Protesters took to the streets in several Brazilian cities on Saturday to demand the impeachment of far-right President Jair Bolsonaro, whose popularity has fallen in recent weeks amid corruption scandals against the backdrop of the pandemic. 
 
This week, news broke that Brazil's defence ministry told congressional leadership that next year's elections would not take place without amending the country's electronic voting system to include a paper trail of each vote. 
 
Bolsonaro has suggested several times without evidence that the current system is prone to fraud, allegations that Brazil's government has denied. 
 
Bolsonaro is facing reelection next year, in a race in which he is likely to face his political nemesis, former leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Polls currently show Bolsonaro losing against Lula. 
 
Saturday's protests were at least the second time this month that Brazilians have taken to the streets in several cities to oppose Bolsonaro. 
 
"I'm here because it is time to react to the genocidal government that we have, that has taken over our country," said Marcos Kirst, a protester in Sao Paulo. 
 
Over 500,000 Brazilians have died of COVID-19 under Bolsonaro's leadership, who has been widely criticised for dismissing the severity of the disease and opposing masks and social distancing measures. 
 
Bolsonaro is now being investigated in the Senate, which is probing the possibility of corruption tied to the purchase of an Indian coronavirus vaccine. 
 
In Sao Paulo's Paulista Avenue, the traditional location for political protests, over a thousand people were gathering as of 4 pm on&nbsp;Saturday. 
 
Bolsonaro was in Brasilia, the capital, on Saturday and went out for a motorcycle ride while greeting supporters.

Protesters took to the streets in several Brazilian cities on Saturday to demand the impeachment of far-right President Jair Bolsonaro, whose popularity has fallen in recent weeks amid corruption scandals against the backdrop of the pandemic.

Protesters took to the streets in several Brazilian cities on Saturday to demand the impeachment of far-right President Jair Bolsonaro, whose popularity has fallen in recent weeks amid corruption scandals against the backdrop of the pandemic. This week, news broke that Brazil's defence ministry told congressional leadership that next year's elections would not take place without amending the country's electronic voting system to include a paper trail of each vote. Bolsonaro has suggested several times without evidence that the current system is prone to fraud, allegations that Brazil's government has denied. Bolsonaro is facing reelection next year, in a race in which he is likely to face his political nemesis, former leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Polls currently show Bolsonaro losing against Lula. Saturday's protests were at least the second time this month that Brazilians have taken to the streets in several cities to oppose Bolsonaro. "I'm here because it is time to react to the genocidal government that we have, that has taken over our country," said Marcos Kirst, a protester in Sao Paulo. Over 500,000 Brazilians have died of COVID-19 under Bolsonaro's leadership, who has been widely criticised for dismissing the severity of the disease and opposing masks and social distancing measures. Bolsonaro is now being investigated in the Senate, which is probing the possibility of corruption tied to the purchase of an Indian coronavirus vaccine. In Sao Paulo's Paulista Avenue, the traditional location for political protests, over a thousand people were gathering as of 4 pm on Saturday. Bolsonaro was in Brasilia, the capital, on Saturday and went out for a motorcycle ride while greeting supporters.

Brazilians take to streets again to demand Bolsonaro's impeachment

About&nbsp;60&nbsp;Cubans&nbsp;have been&nbsp;prosecuted&nbsp;so&nbsp;far&nbsp;for participating in unprecedented demonstrations against the government earlier this month, a senior&nbsp;official&nbsp;said Saturday.

The cases were&nbsp;over&nbsp;minor charges, and the total number of people detained has not been released amid complaints from relatives seeking information about loved ones.

"Until yesterday, 19 judicial processes had reached the municipal courts of the country -- cases involving 59 people accused of committing alleged crimes (during) these disturbances,"&nbsp;Ruben Remigio Ferro, president of the Supreme Court, told reporters.

On July 11 and 12, thousands of&nbsp;Cubans&nbsp;took to the streets, shouting "Freedom," "Down with the dictatorship" and "We're hungry" in the biggest&nbsp;protests&nbsp;since the revolution that brought Fidel Castro to power in 1959.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-cuba-for-repressing-protests-399987">Also read |&nbsp;US sanctions Cuba for repressing protests</a>

Hundreds of people were arrested and many face charges of contempt, public disorder, vandalism and propagation of the coronavirus epidemic for allegedly marching without face masks.&nbsp;

Independent observers and activists have published lists of those arrested with at least 600 names on them.

Ferro said a faster trial system was being used to prosecute the accused, but made assurances that due process was being followed.

The rallies came as the country endures its worst economic crisis in 30 years, with chronic shortages of electricity, food and medicine amid an uptick in COVID-19 cases.

Anyelo Troya, one of the creators of an anti-government rap song adopted by protesters, was sentenced to a year in prison Wednesday for "public disorder," according to his family.

About 60 Cubans have been prosecuted so far for participating in unprecedented demonstrations against the government earlier this month, a senior official said Saturday.

About 60 Cubans have been prosecuted so far for participating in unprecedented demonstrations against the government earlier this month, a senior official said Saturday. The cases were over minor charges, and the total number of people detained has not been released amid complaints from relatives seeking information about loved ones. "Until yesterday, 19 judicial processes had reached the municipal courts of the country -- cases involving 59 people accused of committing alleged crimes (during) these disturbances," Ruben Remigio Ferro, president of the Supreme Court, told reporters. On July 11 and 12, thousands of Cubans took to the streets, shouting "Freedom," "Down with the dictatorship" and "We're hungry" in the biggest protests since the revolution that brought Fidel Castro to power in 1959. Also read | US sanctions Cuba for repressing protests Hundreds of people were arrested and many face charges of contempt, public disorder, vandalism and propagation of the coronavirus epidemic for allegedly marching without face masks. Independent observers and activists have published lists of those arrested with at least 600 names on them. Ferro said a faster trial system was being used to prosecute the accused, but made assurances that due process was being followed. The rallies came as the country endures its worst economic crisis in 30 years, with chronic shortages of electricity, food and medicine amid an uptick in COVID-19 cases. Anyelo Troya, one of the creators of an anti-government rap song adopted by protesters, was sentenced to a year in prison Wednesday for "public disorder," according to his family.

60 Cubans prosecuted so far over protests: official

More than 100,000 people protested in Australia, France, Italy and Greece on Saturday, sparking clashes with police as they railed against COVID-19-19 measures and government sanctions against the unvaccinated aimed at prodding more people into getting jabs.&nbsp;

Dozens of protesters were arrested after an unauthorised march in Sydney, with the city's police minister branding those who took part as "morons".

Organisers had dubbed the protest a "freedom" rally.&nbsp;Attendees carried signs and banners reading "Wake up Australia" and "Drain the Swamp".&nbsp;

In France, where police deployed teargas and water cannon against some protesters, an estimated 160,000 took to the streets in nationwide&nbsp;protests&nbsp;against President Emmanuel Macron's health pass that will drastically curtail access to restaurants and public spaces for unvaccinated people.

'Don't touch our children'

"Freedom, freedom", chanted demonstrators in France, carrying placards denouncing "Macron, Tyrant", "Big Pharma shackles freedom" or saying "No to the pass of shame".

The demonstrations highlight the conflict globally between people caught between the advice of the World Health Organization and other public health agencies and the need to earn a living -- or simply to return to a pre-pandemic lifestyle.

In Indonesia and the UK, governments have pressed ahead with easing of restrictions even in the face of surging.

Meanwhile, around 5,000 people demonstrated in Athens, carrying placards touting slogans such as, "Don't touch our children", according to an AFP journalist at the scene.

And in Italy protesters gathered in Rome to demonstrate against a mandatory "green pass" for indoor dining and entertainment.

Earlier in Sydney, demonstrators pelted officers with pot plants and bottles of water as they defied a month-long stay-at-home order, a day after authorities suggested the restrictions could remain in place until October.

New South Wales state Premier Gladys Berejiklian said she was "utterly disgusted" by the protesters whose "selfish actions have compromised the safety of all of us".

Police said they issued nearly 100 fines and arrested 57 people.

In Melbourne, meanwhile, six people were arrested. police said.

'Morons'

New South Wales Police Minister David Elliott said a team of detectives would be scouring footage to identify and charge as many people as possible in the coming days.

"Sydney isn't immune from morons," he said.

Sydney, a city of over five million people, is struggling to contain an outbreak of the Delta variant, first identified in India and now spreading globally.

After escaping much of the early pandemic unscathed, around half of Australia's 25 million people are now in lockdown across several cities.

There is growing anger at the restrictions and the conservative government's failure to provide adequate vaccine supplies.

Just 11 percent of the population is fully vaccinated.

In France, as elsewhere in Europe, the government is making it harder for reluctant citizens to put off getting the jabs.

Legislation now being considered by lawmakers will make vaccinations compulsory for certain professions, while the controversial health pass will severely restrict social life for holdouts from the end of July.&nbsp;

There were signs the tougher measures announced on July 13 were having the desired effect: 48 percent of the population were fully vaccinated as of Friday, up eight percentage points from July 10.

While more than three-quarters of French people backed Macron's measures, according to a July 13 Elabe poll for BFMTV, a sizeable and vocal minority do not. Elodie, 34, a care assistant at a Strasbourg nursing home, denounced "the blackmail of caregivers who were at the front line" during the first wave and who are now threatened" with "no more pay" and even being fired.

"They've been lying to us since the beginning," she said.&nbsp;

More than 100,000 people protested in Australia, France, Italy and Greece on Saturday, sparking clashes with police as they railed against COVID-19-19 measures and government sanctions against the unvaccinated aimed at prodding more people into getting jabs.

More than 100,000 people protested in Australia, France, Italy and Greece on Saturday, sparking clashes with police as they railed against COVID-19-19 measures and government sanctions against the unvaccinated aimed at prodding more people into getting jabs. Dozens of protesters were arrested after an unauthorised march in Sydney, with the city's police minister branding those who took part as "morons". Organisers had dubbed the protest a "freedom" rally. Attendees carried signs and banners reading "Wake up Australia" and "Drain the Swamp". In France, where police deployed teargas and water cannon against some protesters, an estimated 160,000 took to the streets in nationwide protests against President Emmanuel Macron's health pass that will drastically curtail access to restaurants and public spaces for unvaccinated people. 'Don't touch our children' "Freedom, freedom", chanted demonstrators in France, carrying placards denouncing "Macron, Tyrant", "Big Pharma shackles freedom" or saying "No to the pass of shame". The demonstrations highlight the conflict globally between people caught between the advice of the World Health Organization and other public health agencies and the need to earn a living -- or simply to return to a pre-pandemic lifestyle. In Indonesia and the UK, governments have pressed ahead with easing of restrictions even in the face of surging. Meanwhile, around 5,000 people demonstrated in Athens, carrying placards touting slogans such as, "Don't touch our children", according to an AFP journalist at the scene. And in Italy protesters gathered in Rome to demonstrate against a mandatory "green pass" for indoor dining and entertainment. Earlier in Sydney, demonstrators pelted officers with pot plants and bottles of water as they defied a month-long stay-at-home order, a day after authorities suggested the restrictions could remain in place until October. New South Wales state Premier Gladys Berejiklian said she was "utterly disgusted" by the protesters whose "selfish actions have compromised the safety of all of us". Police said they issued nearly 100 fines and arrested 57 people. In Melbourne, meanwhile, six people were arrested. police said. 'Morons' New South Wales Police Minister David Elliott said a team of detectives would be scouring footage to identify and charge as many people as possible in the coming days. "Sydney isn't immune from morons," he said. Sydney, a city of over five million people, is struggling to contain an outbreak of the Delta variant, first identified in India and now spreading globally. After escaping much of the early pandemic unscathed, around half of Australia's 25 million people are now in lockdown across several cities. There is growing anger at the restrictions and the conservative government's failure to provide adequate vaccine supplies. Just 11 percent of the population is fully vaccinated. In France, as elsewhere in Europe, the government is making it harder for reluctant citizens to put off getting the jabs. Legislation now being considered by lawmakers will make vaccinations compulsory for certain professions, while the controversial health pass will severely restrict social life for holdouts from the end of July. There were signs the tougher measures announced on July 13 were having the desired effect: 48 percent of the population were fully vaccinated as of Friday, up eight percentage points from July 10. While more than three-quarters of French people backed Macron's measures, according to a July 13 Elabe poll for BFMTV, a sizeable and vocal minority do not. Elodie, 34, a care assistant at a Strasbourg nursing home, denounced "the blackmail of caregivers who were at the front line" during the first wave and who are now threatened" with "no more pay" and even being fired. "They've been lying to us since the beginning," she said.

Big protests mark global anger at COVID-19 restrictions

Colombian police said Wednesday they had arrested 70 people following fresh anti-government protests that mobilised thousands countrywide the previous day and left dozens injured.

As Colombians returned to the streets after a weeks-long hiatus, clashes with riot police left dozens of civilians and agents wounded in the cities of Bogota, Medellin and Cali, according to the authorities.&nbsp;

The government has described the protests as largely peaceful.

"In the last few hours the national police captured 70 people, 69 of them caught in the act, for crimes committed in several cities on July 20, and one more on a warrant for homicide," the institution said in a statement.

Charges include blocking public roads, damage to property, throwing dangerous objects or substances, and firearm possession.&nbsp;

The government claims armed groups had infiltrating the protests.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/colombia-is-home-to-20-of-all-butterfly-species-in-the-world-study-finds-393385">Also read |&nbsp;Colombia is home to 20% of all butterfly species in the world, study finds</a>

Colombia's human rights ombudsman reported 50 people were injured in Tuesday's demonstrations -- 24 civilians and 26 agents.

The country was rocked by weeks of protests that broke out late April in opposition to a proposed tax hike that morphed into a mass movement against the right-wing administration of President Ivan Duque.

The demonstrators demanded an end to police repression and more supportive public policies to alleviate the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, with more than 40 percent of the country's 50 million inhabitants now living in poverty.

The international community has condemned a security response that left more than 60 people dead.

Police reform

A major group representing protesters -- the so-called National Strike Committee -- said on June 16 it would suspend the demonstrations, even though smaller groups continued and roadblocks remained.&nbsp;

The committee called fresh protests for Tuesday, Colombia's independence day, as the government put a new tax proposal to parliament.

On Wednesday, the government presented to lawmakers a bill to reform the police, who are accused of abuses against civilian protesters.

It proposes better training for officers and sanctions for those who do not identify themselves when carrying out arrests, or who refuse to be filmed while carrying out their duties.

But it does not suggest removing the police from the control of the defense ministry, as demanded by protesters.

"The national police must be part of the ministry of defense because of the conditions of threat and violence that still exist in Colombia," police chief Diego Molano told AFP.

The institution "has functions in the fight against drug trafficking, in citizen security... in the fight against smuggling that require coordination with the military forces."

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights has hit out at Colombia's "disproportionate" and "lethal" response to the protests, and has also recommended a police separation from the military.

Colombian police said Wednesday they had arrested 70 people following fresh anti-government protests that mobilised thousands countrywide the previous day and left dozens injured.

Colombian police said Wednesday they had arrested 70 people following fresh anti-government protests that mobilised thousands countrywide the previous day and left dozens injured. As Colombians returned to the streets after a weeks-long hiatus, clashes with riot police left dozens of civilians and agents wounded in the cities of Bogota, Medellin and Cali, according to the authorities. The government has described the protests as largely peaceful. "In the last few hours the national police captured 70 people, 69 of them caught in the act, for crimes committed in several cities on July 20, and one more on a warrant for homicide," the institution said in a statement. Charges include blocking public roads, damage to property, throwing dangerous objects or substances, and firearm possession. The government claims armed groups had infiltrating the protests. Also read | Colombia is home to 20% of all butterfly species in the world, study finds Colombia's human rights ombudsman reported 50 people were injured in Tuesday's demonstrations -- 24 civilians and 26 agents. The country was rocked by weeks of protests that broke out late April in opposition to a proposed tax hike that morphed into a mass movement against the right-wing administration of President Ivan Duque. The demonstrators demanded an end to police repression and more supportive public policies to alleviate the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, with more than 40 percent of the country's 50 million inhabitants now living in poverty. The international community has condemned a security response that left more than 60 people dead. Police reform A major group representing protesters -- the so-called National Strike Committee -- said on June 16 it would suspend the demonstrations, even though smaller groups continued and roadblocks remained. The committee called fresh protests for Tuesday, Colombia's independence day, as the government put a new tax proposal to parliament. On Wednesday, the government presented to lawmakers a bill to reform the police, who are accused of abuses against civilian protesters. It proposes better training for officers and sanctions for those who do not identify themselves when carrying out arrests, or who refuse to be filmed while carrying out their duties. But it does not suggest removing the police from the control of the defense ministry, as demanded by protesters. "The national police must be part of the ministry of defense because of the conditions of threat and violence that still exist in Colombia," police chief Diego Molano told AFP. The institution "has functions in the fight against drug trafficking, in citizen security... in the fight against smuggling that require coordination with the military forces." The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights has hit out at Colombia's "disproportionate" and "lethal" response to the protests, and has also recommended a police separation from the military.

Dozens arrested in fresh Colombia protests: Police

25,000 South African soldiers have been deployed in an effort to stop the riots that began after former South African President Jacob Zuma was imprisoned last week. At least 117 people have been killed in the violence so far.

South Africa Unrest: Over 25,000 troops deployed in violence hit areas, 117 dead

A mother was forced to throw her baby from the 16th floor of a burning building to a crowd below, as riots in South Africa intensify. The building they were in was set on fire by looters.

South Africa Riots: Mother throws baby from 16th floor of burning building

At least 72 people have been killed and more than 1,200 people have been arrested in the unrest following the imprisonment of former President Jacob Zuma in South Africa. WION correspondent Kalden Ongmu brings you a ground report from the Gauteng province.

South Africa Ground Report: Rioting, looting claims 72 lives after former president Zuma jailed

At least 72 people have been killed and more than 1,200 people have been arrested in the unrest following the imprisonment of former President Jacob Zuma.

South Africa riots: Death toll passes to 72 after imprisonment of former President Jacob Zuma

Rioting, looting continues in South Africa with the death toll rising to 72 as police and the military struggle to quell the violence in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. WION correspondent Alyson Le Grance brings you the latest ground report from Durban.

Rioting, looting continues in South Africa, deaths up to 72

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa deployed the military to quell violent protests and looting that followed the jailing of former President Jacob Zuma. At least ten people have died, and 219 people have been arrested since Zuma, turned himself in to Police last week.

South Africa deploys army to quell violence after Jacob Zuma arrest

Demanding&nbsp;prime minister's resignation over the death of a journalist attacked and beaten by anti-LGBT protesters,&nbsp;several thousand people protested in front of the Georgian parliament on Sunday evening.

According to the TV Pirveli channel, their&nbsp;cameraman Alexander Lashkarava was found dead in his home by his mother earlier on Sunday.

Several dozen journalists were attacked on last Monday by opponents of an LGBT march, which was scheduled to take place&nbsp;in the Georgian capital of Tbilisi.&nbsp;Lashkarava was one of them.

Tbilisi March For Dignity organisers cancelled the event. They said&nbsp;authorities had not provided adequate security guarantees.

Along with blocking off the capital's main avenue,&nbsp;the march's&nbsp;opponents denounced journalists covering the protest as pro-LGBT propagandists. They also&nbsp;threw sticks and bottles at them.

According to colleague&nbsp;Miranda Baghaturia,&nbsp;Lashkarava&nbsp;was beaten by a mob of 20 people. There were bruises on his face and blood on the floor around him, as shown by&nbsp;local TV channels.

He sustained multiple injuries and had to undergo surgery but was later discharged from the hospital on Thursday, as per media reports.&nbsp;The cause of death was not immediately clear.

Georgia's Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili and President Salome Zurabishvili have described his death as 'a tragedy'. Meanwhile, police have launched an investigation into Lashkarava's death.

(With inputs from agencies)

Demanding prime minister's resignation over the death of a journalist attacked and beaten by anti-LGBT protesters, several thousand people protested in front of the Georgian parliament on Sunday evening.

Demanding prime minister's resignation over the death of a journalist attacked and beaten by anti-LGBT protesters, several thousand people protested in front of the Georgian parliament on Sunday evening. According to the TV Pirveli channel, their cameraman Alexander Lashkarava was found dead in his home by his mother earlier on Sunday. Several dozen journalists were attacked on last Monday by opponents of an LGBT march, which was scheduled to take place in the Georgian capital of Tbilisi. Lashkarava was one of them. Tbilisi March For Dignity organisers cancelled the event. They said authorities had not provided adequate security guarantees. Along with blocking off the capital's main avenue, the march's opponents denounced journalists covering the protest as pro-LGBT propagandists. They also threw sticks and bottles at them. According to colleague Miranda Baghaturia, Lashkarava was beaten by a mob of 20 people. There were bruises on his face and blood on the floor around him, as shown by local TV channels. He sustained multiple injuries and had to undergo surgery but was later discharged from the hospital on Thursday, as per media reports. The cause of death was not immediately clear. Georgia's Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili and President Salome Zurabishvili have described his death as 'a tragedy'. Meanwhile, police have launched an investigation into Lashkarava's death. (With inputs from agencies)

Georgia witnesses protests as scribe beaten up by anti-LGBT group dies

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As violent protests raged against former South African President Jacob Zuma's jailing, several trucks were set on fire on a main highway in South Africa on Friday night (local time). This caused closure of one of country's biggest roads.

Police on Saturday (July 10) said they had arrested 28 people.

Protests erupted in parts of Zuma's home province KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) after he handed himself over to the police to serve 15-month jail term for contempt of court.

On Friday, the high court dismissed Zuma's application to have his arrest overturned in a case that has been seen as a test of the post-apartheid nation's rule of law. An hour before the ruling, a Reuters photographer saw a group of protesters shouting "Zuma!" burning tyres and blocking a road.

Zuma's imprisonment has laid bare deep divisions in the governing African National Congress (ANC), as a party faction remains loyal to the former president and has been a potent source of opposition to his successor, Cyril Ramaphosa.

KZN police spokesman Jay Naicker said the 28 arrests had happened since Friday on charges including public violence, burglary, malicious damage to property, and contravention of COVID-19 lockdown regulations.

He said protesters had set alight some trucks near Mooi River, a town on the N3 highway that leads from Durban to Johannesburg, and shops had been looted in Mooi River and eThekwini, the municipality that includes Durban.

Law enforcement officers had been deployed to all districts in the province but there had been no deaths or injuries so far, he added. As of lunchtime, the N3 was closed at Mooi River.

Ramaphosa, whose allies engineered Zuma's ouster in 2018, said in a statement that "criminal elements must be met with the full might of the law".

Zuma was given the jail term for defying an order from the constitutional court to give evidence at an inquiry investigating high-level corruption during his nine years in power.

He denies there was widespread corruption under his leadership but has refused to cooperate with the inquiry that was set up in his final weeks in office.

(With inputs from agencies)

As violent protests raged against former South African President Jacob Zuma's jailing, several trucks were set on fire on a main highway in South Africa on Friday night (local time).

As violent protests raged against former South African President Jacob Zuma's jailing, several trucks were set on fire on a main highway in South Africa on Friday night (local time). This caused closure of one of country's biggest roads. Police on Saturday (July 10) said they had arrested 28 people. Protests erupted in parts of Zuma's home province KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) after he handed himself over to the police to serve 15-month jail term for contempt of court. On Friday, the high court dismissed Zuma's application to have his arrest overturned in a case that has been seen as a test of the post-apartheid nation's rule of law. An hour before the ruling, a Reuters photographer saw a group of protesters shouting "Zuma!" burning tyres and blocking a road. Zuma's imprisonment has laid bare deep divisions in the governing African National Congress (ANC), as a party faction remains loyal to the former president and has been a potent source of opposition to his successor, Cyril Ramaphosa. KZN police spokesman Jay Naicker said the 28 arrests had happened since Friday on charges including public violence, burglary, malicious damage to property, and contravention of COVID-19 lockdown regulations. He said protesters had set alight some trucks near Mooi River, a town on the N3 highway that leads from Durban to Johannesburg, and shops had been looted in Mooi River and eThekwini, the municipality that includes Durban. Law enforcement officers had been deployed to all districts in the province but there had been no deaths or injuries so far, he added. As of lunchtime, the N3 was closed at Mooi River. Ramaphosa, whose allies engineered Zuma's ouster in 2018, said in a statement that "criminal elements must be met with the full might of the law". Zuma was given the jail term for defying an order from the constitutional court to give evidence at an inquiry investigating high-level corruption during his nine years in power. He denies there was widespread corruption under his leadership but has refused to cooperate with the inquiry that was set up in his final weeks in office. (With inputs from agencies)

Zuma supporters protest ex-South African president's jailing

Protests rocked Lebanon on Monday over deepening economic downturn that had led to a fuel crisis and power shortage. The protests came ahead of fuel price hike. The energy ministry has said that fuel rise may be declared on Tuesday morning. Protesters blocked roads all across Lebanon on Monday.

In addition to fuel price hike protesters were unhappy about power outages

AFP correspondents said protesters blocked major roads and burned tyres and garbage bins in Beirut, while the official National News Agency said roadways north and southeast of the capital were also blocked.

Protesters in the south Lebanon city of Nabatiyeh parked vehicles across a main artery to stop traffic, the NNA said.

The demonstrations took place after weekend scuffles between security forces and protesters that left nearly 20 people wounded in the northern city of Tripoli following a plunge in the value of the Lebanese pound.

Officially pegged to the dollar at 1,507 since 1997, the local currency now sells for a record low of more than 17,000 to the greenback on the black market.

On Monday, the central bank said it would provide fuel importers with dollars at a rate of 3,900 pounds to the greenback instead of the official rate, in compliance with a government decision issued last week.

The move effectively reduces subsidies on fuel as the central bank tries to shore up fast-diminishing foreign currency reserves.

The energy ministry said it would issue revised fuel prices on Tuesday based on the new exchange rate.

It said fuel tankers docked in Lebanese waters had started offloading fuel shipments that would boost supply in the coming days.&nbsp;

Lebanese have flocked to the gas pumps ahead of the price hikes, causing major congestion and massive queues.

(With inputs from agencies)

Protests rocked Lebanon on Monday over deepening economic downturn that had led to a fuel crisis and power shortage. The protests came ahead of fuel price hike. The energy ministry has said that fuel rise may be declared on Tuesday morning.

Protests rocked Lebanon on Monday over deepening economic downturn that had led to a fuel crisis and power shortage. The protests came ahead of fuel price hike. The energy ministry has said that fuel rise may be declared on Tuesday morning. Protesters blocked roads all across Lebanon on Monday. In addition to fuel price hike protesters were unhappy about power outages AFP correspondents said protesters blocked major roads and burned tyres and garbage bins in Beirut, while the official National News Agency said roadways north and southeast of the capital were also blocked. Protesters in the south Lebanon city of Nabatiyeh parked vehicles across a main artery to stop traffic, the NNA said. The demonstrations took place after weekend scuffles between security forces and protesters that left nearly 20 people wounded in the northern city of Tripoli following a plunge in the value of the Lebanese pound. Officially pegged to the dollar at 1,507 since 1997, the local currency now sells for a record low of more than 17,000 to the greenback on the black market. On Monday, the central bank said it would provide fuel importers with dollars at a rate of 3,900 pounds to the greenback instead of the official rate, in compliance with a government decision issued last week. The move effectively reduces subsidies on fuel as the central bank tries to shore up fast-diminishing foreign currency reserves. The energy ministry said it would issue revised fuel prices on Tuesday based on the new exchange rate. It said fuel tankers docked in Lebanese waters had started offloading fuel shipments that would boost supply in the coming days. Lebanese have flocked to the gas pumps ahead of the price hikes, causing major congestion and massive queues. (With inputs from agencies)

Protests rock Lebanon ahead of fuel price hike

Thousands of Peruvians supporting socialist Pedro Castillo and right-wing rival Keiko Fujimori took to the streets on Saturday amid swirling uncertainty over the result of a tight June 6 presidential election that has been held up by legal challenges. 
 
Castillo supporters marched in downtown Lima towards Plaza San Martín, a block from the headquarters of the electoral jury, with giant banners and photos of the socialist candidate, calling for his apparent election win to be confirmed. 
 
A few blocks away, thousands of others supporting Fujimori paraded with Peruvian flags and banners that read 'no to fraud',&nbsp;arriving at the Plaza Bolognesi, where a stage had been set up ahead of the expected arrival of the conservative. 
 
Castillo holds a slender 44,000-vote lead over Fujimori with all ballots counted. But his right-wing rival has sought to disqualify votes, largely in rural areas that backed the leftist, making claims of fraud with little evidence. 
 
Castillo's Free Peru party has denied the allegations of fraud while international election observers have said the vote was carried out cleanly. The US&nbsp;State Department described the process as a 'model of democracy'. 
 
In Fujimori's march were members of various right and center-right parties, as well as retired military personnel, who have backed her fraud claims. Many had banners saying 'no to communism',&nbsp;a criticism they often aim at Castillo. 
 
In the rival camp, many wore the same wide-brimmed hats Castillo has used in the campaign. Some wore outfits from the country's Andean regions and danced, while others carried whips as used by rural 'ronderos', or civil police. 
 
Castillo, a 51-year-old former elementary school teacher and the son of peasant farmers, plans to redraft the country's constitution to give the state a more active role in the economy and take a larger share of profits from mining companies.

(With inputs from agencies)

Thousands of Peruvians supporting socialist Pedro Castillo and right-wing rival Keiko Fujimori took to the streets on Saturday amid swirling uncertainty over the result of a tight June 6 presidential election that has been held up by legal challenges.

Thousands of Peruvians supporting socialist Pedro Castillo and right-wing rival Keiko Fujimori took to the streets on Saturday amid swirling uncertainty over the result of a tight June 6 presidential election that has been held up by legal challenges. Castillo supporters marched in downtown Lima towards Plaza San Martín, a block from the headquarters of the electoral jury, with giant banners and photos of the socialist candidate, calling for his apparent election win to be confirmed. A few blocks away, thousands of others supporting Fujimori paraded with Peruvian flags and banners that read 'no to fraud', arriving at the Plaza Bolognesi, where a stage had been set up ahead of the expected arrival of the conservative. Castillo holds a slender 44,000-vote lead over Fujimori with all ballots counted. But his right-wing rival has sought to disqualify votes, largely in rural areas that backed the leftist, making claims of fraud with little evidence. Castillo's Free Peru party has denied the allegations of fraud while international election observers have said the vote was carried out cleanly. The US State Department described the process as a 'model of democracy'. In Fujimori's march were members of various right and center-right parties, as well as retired military personnel, who have backed her fraud claims. Many had banners saying 'no to communism', a criticism they often aim at Castillo. In the rival camp, many wore the same wide-brimmed hats Castillo has used in the campaign. Some wore outfits from the country's Andean regions and danced, while others carried whips as used by rural 'ronderos', or civil police. Castillo, a 51-year-old former elementary school teacher and the son of peasant farmers, plans to redraft the country's constitution to give the state a more active role in the economy and take a larger share of profits from mining companies. (With inputs from agencies)

Peruvians backing rival leaders take to the streets amid fears over presidential election meddling

Many people injured as parachute protest lands on football pitch before France v Germany

A group of protestors was rammed by a car that drove into the crowd, taking one woman's life and injuring another.

The crowd was protesting against a shooting that had taken place a few weeks ago and involved an officer. While the crowd was gathered for demonstrations, a person drove into the group in the early hours of Monday.

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A demonstration was being held to protest the killing of Winston Smith, a 32-year-old Back man, by was murdered by police officers while executing a warrant.

Authorities said a suspect is in custody after the deadly crash, after being caught on the surveillance camera. Investigators also revealed that the preliminary findings have found probable involvement of drugs or alcohol.

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The driver of the car was pulled out from the vehicle immediately after the crash and was being beaten up by the crowd.&nbsp;He was saved by the police who then took the driver into custody.

One woman has been killed in a deadly car crash and the other person is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

A group of protestors was rammed by a car that drove into the crowd, taking one woman's life and injuring another. The crowd was protesting against a shooting that had taken place a few weeks ago and involved an officer.

A group of protestors was rammed by a car that drove into the crowd, taking one woman's life and injuring another. The crowd was protesting against a shooting that had taken place a few weeks ago and involved an officer. While the crowd was gathered for demonstrations, a person drove into the group in the early hours of Monday. Also read | US city of Minneapolis reopens intersection where George Floyd was killed A demonstration was being held to protest the killing of Winston Smith, a 32-year-old Back man, by was murdered by police officers while executing a warrant. Authorities said a suspect is in custody after the deadly crash, after being caught on the surveillance camera. Investigators also revealed that the preliminary findings have found probable involvement of drugs or alcohol. Also read | Prosecutors seek 30-year sentence in George Floyd murder case The driver of the car was pulled out from the vehicle immediately after the crash and was being beaten up by the crowd. He was saved by the police who then took the driver into custody. One woman has been killed in a deadly car crash and the other person is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Minneapolis: Driver rams car into protesters, killing one

Cambodia begins evicting floating homes amid protests

In a rare protest in China, students of a university help a school principal hostage during a protest about the devaluation of degrees.

The Chinese students were protesting against a proposal to merge a Nanjing college in Jiangsu province with a vocational institute. In China, vocational institutes are assumed to be less prestigious institutions.

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In the protest, the undergraduate students of the Nanjing Normal University's Zhongbei College in Jiangsu province&nbsp;came together on Sunday and held the 55-year-old principal hostage on the campus for more than 30 hours.

These students allegedly "shouted verbal abuse and blocked law enforcement" efforts. They also refused to let him leave, even though the police officials gave in to the demands and announced the dismissal of the merger plans, the police stated.

While the police claimed it to be a massive hostage situation and accused the students of being violent, the Chinese students took to social media to show proof of the violence against them by the police.

In videos circulating online, police officers can be seen using batons and pepper spray on students, and they can also be seen dragging individuals from the crowd and beating them. Some photographs also showed a female student bleeding from the head after being beaten up by the police officers.

All the videos and pictures were immediately taken off the internet by authorities and all related hashtags were blocked.

In a rare protest in China, students of a university help a school principal hostage during a protest about the devaluation of degrees. The Chinese students were protesting against a proposal to merge a Nanjing college in Jiangsu province with a vocational institute.

In a rare protest in China, students of a university help a school principal hostage during a protest about the devaluation of degrees. The Chinese students were protesting against a proposal to merge a Nanjing college in Jiangsu province with a vocational institute. In China, vocational institutes are assumed to be less prestigious institutions. Also read | It shows paranoid delusion of egoism, says China on US innovation bill In the protest, the undergraduate students of the Nanjing Normal University's Zhongbei College in Jiangsu province came together on Sunday and held the 55-year-old principal hostage on the campus for more than 30 hours. These students allegedly "shouted verbal abuse and blocked law enforcement" efforts. They also refused to let him leave, even though the police officials gave in to the demands and announced the dismissal of the merger plans, the police stated. While the police claimed it to be a massive hostage situation and accused the students of being violent, the Chinese students took to social media to show proof of the violence against them by the police. In videos circulating online, police officers can be seen using batons and pepper spray on students, and they can also be seen dragging individuals from the crowd and beating them. Some photographs also showed a female student bleeding from the head after being beaten up by the police officers. All the videos and pictures were immediately taken off the internet by authorities and all related hashtags were blocked.

Chinese students hold principal hostage for 30 hours during protests

At least 10 people in the city of Cali were in a day of anti-government protests as per authorities. Colombia has entered second month of demonstrations that have met violent repression.

Colombian President Ivan Duque has already announced that he was deploying military to Cali.

"Ten people" are dead, "this is the toll we have this morning" in events linked to Friday's demonstrations, Cali's security secretary Carlos Rojas told Caracol radio. Police said eight of the 10 were shot dead.

He spoke after reports of violent street clashes. In one case, a representative from the Cali prosecutor's office said an off-duty investigator had shot at a crowd, killing a civilian, before being lynched by protesters.

Video footage showed a man lying in a pool of blood and another nearby wielding a gun; that man was then attacked by a group of people.

"In the south of the city we had a real scene of confrontation and almost an urban war where many people not only lost their lives, but we also had a significant number of injuries," said Rojas.

After chairing a security meeting in the city, Duque announced on Friday "the maximum deployment of military assistance to the national police" would begin immediately.&nbsp;

Militarised response

Human Rights Watch said that the situation in the city was "very serious"

Jose Miguel Vivanco, the rights group's executive director for the Americas, urged Duque to take "urgent measures to de-escalate, including a specific order prohibiting agents of the state from using firearms."

Analysts have blamed the government's militarized history for its response to the protests.

For more than 50 years, Colombia's war against leftist FARC guerrillas eclipsed all other government priorities, with the state emerging from the conflict militarily strong but weak on social redress.

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 10 people in the city of Cali were in a day of anti-government protests as per authorities. Colombia has entered second month of demonstrations that have met violent repression.

At least 10 people in the city of Cali were in a day of anti-government protests as per authorities. Colombia has entered second month of demonstrations that have met violent repression. Colombian President Ivan Duque has already announced that he was deploying military to Cali. "Ten people" are dead, "this is the toll we have this morning" in events linked to Friday's demonstrations, Cali's security secretary Carlos Rojas told Caracol radio. Police said eight of the 10 were shot dead. He spoke after reports of violent street clashes. In one case, a representative from the Cali prosecutor's office said an off-duty investigator had shot at a crowd, killing a civilian, before being lynched by protesters. Video footage showed a man lying in a pool of blood and another nearby wielding a gun; that man was then attacked by a group of people. "In the south of the city we had a real scene of confrontation and almost an urban war where many people not only lost their lives, but we also had a significant number of injuries," said Rojas. After chairing a security meeting in the city, Duque announced on Friday "the maximum deployment of military assistance to the national police" would begin immediately. Militarised response Human Rights Watch said that the situation in the city was "very serious" Jose Miguel Vivanco, the rights group's executive director for the Americas, urged Duque to take "urgent measures to de-escalate, including a specific order prohibiting agents of the state from using firearms." Analysts have blamed the government's militarized history for its response to the protests. For more than 50 years, Colombia's war against leftist FARC guerrillas eclipsed all other government priorities, with the state emerging from the conflict militarily strong but weak on social redress. (With inputs from agencies)

Colombia: At least 10 dead in anti-government protest clashes

In pictures: Indonesia backs Gaza as Israel pounds back

Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp talked about his players' safety for Thursday's rearranged Premier League game at Manchester United and said that he was not concerned as the original fixture met with violent protests and had to be cancelled.&nbsp;

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On May 2, several Manchester United fans broke into Old Trafford demanding change in the club's ownership after the European Super League incident. These protests took place before the high-profile match against arch-rivals Liverpool. Greater Manchester Police has since said that six of its officers were injured during the protest, which ended up postponing the much-awaited match.

"There are no concerns. We trust the authorities, we were not in danger last time," Klopp told a news conference. "I have no idea what happens tomorrow but I am not concerned."

Jurgen Klopp's side is having a rough year, his side is currently sixth on 57 points from 34 games, seven points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea with a game in hand and are barely in the race for the Champions League spot.&nbsp;

"Our plan was to win all the games," he said. "But do we have to take more risks? Possible but it's not planned. If you play a game and think only about attacking, you have lost before the first whistle."

Klopp talked about Van Dijk, who ruled himself out of the European Championships in order to fully recover for Liverpool.&nbsp;

"I never wanted to cut the Euros off but I always knew with common sense, it was never possible," he added.

Klopp also said captain Jordan Henderson, who has not played since late February after undergoing surgery on a groin injury, could be fit for the Euros.

"I think there's a chance - unfortunately not for us but for England," he said.

(Inputs from Reuters)

Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp talked about his players' safety for Thursday's rearranged Premier League game at Manchester United and said that he was not concerned as the original fixture met with violent protests and had to be cancelled.

Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp talked about his players' safety for Thursday's rearranged Premier League game at Manchester United and said that he was not concerned as the original fixture met with violent protests and had to be cancelled. IN PICS| 'CHAMPIONS': Manchester City fans take to streets after Premier League win On May 2, several Manchester United fans broke into Old Trafford demanding change in the club's ownership after the European Super League incident. These protests took place before the high-profile match against arch-rivals Liverpool. Greater Manchester Police has since said that six of its officers were injured during the protest, which ended up postponing the much-awaited match. "There are no concerns. We trust the authorities, we were not in danger last time," Klopp told a news conference. "I have no idea what happens tomorrow but I am not concerned." Jurgen Klopp's side is having a rough year, his side is currently sixth on 57 points from 34 games, seven points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea with a game in hand and are barely in the race for the Champions League spot. "Our plan was to win all the games," he said. "But do we have to take more risks? Possible but it's not planned. If you play a game and think only about attacking, you have lost before the first whistle." Klopp talked about Van Dijk, who ruled himself out of the European Championships in order to fully recover for Liverpool. "I never wanted to cut the Euros off but I always knew with common sense, it was never possible," he added. Klopp also said captain Jordan Henderson, who has not played since late February after undergoing surgery on a groin injury, could be fit for the Euros. "I think there's a chance - unfortunately not for us but for England," he said. (Inputs from Reuters)

'We trust the authorities': Jurgen Klopp on safety concerns over Man Utd fixture

Thousands of people gathered outside the Israeli embassy in Ankara and its consulate in Istanbul to protest at Israeli actions against Palestinians on Monday while President Tayyip Erdogan spoke to Middle East leaders about the rising violence.&nbsp;

Despite a full lockdown aimed at curbing coronavirus cases, the protesters in Istanbul, including Syrians and Palestinians, carried Palestinian flags while chanting, "(Turkish soldiers) to Gaza" and "Down with Israel, down with America."&nbsp;

Erdogan spoke by phone with King Abdullah of Jordan, Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Sabah, as well as Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. Turkish Foreign Minister Cavusoglu discussed the issue with his counterparts in Iran, Algeria, Pakistan and Russia.&nbsp;

According to a statement from his office, Erdogan told King Abdullah that the 'inhumane' attacks against Palestinians were aimed at all Muslims, adding that Turkey and Jordan needed to work together to stop them.&nbsp;

Violent clashes over Jerusalem escalated dramatically on Monday with Gaza health officials saying at least 20 people, including nine children, were killed by Israeli air strikes launched after Palestinian militant groups fired rockets close to Jerusalem.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Thousands of people gathered outside the Israeli embassy in Ankara and its consulate in Istanbul to protest at Israeli actions against Palestinians on Monday while President Tayyip Erdogan spoke to Middle East leaders about the rising violence.

Thousands of people gathered outside the Israeli embassy in Ankara and its consulate in Istanbul to protest at Israeli actions against Palestinians on Monday while President Tayyip Erdogan spoke to Middle East leaders about the rising violence. Despite a full lockdown aimed at curbing coronavirus cases, the protesters in Istanbul, including Syrians and Palestinians, carried Palestinian flags while chanting, "(Turkish soldiers) to Gaza" and "Down with Israel, down with America." Erdogan spoke by phone with King Abdullah of Jordan, Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Sabah, as well as Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. Turkish Foreign Minister Cavusoglu discussed the issue with his counterparts in Iran, Algeria, Pakistan and Russia. According to a statement from his office, Erdogan told King Abdullah that the 'inhumane' attacks against Palestinians were aimed at all Muslims, adding that Turkey and Jordan needed to work together to stop them. Violent clashes over Jerusalem escalated dramatically on Monday with Gaza health officials saying at least 20 people, including nine children, were killed by Israeli air strikes launched after Palestinian militant groups fired rockets close to Jerusalem. (With inputs from agencies)

In Turkey, protests against Israel over surge in violence 

Indigenous&nbsp;people in Colombia on Friday knocked down a&nbsp;statue&nbsp;of Spanish&nbsp;conquistador&nbsp;Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada,&nbsp;who founded the&nbsp;capital&nbsp;Bogota, as protests against the government continued.

Photos shared on social media showed members of the Misak&nbsp;indigenous&nbsp;community standing on the empty pedestal in the center of Bogota with the&nbsp;statue&nbsp;lying on the ground with a broken arm.

At least 26 people have died in clashes between demonstrators and security forces since protests against President Ivan Duque's government began on April 28, originally against a now abandoned tax reform.

Watch |

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/colombia-ninth-day-of-consecutive-protests-industry-groups-warn-of-fuel-shortages-383502/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Indigenous&nbsp;people have joined in with unions, students and other groups in demanding change to the government's policies on health, education and inequality.

Demonstrators from the Misak -- also called Guambiano -- community, originally from the south of the country, arrived at dawn at the&nbsp;statue, erected in 1960, waving their&nbsp;indigenous&nbsp;flags.

"Historically he was the biggest slaughterer, torturer, thief and rapist of our women and our children," the group said in a statement.

The statement said the "elitist families descended" from De Quesada&nbsp;had "reproduced the great problems" of the country such as the recently abandoned tax reform.

Indigenous&nbsp;people in Colombia's southwest have knocked down at least three statues to conquistadors since September 2020.

They are waging a historic dispute over land rights but have often been the victims of Colombia's multi-faceted conflict pitting left-wing guerrillas, drug-traffickers, right-wing paramilitaries and the armed forces against each other.

Later on Friday, Defense Minister Diego Molano hit out at those criticising the security forces for alleged excessive use of force.

Colombia has come under fire from the United Nations, European Union, United States and NGOs for its handling of the protests.

"There's a stigmatization campaign against the public forces operations on social media that aims to pit them against society," Molano told Blu Radio.

The government blames the violence on "vandalism" wrought by left-wing rebels that it says have infiltrated protests.

Three members of the security forces have been shot during the protests.

Indigenous people in Colombia on Friday knocked down a statue of Spanish conquistador Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada, who founded the capital Bogota, as protests against the government continued.

Indigenous people in Colombia on Friday knocked down a statue of Spanish conquistador Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada, who founded the capital Bogota, as protests against the government continued. Photos shared on social media showed members of the Misak indigenous community standing on the empty pedestal in the center of Bogota with the statue lying on the ground with a broken arm. At least 26 people have died in clashes between demonstrators and security forces since protests against President Ivan Duque's government began on April 28, originally against a now abandoned tax reform. Watch | Indigenous people have joined in with unions, students and other groups in demanding change to the government's policies on health, education and inequality. Demonstrators from the Misak -- also called Guambiano -- community, originally from the south of the country, arrived at dawn at the statue, erected in 1960, waving their indigenous flags. "Historically he was the biggest slaughterer, torturer, thief and rapist of our women and our children," the group said in a statement. The statement said the "elitist families descended" from De Quesada had "reproduced the great problems" of the country such as the recently abandoned tax reform. Indigenous people in Colombia's southwest have knocked down at least three statues to conquistadors since September 2020. They are waging a historic dispute over land rights but have often been the victims of Colombia's multi-faceted conflict pitting left-wing guerrillas, drug-traffickers, right-wing paramilitaries and the armed forces against each other. Later on Friday, Defense Minister Diego Molano hit out at those criticising the security forces for alleged excessive use of force. Colombia has come under fire from the United Nations, European Union, United States and NGOs for its handling of the protests. "There's a stigmatization campaign against the public forces operations on social media that aims to pit them against society," Molano told Blu Radio. The government blames the violence on "vandalism" wrought by left-wing rebels that it says have infiltrated protests. Three members of the security forces have been shot during the protests.

Indigenous Colombians topple conquistador statue in capital

Colombia's defence minister on Monday blamed illegal armed groups for looting and vandalism during five days of street&nbsp;protests&nbsp;but would not confirm how many demonstrators had died.

The&nbsp;protests, which began last week, demanded the withdrawal of a tax reform proposed by the government of President Ivan Duque, who said on Sunday, the legislation would be retracted.

Demonstrations resumed on Monday in the capital, Bogota, and other cities including Medellin and Cali despite the announcement, with highways also blocked in some areas of the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Colombia's president withdraws tax reform after protests ">Colombia's president withdraws tax reform after protests&nbsp;</a>

"Colombia&nbsp;faces particular threats from criminal organizations that are behind these violent acts," Defence Minister Diego Molano told a news conference, adding those committing violence were not those marching peacefully.

Molano cited intelligence information in his allegation but did not offer further evidence.

Violent groups were financed and organized by leftist guerrillas of the National Liberation Army (ELN) and former FARC rebels who reject a 2016 peace deal, Molano added.

"We are saddened for all those who lost their lives due to criminal actions during these&nbsp;protests," Molano said.

He would not give specific details on the death toll, saying the attorney general's office would investigate.

The national human rights ombudsman has identified 18 civilians and one police officer who were killed during five days of&nbsp;protests, while the procurator's office said on Sunday it was investigating connections between the&nbsp;protests&nbsp;and 14 violent deaths.

A local human rights group has reported more than 20 deaths.

Truck drivers' and taxi drivers' unions, which had threatened to join&nbsp;protests&nbsp;on Monday, backed out of strikes following the withdrawal of the tax reform.

But some streets were closed by vehicles in Bogota and Medellin, while highways were blocked on the capital's outskirts, as well as in the center and southeast of the country.

Bogota Mayor Claudia Lopez said 25% of the capital's mass transit system was out of service following vandalism and urged those who attended marches to get tested for COVID-19.

One major union said in a message on Twitter, it would hold another national strike on Wednesday to protest a health reform, among other things.

Colombia's defence minister on Monday blamed illegal armed groups for looting and vandalism during five days of street protests but would not confirm how many demonstrators had died.

Colombia's defence minister on Monday blamed illegal armed groups for looting and vandalism during five days of street protests but would not confirm how many demonstrators had died. The protests, which began last week, demanded the withdrawal of a tax reform proposed by the government of President Ivan Duque, who said on Sunday, the legislation would be retracted. Demonstrations resumed on Monday in the capital, Bogota, and other cities including Medellin and Cali despite the announcement, with highways also blocked in some areas of the country. Also read: Colombia's president withdraws tax reform after protests "Colombia faces particular threats from criminal organizations that are behind these violent acts," Defence Minister Diego Molano told a news conference, adding those committing violence were not those marching peacefully. Molano cited intelligence information in his allegation but did not offer further evidence. Violent groups were financed and organized by leftist guerrillas of the National Liberation Army (ELN) and former FARC rebels who reject a 2016 peace deal, Molano added. "We are saddened for all those who lost their lives due to criminal actions during these protests," Molano said. He would not give specific details on the death toll, saying the attorney general's office would investigate. The national human rights ombudsman has identified 18 civilians and one police officer who were killed during five days of protests, while the procurator's office said on Sunday it was investigating connections between the protests and 14 violent deaths. A local human rights group has reported more than 20 deaths. Truck drivers' and taxi drivers' unions, which had threatened to join protests on Monday, backed out of strikes following the withdrawal of the tax reform. But some streets were closed by vehicles in Bogota and Medellin, while highways were blocked on the capital's outskirts, as well as in the center and southeast of the country. Bogota Mayor Claudia Lopez said 25% of the capital's mass transit system was out of service following vandalism and urged those who attended marches to get tested for COVID-19. One major union said in a message on Twitter, it would hold another national strike on Wednesday to protest a health reform, among other things.

Colombia blames armed groups for protest violence, death toll still unclear

Around 30,000 protesters took to the streets during&nbsp;May&nbsp;Day&nbsp;rallies in Berlin on Saturday, police said, adding nearly 100 officers were injured when some of the demonstrations turned violent.

Police made around 354 arrests during the demonstrations, which they said were for physical assaults and trespassing.

"The violent&nbsp;riots&nbsp;that occurred is something that I very much regret," Berlin's head of police Barbara Slowik told local broadcaster rbb24.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="May Day: Morris Dancers turn blue over racism concerns">May Day: Morris Dancers turn blue over racism concerns</a>

Some of the injuries occurred after some demonstrators threw fireworks, bottles and rocks during protests over social inequality. About 5,600 police were deployed, and some responded with pepper spray.

The demonstrations were the second&nbsp;May&nbsp;Day&nbsp;protests since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Turnout was much higher than last year, even though social distancing requirements remain in place.

Protests hit other European capitals too, most notably Paris, where police made 46 arrests as garbage bins were set on fire and the windows of a bank branch were smashed.

In Berlin, police used water cannon to extinguish fires as protesters set ablaze waste bins, barricades and cars.

Demonstrations also took place in several other German cities, including Hamburg and Leipzig, despite Europe's largest economy grappling with a third wave of the pandemic.

On Sunday, data from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases showed that the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Germany increased by 16,290 to 3,416,822.

Around 30,000 protesters took to the streets during May Day rallies in Berlin on Saturday, police said, adding nearly 100 officers were injured when some of the demonstrations turned violent.

Around 30,000 protesters took to the streets during May Day rallies in Berlin on Saturday, police said, adding nearly 100 officers were injured when some of the demonstrations turned violent. Police made around 354 arrests during the demonstrations, which they said were for physical assaults and trespassing. "The violent riots that occurred is something that I very much regret," Berlin's head of police Barbara Slowik told local broadcaster rbb24. Also read- May Day: Morris Dancers turn blue over racism concerns Some of the injuries occurred after some demonstrators threw fireworks, bottles and rocks during protests over social inequality. About 5,600 police were deployed, and some responded with pepper spray. The demonstrations were the second May Day protests since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Turnout was much higher than last year, even though social distancing requirements remain in place. Protests hit other European capitals too, most notably Paris, where police made 46 arrests as garbage bins were set on fire and the windows of a bank branch were smashed. In Berlin, police used water cannon to extinguish fires as protesters set ablaze waste bins, barricades and cars. Demonstrations also took place in several other German cities, including Hamburg and Leipzig, despite Europe's largest economy grappling with a third wave of the pandemic. On Sunday, data from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases showed that the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Germany increased by 16,290 to 3,416,822.

Police, protesters clash during May Day rallies in Berlin

Colombian President Ivan Duque said on Sunday, he would withdraw a proposed tax reform after deadly protests and widespread lawmaker opposition, though he insisted a reform is still necessary to ensure fiscal stability.&nbsp;

Protests, have led to multiple deaths around the country since they began on Wednesday, continued on Sunday in some cities, despite the announcement.&nbsp;

Duque said on Friday, the law would be revised to remove some of its most controversial points, including the leveling of sales tax on utilities and some food, but the government had previously insisted it could not be withdrawn.&nbsp;

"I am asking Congress to withdraw the law proposed by the finance ministry and urgently process a new law that is the fruit of consensus, in order to avoid financial uncertainty," Duque said in a video.&nbsp;

The reform, which the government has insisted is vital to stabilising Colombia's finances, maintaining its credit rating and funding social programmes, remains necessary, Duque said.&nbsp;

Political parties, local officials, business leaders and civil society have contributed valuable ideas over the last several days, he said.&nbsp;

There is consensus on the need for temporary taxes on businesses and dividends, an increase in income tax for the wealthiest and deepened state austerity measures, Duque said.&nbsp;

"It is a moment for all of us to work together without malice," he said.&nbsp;

The central bank warned on Friday, failure to approve the reform could have a negative impact on the economy, while a loss of the country's investment-grade credit rating has already been priced in by many investors.&nbsp;

Lawmakers, unions and other groups hailed the announcement as a victory. Celebratory cacerolazos, a traditional protest where people beat pots and pans, could be heard in some neighborhoods.&nbsp;

"It is the youth, social organisations and mobilised citizens, who have seen deaths and defeated the government," leftist Senator Ivan Cepeda said on Twitter. "May the government not present the same reform with make-up. The citizens won't accept tricks."&nbsp;

There is not yet a definite national count of deaths connected to protests, amid incidents of looting, destruction of public transport and road blockades in several cities.&nbsp;

Local officials in Cali, the country's third-largest city and where demonstrations have been the most violent, have confirmed three. One death each occurred in the city of Neiva and the municipality of Madrid and a police officer was killed in Soacha.&nbsp;

The procurator's office said in an afternoon statement, it was investigating 14 deaths nationally, while human rights groups have alleged police abuses, especially in Cali, and said deaths number more than 20.&nbsp;

The national police director said the force would contribute all necessary information to the procurator's investigations.&nbsp;

Duque said late on Saturday, cities at high risk for disturbances would get military assistance, an offer rejected by Bogota Mayor Claudia Lopez.&nbsp;

(With input from agencies) &nbsp;

Colombian President Ivan Duque said on Sunday, he would withdraw a proposed tax reform after deadly protests and widespread lawmaker opposition, though he insisted a reform is still necessary to ensure fiscal stability.

Colombian President Ivan Duque said on Sunday, he would withdraw a proposed tax reform after deadly protests and widespread lawmaker opposition, though he insisted a reform is still necessary to ensure fiscal stability. Protests, have led to multiple deaths around the country since they began on Wednesday, continued on Sunday in some cities, despite the announcement. Duque said on Friday, the law would be revised to remove some of its most controversial points, including the leveling of sales tax on utilities and some food, but the government had previously insisted it could not be withdrawn. "I am asking Congress to withdraw the law proposed by the finance ministry and urgently process a new law that is the fruit of consensus, in order to avoid financial uncertainty," Duque said in a video. The reform, which the government has insisted is vital to stabilising Colombia's finances, maintaining its credit rating and funding social programmes, remains necessary, Duque said. Political parties, local officials, business leaders and civil society have contributed valuable ideas over the last several days, he said. There is consensus on the need for temporary taxes on businesses and dividends, an increase in income tax for the wealthiest and deepened state austerity measures, Duque said. "It is a moment for all of us to work together without malice," he said. The central bank warned on Friday, failure to approve the reform could have a negative impact on the economy, while a loss of the country's investment-grade credit rating has already been priced in by many investors. Lawmakers, unions and other groups hailed the announcement as a victory. Celebratory cacerolazos, a traditional protest where people beat pots and pans, could be heard in some neighborhoods. "It is the youth, social organisations and mobilised citizens, who have seen deaths and defeated the government," leftist Senator Ivan Cepeda said on Twitter. "May the government not present the same reform with make-up. The citizens won't accept tricks." There is not yet a definite national count of deaths connected to protests, amid incidents of looting, destruction of public transport and road blockades in several cities. Local officials in Cali, the country's third-largest city and where demonstrations have been the most violent, have confirmed three. One death each occurred in the city of Neiva and the municipality of Madrid and a police officer was killed in Soacha. The procurator's office said in an afternoon statement, it was investigating 14 deaths nationally, while human rights groups have alleged police abuses, especially in Cali, and said deaths number more than 20. The national police director said the force would contribute all necessary information to the procurator's investigations. Duque said late on Saturday, cities at high risk for disturbances would get military assistance, an offer rejected by Bogota Mayor Claudia Lopez. (With input from agencies)

Colombia's president withdraws tax reform after protests 

Police arrested nine people, who took part in protests in London on Saturday, demanding that the government reverse planned legislation that would increase police powers.

More than 1,000 people marched through central London and chanted 'Kill the Bill' outside government buildings, as well as dancing to music played from a bus.

A police statement said nine people had been arrested and officers were 'continuing to engage' with protesters, who had gathered in a park in south London after the march.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Thousands join May Day protests across France, police arrest 34">Thousands join May Day protests across France, police arrest 34</a>

Similar protests took place in other cities across England and Wales, including Bristol, which saw several days of clashes between protesters and police in March.

Under the new legislation, the British government wants to increase police powers to block non-violent protests, which have a 'significant disruptive effect' on the public or parliament.

The legislation would target action by groups, such as environmental campaigners Extinction Rebellion, which has organised mass protests to block bridges in recent years and whose members have glued themselves to commuter trains.

London's Tower Bridge was closed to traffic in one direction for around an hour on Saturday after an Extinction Rebellion protester glued himself to the road.

Many protesters on Saturday said they did not trust police to protect them and that the new laws would give authorities too much power to shut down politically awkward protests, such as&nbsp;those by Black Lives Matter and Extinction Rebellion.

"I am really scared by the fact that they want to make protesting an arrestable offence," 30-year-old therapist Jade Rea said.

"I don't think there's any justification for it because the idea of a protest is to disrupt and really bring to people's attention that something urgent is going on," she added.

London police faced criticism from across the political spectrum in March for their handling of a vigil in memory of a murdered woman, Sarah Everard, whose suspected killer was a serving police officer.

Police arrested nine people, who took part in protests in London on Saturday, demanding that the government reverse planned legislation that would increase police powers.

Police arrested nine people, who took part in protests in London on Saturday, demanding that the government reverse planned legislation that would increase police powers. More than 1,000 people marched through central London and chanted 'Kill the Bill' outside government buildings, as well as dancing to music played from a bus. A police statement said nine people had been arrested and officers were 'continuing to engage' with protesters, who had gathered in a park in south London after the march. Also read: Thousands join May Day protests across France, police arrest 34 Similar protests took place in other cities across England and Wales, including Bristol, which saw several days of clashes between protesters and police in March. Under the new legislation, the British government wants to increase police powers to block non-violent protests, which have a 'significant disruptive effect' on the public or parliament. The legislation would target action by groups, such as environmental campaigners Extinction Rebellion, which has organised mass protests to block bridges in recent years and whose members have glued themselves to commuter trains. London's Tower Bridge was closed to traffic in one direction for around an hour on Saturday after an Extinction Rebellion protester glued himself to the road. Many protesters on Saturday said they did not trust police to protect them and that the new laws would give authorities too much power to shut down politically awkward protests, such as those by Black Lives Matter and Extinction Rebellion. "I am really scared by the fact that they want to make protesting an arrestable offence," 30-year-old therapist Jade Rea said. "I don't think there's any justification for it because the idea of a protest is to disrupt and really bring to people's attention that something urgent is going on," she added. London police faced criticism from across the political spectrum in March for their handling of a vigil in memory of a murdered woman, Sarah Everard, whose suspected killer was a serving police officer.

Nine arrested in London protests against greater police powers

Thousands of Colombians took to the streets on Saturday for International Workers' Day marches and protests against a government&nbsp;tax&nbsp;reform proposal, in a fourth day of demonstrations that have resulted in at least six deaths.

Unions and other groups kicked off marches on Wednesday to demand the government of President Ivan Duque withdraw the proposal, which originally leveled sales&nbsp;tax&nbsp;on public services and some food.

Cali, the country's third-largest city, has seen the most vociferous marches, some looting and the burning of multiple city buses.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Colombia ups deployment of security forces to Cali amid violence">Colombia ups deployment of security forces to Cali amid violence</a>

Death counts were inconsistent. National human rights ombudsman Carlos Camargo said that three protesters died in Cali and another three deaths there were being investigated.

One death each occurred in&nbsp;Bogota&nbsp;and the city of Neiva, Camargo said. A police officer in the city of Soacha died of injuries sustained on Wednesday. A further 179 civilians and 216 police officers have been injured nationally.

Rights organisation Human Rights Watch said it had received reports of possible police abuse in Cali, and local human rights groups alleged up to 14 deaths occurred.

Cities at high risk for violence will continue to get military assistance, with accompanying human rights guarantees, Duque said in a Saturday evening video.

Isolated vandalism, clashes between police and protesters and road blockades occurred in several cities on Saturday, and riot police were deployed in the capital.

Saturday's protests took place despite an announcement by Duque late on Friday that the reform will now not include sales&nbsp;tax&nbsp;on food or utilities or an expansion of income&nbsp;tax.

The government insists the reform is vital to stabilising Colombia's finances, maintaining its credit rating and funding social programmes.

Thousands of Colombians took to the streets on Saturday for International Workers' Day marches and protests against a government tax reform proposal, in a fourth day of demonstrations that have resulted in at least six deaths.

Thousands of Colombians took to the streets on Saturday for International Workers' Day marches and protests against a government tax reform proposal, in a fourth day of demonstrations that have resulted in at least six deaths. Unions and other groups kicked off marches on Wednesday to demand the government of President Ivan Duque withdraw the proposal, which originally leveled sales tax on public services and some food. Cali, the country's third-largest city, has seen the most vociferous marches, some looting and the burning of multiple city buses. Also read: Colombia ups deployment of security forces to Cali amid violence Death counts were inconsistent. National human rights ombudsman Carlos Camargo said that three protesters died in Cali and another three deaths there were being investigated. One death each occurred in Bogota and the city of Neiva, Camargo said. A police officer in the city of Soacha died of injuries sustained on Wednesday. A further 179 civilians and 216 police officers have been injured nationally. Rights organisation Human Rights Watch said it had received reports of possible police abuse in Cali, and local human rights groups alleged up to 14 deaths occurred. Cities at high risk for violence will continue to get military assistance, with accompanying human rights guarantees, Duque said in a Saturday evening video. Isolated vandalism, clashes between police and protesters and road blockades occurred in several cities on Saturday, and riot police were deployed in the capital. Saturday's protests took place despite an announcement by Duque late on Friday that the reform will now not include sales tax on food or utilities or an expansion of income tax. The government insists the reform is vital to stabilising Colombia's finances, maintaining its credit rating and funding social programmes.

Thousands march in Colombia in fourth day of protests against tax plan

Hundreds marched in capitals of Finland and Sweden on Saturday to protest measures taken by the respective governments to stop the spread of coronavirus.

A protest in Helsinki drew 300 participants and resulted in about 50 arrests, as per tweet by Finnish police. Organisers of the event had announced that there would only be 6 participants.

Those arrested for failing to obey police orders were fined, and the crowd was otherwise dispersed by police without major incident.&nbsp;

Finland has one of Europe's lowest infection rates, though a rise in cases in mid-February led to new restrictions, such as restaurant closures.

In Stockholm, 500 to 600 people marched with banners demanding "freedom and truth". The event lasted for more than two hours.

Unlike other European countries, Sweden opted for months not to impose strict measures on its population at the start of the pandemic, issuing guidance in the form of recommendations instead.

In November, however, facing a significant second wave of infections, Sweden capped public gatherings at eight participants and forced cafes, bars and restaurants to close at 8:30 p.m.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hundreds marched in capitals of Finland and Sweden on Saturday to protest measures taken by the respective governments to stop the spread of coronavirus. A protest in Helsinki drew 300 participants and resulted in about 50 arrests, as per tweet by Finnish police.

Hundreds marched in capitals of Finland and Sweden on Saturday to protest measures taken by the respective governments to stop the spread of coronavirus. A protest in Helsinki drew 300 participants and resulted in about 50 arrests, as per tweet by Finnish police. Organisers of the event had announced that there would only be 6 participants. Those arrested for failing to obey police orders were fined, and the crowd was otherwise dispersed by police without major incident. Finland has one of Europe's lowest infection rates, though a rise in cases in mid-February led to new restrictions, such as restaurant closures. In Stockholm, 500 to 600 people marched with banners demanding "freedom and truth". The event lasted for more than two hours. Unlike other European countries, Sweden opted for months not to impose strict measures on its population at the start of the pandemic, issuing guidance in the form of recommendations instead. In November, however, facing a significant second wave of infections, Sweden capped public gatherings at eight participants and forced cafes, bars and restaurants to close at 8:30 p.m. (With inputs from agencies)

Protests in Finland, Sweden against coronavirus measures

More than 700 people have been arrested in Chad following this week's demonstrations against the new military government led by the son of slain President Idriss Deby Itno, the United Nations said Friday.

Civil society groups are renewing calls for more protests over the weekend in the Central African country, where tensions have mounted in the aftermath of Deby's killing that was blamed on a rebel group now threatening to overthrow the interim government.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chad-president-idriss-deby-dies-during-clashes-with-rebels-army-says-378818">Chad President Idriss Deby dies during clashes with rebels, army says</a>

UN human rights office spokeswoman Marta Hurtado said it was not known how many of the people arrested after Tuesday's demonstrations are still being detained.

As further protests and general strikes have been called to take place in the coming days, we stress that Chad remains bound by its obligations under international human rights law to protect and respect human rights, including the right to life, and to facilitate the exercise of the right to freedom of peaceful assembly,&nbsp;she said in Geneva.

Witnesses say that security forces fired live ammunition at Tuesday's demonstrations, which took place in Chad's two largest cities, N'Djamena and Moundou. A military spokesman has disputed that the anti-government protests were peaceful, saying one crowd killed a retired police officer amid the unrest.

Streets remained calm but heavily patrolled by the military on Friday, as many of N'Djamena's residents flocked to mosques for prayers during the third week of Ramadan.

In the country's north, there were conflicting reports over whether the military or rebel forces controlled the town of Nokou. Rebels from the armed group known as the Front for Change and Concord in Chad said they held the town, but the military issued a communique saying that armed rebels had been repelled on Thursday.

The rebels who are known by their French acronym, FACT also claimed to have shot down a Chadian military helicopter on Thursday but the government later said the aircraft had crashed due to a mechanical issue.

Chad, a key player in the international fight against Islamic extremism in Africa, was rocked by the April 20 death of Deby, who had been in power for more than three decades. The military formed a transitional government with his son Mahamat at the helm before announcing the longtime leader's death on national television.

The military has blamed his death on the Chadian rebels from FACT, who were based in neighbouring Libya and crossed back into Chad on election day earlier this month as Deby sought a sixth term in office. The rebels have repeatedly threatened to march on the capital and depose the interim leader, though are still believed to be some 300 km from N'Djamena.

The political opposition also has called for the interim military government to step down, saying that power should have been ceded to the National Assembly president in the aftermath of Deby's killing.

A coalition of civil society groups has called for people to take to the streets on Saturday to demand&nbsp;a return to constitutional order.

More than 700 people have been arrested in Chad following this week's demonstrations against the new military government led by the son of slain President Idriss Deby Itno, the United Nations said Friday.

More than 700 people have been arrested in Chad following this week's demonstrations against the new military government led by the son of slain President Idriss Deby Itno, the United Nations said Friday. Civil society groups are renewing calls for more protests over the weekend in the Central African country, where tensions have mounted in the aftermath of Deby's killing that was blamed on a rebel group now threatening to overthrow the interim government. Also read | Chad President Idriss Deby dies during clashes with rebels, army says UN human rights office spokeswoman Marta Hurtado said it was not known how many of the people arrested after Tuesday's demonstrations are still being detained. As further protests and general strikes have been called to take place in the coming days, we stress that Chad remains bound by its obligations under international human rights law to protect and respect human rights, including the right to life, and to facilitate the exercise of the right to freedom of peaceful assembly, she said in Geneva. Witnesses say that security forces fired live ammunition at Tuesday's demonstrations, which took place in Chad's two largest cities, N'Djamena and Moundou. A military spokesman has disputed that the anti-government protests were peaceful, saying one crowd killed a retired police officer amid the unrest. Streets remained calm but heavily patrolled by the military on Friday, as many of N'Djamena's residents flocked to mosques for prayers during the third week of Ramadan. In the country's north, there were conflicting reports over whether the military or rebel forces controlled the town of Nokou. Rebels from the armed group known as the Front for Change and Concord in Chad said they held the town, but the military issued a communique saying that armed rebels had been repelled on Thursday. The rebels who are known by their French acronym, FACT also claimed to have shot down a Chadian military helicopter on Thursday but the government later said the aircraft had crashed due to a mechanical issue. Chad, a key player in the international fight against Islamic extremism in Africa, was rocked by the April 20 death of Deby, who had been in power for more than three decades. The military formed a transitional government with his son Mahamat at the helm before announcing the longtime leader's death on national television. The military has blamed his death on the Chadian rebels from FACT, who were based in neighbouring Libya and crossed back into Chad on election day earlier this month as Deby sought a sixth term in office. The rebels have repeatedly threatened to march on the capital and depose the interim leader, though are still believed to be some 300 km from N'Djamena. The political opposition also has called for the interim military government to step down, saying that power should have been ceded to the National Assembly president in the aftermath of Deby's killing. A coalition of civil society groups has called for people to take to the streets on Saturday to demand a return to constitutional order.

Hundreds arrested after anti-government protests in Chad

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