the pension system. While his party's poll numbers remain stagnant, the president has been making efforts, including his first trip to Ukraine since the war began. The opposition denounced the visit as opportunistic. The left's super-coalition, which did well in the first round, aims to promote social justice and far-reaching environmental legislation. Its triumph has sparked speculation about the possibility of a 'cohabitation' government, in which the president and prime minister are from rival political parties. Macron's programme will only be implemented if he can secure a majority in parliament. If he fails this Sunday, the opposition will have more power to delay and oppose his policy initiatives. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French elections: Emmanuel Macron ask voters for 'solid majority' in polls

The streets of German towns and cities are full of political posters and billboards as the country heads to the polls on September 26. The ones most likely to stop commuters are with ones drenched in traffic-light red. &nbsp;

With the colour scheme of red and white, the posters vouch for Social Democrat Olaf Scholz. Scholz has unexpectedly jostled himself into pole position to succeed the outgoing chancellor Angela Merkel.

Watch:&nbsp;Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha wins votes of confidence

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Olaf Scholz was vice-chancellor in Germany’s coalition government for four years. Scholz seems to be convincing the public in a better way that he can be the next chancellor than Armin Laschet, the contender, which has been fielded by Merkel’s party. &nbsp;

The polls showed last week that Scholz’s centre-left Social Democratic party (SPD) is leading Laschet’s Christian Democratic Union by around 3-5 percentage points. This position was last enjoyed by Germany’s oldest existing party when it won the federal elections under Gerhard Schröder in 2002. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-inquiry-former-aide-of-prince-charles-steps-down-as-charity-boss-410850" hreflang="en">Amid inquiry, former aide of Prince Charles steps down as charity boss</a>

The SPD’s campaign is purely focused around the man it wants to push into the top seat. It has been devised by Raphael Brinkert, a sports marketing specialist, who has run campaigns for footballers like Leon Goretzka and Joshua Kimmich. It shows Scholz as a competent technocrat. &nbsp;

“The SPD has come up with the perfect campaign. It is 100% in tune with Scholz’s message,” said Frank Stauss, a political communication expert.&nbsp;

The streets of German towns and cities are full of political posters and billboards as the country heads to the polls on September 26. The ones most likely to stop commuters are with ones drenched in traffic-light red.

The streets of German towns and cities are full of political posters and billboards as the country heads to the polls on September 26. The ones most likely to stop commuters are with ones drenched in traffic-light red. With the colour scheme of red and white, the posters vouch for Social Democrat Olaf Scholz. Scholz has unexpectedly jostled himself into pole position to succeed the outgoing chancellor Angela Merkel. Watch: Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha wins votes of confidence × Olaf Scholz was vice-chancellor in Germany’s coalition government for four years. Scholz seems to be convincing the public in a better way that he can be the next chancellor than Armin Laschet, the contender, which has been fielded by Merkel’s party. The polls showed last week that Scholz’s centre-left Social Democratic party (SPD) is leading Laschet’s Christian Democratic Union by around 3-5 percentage points. This position was last enjoyed by Germany’s oldest existing party when it won the federal elections under Gerhard Schröder in 2002. Also Read: Amid inquiry, former aide of Prince Charles steps down as charity boss The SPD’s campaign is purely focused around the man it wants to push into the top seat. It has been devised by Raphael Brinkert, a sports marketing specialist, who has run campaigns for footballers like Leon Goretzka and Joshua Kimmich. It shows Scholz as a competent technocrat. “The SPD has come up with the perfect campaign. It is 100% in tune with Scholz’s message,” said Frank Stauss, a political communication expert.

Scholz may be next German chancellor, all thanks to robust poll campaign

Months have passed in Sri Lanka's political and economic instability still continues to this day. In the latest, the country's Election Commission chairman has now said that Sri Lanka cannot go for an election until the economic crisis is addressed.

'No polls in Sri Lanka until economic crisis are addressed,' says EC Chairma

As Colombia hopes for change with its presidential elections on May 29th, all candidates met for a final debate on Friday. While the race is between Petro and Gutierrez, Petro takes 40% opinion poll votes.

Colombia Presidential election: Petro and Gutierrez go head to head

Iran-backed Hezbollah and its allies are likely to lose their majority in Lebanon's parliament following Sunday's elections, in a major blow to the heavily armed faction that reflects anger with ruling parties.

Lebanon Parliamentary Poll Results: Hezbollah group and allies are likely to suffer loses

Millions have begun voting for a new president, poll suggests that son of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos is headed to win the high-stakes election. Across the Archipelago with a population of more than 109 million over 65 million Filipinos are eligible to vote and elect a new president.

Voting underway in Philippines: Marcos junior, son of former dictator is the front runner

The Philippines will elect a new president on May 9. President Rodrigo Duterte is leaving office with a reputation for brutality. Watch this report to know all about the presidential race.

Philippines election: Key things to know about the presidential race

The Philippines is all set to choose President Rodrigo Duterte's successor, the country will cast its vote on May 9. Ahead of elections, Ex-Dictator's son leads in opinion polls.

Ex-Dictator's son leads in opinion polls ahead of Philippines Presidential polls

The Philippines is all set to choose President Rodrigo Duterte's successor, the country will cast its vote on May 9. Ahead of elections, Marcos junior leads in opinion polls.

The Philippines Presidential elections: Marcos junior leads in opinion polls

The Philippines is to choose President Rodrigo Duterte's successor three weeks from now. The citizens of the country will cast its votes on May 9th.

The Philippines Presidential polls: Political battle escalates 3 weeks ahead of polls

In France, the race is tightening between the two front runners for the April 24th run off. Far right leader and candidate Marine Le Pen is staging a comeback in the polls as the presidential campaign gains momentum.

French Presidential Elections: Marine Le Pen gains momentum ahead of polls

France is all set to go to polls. French President Emmanuel Macron is aiming for a second term. There are 12 presidential candidates with six main contenders. But how does the electoral process work in France? Will Macron secure a second term? What are the big issues in the French Presidential poll?

France's electoral system explained: Will Emmanuel Macron win 2nd term?

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has declared victory in 1st round of polls. What will Vucic's victory mean for Europe? Watch this report to know more.

Serbia: President Aleksandar Vucic declares victory in 1st round

North Korea is at it again. It has fired at least one suspected ballistic missile towards the sea to the east of the Korean peninsula on Saturday, militaries in the region said. &nbsp;

It is its ninth missile test of the year. This test has come just days before the South Korea's presidential election. &nbsp;

The launch appeared to have involved a suspected ballistic missile, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff and the office of Japan's Prime Minister said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finally-us-navy-recovers-crashed-f-35c-lightning-ii-aircraft-from-south-china-sea-458883" hreflang="en">Finally, US Navy recovers crashed F-35C Lightning II aircraft from South China Sea</a>

The Saturday's launch came from a location near Sunan, where Pyongyang's international airport is located, the South Korean military said. &nbsp;

Japan's Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi said, "This launch comes at a time when international society is dealing with the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and also when the Beijing Paralympics is being held... and it is not acceptable." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-intensifies-crackdown-on-fake-reports-blocks-twitter-facebook-459123">Russia intensifies crackdown on 'fake' reports, blocks Twitter, Facebook &nbsp;</a>

"The significant pace at which North Korea is developing its missile-launching technology is not something our country and the surrounding regions can overlook," Kishi added. &nbsp;

The North Korean projectile reached a height of 550 kilometres (340 miles) and flew a distance of 300 kilometres (190 miles), Kishi further added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

South Korea's National Security Council will hold an emergency meeting, the presidential Blue House said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

North Korea is at it again. It has fired at least one suspected ballistic missile towards the sea to the east of the Korean peninsula on Saturday, militaries in the region said.

North Korea is at it again. It has fired at least one suspected ballistic missile towards the sea to the east of the Korean peninsula on Saturday, militaries in the region said. It is its ninth missile test of the year. This test has come just days before the South Korea's presidential election. The launch appeared to have involved a suspected ballistic missile, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff and the office of Japan's Prime Minister said. Also Read: Finally, US Navy recovers crashed F-35C Lightning II aircraft from South China Sea The Saturday's launch came from a location near Sunan, where Pyongyang's international airport is located, the South Korean military said. Japan's Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi said, "This launch comes at a time when international society is dealing with the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and also when the Beijing Paralympics is being held... and it is not acceptable." Also Read: Russia intensifies crackdown on 'fake' reports, blocks Twitter, Facebook "The significant pace at which North Korea is developing its missile-launching technology is not something our country and the surrounding regions can overlook," Kishi added. The North Korean projectile reached a height of 550 kilometres (340 miles) and flew a distance of 300 kilometres (190 miles), Kishi further added. South Korea's National Security Council will hold an emergency meeting, the presidential Blue House said. (With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of South Korea’s polls, Kim Jong-led North holds 2022’s ninth missile test

Residents of Tamil Nadu’s Coimbatore city were in for a surprise when they witnessed a foreigner campaigning for the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party for the urban body elections.

Negoita Stefan Marius, a Romanian national who is on a business trip to India, was seen draped in a red and black shawl (DMK party colours) and distributing propaganda pamphlets of the ruling party.

Marius was reportedly impressed with the schemes rolled by the DMK party, especially the free bus travel for women.

Videos of Marius riding&nbsp;a bike and distributing propaganda pamphlets went viral on social media, where he was hailed by the supporters of the ruling party.&nbsp;

In two separate clips, Stefan was purportedly seen roaming around Coimbatore without a face mask and endorsing Chief Minister MK Stalin.

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Thread: Romanian national on business Visa, Stefan Marius seen campaigning for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DMK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DMK</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LocalBodyElection?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LocalBodyElection</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coimbatore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Coimbatore</a> 
 
They say, he was impressed with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TNGovt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TNGovt</a> scheme to provide free bus passes for women, enabling free travel on Govt buses <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Politics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Politics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNews</a> 
 
(1/n) <a href="https://t.co/vQB9cp11I3">pic.twitter.com/vQB9cp11I3</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1494313374741839886?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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However, the clips also caught the attention of the Indian immigration authorities who have called in Marius to explain his actions.

According to reports, the immigration authorities have sent a letter to Marius saying that he violated the Indian visa rules by campaigning for a political party.

They have asked the Romanian national to appear in-person at the Chennai office of the immigration department (Foreign Regional Registration office) with his original documents and offer an explanation by Friday (February 18) afternoon.

The letter mentions that if he fails to comply with the missive, he would be liable for prosecution under Section 14 of the Foreigners Act, 1946.

However, the authenticity of the letter could not be verified independently, as the officials&nbsp;concerned were not available for comments.

Residents of Tamil Nadu’s Coimbatore city were in for a surprise when they witnessed a foreigner campaigning for the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party for the urban body elections.

Residents of Tamil Nadu’s Coimbatore city were in for a surprise when they witnessed a foreigner campaigning for the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party for the urban body elections. Negoita Stefan Marius, a Romanian national who is on a business trip to India, was seen draped in a red and black shawl (DMK party colours) and distributing propaganda pamphlets of the ruling party. Marius was reportedly impressed with the schemes rolled by the DMK party, especially the free bus travel for women. Videos of Marius riding a bike and distributing propaganda pamphlets went viral on social media, where he was hailed by the supporters of the ruling party. In two separate clips, Stefan was purportedly seen roaming around Coimbatore without a face mask and endorsing Chief Minister MK Stalin. Thread: Romanian national on business Visa, Stefan Marius seen campaigning for #DMK in #LocalBodyElection in #Coimbatore They say, he was impressed with #TNGovt scheme to provide free bus passes for women, enabling free travel on Govt buses #Politics #India #TamilNews (1/n) pic.twitter.com/vQB9cp11I3 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) February 17, 2022 × However, the clips also caught the attention of the Indian immigration authorities who have called in Marius to explain his actions. According to reports, the immigration authorities have sent a letter to Marius saying that he violated the Indian visa rules by campaigning for a political party. They have asked the Romanian national to appear in-person at the Chennai office of the immigration department (Foreign Regional Registration office) with his original documents and offer an explanation by Friday (February 18) afternoon. The letter mentions that if he fails to comply with the missive, he would be liable for prosecution under Section 14 of the Foreigners Act, 1946. However, the authenticity of the letter could not be verified independently, as the officials concerned were not available for comments.

Romanian national in trouble for canvassing votes for ruling party in Tamil Nadu polls

The high stakes election battle in Uttar Pradesh began on Thursday&nbsp;(February 10).

The first phase of the polling is scheduled to take place in 58 assembly seats spread across 11 districts in the western part of the state.

The most populous state will witness a four-way battle between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), against Samajwadi Party (SP), the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), and the Congress party.

For the 58 seats, including the nine reserved seats, a total of 623 candidates would be contesting, for which around 2.27 crore people would be voting in this phase.&nbsp;

The first phase will cover the Jat community-dominated belt of the western UP from where farmers had participated actively in the protest against the Centre's three agri laws in the national capital Delhi.

In 2017, the BJP bagged 53 of the 58 seats, while the Samajwadi Party and the BSP won only two seats each.

The voting will be held between 7 am and 6 pm. The counting of votes will take place on March 10.

The polling will be held using COVID-19 safety protocols and the guidelines as issued by the Election Commission.

While voters are required to wear masks, maintain social distance and use sanitiser during voting, the election officials will also be given a Covid kit to conduct the election smoothly.

Thermal scanning of all persons will be carried out before allowing them to enter the EVM room. The election commission may reserve the last one hour of the polling for COVID positive voters.

The exit poll for the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections will be declared on March 7 after the conclusion of the last phase of polls in UP.

The high stakes election battle in Uttar Pradesh began on Thursday (February 10). The first phase of the polling is scheduled to take place in 58 assembly seats spread across 11 districts in the western part of the state.

The high stakes election battle in Uttar Pradesh began on Thursday (February 10). The first phase of the polling is scheduled to take place in 58 assembly seats spread across 11 districts in the western part of the state. The most populous state will witness a four-way battle between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), against Samajwadi Party (SP), the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), and the Congress party. For the 58 seats, including the nine reserved seats, a total of 623 candidates would be contesting, for which around 2.27 crore people would be voting in this phase. The first phase will cover the Jat community-dominated belt of the western UP from where farmers had participated actively in the protest against the Centre's three agri laws in the national capital Delhi. In 2017, the BJP bagged 53 of the 58 seats, while the Samajwadi Party and the BSP won only two seats each. The voting will be held between 7 am and 6 pm. The counting of votes will take place on March 10. The polling will be held using COVID-19 safety protocols and the guidelines as issued by the Election Commission. While voters are required to wear masks, maintain social distance and use sanitiser during voting, the election officials will also be given a Covid kit to conduct the election smoothly. Thermal scanning of all persons will be carried out before allowing them to enter the EVM room. The election commission may reserve the last one hour of the polling for COVID positive voters. The exit poll for the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections will be declared on March 7 after the conclusion of the last phase of polls in UP.

Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections 2022: All you need to know about phase-I voting

The poll season is back in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The ruling party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Saturday announced the names of 107 candidates for the assembly polls in the state. &nbsp;

The incumbent Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been fielded from Gorakhpur city. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-narendra-modi-interacts-with-startups-calls-for-innovating-for-india-from-india-444939" hreflang="en">Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with startups, calls for innovating 'for India, from India' &nbsp;</a>

Although the elections for the 403-member Uttar Pradesh assembly will be held in seven phases, the party has announced the names of the candidates for the seats, which are going to the polls in the first two phases. &nbsp;

The elections in the state will begin from February 10. &nbsp;

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Joint press conference by Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/dpradhanbjp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dpradhanbjp</a> and Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/ArunSinghbjp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArunSinghbjp</a> at BJP HQ in New Delhi. <a href="https://t.co/gTvtrQUbPT">https://t.co/gTvtrQUbPT</a>
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During a press conference at the BJP's headquarters, Uttar Pradesh in-charge and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan along with the party general secretary Arun Singh released the list. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/general-bipin-rawat-copter-crash-what-is-controlled-flight-into-terrain-444914" hreflang="en">General Bipin Rawat copter crash: What is Controlled Flight into Terrain?</a>

CM Adityanath will be the candidate of the party from Gorakhpur City and Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya will contest from Sirathu, said Pradhan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"The BJP has provided welfare and sensitive governance in Uttar Pradesh in the last five years. We are confident that the people of UP will again bless us in this great festival of 2022 with the same clarity," the BJP tweeted quoting Pradhan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The poll season is back in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The ruling party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Saturday announced the names of 107 candidates for the assembly polls in the state.

The poll season is back in Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. The ruling party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Saturday announced the names of 107 candidates for the assembly polls in the state. The incumbent Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been fielded from Gorakhpur city. Also Read: Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with startups, calls for innovating 'for India, from India' Although the elections for the 403-member Uttar Pradesh assembly will be held in seven phases, the party has announced the names of the candidates for the seats, which are going to the polls in the first two phases. The elections in the state will begin from February 10. Joint press conference by Shri @dpradhanbjp and Shri @ArunSinghbjp at BJP HQ in New Delhi. https://t.co/gTvtrQUbPT — BJP (@BJP4India) January 15, 2022 × During a press conference at the BJP's headquarters, Uttar Pradesh in-charge and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan along with the party general secretary Arun Singh released the list. Also Read: General Bipin Rawat copter crash: What is Controlled Flight into Terrain? CM Adityanath will be the candidate of the party from Gorakhpur City and Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya will contest from Sirathu, said Pradhan. "The BJP has provided welfare and sensitive governance in Uttar Pradesh in the last five years. We are confident that the people of UP will again bless us in this great festival of 2022 with the same clarity," the BJP tweeted quoting Pradhan. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP announces list of names of 107 candidates for polls in India’s UP state

As per the results of two polls released on Sunday, one year after the violent assault on the US Capitol, Americans remain genuinely concerned about the health of their democracy, with approximately a third believing that violence against the government can occasionally be justifiable.

According to two-thirds of those polled for a CBS News poll, the attack on the House of Representatives on January 6 was "a precursor of growing political violence," and American democracy "is jeopardised."

Meanwhile, according to a Washington Post/University of Maryland poll, Americans' "pride" in their democracy has decreased dramatically, from 90 percent in 2002 to 54 percent currently.

With the anniversary of January 6 approaching, polls show that there are several reasons to be concerned:

According to CBS, 28% of respondents feel force can be used to defend an election result, while 34% told The Washington Post that a violent action against the government can be justified on rare occasions — the highest percentage in decades.

The findings highlight the seemingly incompatible viewpoints that divide American society, which President Joe Biden, who entered office 14 days after the Capitol riots, has sought to bridge.

Two-thirds of Trump supporters believe Trump's baseless claim that Biden is not the democratically elected president.

Shortly before the Capitol assault, Trump addressed thousands of supporters, urging them that the election was "rigged" and that they should "fight like hell."

Sixty per cent of those polled believe Trump is to blame for the Capitol invasion, which occurred just as lawmakers were about to recognise Biden's victory. 
 
Watch | Gravitas: US&nbsp;Capitol: How the World reacted

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-capitol-how-the-world-reacted-355235/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

'Coordinated effort'

There again, opinion follows partisan lines: 83 percent of Trump voters placed his level of responsibility at only "some" or "none," the Post survey found.

And 26 percent of Americans want him to run again in 2024, according to CBS.

A select committee of the House of Representatives has spent months working to establish the roles and responsibility of those who incited or may have organised the protest.

Despite limited cooperation from Trump's inner circle, the panel has conducted more than 300 interviews and collected thousands of documents.

"We have uncovered some things that cause us real concern, things like people trying to ... undermine the integrity of our democracy," the panel's chairman, Representative Bennie Thompson, said Sunday on ABC.

"It appeared to be a coordinated effort on the part of a number of people to undermine the election," he said.

"It could be people in the executive branch. It could be people in the Department of Defence... and some very wealthy individuals."

He said he would not hesitate to refer any evidence of illegality to the Justice Department.

Liz Cheney, one of only two Republicans on the panel, on Sunday strongly condemned Trump for waiting hours before urging the Capitol rioters to stand down.

He could easily have issued such a call, she told ABC.

"He failed to do so. It's hard to imagine a more significant and more serious dereliction of duty." 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

As per the results of two polls released on Sunday, one year after the violent assault on the US Capitol, Americans remain genuinely concerned about the health of their democracy, with approximately a third believing that violence against the government can occasionally be justifiable.

As per the results of two polls released on Sunday, one year after the violent assault on the US Capitol, Americans remain genuinely concerned about the health of their democracy, with approximately a third believing that violence against the government can occasionally be justifiable. According to two-thirds of those polled for a CBS News poll, the attack on the House of Representatives on January 6 was "a precursor of growing political violence," and American democracy "is jeopardised." Meanwhile, according to a Washington Post/University of Maryland poll, Americans' "pride" in their democracy has decreased dramatically, from 90 percent in 2002 to 54 percent currently. With the anniversary of January 6 approaching, polls show that there are several reasons to be concerned: According to CBS, 28% of respondents feel force can be used to defend an election result, while 34% told The Washington Post that a violent action against the government can be justified on rare occasions — the highest percentage in decades. The findings highlight the seemingly incompatible viewpoints that divide American society, which President Joe Biden, who entered office 14 days after the Capitol riots, has sought to bridge. Two-thirds of Trump supporters believe Trump's baseless claim that Biden is not the democratically elected president. Shortly before the Capitol assault, Trump addressed thousands of supporters, urging them that the election was "rigged" and that they should "fight like hell." Sixty per cent of those polled believe Trump is to blame for the Capitol invasion, which occurred just as lawmakers were about to recognise Biden's victory. Watch | Gravitas: US Capitol: How the World reacted 'Coordinated effort' There again, opinion follows partisan lines: 83 percent of Trump voters placed his level of responsibility at only "some" or "none," the Post survey found. And 26 percent of Americans want him to run again in 2024, according to CBS. A select committee of the House of Representatives has spent months working to establish the roles and responsibility of those who incited or may have organised the protest. Despite limited cooperation from Trump's inner circle, the panel has conducted more than 300 interviews and collected thousands of documents. "We have uncovered some things that cause us real concern, things like people trying to ... undermine the integrity of our democracy," the panel's chairman, Representative Bennie Thompson, said Sunday on ABC. "It appeared to be a coordinated effort on the part of a number of people to undermine the election," he said. "It could be people in the executive branch. It could be people in the Department of Defence... and some very wealthy individuals." He said he would not hesitate to refer any evidence of illegality to the Justice Department. Liz Cheney, one of only two Republicans on the panel, on Sunday strongly condemned Trump for waiting hours before urging the Capitol rioters to stand down. He could easily have issued such a call, she told ABC. "He failed to do so. It's hard to imagine a more significant and more serious dereliction of duty." (With inputs from agencies)

Americans think violence against government can be justified, new polls find

Libyan parliament on Monday refused to fix date for presidential elections that were to take place last week. This has created uncertainty about the polls.&nbsp;

The vote was set to take place on Friday. It was to be the culmination of United Nations-led efforts to drag Libya out of a decade of conflict since a 2011 revolt. But it was derailed by bitter arguments over divisive candidates and a disputed legal framework.

On Monday the parliamentary committee charged with overseeing the election presented a report saying it would be risky to set a new date at this stage.

That was a direct rebuff to the electoral commission which had suggested holding the vote on January 24.

The parliamentary committee is part of an assembly based in eastern Libya since 2014, reflecting the country's deep divisions.

The committee recommended laying out "a new, realistic and applicable roadmap, with defined stages, rather than fixing new dates and repeating the same errors".

The report, read to members of parliament by committee president Al-Haid al-Sghayer, also suggested setting up a committee to draft a new constitution to replace the one scrapped by dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 1969.

It also called for a reshuffle of the interim government of Abdulhamid Dbeibah, whose mandate was meant to end with Friday's elections. 
The parliament has yet to debate the proposals.

Dbeibah heads a unity administration based in the capital Tripoli, in the country's west, and which was tasked with leading the North African country to the elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

Libyan parliament on Monday refused to fix date for presidential elections that were to take place last week. This has created uncertainty about the polls. The vote was set to take place on Friday.

Libyan parliament on Monday refused to fix date for presidential elections that were to take place last week. This has created uncertainty about the polls. The vote was set to take place on Friday. It was to be the culmination of United Nations-led efforts to drag Libya out of a decade of conflict since a 2011 revolt. But it was derailed by bitter arguments over divisive candidates and a disputed legal framework. On Monday the parliamentary committee charged with overseeing the election presented a report saying it would be risky to set a new date at this stage. That was a direct rebuff to the electoral commission which had suggested holding the vote on January 24. The parliamentary committee is part of an assembly based in eastern Libya since 2014, reflecting the country's deep divisions. The committee recommended laying out "a new, realistic and applicable roadmap, with defined stages, rather than fixing new dates and repeating the same errors". The report, read to members of parliament by committee president Al-Haid al-Sghayer, also suggested setting up a committee to draft a new constitution to replace the one scrapped by dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 1969. It also called for a reshuffle of the interim government of Abdulhamid Dbeibah, whose mandate was meant to end with Friday's elections. The parliament has yet to debate the proposals. Dbeibah heads a unity administration based in the capital Tripoli, in the country's west, and which was tasked with leading the North African country to the elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Libyan parliament refuses to declare new date for delayed elections

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