Shiite Muslim cleric Muqtada al-Sadr's party as per initial results in Iraq's parliamentary polls is being seen as the greatest winner, Sadrists claim largest bloc in Iraq.

Iraq parliamentary polls: Shiite Muslim cleric Muqtada al-Sadr's party leads

Partial results and projections of Czech Republic's parliamentary elections indicated that Prime Minister Andrej Babis' ANO party and allies were on the path to defeat. This gives massive boost to country's centre-right and liberal opposition.

Prime Minister Babis is seeking second term amid criticism that he mismanaged Covid pandemic stoked fast-rising debt with handouts and tended to his own business interests in office. Babis denies all accusations.

The two opposition groups were seen on track to win 104 seats in 200-member lower house, &nbsp;claiming a combined majority despite a narrow election lead held by ANO, Czech Television calculations based on 89% of voting districts showed on Saturday.

The two-day election had ended at midday.

The coalitions refuse to work with Babis over what they say are his unacceptable conflicts of interest related to the business empire he created before entering politics.

Babis, 67, has promised to continue raising public sector wages and pensions, hoping to shore up the basis of his popular support. He also stepped up his anti-migrant remarks and pledged to avoid ceding powers to the European Union.

ANO'S partners

President Milos Zeman has said he would give Babis the first try to form a government if ANO wins the most votes.

But if Together and Pirates/Mayors stick to their pledge not to work with ANO, he could have no mathematical chance to form a majority, based on the partial results.

Babis's big-spending policies, maintained despite a broad recovery from the pandemic, mark a break from traditional Czech fiscal prudence. Debt is set to be among the fastest growing in the EU, albeit from a low base.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Partial results and projections of Czech Republic's parliamentary elections indicated that Prime Minister Andrej Babis' ANO party and allies were on the path to defeat.

Partial results and projections of Czech Republic's parliamentary elections indicated that Prime Minister Andrej Babis' ANO party and allies were on the path to defeat. This gives massive boost to country's centre-right and liberal opposition. Prime Minister Babis is seeking second term amid criticism that he mismanaged Covid pandemic stoked fast-rising debt with handouts and tended to his own business interests in office. Babis denies all accusations. The two opposition groups were seen on track to win 104 seats in 200-member lower house, claiming a combined majority despite a narrow election lead held by ANO, Czech Television calculations based on 89% of voting districts showed on Saturday. The two-day election had ended at midday. The coalitions refuse to work with Babis over what they say are his unacceptable conflicts of interest related to the business empire he created before entering politics. Babis, 67, has promised to continue raising public sector wages and pensions, hoping to shore up the basis of his popular support. He also stepped up his anti-migrant remarks and pledged to avoid ceding powers to the European Union. ANO'S partners President Milos Zeman has said he would give Babis the first try to form a government if ANO wins the most votes. But if Together and Pirates/Mayors stick to their pledge not to work with ANO, he could have no mathematical chance to form a majority, based on the partial results. Babis's big-spending policies, maintained despite a broad recovery from the pandemic, mark a break from traditional Czech fiscal prudence. Debt is set to be among the fastest growing in the EU, albeit from a low base. (With inputs from agencies)

Czech Republic polls: PM Andrej Babis projected to lose office

The issue of a speed limit on the country's highways has been pending for a long time. Every time, the country gets a new government, the issue crops up on the list of the agendas. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Recently, the country has voted for a new government. And the lawmakers are again considering the issue. However, the people are divided over the matter. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-faces-an-awkward-visit-to-paris-his-second-home-418147" hreflang="en">Blinken faces an awkward visit to Paris, his ‘second home’</a>

Depending on road conditions, variable speed limits have already been applied to different stretches of highways of the country. &nbsp;

Like the country, political parties in Germany, are also divided on the topic. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The neoliberal Free Democrats (FDP), the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) and the conservative CDU/CSU of outgoing Chancellor Angela Merkel oppose a highway speed limit. But the Greens, the socialist Left Party and the center-left Social Democrats (SPD) are in favour of it. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-warns-eu-time-running-out-to-fix-ni-accord-418123" hreflang="en">UK warns EU time running out to fix NI accord</a>

It is hard to say that will a general speed limit be imposed? &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

There are only a dozen countries in the world, which have not imposed speed limits on their roads. In Europe, the only other place where road traffic is allowed to travel at unlimited speeds is the Isle of Man. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The issue of a speed limit on the country's highways has been pending for a long time. Every time, the country gets a new government, the issue crops up on the list of the agendas.

The issue of a speed limit on the country's highways has been pending for a long time. Every time, the country gets a new government, the issue crops up on the list of the agendas. Recently, the country has voted for a new government. And the lawmakers are again considering the issue. However, the people are divided over the matter. Also Read: Blinken faces an awkward visit to Paris, his ‘second home’ Depending on road conditions, variable speed limits have already been applied to different stretches of highways of the country. Like the country, political parties in Germany, are also divided on the topic. The neoliberal Free Democrats (FDP), the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) and the conservative CDU/CSU of outgoing Chancellor Angela Merkel oppose a highway speed limit. But the Greens, the socialist Left Party and the center-left Social Democrats (SPD) are in favour of it. Also Read: UK warns EU time running out to fix NI accord It is hard to say that will a general speed limit be imposed? There are only a dozen countries in the world, which have not imposed speed limits on their roads. In Europe, the only other place where road traffic is allowed to travel at unlimited speeds is the Isle of Man. (With inputs from agencies)

After polls, Germany looks to set highway speed limit

Japan will compile a considerably large extra budget immediately after a looming general election to ease the economic blow of the pandemic and boost long-term growth in key areas, a ruling party heavyweight said on Sunday.

"What must be tackled at first is vaccinations. This is the strongest of coronavirus measures," Akira Amari, newly appointed secretary-general of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), told public broadcaster NHK`s political debate programme.

Japan should boost its vaccination rate from the current 60 per cent to 70 per cent to 80 per cent, levels seen as easing anxiety among the public, Amari said.

"We have responded with various measures by tapping emergency budget reserves. Now that the reserves are drying up, we will compile a considerably large extra budget immediately after the election."

Given dire public finances, Japan`s incoming prime minister, Fumio Kishida , may have little choice but to sell more government bonds&nbsp;to fund a pandemic-relief package that he said would be worth hundreds of billions of dollars.

Amari, a former economy minister seen as a key ally of Japan`s longest-serving premier, Shinzo Abe, said the supplementary budget would focus on the environment, digital and infrastructure.

He said the government may consider extending job subsidies, but Keiichi Ishii, his counterpart at the LDP`s small coalition partner Komeito called for cash payments of 100,000 yen ($900) to everyone up to 18 years old, or roughly 20 million people.

Kishida, a former foreign minister, won the LDP`s leadership race on Wednesday and is expected to be elected prime minister in parliament on Monday, replacing Yoshihide Suga, by virtue of the party`s majority in the lower house. He is expected to name his cabinet later in the day.

The general election must be held by November&nbsp;28.

Seiko Noda, who ran against Kishida, is likely to get a ministerial post, Kyodo news said on Sunday, a move in line with Kishida`s aim of having female lawmakers make up for 30 per cent or more of his cabinet.

The new leader is set to keep Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi - younger brother of Abe - and Education Minister and Abe ally Koichi Hagiuda in his cabinet, the Mainichi newspaper reported.

Finance Minister&nbsp;Taro Aso`s brother-in-law, Shunichi Suzuki, is set to replace him, media reported.

Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi is set to retain his post, while Hirokazu Matsuno, an education minister in Abe`s cabinet, is set to become chief cabinet secretary.

Tetsuo Saito, Komeito`s number two, is likely to be named transport minister, replacing fellow Komeito lawmaker Kazuyoshi Akaba, media reported.

Japan will compile a considerably large extra budget immediately after a looming general election to ease the economic blow of the pandemic and boost long-term growth in key areas, a ruling party heavyweight said on Sunday.

Japan will compile a considerably large extra budget immediately after a looming general election to ease the economic blow of the pandemic and boost long-term growth in key areas, a ruling party heavyweight said on Sunday. "What must be tackled at first is vaccinations. This is the strongest of coronavirus measures," Akira Amari, newly appointed secretary-general of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), told public broadcaster NHK`s political debate programme. Japan should boost its vaccination rate from the current 60 per cent to 70 per cent to 80 per cent, levels seen as easing anxiety among the public, Amari said. "We have responded with various measures by tapping emergency budget reserves. Now that the reserves are drying up, we will compile a considerably large extra budget immediately after the election." Given dire public finances, Japan`s incoming prime minister, Fumio Kishida , may have little choice but to sell more government bonds to fund a pandemic-relief package that he said would be worth hundreds of billions of dollars. Amari, a former economy minister seen as a key ally of Japan`s longest-serving premier, Shinzo Abe, said the supplementary budget would focus on the environment, digital and infrastructure. He said the government may consider extending job subsidies, but Keiichi Ishii, his counterpart at the LDP`s small coalition partner Komeito called for cash payments of 100,000 yen ($900) to everyone up to 18 years old, or roughly 20 million people. Kishida, a former foreign minister, won the LDP`s leadership race on Wednesday and is expected to be elected prime minister in parliament on Monday, replacing Yoshihide Suga, by virtue of the party`s majority in the lower house. He is expected to name his cabinet later in the day. The general election must be held by November 28. Seiko Noda, who ran against Kishida, is likely to get a ministerial post, Kyodo news said on Sunday, a move in line with Kishida`s aim of having female lawmakers make up for 30 per cent or more of his cabinet. The new leader is set to keep Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi - younger brother of Abe - and Education Minister and Abe ally Koichi Hagiuda in his cabinet, the Mainichi newspaper reported. Finance Minister Taro Aso`s brother-in-law, Shunichi Suzuki, is set to replace him, media reported. Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi is set to retain his post, while Hirokazu Matsuno, an education minister in Abe`s cabinet, is set to become chief cabinet secretary. Tetsuo Saito, Komeito`s number two, is likely to be named transport minister, replacing fellow Komeito lawmaker Kazuyoshi Akaba, media reported.

Japan to compile big extra budget after polls, says LDP heavyweight

Qataris began voting in the emirate's first legislative election Saturday in a symbolic nod to democracy that analysts say will not lead to power shifting away from the ruling family.&nbsp;

The vote is for 30 members of the 45-strong Shura Council, a body with limited powers that was previously appointed by the emir as an advisory chamber.

Polls opened at 0500 GMT and will close at 1500 GMT with the results expected the same day.

At a polling station in the Jawaan bin Jassim school in the Onaiza district of the capital Doha, Qatari citizens wearing white thobes signed in to vote at a registration desk.

After queueing briefly, they cast their ballots into a semi-transparent plastic box emblazoned with the dhow boat, crossed swords and palm tree emblem of Qatar.

Observers say the decision to hold the election, required under the 2004 constitution but repeatedly delayed in the "national interest", comes amid heightened scrutiny as Qatar prepares to host the 2022 World Cup.

"It's a way to show that they are moving in the right direction, that they want to achieve more political participation" before the World Cup, said Luciano Zaccara, an assistant professor in Gulf politics at Qatar University.

The Shura will be allowed to propose legislation, approve the budget and recall ministers. But the emir, all-powerful in the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, will wield a veto.

"This is a historic day to participate, choose and vote in the first elected Shura Council, and I feel very happy... I hope that the next council will keep pace with the developments that Qatar and the world are experiencing," voter Ali Abdullah al-Khulaifi, 44, told AFP.

The streets of Qatar's towns have been speckled with billboards adorned with beaming candidates sporting national dress.

Beyond single-candidate town hall meetings, posters and TV spots, the country's introduction to democracy has been limited, with no change of government possible and political parties outlawed.

Candidates have uniformly avoided debate about Qatar's foreign policy or status as a monarchy, instead focussing on social issues including healthcare, education and citizenship rights.&nbsp;

'Deliver our voice'

All candidates had to be approved by the powerful interior ministry against a host of criteria, including age, character and criminal history.

Candidates have also been required to register official campaign events with the ministry in advance, as well as the names of all speakers as authorities seek to clamp down on possible sectarianism or tribalism.

The candidates are mostly men, with just 28 women among the 284 hopefuls running for the 30 available council seats. The remaining 15 seats will be appointed by the emir.

One woman casting her ballot Saturday, Sabeeka Yousef, said she was not concerned about this imbalance.

"The most important thing for me in this process is to choose a candidate who is able to deliver our voice," she said.

Most of Qatar's 2.5 million residents are foreigners, ineligible to vote.

Candidates have to stand in electoral divisions linked to where their family or tribe was based in the 1930s, using data compiled by the then-British authorities.

Diplomatic sources suggest families and tribes have already conducted internal ballots to determine who will be elected for their constituencies.

"When you don't have political parties... people sometimes will tend to vote for people they know, or for members of family or members of tribe," said Courtney Freer, a fellow at Emory College.

Qataris number about 333,000, but only descendants of those who were citizens in 1930 are eligible to vote and stand, disqualifying members of families naturalised since then.

Some members of the sizeable Al-Murrah tribe are among those excluded from the electoral process, sparking a fierce debate online.

Qataris began voting in the emirate's first legislative election Saturday in a symbolic nod to democracy that analysts say will not lead to power shifting away from the ruling family.

Qataris began voting in the emirate's first legislative election Saturday in a symbolic nod to democracy that analysts say will not lead to power shifting away from the ruling family. The vote is for 30 members of the 45-strong Shura Council, a body with limited powers that was previously appointed by the emir as an advisory chamber. Polls opened at 0500 GMT and will close at 1500 GMT with the results expected the same day. At a polling station in the Jawaan bin Jassim school in the Onaiza district of the capital Doha, Qatari citizens wearing white thobes signed in to vote at a registration desk. After queueing briefly, they cast their ballots into a semi-transparent plastic box emblazoned with the dhow boat, crossed swords and palm tree emblem of Qatar. Observers say the decision to hold the election, required under the 2004 constitution but repeatedly delayed in the "national interest", comes amid heightened scrutiny as Qatar prepares to host the 2022 World Cup. "It's a way to show that they are moving in the right direction, that they want to achieve more political participation" before the World Cup, said Luciano Zaccara, an assistant professor in Gulf politics at Qatar University. The Shura will be allowed to propose legislation, approve the budget and recall ministers. But the emir, all-powerful in the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, will wield a veto. "This is a historic day to participate, choose and vote in the first elected Shura Council, and I feel very happy... I hope that the next council will keep pace with the developments that Qatar and the world are experiencing," voter Ali Abdullah al-Khulaifi, 44, told AFP. The streets of Qatar's towns have been speckled with billboards adorned with beaming candidates sporting national dress. Beyond single-candidate town hall meetings, posters and TV spots, the country's introduction to democracy has been limited, with no change of government possible and political parties outlawed. Candidates have uniformly avoided debate about Qatar's foreign policy or status as a monarchy, instead focussing on social issues including healthcare, education and citizenship rights. 'Deliver our voice' All candidates had to be approved by the powerful interior ministry against a host of criteria, including age, character and criminal history. Candidates have also been required to register official campaign events with the ministry in advance, as well as the names of all speakers as authorities seek to clamp down on possible sectarianism or tribalism. The candidates are mostly men, with just 28 women among the 284 hopefuls running for the 30 available council seats. The remaining 15 seats will be appointed by the emir. One woman casting her ballot Saturday, Sabeeka Yousef, said she was not concerned about this imbalance. "The most important thing for me in this process is to choose a candidate who is able to deliver our voice," she said. Most of Qatar's 2.5 million residents are foreigners, ineligible to vote. Candidates have to stand in electoral divisions linked to where their family or tribe was based in the 1930s, using data compiled by the then-British authorities. Diplomatic sources suggest families and tribes have already conducted internal ballots to determine who will be elected for their constituencies. "When you don't have political parties... people sometimes will tend to vote for people they know, or for members of family or members of tribe," said Courtney Freer, a fellow at Emory College. Qataris number about 333,000, but only descendants of those who were citizens in 1930 are eligible to vote and stand, disqualifying members of families naturalised since then. Some members of the sizeable Al-Murrah tribe are among those excluded from the electoral process, sparking a fierce debate online.

Qataris vote in subdued first legislative election

In a crackdown on accounts spreading COVID-19 misinformation, Facebook removed a series of such accounts days before Germany’s federal elections. &nbsp;

These accounts were also encouraging violent responses to Covid restrictions. &nbsp;

The crackdown, which was announced on September 16, was the first action taken according to the Facebook’s new “coordinated social harm” policy. It aims to stop disinformation campaigns.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cnn-pulls-out-of-facebook-in-australia-citing-defamation-risk-416879" hreflang="en">CNN pulls out of Facebook in Australia, citing defamation risk</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

In Germany, around 150 accounts, pages and groups were linked to 'Querdenken' movement, a group that protests lockdown measures in the country. &nbsp;

While far-right users called it censorship, Facebook pushed it as an innovative response to potentially harmful content. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-youtube-bans-rt-due-to-multiple-violations-russia-threatens-to-ban-video-platform-416785" hreflang="en">After YouTube bans RT due to multiple violations, Russia threatens to ban video platform</a>

Earlier, Facebook also announced various new efforts to combat climate crisis misinformation on its platform. &nbsp;&nbsp;

These included expanding its climate science centre to provide more reliable information, investing in organisations that fight misinformation and launching a video series to highlight young climate advocates on both Facebook and Instagram.

Watch:&nbsp;

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However, as per critics, the push falls short and will allow vast amounts of climate misinformation to slip through the cracks. &nbsp;

During the 2021 April congressional hearing, the CEO of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg admitted that climate misinformation is “a big issue”. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a crackdown on accounts spreading COVID-19 misinformation, Facebook removed a series of such accounts days before Germany’s federal elections. These accounts were also encouraging violent responses to Covid restrictions.

In a crackdown on accounts spreading COVID-19 misinformation, Facebook removed a series of such accounts days before Germany’s federal elections. These accounts were also encouraging violent responses to Covid restrictions. The crackdown, which was announced on September 16, was the first action taken according to the Facebook’s new “coordinated social harm” policy. It aims to stop disinformation campaigns. Also Read: CNN pulls out of Facebook in Australia, citing defamation risk In Germany, around 150 accounts, pages and groups were linked to 'Querdenken' movement, a group that protests lockdown measures in the country. While far-right users called it censorship, Facebook pushed it as an innovative response to potentially harmful content. Also Read: After YouTube bans RT due to multiple violations, Russia threatens to ban video platform Earlier, Facebook also announced various new efforts to combat climate crisis misinformation on its platform. These included expanding its climate science centre to provide more reliable information, investing in organisations that fight misinformation and launching a video series to highlight young climate advocates on both Facebook and Instagram. Watch: × However, as per critics, the push falls short and will allow vast amounts of climate misinformation to slip through the cracks. During the 2021 April congressional hearing, the CEO of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg admitted that climate misinformation is “a big issue”. (With inputs from agencies)

In a crackdown, Facebook axed accounts spreading Covid misinformation in Germany before polls

Germany is also headed to the polls. The country is going to elect a new leader after 16 years of Chancellor Angela Merkel's rule.

Germany: Voting starts in flood-hit areas

After the withdrawal of Western troops and the Taliban seizing control,&nbsp;Iran's President&nbsp;Ebrahim Raisi is calling for elections in Afghanistan to determine the future of the country. He hopes it can help the return of peace to the region.

Raisi said the Afghan people should vote to determine their own government 'as soon as possible', while speaking on state TV on Saturday.

Watch |&nbsp;Afghanistan: Economic and humanitarian crisis in Taliban led country

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"A government should be established there, which is elected by the votes and the will of the people," Raisi said.

"The Islamic Republic has always sought peace and calm in Afghanistan, and an end to bloodshed and fratricide, and the sovereignty of the people's will. We support a government elected by the Afghan people," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/second-afghan-boy-dies-of-mushroom-poisoning-in-poland-410687" hreflang="en">Second Afghan boy dies of mushroom poisoning in Poland</a>

Meanwhile, at least two people were killed and many injured during a celebratory firing on Friday in Kabul, local media said on Saturday, after Taliban sources claimed that they have seized control of Panjshir, the last province resisting the Islamist group.

According to TOLO news, the "aerial shooting" killed two people and wounded three last night.&nbsp;The incident was heavily criticised by Taliban leader Zabihullah Mujahid.&nbsp;"Avoid shooting in the air and thank God instead," Mujahid said on Twitter. "Bullets can harm civilians, so don't shoot unnecessarily."

(With inputs from agencies)

After the withdrawal of Western troops and the Taliban seizing control, Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi is calling for elections in Afghanistan to determine the future of the country.

After the withdrawal of Western troops and the Taliban seizing control, Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi is calling for elections in Afghanistan to determine the future of the country. He hopes it can help the return of peace to the region. Raisi said the Afghan people should vote to determine their own government 'as soon as possible', while speaking on state TV on Saturday. Watch | Afghanistan: Economic and humanitarian crisis in Taliban led country × "A government should be established there, which is elected by the votes and the will of the people," Raisi said. "The Islamic Republic has always sought peace and calm in Afghanistan, and an end to bloodshed and fratricide, and the sovereignty of the people's will. We support a government elected by the Afghan people," he added. Also Read: Second Afghan boy dies of mushroom poisoning in Poland Meanwhile, at least two people were killed and many injured during a celebratory firing on Friday in Kabul, local media said on Saturday, after Taliban sources claimed that they have seized control of Panjshir, the last province resisting the Islamist group. According to TOLO news, the "aerial shooting" killed two people and wounded three last night. The incident was heavily criticised by Taliban leader Zabihullah Mujahid. "Avoid shooting in the air and thank God instead," Mujahid said on Twitter. "Bullets can harm civilians, so don't shoot unnecessarily." (With inputs from agencies)

Iran President Ebrahim Raisi calls for polls in Afghanistan

Zambians were voting in a general election on Thursday after a tense campaign dominated by economic woes, a debt crisis and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Sixteen presidential candidates are vying for the top job, but the frontrunners are incumbent Edgar Lungu, 64, and his long-time nemesis Hakainde Hichilema, a business tycoon, who are facing off at the polls for the third time.

Hichilema, 59, who is running for a sixth time, is backed by an alliance of 10 parties.

Queues of hundreds of people formed before dawn in front of voting stations in Lusaka's densely-populated and working class neighbourhoods, before polls opened at 6:00 a.m. (0400 GMT).

President Lungu was among the first people to vote at a nursery school in Chawama, a poor neighbourhood of Lusaka.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/semen-terrorism-angers-women-in-south-korea-404805">Also read |&nbsp;'Semen terrorism' angers women in South Korea</a>

Upbeat, Lungu told reporters: "We are winning, otherwise I wouldn't have been in the race if we were not winning, we are a winning team".

But a flagging economy and rising living costs have eroded his support base, surveys suggest, and the election could be even tighter than 2016 polls when he narrowly scraped a victory over Hichilema.

Lungu, a lawyer by training, is accused of borrowing unsustainably, particularly from Chinese creditors, to finance a spree of infrastructure projects.

Under him,&nbsp;Zambia&nbsp;became the first African country to default on its sovereign debt since the coronavirus pandemic began, while inflation soared to 24.6 percent in June, the highest rate in more than a decade.

Africa's second biggest producer of copper after the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the eighth producer in the world, missed another debt repayment this year.

"I am voting for change. We can't continue on this path," said Andrew Daka, 20, who was voting for the first time in his life.

'Hoping for change'

Just before he cast his ballot, 35-year-old unemployed primary school teacher Ernest Chimba, said he was "hoping for change on the issue of the economy... because the cost of living in&nbsp;Zambia&nbsp;has gone really high".&nbsp;

But Lungu says that "things are moving well in the country", although his critics point to the high cost of living, poverty and joblessness.

Tensions have flared in the run-up to polling in this southern African country of 17 million people.

Supporters of Lungu's Patriotic Front (PF) party and Hichilema's United Party for National Development (UPND) have clashed violently on several occasions, prompting Lungu to deploy the army.

Critics denounced the unprecedented move as a tactic to intimidate opposition voters, which the PF denies.

The president has also grown tough on dissent since he took power in 2015, raising concerns of heavyhandedness if results are contested.

UPND supporters have meanwhile been keeping a low profile in the capital Lusaka, a Lungu stronghold, for fear of being attacked by PF counterparts.

Around seven million citizens are registered to vote for a president, legislators and local government representatives.

The winning candidate must acquire more than 50 percent of votes to avoid a run-off, which analysts deem unlikely. If no one makes it past the threshold, a second round will be held in 37 days &nbsp;

Lungu is confident of bagging half-a-million votes more than Hichilema.

Hichilema is pinning his hopes on disenchantment with Lungu's administration of the economy to clinch the presidency.

"Zambia&nbsp;is at a crossroads," Hichilema said Wednesday, pledging to fix the economy.

The opposition has accused the government of seeking to rig the ballot -- allegations the PF has rejected.

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres is "closely" following the vote and called on all candidates "to do their part&nbsp;to create an environment conducive to credible, inclusive and peaceful elections", his spokesman Stephane Dujarric said.

Local and international observers will be monitoring polling stations, some of which will be using a biometric voter identification system for the first time.

Polls close at 6:00 pm&nbsp;at more than 12,000 voting stations dotted across the vast country. Official results are expected by Sunday.

Zambians were voting in a general election on Thursday after a tense campaign dominated by economic woes, a debt crisis and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Zambians were voting in a general election on Thursday after a tense campaign dominated by economic woes, a debt crisis and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Sixteen presidential candidates are vying for the top job, but the frontrunners are incumbent Edgar Lungu, 64, and his long-time nemesis Hakainde Hichilema, a business tycoon, who are facing off at the polls for the third time. Hichilema, 59, who is running for a sixth time, is backed by an alliance of 10 parties. Queues of hundreds of people formed before dawn in front of voting stations in Lusaka's densely-populated and working class neighbourhoods, before polls opened at 6:00 a.m. (0400 GMT). President Lungu was among the first people to vote at a nursery school in Chawama, a poor neighbourhood of Lusaka. Also read | 'Semen terrorism' angers women in South Korea Upbeat, Lungu told reporters: "We are winning, otherwise I wouldn't have been in the race if we were not winning, we are a winning team". But a flagging economy and rising living costs have eroded his support base, surveys suggest, and the election could be even tighter than 2016 polls when he narrowly scraped a victory over Hichilema. Lungu, a lawyer by training, is accused of borrowing unsustainably, particularly from Chinese creditors, to finance a spree of infrastructure projects. Under him, Zambia became the first African country to default on its sovereign debt since the coronavirus pandemic began, while inflation soared to 24.6 percent in June, the highest rate in more than a decade. Africa's second biggest producer of copper after the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the eighth producer in the world, missed another debt repayment this year. "I am voting for change. We can't continue on this path," said Andrew Daka, 20, who was voting for the first time in his life. 'Hoping for change' Just before he cast his ballot, 35-year-old unemployed primary school teacher Ernest Chimba, said he was "hoping for change on the issue of the economy... because the cost of living in Zambia has gone really high". But Lungu says that "things are moving well in the country", although his critics point to the high cost of living, poverty and joblessness. Tensions have flared in the run-up to polling in this southern African country of 17 million people. Supporters of Lungu's Patriotic Front (PF) party and Hichilema's United Party for National Development (UPND) have clashed violently on several occasions, prompting Lungu to deploy the army. Critics denounced the unprecedented move as a tactic to intimidate opposition voters, which the PF denies. The president has also grown tough on dissent since he took power in 2015, raising concerns of heavyhandedness if results are contested. UPND supporters have meanwhile been keeping a low profile in the capital Lusaka, a Lungu stronghold, for fear of being attacked by PF counterparts. Around seven million citizens are registered to vote for a president, legislators and local government representatives. The winning candidate must acquire more than 50 percent of votes to avoid a run-off, which analysts deem unlikely. If no one makes it past the threshold, a second round will be held in 37 days Lungu is confident of bagging half-a-million votes more than Hichilema. Hichilema is pinning his hopes on disenchantment with Lungu's administration of the economy to clinch the presidency. "Zambia is at a crossroads," Hichilema said Wednesday, pledging to fix the economy. The opposition has accused the government of seeking to rig the ballot -- allegations the PF has rejected. United Nations chief Antonio Guterres is "closely" following the vote and called on all candidates "to do their part to create an environment conducive to credible, inclusive and peaceful elections", his spokesman Stephane Dujarric said. Local and international observers will be monitoring polling stations, some of which will be using a biometric voter identification system for the first time. Polls close at 6:00 pm at more than 12,000 voting stations dotted across the vast country. Official results are expected by Sunday.

Debt-ridden Zambia votes in closely contested polls

Polling stations in Moldova opened Sunday with voters eager to elect a new parliament after the previous one was dissolved by President Maia Sandu to shore up her position against pro-Russia forces.&nbsp;

Sandu, who wants to bring Moldova into the European Union, in November defeated Kremlin-backed incumbent Igor Dodon on a pledge to fight corruption in one of Europe's poorest countries.

Wedged between Ukraine and EU member Romania, Moldova has long been divided over closer ties with Brussels or maintaining Soviet-era relations with Moscow.

With lawmakers loyal to Dodon blocking Sandu's promises of reform, the former World Bank economist dissolved parliament in April and scheduled the snap vote.&nbsp;

Polls opened shortly after 7:00 am (0400 GMT) and will close at 9:00 pm (1800 GMT).

"After so many years, this country has some kind of hope to drive out the thieves who are sitting here for Russian money and to choose those who serve the country honestly," a 29-year-old woman, who only gave her name as Nataliya, told AFP as she voted for Sandu's centre-right Action and Solidarity (PAS) party at a polling station in central Chisinau.&nbsp;

At polling stations, voters had to wear masks and have their temperature taken in a bid to prevent the spread of&nbsp;the Covid-19 virus.&nbsp;

"We have a chance to get rid of thieves and choose a holistic and good government," Sandu said in a video address Thursday, speaking in Moldova's main language Romanian.

In another speech in Russian -- the ex-Soviet country's second language -- she said: "The time for change is coming in Moldova."

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The slogans resonate with many Moldovans, who in recent years have seen their country rocked by political crises, including a $1-billion bank fraud scheme equivalent to nearly 15 per cent of the country's gross domestic product.

Sandu, who also served briefly as prime minister, has for many Moldovans become "a symbol of change", said Alexei Tulbure, a political analyst and the country's ex-ambassador to the United Nations.

Arguing that Moldovans were tired of corrupt politicians, he said Sandu was the first to make it to the top while "maintaining a reputation for being honest".

Pro-European majority

Twenty parties and two electoral blocs are running in the election.&nbsp;

They must cross thresholds set at five per cent and seven per cent of the votes respectively to obtain seats in the unicameral assembly, where 101 lawmakers are elected for four-year terms.

Ahead of the vote, Sandu's PAS party appeared to be leading, with the latest polls giving them a 35-37 per cent share of the vote.&nbsp;

Their main rivals from the coalition of socialists and communists led by Dodon and former President Vladimir Voronin were polling at 21-27 per cent.

Those figures only account for voters living in the country of 2.6 million people.&nbsp;

Analysts say the diaspora -- which accounts for more than a third of Moldova's eligible voters and already threw its support behind Sandu during the presidential polls -- could hold the key and could bring the PAS another 10-15 percentage points this time round.

Analysts say the election will likely be a blow to Russia, which wants Moldova to remain in its sphere of influence.

"The party of pro-Russian ex-president Igor Dodon will finally lose control of the central government in the country, and allies of President Maia Sandu will form a mono-majority," the independent Ukrainian news website Yevropeiska Pravda said in an editorial Saturday.

However, the main "enemy" of the PAS party could prove to be the summer, when young people -- Sandu's main electorate -- might lack the motivation to vote, Yevropeiska Pravda added.

Sandu has already irritated the Kremlin by proposing to remove the Russian military garrison based in Transnistria, a pro-Russian breakaway state straddling the country's eastern frontier with Ukraine.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Friday, pro-Russia Dodon accused authorities of preparing "provocations" and urged his supporters to be ready to protest to "defend" his bloc's victory.

Lyudmila, a 70-year-old pensioner, said she supported communists and the socialists because "life was better" under their rule.

"There was order under the communists," she told AFP after casting her vote.

Polling stations in Moldova opened Sunday with voters eager to elect a new parliament after the previous one was dissolved by President Maia Sandu to shore up her position against pro-Russia forces.

Polling stations in Moldova opened Sunday with voters eager to elect a new parliament after the previous one was dissolved by President Maia Sandu to shore up her position against pro-Russia forces. Sandu, who wants to bring Moldova into the European Union, in November defeated Kremlin-backed incumbent Igor Dodon on a pledge to fight corruption in one of Europe's poorest countries. Wedged between Ukraine and EU member Romania, Moldova has long been divided over closer ties with Brussels or maintaining Soviet-era relations with Moscow. With lawmakers loyal to Dodon blocking Sandu's promises of reform, the former World Bank economist dissolved parliament in April and scheduled the snap vote. Polls opened shortly after 7:00 am (0400 GMT) and will close at 9:00 pm (1800 GMT). "After so many years, this country has some kind of hope to drive out the thieves who are sitting here for Russian money and to choose those who serve the country honestly," a 29-year-old woman, who only gave her name as Nataliya, told AFP as she voted for Sandu's centre-right Action and Solidarity (PAS) party at a polling station in central Chisinau. At polling stations, voters had to wear masks and have their temperature taken in a bid to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus. "We have a chance to get rid of thieves and choose a holistic and good government," Sandu said in a video address Thursday, speaking in Moldova's main language Romanian. In another speech in Russian -- the ex-Soviet country's second language -- she said: "The time for change is coming in Moldova." Also read | 17 years after founding Virgin Galactic, Branson bound for space The slogans resonate with many Moldovans, who in recent years have seen their country rocked by political crises, including a $1-billion bank fraud scheme equivalent to nearly 15 per cent of the country's gross domestic product. Sandu, who also served briefly as prime minister, has for many Moldovans become "a symbol of change", said Alexei Tulbure, a political analyst and the country's ex-ambassador to the United Nations. Arguing that Moldovans were tired of corrupt politicians, he said Sandu was the first to make it to the top while "maintaining a reputation for being honest". Pro-European majority Twenty parties and two electoral blocs are running in the election. They must cross thresholds set at five per cent and seven per cent of the votes respectively to obtain seats in the unicameral assembly, where 101 lawmakers are elected for four-year terms. Ahead of the vote, Sandu's PAS party appeared to be leading, with the latest polls giving them a 35-37 per cent share of the vote. Their main rivals from the coalition of socialists and communists led by Dodon and former President Vladimir Voronin were polling at 21-27 per cent. Those figures only account for voters living in the country of 2.6 million people. Analysts say the diaspora -- which accounts for more than a third of Moldova's eligible voters and already threw its support behind Sandu during the presidential polls -- could hold the key and could bring the PAS another 10-15 percentage points this time round. Analysts say the election will likely be a blow to Russia, which wants Moldova to remain in its sphere of influence. "The party of pro-Russian ex-president Igor Dodon will finally lose control of the central government in the country, and allies of President Maia Sandu will form a mono-majority," the independent Ukrainian news website Yevropeiska Pravda said in an editorial Saturday. However, the main "enemy" of the PAS party could prove to be the summer, when young people -- Sandu's main electorate -- might lack the motivation to vote, Yevropeiska Pravda added. Sandu has already irritated the Kremlin by proposing to remove the Russian military garrison based in Transnistria, a pro-Russian breakaway state straddling the country's eastern frontier with Ukraine. On Friday, pro-Russia Dodon accused authorities of preparing "provocations" and urged his supporters to be ready to protest to "defend" his bloc's victory. Lyudmila, a 70-year-old pensioner, said she supported communists and the socialists because "life was better" under their rule. "There was order under the communists," she told AFP after casting her vote.

Polls open in Moldova in election set to weaken Russia's influence

The New York City mayor’s race plunged into chaos Tuesday night when the city Board of Elections released a new tally of votes in the Democratic mayoral primary and then removed the tabulations from its website after citing a “discrepancy.”

The results released earlier in the day had suggested that the race between Eric Adams and his two closest rivals had tightened significantly.

But just a few hours after releasing the preliminary results, the elections board issued a cryptic tweet revealing a “discrepancy” in the report, saying that it was working with its “technical staff to identify where the discrepancy occurred.”

By Tuesday evening, the tabulations had been taken down, replaced by a new advisory that the ranked-choice results would be available “starting on June 30.”

Then, around 10:30 p.m., the board finally released a statement, explaining that it had failed to remove sample ballot images used to test its ranked-choice voting software. When the board ran the program, it counted “both test and election night results, producing approximately 135,000 additional records,” the statement said. The ranked-choice numbers, it said, would be tabulated again.

The extraordinary sequence of events seeded further confusion about the outcome, and threw the closely watched contest into a new period of uncertainty at a consequential moment for the city.

For the Board of Elections, which has long been plagued by dysfunction and nepotism, this was its first try at implementing ranked-choice voting on a citywide scale. Skeptics had expressed doubts about the board’s ability to pull off the process, though it is used successfully in other cities.

Under ranked-choice voting, voters can list up to five candidates on their ballots in preferential order. If no candidate receives more than 50% of first-choice votes in the first round, the winner is decided by a process of elimination: As the lower-polling candidates are eliminated, their votes are reallocated to whichever candidate those voters ranked next, and the process continues until there is a winner.

The Board of Elections released preliminary, unofficial ranked-choice tabulations on Tuesday afternoon, showing that Adams — who had held a significant advantage on primary night — was narrowly ahead of Kathryn Garcia in the ballots cast in person during early voting or on Primary Day. Maya Wiley, who came in second place in the initial vote count, was close behind in third place. The board then took down the results and disclosed the discrepancy.

The results may well be scrambled again: Even after the Board of Elections sorts through the preliminary tally, it must count around 124,000 Democratic absentee ballots. Once they are tabulated, the board will take the new total that includes them and run a new set of ranked-choice elimination rounds, with a final result not expected until mid-July.

Some Democrats, bracing for an acrimonious new chapter in the race, are concerned that the incremental release of results by the Board of Elections — and the discovery of an error — may stir distrust of ranked-choice voting and of the city’s electoral system more broadly.

In a statement late Tuesday night, Wiley laced into the Board of Elections, calling the error “the result of generations of failures that have gone unaddressed,” and adding: “Sadly it is impossible to be surprised.”

“Today, we have once again seen the mismanagement that has resulted in a lack of confidence in results, not because there is a flaw in our election laws, but because those who implement it have failed too many times,” she said. “The BOE must now count the remainder of the votes transparently and ensure the integrity of the process moving forward.”

Garcia said the release of the inaccurate tally was “deeply troubling and requires a much more transparent and complete explanation.”

“Every ranked choice and absentee vote must be counted accurately so that all New Yorkers have faith in our democracy and our government,” she said. “I am confident that every candidate will accept the final results and support whomever the voters have elected.”

And Adams noted the “unfortunate” error by the Board of Elections and emphasized the importance of handling election results correctly.

“It is critical that New Yorkers are confident in their electoral system, especially as we rank votes in a citywide election for the first time,” he said in a statement released Tuesday night. “We appreciate the board’s transparency and acknowledgment of their error. We look forward to the release of an accurate, updated simulation, and the timely conclusion of this critical process.”

If elected, Adams would be the city’s second Black mayor, after David Dinkins. Some of Adams’ supporters have already cast the ranked-choice process as an attempt to disenfranchise voters of color, an argument that intensified among some backers on Tuesday afternoon as the race had appeared to tighten, and is virtually certain to escalate should he lose his primary night lead to Garcia, who is white.

Surrogates for Adams have suggested without evidence that an apparent ranked-choice alliance between Garcia and another rival, Andrew Yang, could amount to an attempt to suppress the votes of Black and Latino New Yorkers; Adams himself claimed that the alliance was aimed at preventing a Black or Latino candidate from winning the race.

In the final days of the race, Garcia and Yang campaigned together across the city, especially in neighborhoods that are home to sizable Asian American communities, and appeared together on campaign literature.

To advocates of ranked-choice voting, the round-by-round shuffling of outcomes is part of the process of electing a candidate with broad appeal. But if Garcia or Wiley were to prevail, the process — which was approved by voters in a 2019 ballot measure — would likely attract fresh scrutiny, with some of Adams’ backers and others already urging a new referendum on it.

By Tuesday night, though, it was the Board of Elections that was attracting ire from seemingly all corners.

Betsy Gotbaum, the city’s former public advocate who now runs Citizens Union, a good-government group, warned that “the entire country is watching” the Board of Elections. “New Yorkers deserve elections, and election administrators, that they can have the utmost faith in,” Gotbaum added.

A comparison between first-place vote totals released on primary night and those released Tuesday offered some insight into how the 135,000 erroneous votes were distributed. The bottom four candidates received a total of 42,000 new votes, roughly four times their actual vote total; the number of write-in ballots also skyrocketed to 17,516 from 1,336. Adams and Yang received the highest number of new votes.

It was not known, however, how the test votes were reallocated during the ranked-choice tabulations, making it impossible to determine how they affected the preliminary results that were released and then retracted.

When accurate vote counts are in place, it is difficult, but not unheard-of for a trailing candidate in a ranked-choice election to eventually win the race through later rounds of voting — that happened in Oakland, California, in 2010, and nearly occurred in San Francisco in 2018.

The winner of New York’s Democratic primary, who is almost certain to become the city’s next mayor, will face Curtis Sliwa, the founder of the Guardian Angels, who won the Republican primary.

According to the now-withdrawn tabulation released Tuesday, Wiley, a former counsel to Mayor Bill de Blasio, nearly made it to the final round. She finished closely behind Garcia, the former sanitation commissioner, before being eliminated in the penultimate round of the preliminary exercise.

After the count of in-person ballots last week, Garcia trailed Wiley by about 2.8 percentage points. Asked if she had been in touch with Wiley’s team, Garcia suggested there had been staff-level conversations.

“The campaigns have been speaking to each other,” Garcia said in a phone call Tuesday afternoon, saying the two candidates had not yet spoken directly. “Hopefully we don’t have to step in with attorneys. But it is about really ensuring that New York City’s voices are heard.”

Wiley ran well to the left of Garcia on a number of vital policy matters, including around policing and on some education questions. Either candidate would be the first woman elected mayor of New York, and Wiley would be the city’s first Black female mayor.

Adams, a former police captain and a relative moderate on several key issues, was a non-starter for many progressive voters who may have preferred Garcia and her focus on competence over any especially ideological message.

But early results suggested that Adams had significant strength among working-class voters of color, and some traction among white voters with moderate views.

City Councilman I. Daneek Miller, an Adams supporter who is pressing for a new referendum on ranked-choice voting, suggested in a text message on Tuesday that the system had opened the door to “an attempt to eliminate the candidate of moderate working people and traditionally marginalized communities,” as he implicitly criticized the Yang-Garcia alliance.

“It is incumbent on us now to address the issue of ranked voting and how it is being weaponized against a wide portion of the public,” said Miller, co-chair of the Black, Latino and Asian Caucus on the City Council.

Other close observers of the election separately expressed discomfort with the decision to release a ranked-choice tally without accounting for absentee ballots.

“There is real danger that voters will come to believe a set of facts about the race that will be disproven when all votes are in,” said Ben Greenfield, a senior survey data analyst at Change Research, which conducted polling for a pro-Garcia PAC. “The risk is that this could take a system that’s already new and confusing and increase people’s sense of mistrust.”

The New York City mayor’s race plunged into chaos Tuesday night when the city Board of Elections released a new tally of votes in the Democratic mayoral primary and then removed the tabulations from its website after citing a “discrepancy.

The New York City mayor’s race plunged into chaos Tuesday night when the city Board of Elections released a new tally of votes in the Democratic mayoral primary and then removed the tabulations from its website after citing a “discrepancy.” The results released earlier in the day had suggested that the race between Eric Adams and his two closest rivals had tightened significantly. But just a few hours after releasing the preliminary results, the elections board issued a cryptic tweet revealing a “discrepancy” in the report, saying that it was working with its “technical staff to identify where the discrepancy occurred.” By Tuesday evening, the tabulations had been taken down, replaced by a new advisory that the ranked-choice results would be available “starting on June 30.” Then, around 10:30 p.m., the board finally released a statement, explaining that it had failed to remove sample ballot images used to test its ranked-choice voting software. When the board ran the program, it counted “both test and election night results, producing approximately 135,000 additional records,” the statement said. The ranked-choice numbers, it said, would be tabulated again. The extraordinary sequence of events seeded further confusion about the outcome, and threw the closely watched contest into a new period of uncertainty at a consequential moment for the city. For the Board of Elections, which has long been plagued by dysfunction and nepotism, this was its first try at implementing ranked-choice voting on a citywide scale. Skeptics had expressed doubts about the board’s ability to pull off the process, though it is used successfully in other cities. Under ranked-choice voting, voters can list up to five candidates on their ballots in preferential order. If no candidate receives more than 50% of first-choice votes in the first round, the winner is decided by a process of elimination: As the lower-polling candidates are eliminated, their votes are reallocated to whichever candidate those voters ranked next, and the process continues until there is a winner. The Board of Elections released preliminary, unofficial ranked-choice tabulations on Tuesday afternoon, showing that Adams — who had held a significant advantage on primary night — was narrowly ahead of Kathryn Garcia in the ballots cast in person during early voting or on Primary Day. Maya Wiley, who came in second place in the initial vote count, was close behind in third place. The board then took down the results and disclosed the discrepancy. The results may well be scrambled again: Even after the Board of Elections sorts through the preliminary tally, it must count around 124,000 Democratic absentee ballots. Once they are tabulated, the board will take the new total that includes them and run a new set of ranked-choice elimination rounds, with a final result not expected until mid-July. Some Democrats, bracing for an acrimonious new chapter in the race, are concerned that the incremental release of results by the Board of Elections — and the discovery of an error — may stir distrust of ranked-choice voting and of the city’s electoral system more broadly. In a statement late Tuesday night, Wiley laced into the Board of Elections, calling the error “the result of generations of failures that have gone unaddressed,” and adding: “Sadly it is impossible to be surprised.” “Today, we have once again seen the mismanagement that has resulted in a lack of confidence in results, not because there is a flaw in our election laws, but because those who implement it have failed too many times,” she said. “The BOE must now count the remainder of the votes transparently and ensure the integrity of the process moving forward.” Garcia said the release of the inaccurate tally was “deeply troubling and requires a much more transparent and complete explanation.” “Every ranked choice and absentee vote must be counted accurately so that all New Yorkers have faith in our democracy and our government,” she said. “I am confident that every candidate will accept the final results and support whomever the voters have elected.” And Adams noted the “unfortunate” error by the Board of Elections and emphasized the importance of handling election results correctly. “It is critical that New Yorkers are confident in their electoral system, especially as we rank votes in a citywide election for the first time,” he said in a statement released Tuesday night. “We appreciate the board’s transparency and acknowledgment of their error. We look forward to the release of an accurate, updated simulation, and the timely conclusion of this critical process.” If elected, Adams would be the city’s second Black mayor, after David Dinkins. Some of Adams’ supporters have already cast the ranked-choice process as an attempt to disenfranchise voters of color, an argument that intensified among some backers on Tuesday afternoon as the race had appeared to tighten, and is virtually certain to escalate should he lose his primary night lead to Garcia, who is white. Surrogates for Adams have suggested without evidence that an apparent ranked-choice alliance between Garcia and another rival, Andrew Yang, could amount to an attempt to suppress the votes of Black and Latino New Yorkers; Adams himself claimed that the alliance was aimed at preventing a Black or Latino candidate from winning the race. In the final days of the race, Garcia and Yang campaigned together across the city, especially in neighborhoods that are home to sizable Asian American communities, and appeared together on campaign literature. To advocates of ranked-choice voting, the round-by-round shuffling of outcomes is part of the process of electing a candidate with broad appeal. But if Garcia or Wiley were to prevail, the process — which was approved by voters in a 2019 ballot measure — would likely attract fresh scrutiny, with some of Adams’ backers and others already urging a new referendum on it. By Tuesday night, though, it was the Board of Elections that was attracting ire from seemingly all corners. Betsy Gotbaum, the city’s former public advocate who now runs Citizens Union, a good-government group, warned that “the entire country is watching” the Board of Elections. “New Yorkers deserve elections, and election administrators, that they can have the utmost faith in,” Gotbaum added. A comparison between first-place vote totals released on primary night and those released Tuesday offered some insight into how the 135,000 erroneous votes were distributed. The bottom four candidates received a total of 42,000 new votes, roughly four times their actual vote total; the number of write-in ballots also skyrocketed to 17,516 from 1,336. Adams and Yang received the highest number of new votes. It was not known, however, how the test votes were reallocated during the ranked-choice tabulations, making it impossible to determine how they affected the preliminary results that were released and then retracted. When accurate vote counts are in place, it is difficult, but not unheard-of for a trailing candidate in a ranked-choice election to eventually win the race through later rounds of voting — that happened in Oakland, California, in 2010, and nearly occurred in San Francisco in 2018. The winner of New York’s Democratic primary, who is almost certain to become the city’s next mayor, will face Curtis Sliwa, the founder of the Guardian Angels, who won the Republican primary. According to the now-withdrawn tabulation released Tuesday, Wiley, a former counsel to Mayor Bill de Blasio, nearly made it to the final round. She finished closely behind Garcia, the former sanitation commissioner, before being eliminated in the penultimate round of the preliminary exercise. After the count of in-person ballots last week, Garcia trailed Wiley by about 2.8 percentage points. Asked if she had been in touch with Wiley’s team, Garcia suggested there had been staff-level conversations. “The campaigns have been speaking to each other,” Garcia said in a phone call Tuesday afternoon, saying the two candidates had not yet spoken directly. “Hopefully we don’t have to step in with attorneys. But it is about really ensuring that New York City’s voices are heard.” Wiley ran well to the left of Garcia on a number of vital policy matters, including around policing and on some education questions. Either candidate would be the first woman elected mayor of New York, and Wiley would be the city’s first Black female mayor. Adams, a former police captain and a relative moderate on several key issues, was a non-starter for many progressive voters who may have preferred Garcia and her focus on competence over any especially ideological message. But early results suggested that Adams had significant strength among working-class voters of color, and some traction among white voters with moderate views. City Councilman I. Daneek Miller, an Adams supporter who is pressing for a new referendum on ranked-choice voting, suggested in a text message on Tuesday that the system had opened the door to “an attempt to eliminate the candidate of moderate working people and traditionally marginalized communities,” as he implicitly criticized the Yang-Garcia alliance. “It is incumbent on us now to address the issue of ranked voting and how it is being weaponized against a wide portion of the public,” said Miller, co-chair of the Black, Latino and Asian Caucus on the City Council. Other close observers of the election separately expressed discomfort with the decision to release a ranked-choice tally without accounting for absentee ballots. “There is real danger that voters will come to believe a set of facts about the race that will be disproven when all votes are in,” said Ben Greenfield, a senior survey data analyst at Change Research, which conducted polling for a pro-Garcia PAC. “The risk is that this could take a system that’s already new and confusing and increase people’s sense of mistrust.”

New York mayor’s race in chaos after elections board counts 135,000 test ballots

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday proposed spendings of billions of rubles ahead of parliamentary polls due in September. Putin made the announcement at his United Russia party congress. The parliamentary polls are likely to see the deeply unpopular party struggle.

The party congress took place in a Moscow convention centre. The Russian capital is seeing high number of new Covid cases.

The spending for public support Putin proposed included 50 billion rubles ($687 million) on public transport, 30 billion rubles for repairing roads and 20 billion rubles to clean up rivers, among other spending projects on infrastructure and healthcare.

"The program of the party of the leader has to be the program of the people," the 68-year-old Kremlin chief said in a speech broadcast on state television.

He also said the state would be allocating payments and new forms of support for families starting next month.&nbsp;

"Our task is to significantly increase the prosperity of Russian families and the incomes of our citizens," Putin said.

The gathering, which determines the ruling party's candidates and electoral platform for September's lower house of parliament vote, comes after the party has seen support tumble in recent years amid economic stagnation, entrenched corruption and widespread voter fatigue.

On Friday, state-run pollster VTsIOM published a survey showing that 30 percent of voters support United Russia -- a 10-point drop from the last lower house State Duma elections in 2016.

Navalny neutralised

But the party, which controls a majority of the State Duma, is projecting calm.

"It is a good base of support that can be further increased during the election campaign," party chairman and former president and prime minister Dmitry Medvedev said at the start of the month.

Putin, who came to power in 2000, himself boasts much higher support than his party with an approval rating of 61.5 percent, according to VTsIOM.

The pollster also predicts that three opposition parties that are seen as doing the Kremlin's bidding -- the nationalist LDPR, the Communists and A Just Russia -- will garner around 30 percent of the vote.

Further buoying the Kremlin's prospects in September is the recent dismantling of the movement of Russia's main opposition politician Alexei Navalny.

Barring his organisations from working in the country, a Moscow court earlier this month branded them as "extremist", while Putin signed legislation outlawing staff, members and sponsors of "extremist" groups from running in parliamentary elections.

Critics say the moves were aimed at ensuring that Navalny, who was jailed earlier this year for two-and-a-half years on old fraud charges he says are politically motivated, does not spoil September's vote for the Kremlin.

Despite the clampdown, Navalny's allies are promoting his Smart Voting strategy that backs candidates best placed to defeat Kremlin-linked politicians -- a tactic that has seen United Russia lose a number of seats in recent local elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday proposed spendings of billions of rubles ahead of parliamentary polls due in September. Putin made the announcement at his United Russia party congress.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday proposed spendings of billions of rubles ahead of parliamentary polls due in September. Putin made the announcement at his United Russia party congress. The parliamentary polls are likely to see the deeply unpopular party struggle. The party congress took place in a Moscow convention centre. The Russian capital is seeing high number of new Covid cases. The spending for public support Putin proposed included 50 billion rubles ($687 million) on public transport, 30 billion rubles for repairing roads and 20 billion rubles to clean up rivers, among other spending projects on infrastructure and healthcare. "The program of the party of the leader has to be the program of the people," the 68-year-old Kremlin chief said in a speech broadcast on state television. He also said the state would be allocating payments and new forms of support for families starting next month. "Our task is to significantly increase the prosperity of Russian families and the incomes of our citizens," Putin said. The gathering, which determines the ruling party's candidates and electoral platform for September's lower house of parliament vote, comes after the party has seen support tumble in recent years amid economic stagnation, entrenched corruption and widespread voter fatigue. On Friday, state-run pollster VTsIOM published a survey showing that 30 percent of voters support United Russia -- a 10-point drop from the last lower house State Duma elections in 2016. Navalny neutralised But the party, which controls a majority of the State Duma, is projecting calm. "It is a good base of support that can be further increased during the election campaign," party chairman and former president and prime minister Dmitry Medvedev said at the start of the month. Putin, who came to power in 2000, himself boasts much higher support than his party with an approval rating of 61.5 percent, according to VTsIOM. The pollster also predicts that three opposition parties that are seen as doing the Kremlin's bidding -- the nationalist LDPR, the Communists and A Just Russia -- will garner around 30 percent of the vote. Further buoying the Kremlin's prospects in September is the recent dismantling of the movement of Russia's main opposition politician Alexei Navalny. Barring his organisations from working in the country, a Moscow court earlier this month branded them as "extremist", while Putin signed legislation outlawing staff, members and sponsors of "extremist" groups from running in parliamentary elections. Critics say the moves were aimed at ensuring that Navalny, who was jailed earlier this year for two-and-a-half years on old fraud charges he says are politically motivated, does not spoil September's vote for the Kremlin. Despite the clampdown, Navalny's allies are promoting his Smart Voting strategy that backs candidates best placed to defeat Kremlin-linked politicians -- a tactic that has seen United Russia lose a number of seats in recent local elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin promises billions in public spending ahead of polls

Polling stations opened on Wednesday across Syria in a presidential election that is set to usher Bashar al-Assad into a fourth term in office.&nbsp;

The government says the election shows Syria is functioning normally despite a decade-old war, but the opposition and Western nations view it as merely rubber-stamping Assad's grip on power. Assad is running against two obscure candidates.&nbsp;

In Damascus University's Faculty of Arts, hundreds of students lined up to vote, with several buses parked outside.&nbsp;

"We came to elect president Bashar al-Assad...without him Syria would not be Syria," Amal, a nursing student, said.&nbsp;

"With our blood and soul, we sacrifice our lives for you Bashar," other students chanted ahead of the opening of the polling station.&nbsp;

Assad first took power in 2000 on the death of his father Hafez, who had ruled for 30 years before that.&nbsp;

Assad's rule has been defined by a decade-long war that erupted after peaceful protests against his authoritarian rule in 2011. The conflict has killed hundreds of thousands of people and driven 11 million from their homes, about half the country's population.&nbsp;

The other two candidates in the election are former deputy cabinet minister Abdallah Saloum Abdallah, and Mahmoud Ahmed Marei, head of a small, officially sanctioned opposition party.&nbsp;

The foreign ministers of France, Germany, Italy, Britain and the United States said in a statement on Tuesday, criticising leader Bashar al-Assad, that the elections would not be free or fair. &nbsp;

Polling stations opened on Wednesday across Syria in a presidential election that is set to usher Bashar al-Assad into a fourth term in office. The government says the election shows Syria is functioning normally despite a decade-old war, but the opposition and Western nations view it as merely rubber-stamping Assad's grip on power.

Polling stations opened on Wednesday across Syria in a presidential election that is set to usher Bashar al-Assad into a fourth term in office. The government says the election shows Syria is functioning normally despite a decade-old war, but the opposition and Western nations view it as merely rubber-stamping Assad's grip on power. Assad is running against two obscure candidates. In Damascus University's Faculty of Arts, hundreds of students lined up to vote, with several buses parked outside. "We came to elect president Bashar al-Assad...without him Syria would not be Syria," Amal, a nursing student, said. "With our blood and soul, we sacrifice our lives for you Bashar," other students chanted ahead of the opening of the polling station. Assad first took power in 2000 on the death of his father Hafez, who had ruled for 30 years before that. Assad's rule has been defined by a decade-long war that erupted after peaceful protests against his authoritarian rule in 2011. The conflict has killed hundreds of thousands of people and driven 11 million from their homes, about half the country's population. The other two candidates in the election are former deputy cabinet minister Abdallah Saloum Abdallah, and Mahmoud Ahmed Marei, head of a small, officially sanctioned opposition party. The foreign ministers of France, Germany, Italy, Britain and the United States said in a statement on Tuesday, criticising leader Bashar al-Assad, that the elections would not be free or fair.

Syrians go to the polls in election that Assad is set to win 

Cape Verde, a bastion of democracy in Africa, held parliamentary polls Sunday with no clear winner in sight after a campaign dominated by the Covid pandemic and its impact on a tourism-dependent economy.

Neither of the two traditional major parties is predicted to emerge the outright winner, giving four smaller parties a chance to have their say over the group of islands off the west coast of Africa.

In the capital Praia, queues of voters began forming early in the day in front of schools serving as polling stations, AFP journalists said.

"The priority for me is to re-elect the government, fight Covid and develop the economy and tourism," said Luis Leit, 44, after voting.

With foreign tourism accounting for roughly a quarter of the economy and visitors unable to come owing to global pandemic restrictions, Cape Verde, with a population of 550,000, was plunged into a historic recession in 2020, when output shrank by 14.8 percent.

Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva nonetheless told reporters: "We are very confident. We hope to have an absolute majority."

But his Movement for Democracy (MpD) is being closely contested by the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV), a socialist party led by Janira Hopffer Almada.&nbsp;

The 42-year-old lawyer and former youth minister hopes to become the first woman to lead the former Portuguese colony.

A supporter who presented himself as a jurist named Carla told AFP he wanted Almada to fight corruption, even if the country has a good reputation in that area.

After voting, Almada complained, "the state continued campaigning yesterday", (Saturday) after the official end of electioneering on Friday, calling it a "grave violation".

Virus surge despite isolation

Both major parties pledged measures to provide wide access to Covid-19 vaccinations and to diversify the economy.

Although it lies around 600 kilometres (375 miles) off the coast of Senegal, Cape Verde has witnessed a surge in coronavirus cases.

With 189 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, the country had the highest rate in Africa according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention for the period from April 5-11.

Voting began at 0800 GMT and polling stations were scheduled to remain open until 1900 GMT, with just over 392,000 people registered to vote.

In 1990, one-party rule in Cape Verde was swept away and the first multi-party elections were held the following year.

In 2016, the MpD ended the PAICV's 15-year run with a historic victory, gaining 40 of 72 seats in the single-chamber parliament, the National Assembly.

Cape Verde has a semi-parliamentary system in which the prime minister wields executive power while the president plays the part of arbitrator in the event of intractable disputes.

Elections for the presidency take place on October 17.&nbsp;

In a continent marked by political unrest, coups or monolithic rulers who have been in power for decades, the tiny Atlantic archipelago stands out.

It ranks just behind Mauritius as the most democratic country in sub-Saharan Africa in the Economist Intelligence Unit's 2020 Democracy Index.

Cape Verde, a bastion of democracy in Africa, held parliamentary polls Sunday with no clear winner in sight after a campaign dominated by the Covid pandemic and its impact on a tourism-dependent economy.

Cape Verde, a bastion of democracy in Africa, held parliamentary polls Sunday with no clear winner in sight after a campaign dominated by the Covid pandemic and its impact on a tourism-dependent economy. Neither of the two traditional major parties is predicted to emerge the outright winner, giving four smaller parties a chance to have their say over the group of islands off the west coast of Africa. In the capital Praia, queues of voters began forming early in the day in front of schools serving as polling stations, AFP journalists said. "The priority for me is to re-elect the government, fight Covid and develop the economy and tourism," said Luis Leit, 44, after voting. With foreign tourism accounting for roughly a quarter of the economy and visitors unable to come owing to global pandemic restrictions, Cape Verde, with a population of 550,000, was plunged into a historic recession in 2020, when output shrank by 14.8 percent. Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva nonetheless told reporters: "We are very confident. We hope to have an absolute majority." But his Movement for Democracy (MpD) is being closely contested by the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV), a socialist party led by Janira Hopffer Almada. The 42-year-old lawyer and former youth minister hopes to become the first woman to lead the former Portuguese colony. A supporter who presented himself as a jurist named Carla told AFP he wanted Almada to fight corruption, even if the country has a good reputation in that area. After voting, Almada complained, "the state continued campaigning yesterday", (Saturday) after the official end of electioneering on Friday, calling it a "grave violation". Virus surge despite isolation Both major parties pledged measures to provide wide access to Covid-19 vaccinations and to diversify the economy. Although it lies around 600 kilometres (375 miles) off the coast of Senegal, Cape Verde has witnessed a surge in coronavirus cases. With 189 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, the country had the highest rate in Africa according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention for the period from April 5-11. Voting began at 0800 GMT and polling stations were scheduled to remain open until 1900 GMT, with just over 392,000 people registered to vote. In 1990, one-party rule in Cape Verde was swept away and the first multi-party elections were held the following year. In 2016, the MpD ended the PAICV's 15-year run with a historic victory, gaining 40 of 72 seats in the single-chamber parliament, the National Assembly. Cape Verde has a semi-parliamentary system in which the prime minister wields executive power while the president plays the part of arbitrator in the event of intractable disputes. Elections for the presidency take place on October 17. In a continent marked by political unrest, coups or monolithic rulers who have been in power for decades, the tiny Atlantic archipelago stands out. It ranks just behind Mauritius as the most democratic country in sub-Saharan Africa in the Economist Intelligence Unit's 2020 Democracy Index.

Voters go to the polls in Cape Verde, Africa's model of democracy

International monitors will watch over a nearly six-month-old ceasefire agreement in Libya, the UN Security Council decided in a vote announced on Friday, as the country heads towards December elections after a decade of fighting and upheaval.&nbsp;

The council agreed unanimously to follow through on Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' recent proposal for up to 60 monitors to join an existing political mission in Libya.&nbsp;

The monitors would arrive in an ‘incremental deployment ... Once conditions allow’, according to the council's British-drafted resolution. The measure also urges all foreign forces and mercenaries to get out of the country, as was supposed to happen months ago.&nbsp;

"We now expect all UN Members to act on that, helping Libya to regain its sovereignty and work towards lasting peace and stability," Britain's minister for the Middle East and North Africa, James Cleverly, said in a statement from London.&nbsp;

He heralded the resolution as sending 'a clear signal of support' for Libya's transitional government, which took power last month and is expected to lead the country to the elections, planned for December 24.&nbsp;

Libya's UN Mission didn't immediately comment on the resolution. The country didn't get to vote on them, as it isn't a member of the 15-nation council. Voting was conducted by email, due to the coronavirus pandemic; the results were announced at a brief virtual meeting.&nbsp;

Libya has been wracked by chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi in 2011 and split the oil-rich North African country between a UN-supported government in the capital, Tripoli, and rival authorities based in the country's east.&nbsp;

Each side was backed by armed groups and foreign governments. The UN Estimated in December there were at least 20,000 foreign fighters and mercenaries in Libya, including Syrians, Russians, Sudanese and Chadians.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

International monitors will watch over a nearly six-month-old ceasefire agreement in Libya, the UN Security Council decided in a vote announced on Friday, as the country heads towards December elections after a decade of fighting and upheaval.

International monitors will watch over a nearly six-month-old ceasefire agreement in Libya, the UN Security Council decided in a vote announced on Friday, as the country heads towards December elections after a decade of fighting and upheaval. The council agreed unanimously to follow through on Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' recent proposal for up to 60 monitors to join an existing political mission in Libya. The monitors would arrive in an ‘incremental deployment ... Once conditions allow’, according to the council's British-drafted resolution. The measure also urges all foreign forces and mercenaries to get out of the country, as was supposed to happen months ago. "We now expect all UN Members to act on that, helping Libya to regain its sovereignty and work towards lasting peace and stability," Britain's minister for the Middle East and North Africa, James Cleverly, said in a statement from London. He heralded the resolution as sending 'a clear signal of support' for Libya's transitional government, which took power last month and is expected to lead the country to the elections, planned for December 24. Libya's UN Mission didn't immediately comment on the resolution. The country didn't get to vote on them, as it isn't a member of the 15-nation council. Voting was conducted by email, due to the coronavirus pandemic; the results were announced at a brief virtual meeting. Libya has been wracked by chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi in 2011 and split the oil-rich North African country between a UN-supported government in the capital, Tripoli, and rival authorities based in the country's east. Each side was backed by armed groups and foreign governments. The UN Estimated in December there were at least 20,000 foreign fighters and mercenaries in Libya, including Syrians, Russians, Sudanese and Chadians. (With inputs from agencies)

UN agrees to deploy ceasefire monitors as Libya heads towards December polls 

Indonesia held nationwide regional elections Wednesday with more than 100 million voters eligible to cast a ballot, despite warnings the poll would worsen the nation's Covid-19 crisis.

The archipelago of nearly 270 million -- the world's third-biggest democracy and fourth most populous nation -- delayed the vote originally set for September as it struggled to contain soaring infection rates.

From the capital Jakarta to the holiday island of Bali, polling station staff in full protective gear enforced social distancing and took voters' temperatures before polls closed at 1:00 pm local time (0600 GMT).

Abdul Rahman Wahab, 24, admitted he was nervous about turning up to vote on Sulawesi island.

"Health is my priority for sure, but voting is also an important part of our life in a democratic country," he said. &nbsp;

Islamist parties are looking to score big gains in the world's biggest Muslim-majority nation as they ride a tide of rising religious conservatism.

In the second-biggest city Surabaya workers followed the tradition of donning superhero costumes, dressing as Spiderman to lure voters in.&nbsp;

Others were tasked with taking ballot boxes into hospitals so that Covid patients could vote from their sickbeds.&nbsp;

Polling stations were disinfected," said Suprianto, head of a polling station committee in Jakarta's Ciputat district, who like many Indonesians goes by one name.

"We made spaces as wide as possible to allow for social distancing. Voters were also required to wear masks. If you don't, then you won't be allowed in the polling station."

Voter Nur Oktaviani said the precautions had put her at ease.

"I'm not worried," the 24-year-old told AFP.

"Here, they're complying with health protocols."&nbsp;

- 'High risk' -

Hundreds of hopefuls -- including President Joko Widodo's eldest son -- are vying for 270 positions, including regional governors, district heads and mayors.&nbsp;

Official results are not expected for several weeks.

At least four election candidates have died so far, according to independent research group Laporcovid, and more than 1,000 election agency staff were infected ahead of voting day.

Over 580,000 Indonesians have contracted the illness while the death toll stands at 18,000.&nbsp;

But the true scale of the crisis is widely believed to be much bigger, as testing rates are low.

Infections could skyrocket above one million after polling day, warned Hermawan Saputra at the Indonesian Public Health Experts' Association.&nbsp;

"The most worrying thing is that it won't be just young, healthy people casting their votes, but also the elderly, pregnant women and sick people -- they're all at high risk," he said.

"The public service announcements and health protocols aren't enough. Health is being trumped by political demands and that's very concerning. It's not worth it."

- Dynastic ambitions -

In the midst of the pandemic, voters had little chance to interact with candidates or understand their platforms, dealing a blow to a democracy that rose from the ashes of the Suharto dictatorship two decades ago.

"Holding regional elections during the pandemic is highly risky and costs a lot of money," said Titi Anggraini, an analyst at the Association for&nbsp;Elections&nbsp;and Democracy.

"It's such a waste."

Widodo's son Gibran Rakabuming Raka, 33, is running for mayor of Solo city in Central Java, where his father, a former furniture seller better known as Jokowi, started in politics.

Jokowi's son-in-law is also vying for office, stirring questions about whether Indonesia's leader is trying to create a political dynasty more than a year into his second and final term.&nbsp;

Vice-president Ma'ruf Amin's daughter and defense minister Prabowo Subianto's niece are also running for elected positions.&nbsp;

Indonesia held nationwide regional elections Wednesday with more than 100 million voters eligible to cast a ballot, despite warnings the poll would worsen the nation's Covid-19 crisis.

Indonesia held nationwide regional elections Wednesday with more than 100 million voters eligible to cast a ballot, despite warnings the poll would worsen the nation's Covid-19 crisis. The archipelago of nearly 270 million -- the world's third-biggest democracy and fourth most populous nation -- delayed the vote originally set for September as it struggled to contain soaring infection rates. From the capital Jakarta to the holiday island of Bali, polling station staff in full protective gear enforced social distancing and took voters' temperatures before polls closed at 1:00 pm local time (0600 GMT). Abdul Rahman Wahab, 24, admitted he was nervous about turning up to vote on Sulawesi island. "Health is my priority for sure, but voting is also an important part of our life in a democratic country," he said. Islamist parties are looking to score big gains in the world's biggest Muslim-majority nation as they ride a tide of rising religious conservatism. In the second-biggest city Surabaya workers followed the tradition of donning superhero costumes, dressing as Spiderman to lure voters in. Others were tasked with taking ballot boxes into hospitals so that Covid patients could vote from their sickbeds. Polling stations were disinfected," said Suprianto, head of a polling station committee in Jakarta's Ciputat district, who like many Indonesians goes by one name. "We made spaces as wide as possible to allow for social distancing. Voters were also required to wear masks. If you don't, then you won't be allowed in the polling station." Voter Nur Oktaviani said the precautions had put her at ease. "I'm not worried," the 24-year-old told AFP. "Here, they're complying with health protocols." - 'High risk' - Hundreds of hopefuls -- including President Joko Widodo's eldest son -- are vying for 270 positions, including regional governors, district heads and mayors. Official results are not expected for several weeks. At least four election candidates have died so far, according to independent research group Laporcovid, and more than 1,000 election agency staff were infected ahead of voting day. Over 580,000 Indonesians have contracted the illness while the death toll stands at 18,000. But the true scale of the crisis is widely believed to be much bigger, as testing rates are low. Infections could skyrocket above one million after polling day, warned Hermawan Saputra at the Indonesian Public Health Experts' Association. "The most worrying thing is that it won't be just young, healthy people casting their votes, but also the elderly, pregnant women and sick people -- they're all at high risk," he said. "The public service announcements and health protocols aren't enough. Health is being trumped by political demands and that's very concerning. It's not worth it." - Dynastic ambitions - In the midst of the pandemic, voters had little chance to interact with candidates or understand their platforms, dealing a blow to a democracy that rose from the ashes of the Suharto dictatorship two decades ago. "Holding regional elections during the pandemic is highly risky and costs a lot of money," said Titi Anggraini, an analyst at the Association for Elections and Democracy. "It's such a waste." Widodo's son Gibran Rakabuming Raka, 33, is running for mayor of Solo city in Central Java, where his father, a former furniture seller better known as Jokowi, started in politics. Jokowi's son-in-law is also vying for office, stirring questions about whether Indonesia's leader is trying to create a political dynasty more than a year into his second and final term. Vice-president Ma'ruf Amin's daughter and defense minister Prabowo Subianto's niece are also running for elected positions.

Indonesia holds nationwide poll despite virus warnings

Israelis head to the polls on Monday with a sense of deja vu after trying and failing twice in the past year to break the country's political deadlock.

Why so many elections?

In late 2018, Benjamin Netanyahu, veteran leader of Israel's right-wing Likud Party, seemed to be at the peak of his powers.

The dominant political figure of his generation, Netanyahu was about to become Israel's longest-serving prime minister.

But he had a precarious one-seat majority in parliament and called a snap election for April 9, 2019.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-netanyahu-seeks-settlers-votes-with-annexation-pledge-282802">Israel's&nbsp;Netanyahu seeks settlers' votes with annexation pledge</a>

The immediate reason given was the vulnerability of his ruling coalition after the resignation of Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman. More hawkish than even Netanyahu, Lieberman quit, accusing the prime minister of being too soft on Palestinian militants in Gaza.

But many Israelis saw it as a ploy by Netanyahu to gain a renewed public mandate to ward off prosecutors who were then in the final stages of drafting charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust against him.

Once re-elected, the theory went, Netanyahu could say an indictment was not in the national interest. He denies wrongdoing, accusing his enemies of a witch-hunt.

What went wrong?

If that was the plan, it backfired. No single party in Israel has ever won an outright majority in parliament, and Netanyahu failed to get enough seats.

He struggled for weeks to put together a government. Then, rather than let his principal rival - former armed forces chief Benny Gantz - have a chance to form a government, Netanyahu triggered another election, on Sept. 17.

What happened in election number two?

Again Netanyahu fell short. Likud and Gantz's centrist Blue and White Party ended in a virtual tie.

That left Lieberman a king-maker. But Lieberman cited policy differences with both men to avoid anointing either.

After months of horse-trading in which Netanyahu and Gantz both failed to win enough support, the outcome, much to the dismay of the jaded Israeli electorate, was Monday's election.

Is this time any diffrent

Yes. Since the previous election, formal criminal charges have been filed against Netanyahu. Prosecution is now a reality, not a possibility. His trial is due to open on March 17, just two weeks after the election.

Also, both previous elections were fought without the electorate knowing the contents of U.S. President Donald Trump's long-delayed Middle East peace plan.

That was published in January and would grant U.S. recognition to Israel's settlements in the occupied West Bank.

Palestinians were furious, saying it gives away land they seek for a future state. Netanyahu pledged to annex the settlements after the election.

Could Netanyahu win this time?

Yes. But Netanyahu will need to win support from other parties if he is to form a coalition government with at least 61 of the parliament's 120 seats.

The court hearings will prompt rivals to demand that he resign, even before sentencing. A verdict is likely to be months away, and the appeals process could take years.

Could Netanyahu lose to Ghantz?

Opinion polls have shown Likud and Blue and White virtually neck and neck, with Netanyahu's party edging slightly ahead in the final stages of the campaign.

Netanyahu is a known quantity. But Gantz also has problems - barring an unexpected surge in centrist voters he would have to bring together rightists and those representing Israel's Arab minority, which are on opposite sides of the political spectrum.

Could there be a fourth election?

Yes, if Monday's prolongs the deadlock. But some Israeli politicians regard this as unacceptable. Aside from political instability, it would mean further fiscal paralysis for Israel under a continuing caretaker government.

That could lead to the defection of some former Likud partners to a Gantz-led coalition.

What about a "National Unity" in government?

Many Israelis would like Netanyahu and Gantz to unite, to end the bickering. But Gantz says he will not partner with Netanyahu now that an indictment has been filed.

&nbsp;

Israelis head to the polls on Monday with a sense of deja vu after trying and failing twice in the past year to break the country's political deadlock. Why so many elections?

Israelis head to the polls on Monday with a sense of deja vu after trying and failing twice in the past year to break the country's political deadlock. Why so many elections? In late 2018, Benjamin Netanyahu, veteran leader of Israel's right-wing Likud Party, seemed to be at the peak of his powers. The dominant political figure of his generation, Netanyahu was about to become Israel's longest-serving prime minister. But he had a precarious one-seat majority in parliament and called a snap election for April 9, 2019. Also Read: Israel's Netanyahu seeks settlers' votes with annexation pledge The immediate reason given was the vulnerability of his ruling coalition after the resignation of Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman. More hawkish than even Netanyahu, Lieberman quit, accusing the prime minister of being too soft on Palestinian militants in Gaza. But many Israelis saw it as a ploy by Netanyahu to gain a renewed public mandate to ward off prosecutors who were then in the final stages of drafting charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust against him. Once re-elected, the theory went, Netanyahu could say an indictment was not in the national interest. He denies wrongdoing, accusing his enemies of a witch-hunt. What went wrong? If that was the plan, it backfired. No single party in Israel has ever won an outright majority in parliament, and Netanyahu failed to get enough seats. He struggled for weeks to put together a government. Then, rather than let his principal rival - former armed forces chief Benny Gantz - have a chance to form a government, Netanyahu triggered another election, on Sept. 17. What happened in election number two? Again Netanyahu fell short. Likud and Gantz's centrist Blue and White Party ended in a virtual tie. That left Lieberman a king-maker. But Lieberman cited policy differences with both men to avoid anointing either. After months of horse-trading in which Netanyahu and Gantz both failed to win enough support, the outcome, much to the dismay of the jaded Israeli electorate, was Monday's election. Is this time any diffrent Yes. Since the previous election, formal criminal charges have been filed against Netanyahu. Prosecution is now a reality, not a possibility. His trial is due to open on March 17, just two weeks after the election. Also, both previous elections were fought without the electorate knowing the contents of U.S. President Donald Trump's long-delayed Middle East peace plan. That was published in January and would grant U.S. recognition to Israel's settlements in the occupied West Bank. Palestinians were furious, saying it gives away land they seek for a future state. Netanyahu pledged to annex the settlements after the election. Could Netanyahu win this time? Yes. But Netanyahu will need to win support from other parties if he is to form a coalition government with at least 61 of the parliament's 120 seats. The court hearings will prompt rivals to demand that he resign, even before sentencing. A verdict is likely to be months away, and the appeals process could take years. Could Netanyahu lose to Ghantz? Opinion polls have shown Likud and Blue and White virtually neck and neck, with Netanyahu's party edging slightly ahead in the final stages of the campaign. Netanyahu is a known quantity. But Gantz also has problems - barring an unexpected surge in centrist voters he would have to bring together rightists and those representing Israel's Arab minority, which are on opposite sides of the political spectrum. Could there be a fourth election? Yes, if Monday's prolongs the deadlock. But some Israeli politicians regard this as unacceptable. Aside from political instability, it would mean further fiscal paralysis for Israel under a continuing caretaker government. That could lead to the defection of some former Likud partners to a Gantz-led coalition. What about a "National Unity" in government? Many Israelis would like Netanyahu and Gantz to unite, to end the bickering. But Gantz says he will not partner with Netanyahu now that an indictment has been filed.

Explainer: Why is Israel holding its third election in a year?

BJP leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shiv-sena-likens-kadam-to-alauddin-khilji-over-his-anti-women-remarks-164254">Ram Kadam has said</a> that his party will win elections to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in 2022 and will wrest the mayor seat from former ally Shiv Sena.

"All BJP MPs, MLAs and councillors met on Tuesday. After Municipality polls in February 2022, the mayor will be from BJP. We have only 3-4 councillors less than Shiv Sena. We never stake a claim for Opposition but now we will sit in Opposition and will work as an aggressive force in the BMC," Ram Kadam said. "We will dig out scams of Shiv Sena in the BMC," he said.

<img alt="BBJP leader Ram Kadam" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3535acd0-7426-481f-88b1-6c49c26fe5ed" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2847%29_2.jpg" /> 
[ BJP leader Ram Kadam (Courtesy: DNA) ]

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-kadam-has-apologised-for-his-remarks-row-should-end-maharashtra-minister-164229">Ram Kadam has apologised for his remarks, row should end: Maharashtra minister</a>

In 2017 BMC polls, BJP had won 82 seats while Shiv Sena bagged 86 seats out of the total 227 seats. Currently, Sena corporator Kishori Pednekar is the Mayor of Mumbai.&nbsp;

This came after BJP broke its ties with Shiv Sena when the latter decided to go with the Nationalist Congress Party and Congress to form the government in the state after Assembly polls in October last year.

BJP leader Ram Kadam has said that his party will win elections to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in 2022 and will wrest the mayor seat from former ally Shiv Sena.

BJP leader Ram Kadam has said that his party will win elections to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in 2022 and will wrest the mayor seat from former ally Shiv Sena. "All BJP MPs, MLAs and councillors met on Tuesday. After Municipality polls in February 2022, the mayor will be from BJP. We have only 3-4 councillors less than Shiv Sena. We never stake a claim for Opposition but now we will sit in Opposition and will work as an aggressive force in the BMC," Ram Kadam said. "We will dig out scams of Shiv Sena in the BMC," he said. [ BJP leader Ram Kadam (Courtesy: DNA) ] Also Read: Ram Kadam has apologised for his remarks, row should end: Maharashtra minister In 2017 BMC polls, BJP had won 82 seats while Shiv Sena bagged 86 seats out of the total 227 seats. Currently, Sena corporator Kishori Pednekar is the Mayor of Mumbai. This came after BJP broke its ties with Shiv Sena when the latter decided to go with the Nationalist Congress Party and Congress to form the government in the state after Assembly polls in October last year.

Will expose Sena's scams in BMC, mayor will be of BJP after 2022 polls: Ram Kadam

The results of the Jharkhand Assembly election will be announced on Monday. All arrangements are in place for the counting of votes tomorrow morning.

The 81 Assembly seats in the state went to polls in five phases from November 30 to December 20.

The counting of votes will start at 8 am in all 24 district headquarters amid tight security. The final result is likely to be announced by 1 pm on Monday.

According to the C-Voters, JMM, Congress and RJD will retain 35 seats. It has, however, given 32 seats to the ruling BJP, 5 to AJSU and three to the Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik) and six to others.

Another exit poll has shown the BJP going to trail behind the Congress. It has given JMM-led opposition between 38 and 50 seats and the BJP between 22 and 32 seats. It has predicted 3 to 5 seats for the AJSU party, 2 to 4 seats for the JVM-P, and 4 to 7 seats to others.

According to the Election Commission of India, the approximate voter turnout for all the 81 assembly constituencies across the five phases was 65.17 per cent as compared to the 66.53 per cent recorded in the 2014 elections.In 2014, the BJP had a clear majority in the House with 37 seats, while its ally AJSU managed to win five Assembly seats.

Incumbent Chief Minister Raghubar Das is seeking a second five-year term. The BJP leader has also become the first chief minister of the state to complete a full term in the office.

The tenure of the current Assembly ends on January 5, 2020. This is the fourth Assembly election in Jharkhand since the state was carved out of Bihar in 2000.&nbsp;

The results of the Jharkhand Assembly election will be announced on Monday. All arrangements are in place for the counting of votes tomorrow morning. The 81 Assembly seats in the state went to polls in five phases from November 30 to December 20.

The results of the Jharkhand Assembly election will be announced on Monday. All arrangements are in place for the counting of votes tomorrow morning. The 81 Assembly seats in the state went to polls in five phases from November 30 to December 20. The counting of votes will start at 8 am in all 24 district headquarters amid tight security. The final result is likely to be announced by 1 pm on Monday. According to the C-Voters, JMM, Congress and RJD will retain 35 seats. It has, however, given 32 seats to the ruling BJP, 5 to AJSU and three to the Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik) and six to others. Another exit poll has shown the BJP going to trail behind the Congress. It has given JMM-led opposition between 38 and 50 seats and the BJP between 22 and 32 seats. It has predicted 3 to 5 seats for the AJSU party, 2 to 4 seats for the JVM-P, and 4 to 7 seats to others. According to the Election Commission of India, the approximate voter turnout for all the 81 assembly constituencies across the five phases was 65.17 per cent as compared to the 66.53 per cent recorded in the 2014 elections.In 2014, the BJP had a clear majority in the House with 37 seats, while its ally AJSU managed to win five Assembly seats. Incumbent Chief Minister Raghubar Das is seeking a second five-year term. The BJP leader has also become the first chief minister of the state to complete a full term in the office. The tenure of the current Assembly ends on January 5, 2020. This is the fourth Assembly election in Jharkhand since the state was carved out of Bihar in 2000.

Counting for 81 Jharkhand Assembly seats to begin on Monday

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-observers-to-monitor-uzbekistan-parliamentary-election-on-december-22-265553">Voters in Uzbekistan</a> were heading to the polls Sunday in its first parliamentary election since a new leader ushered in an era of reform after years of isolation and authoritarian rule.

Polling stations in Central Asia's most populous country opened at 0800 local time (0300 GMT) and will close 12 hours later.&nbsp;

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev took charge in 2016 after the death of hardline predecessor and former patron Islam Karimov, who had ruled for almost three decades.

Mirziyoyev has been lauded for doing away with many of Karimov's authoritarian excesses, releasing some political prisoners, battling forced labour and opening up the landlocked state to tourism and foreign investment.&nbsp;

But choices on the ballot in the former Soviet republic are few,&nbsp;all five parties competing are represented in the outgoing parliament.&nbsp;

Muslim-majority but staunchly secular Uzbekistan is home to 33 million people, over 20 million of whom can vote.

Rubber stamp

Britain's influential magazine The Economist this week named Uzbekistan as its country of the year, saying "no other country travelled so far" in 2019.

Yet the reform drive has so far not allowed real competition to Mirziyoyev, 62, to develop.&nbsp;

The 150-member lower house where no party has ever achieved a commanding majority has a long-earned rubber stamp reputation.

Currently the Liberal Democratic Party is the largest in the legislature with 52 seats, followed by Milli Tiklanish, known in English as the National Revival Democratic Party, with 36. &nbsp;

The People's Democratic Party, the Social Democratic Party also known as Adolat and the Ecological Movement of Uzbekistan are also represented there.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uzbekistan-to-waive-visa-restrictions-for-chinese-citizens-249263">Residents of the capital Tashkent</a> said they wanted to see more from their elected officials and voiced concerns they would not have dared express under Karimov.

Shahzod Alikulov, a builder, said the future parliament should ease the burden of the majority-rural population who feel the sharp end of energy shortages.&nbsp;

"For people to have gas, electricity, roads. That is what I will give my vote for," he told AFP.

Nigina Luftfullaeva, a 22-year-old student, said she would like the new parliament to help eradicate endemic corruption.

"Maybe we will never be able to get rid of it fully, but it would be nice to get rid of it at least partly," Luftfullaeva told AFP.

'New Uzbekistan?'

The elections are being held under the slogan "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-close-and-trusted-friend-of-uzbekistan-ambassador-farhod-arziev-247005">New Uzbekistan, new elections</a>" as authorities seek to brand them as the latest example of a newfound openness.&nbsp;

But the Organisation for Security and &nbsp;Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), which has sent an observer mission to the polls, has said many features of past votes remain in place.

"Very few campaign posters are visible," the group's pre-election report said.&nbsp;

"So far, very little evidence of outdoor campaign activities has been observed."

Karimov was often criticised by international watchdogs over torture and forced labour allegations.

Mirziyoyev has continued to honour Karimov publicly but has been credited with eradicating much of the slavery in the country's cotton sector and lifting Uzbekistan out of isolation.

Luca Anceschi, a senior lecturer in Central Asian Studies at the University of Glasgow, said it was too early to say whether the vote holds any significance in the broader context of Uzbekistan's political transformation.&nbsp;

Popular participation in the poll "seems a crucial element of Mirziyoyev's strategy of support building", Anceschi told AFP.

As to whether parliament can evolve as an institution, he said, "the jury is out".

Voters in Uzbekistan were heading to the polls Sunday in its first parliamentary election since a new leader ushered in an era of reform after years of isolation and authoritarian rule.

Voters in Uzbekistan were heading to the polls Sunday in its first parliamentary election since a new leader ushered in an era of reform after years of isolation and authoritarian rule. Polling stations in Central Asia's most populous country opened at 0800 local time (0300 GMT) and will close 12 hours later. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev took charge in 2016 after the death of hardline predecessor and former patron Islam Karimov, who had ruled for almost three decades. Mirziyoyev has been lauded for doing away with many of Karimov's authoritarian excesses, releasing some political prisoners, battling forced labour and opening up the landlocked state to tourism and foreign investment. But choices on the ballot in the former Soviet republic are few, all five parties competing are represented in the outgoing parliament. Muslim-majority but staunchly secular Uzbekistan is home to 33 million people, over 20 million of whom can vote. Rubber stamp Britain's influential magazine The Economist this week named Uzbekistan as its country of the year, saying "no other country travelled so far" in 2019. Yet the reform drive has so far not allowed real competition to Mirziyoyev, 62, to develop. The 150-member lower house where no party has ever achieved a commanding majority has a long-earned rubber stamp reputation. Currently the Liberal Democratic Party is the largest in the legislature with 52 seats, followed by Milli Tiklanish, known in English as the National Revival Democratic Party, with 36. The People's Democratic Party, the Social Democratic Party also known as Adolat and the Ecological Movement of Uzbekistan are also represented there. Residents of the capital Tashkent said they wanted to see more from their elected officials and voiced concerns they would not have dared express under Karimov. Shahzod Alikulov, a builder, said the future parliament should ease the burden of the majority-rural population who feel the sharp end of energy shortages. "For people to have gas, electricity, roads. That is what I will give my vote for," he told AFP. Nigina Luftfullaeva, a 22-year-old student, said she would like the new parliament to help eradicate endemic corruption. "Maybe we will never be able to get rid of it fully, but it would be nice to get rid of it at least partly," Luftfullaeva told AFP. 'New Uzbekistan?' The elections are being held under the slogan "New Uzbekistan, new elections" as authorities seek to brand them as the latest example of a newfound openness. But the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), which has sent an observer mission to the polls, has said many features of past votes remain in place. "Very few campaign posters are visible," the group's pre-election report said. "So far, very little evidence of outdoor campaign activities has been observed." Karimov was often criticised by international watchdogs over torture and forced labour allegations. Mirziyoyev has continued to honour Karimov publicly but has been credited with eradicating much of the slavery in the country's cotton sector and lifting Uzbekistan out of isolation. Luca Anceschi, a senior lecturer in Central Asian Studies at the University of Glasgow, said it was too early to say whether the vote holds any significance in the broader context of Uzbekistan's political transformation. Popular participation in the poll "seems a crucial element of Mirziyoyev's strategy of support building", Anceschi told AFP. As to whether parliament can evolve as an institution, he said, "the jury is out".

Uzbekistan: Polls held under pro-reform leader

As polling for the fifth and final phase of Assembly elections began in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-assembly-polls-firing-reported-in-gumlas-sirsa-block-266776">Jharkhand</a> on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged voters to be a part of the festival of democracy by coming out to vote in maximum numbers and make a record.

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झारखंड विधानसभा चुनाव में आज पांचवें और आखिरी चरण का मतदान है। सभी मतदाताओं से मेरी विनती है कि वे लोकतंत्र के इस महोत्सव में शामिल होकर रिकॉर्ड मतदान करें।
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1207836201031356416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The fifth and the last phase of voting in the Jharkhand assembly elections is today. I request all voters to vote in record numbers and join this festival of democracy," Modi tweeted.

Voting for the fifth and final phase of Jharkhand assembly elections began at 7 am on Friday, amid the presence of heavy security at the polling booths.

Voting is underway across 16 constituencies in the final phase. Among these are Rajmahal, Borio (ST), Barhait (ST), Litipara (ST), Pakur, Maheshpur (ST), Shikaripara (ST), Dumka (ST), Jama (ST), Jarmundi, Nala, Jamtara, Sarath, Poreyahat, Godda, Mahagama.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fourth-phase-of-polling-begins-in-jharkhand-for-15-assembly-constituencies-268429">fourth phase</a> of elections took place in 15 Assembly constituencies covering 4 districts on December 16.

The third phase of elections took place in 17 Assembly constituencies covering 8 districts on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-voting-concludes-in-jharkhand-assembly-elections-6203-voter-turnout-recorded-267950">December 12</a>.

The second phase of elections to Jharkhand Legislative Assembly took place in 20 Assembly constituencies on December 7, while the first phase of voting took place on November 30.

The counting of votes will be held on December 23.&nbsp;

As polling for the fifth and final phase of Assembly elections began in Jharkhand on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged voters to be a part of the festival of democracy by coming out to vote in maximum numbers and make a record.

As polling for the fifth and final phase of Assembly elections began in Jharkhand on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged voters to be a part of the festival of democracy by coming out to vote in maximum numbers and make a record. झारखंड विधानसभा चुनाव में आज पांचवें और आखिरी चरण का मतदान है। सभी मतदाताओं से मेरी विनती है कि वे लोकतंत्र के इस महोत्सव में शामिल होकर रिकॉर्ड मतदान करें। — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 20, 2019 × "The fifth and the last phase of voting in the Jharkhand assembly elections is today. I request all voters to vote in record numbers and join this festival of democracy," Modi tweeted. Voting for the fifth and final phase of Jharkhand assembly elections began at 7 am on Friday, amid the presence of heavy security at the polling booths. Voting is underway across 16 constituencies in the final phase. Among these are Rajmahal, Borio (ST), Barhait (ST), Litipara (ST), Pakur, Maheshpur (ST), Shikaripara (ST), Dumka (ST), Jama (ST), Jarmundi, Nala, Jamtara, Sarath, Poreyahat, Godda, Mahagama. The fourth phase of elections took place in 15 Assembly constituencies covering 4 districts on December 16. The third phase of elections took place in 17 Assembly constituencies covering 8 districts on December 12. The second phase of elections to Jharkhand Legislative Assembly took place in 20 Assembly constituencies on December 7, while the first phase of voting took place on November 30. The counting of votes will be held on December 23.

Jharkhand polls: PM Modi urges voters to vote in record numbers in fifth phase

An explosive device detonated near a polling station in Kaski District of Nepal as voting for by-elections to elect people's representatives for 52 vacant posts in Kathmandu Valley started on early Saturday morning. 
 
The incident happened in Naya Bazar in Kaski District, with no casualties being reported so far, an official confirmed. 
 
"Soon after blast polling at Nawa Prabhat Secondary School was halted. But now it has resumed," Chief District Officer of Kaski District Tek Narayan Paudel told ANI over the phone. 
 
"Investigation about who is behind the incident is being carried by the police. People again have turned up to vote at the polling station and the security has been beefed up," Paudel added. 
 
Polling started from 7 am&nbsp;(local time) for one seat of Lower House, three seats of Province Council and 48 seats of the local bodies. 
 
The voting is being held for a member of the House of Representatives in Kaski constituency-2, while for State Assembly members in Bhaktapur, Baglung and Dang. Similarly, the election is also underway for the mayor at Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City. 
 
The Election Commission of Nepal had earlier stated that three layers of security have been deployed in and around the polling stations. 
 
A total of 750 police and over 500 armed police force have been deployed around the polling stations, along with the Nepal army patrolling over the area regularly. 
A total of 4, 54 114 voters are eligible to vote in the election and 337 candidates are on the fray. 
 
Top ruling party leaders, including co-chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal, have admitted that the Nepal Communist Party (NCP) will face a tough time maintaining the seats they got in the previous polls. 
 
However, the Nepali Congress, which has the opportunity to grab the seats it had lost in the last election, does not have any better prospects, given its lethargic performance as an opposition as well as controversies of its own, say analysts. 
 
While the by-elections won't change the existing dynamics of the government, they do help cement existing values and rebuild trust among voters and provide a gauge of votes before the next major elections.

An explosive device detonated near a polling station in Kaski District of Nepal as voting for by-elections to elect people's representatives for 52 vacant posts in Kathmandu Valley started on early Saturday morning.

An explosive device detonated near a polling station in Kaski District of Nepal as voting for by-elections to elect people's representatives for 52 vacant posts in Kathmandu Valley started on early Saturday morning. The incident happened in Naya Bazar in Kaski District, with no casualties being reported so far, an official confirmed. "Soon after blast polling at Nawa Prabhat Secondary School was halted. But now it has resumed," Chief District Officer of Kaski District Tek Narayan Paudel told ANI over the phone. "Investigation about who is behind the incident is being carried by the police. People again have turned up to vote at the polling station and the security has been beefed up," Paudel added. Polling started from 7 am (local time) for one seat of Lower House, three seats of Province Council and 48 seats of the local bodies. The voting is being held for a member of the House of Representatives in Kaski constituency-2, while for State Assembly members in Bhaktapur, Baglung and Dang. Similarly, the election is also underway for the mayor at Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City. The Election Commission of Nepal had earlier stated that three layers of security have been deployed in and around the polling stations. A total of 750 police and over 500 armed police force have been deployed around the polling stations, along with the Nepal army patrolling over the area regularly. A total of 4, 54 114 voters are eligible to vote in the election and 337 candidates are on the fray. Top ruling party leaders, including co-chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal, have admitted that the Nepal Communist Party (NCP) will face a tough time maintaining the seats they got in the previous polls. However, the Nepali Congress, which has the opportunity to grab the seats it had lost in the last election, does not have any better prospects, given its lethargic performance as an opposition as well as controversies of its own, say analysts. While the by-elections won't change the existing dynamics of the government, they do help cement existing values and rebuild trust among voters and provide a gauge of votes before the next major elections.

Nepal by-polls: Explosion near polling station in Kaski, no casualties

Sri Lankans began voting on Saturday for a new president in what could mark a comeback for the Rajapaksa clan, lauded by supporters for crushing the Tamil Tigers but condemned by critics for war crimes, corruption and cosying up to China.

Sri Lanka presidential election: Sajith Premadasa urges people to go out and vote

Sri Lankans began voting on Saturday for a new president in what could mark a comeback for the Rajapaksa clan, lauded by supporters for crushing the Tamil Tigers but condemned by critics for war crimes, corruption and cosying up to China. Finally, Voting has been concluded and over 80% voter turnout recorded. WION also exclusively spoke to G. Parthasarathy, Political Analyst from New Delhi for more clarity on this.

Sri Lanka presidential election: Voting concluded, over 80% voter turnout recorded

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