As Thailand’s youth continue to protest against the country’s establishment, the government faces double trouble, with an economy in freefall.

Meet the 23-year-old leading Thailand's youth protesters

After various clashes between the federal army and the protestors during a&nbsp;series of protests related to the 'Black Lives Matter' movement, the Portland mayor has ordered the police to stop using tear gas to control crowd in any way.

Mayor Ted Wheeler, who also works as the Chief of Police, has often been criticised for poorly handling the situation in the state.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tear-gas-fire-bombs-as-police-declare-portland-protest-a-riot-325540">Also read:&nbsp;Tear gas, fire bombs as police declare Portland protest a 'riot'</a>

The issue started after an unarmed black man, George Floyd, was killed by white policemen. A series of protests started after the news broke out about Floyd. While the protestors mainly marched and were not violent, things started to get ugly when the police was spotted attacking the masses with tear gas.

Wheeler was criticised for letting the police use tear gas in massive amounts. So much so, some locals even complained about the tear gas smell entering their homes and leaving an impact.

Considering this, Wheeler has now ordered a stop on the use of tear gas.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-supporters-and-counter-protesters-clashed-at-oregons-capital-326225">Also watch:&nbsp;Trump supporters and counter-protesters clashed at Oregon's Capital</a>

"It's time for everyone to reduce the violence in our community. We all want change. We all have the opportunity and obligation to create change. We all want to focus on the fundamental issue at hand -- justice for Black people and all people of color," Wheeler said in a brief taped announcement.

"That's why, as Police Commissioner, effective immediately and until further notice, I am directing the Portland Police to end the use of CS gas for crowd control," he said.

While the decision has been welcomed by locals, some have righty pointed out that some units of the law officers who were a part of the massive use of tear gas report to the Governor, and therefore do not have to follow this order.

After various clashes between the federal army and the protestors during a series of protests related to the 'Black Lives Matter' movement, the Portland mayor has ordered the police to stop using tear gas to control crowd in any way.

After various clashes between the federal army and the protestors during a series of protests related to the 'Black Lives Matter' movement, the Portland mayor has ordered the police to stop using tear gas to control crowd in any way. Mayor Ted Wheeler, who also works as the Chief of Police, has often been criticised for poorly handling the situation in the state. Also read: Tear gas, fire bombs as police declare Portland protest a 'riot' The issue started after an unarmed black man, George Floyd, was killed by white policemen. A series of protests started after the news broke out about Floyd. While the protestors mainly marched and were not violent, things started to get ugly when the police was spotted attacking the masses with tear gas. Wheeler was criticised for letting the police use tear gas in massive amounts. So much so, some locals even complained about the tear gas smell entering their homes and leaving an impact. Considering this, Wheeler has now ordered a stop on the use of tear gas. Also watch: Trump supporters and counter-protesters clashed at Oregon's Capital "It's time for everyone to reduce the violence in our community. We all want change. We all have the opportunity and obligation to create change. We all want to focus on the fundamental issue at hand -- justice for Black people and all people of color," Wheeler said in a brief taped announcement. "That's why, as Police Commissioner, effective immediately and until further notice, I am directing the Portland Police to end the use of CS gas for crowd control," he said. While the decision has been welcomed by locals, some have righty pointed out that some units of the law officers who were a part of the massive use of tear gas report to the Governor, and therefore do not have to follow this order.

Portland Mayor bans use of tear gas by police after locals complain

Officials in Portland, Oregon, said on Sunday they were braced for an escalation of protest-related violence that has convulsed the city for three months, citing social media posts vowing revenge for a fatal shooting amid weekend street clashes between supporters of President Donald Trump and counter-demonstrators.

"For those of you saying on Twitter this morning that you plan to come to Portland to seek retribution, I'm calling on you to stay away," Mayor Ted Wheeler told an afternoon news conference, urging individuals of all political persuasions to join in renouncing violence.&nbsp;

He also lashed out at Trump for political rhetoric that he said "encouraged division and stoked violence," and brushed aside a flurry of weekend Twitter posts from the president criticizing Wheeler and urging the mayor to request help from the federal government to restore order.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/one-dead-as-trump-supporters-protesters-clash-in-portland-324032" hreflang="en">One dead as Trump supporters, protesters clash in Portland</a>

"It's an aggressive stance. It's not collaborative," Wheeler said of Trump's tweets. "I'd appreciate it if the president would support us or stay the hell out of the way."

Wheeler and Police Chief Chuck Lovell said investigators were still working to establish the sequence of events leading to the fatal shooting late Saturday in downtown Portland, and they provided few new details about the investigation.&nbsp;

Lovell said it remained to be determined whether the shooting was connected to skirmishes that night between a caravan of protesters driving through the city's downtown district in pickup trucks waving pro-Trump flags and counter-protesters on the streets.

Video on social media showed individuals in the beds of the pickups firing paint-balls and spraying chemical irritants at opposing demonstrators as they rode by, while those on the street hurled objects at the trucks and tried to block them.

Authorities have not identified the shooting victim. But the New York Times reported the man gunned down was wearing a hat with the insignia of the right-wing group Patriot Prayer. On Sunday, the leader of the group, Joey Gibson, appeared to confirm that the victim was a Patriot Prayer member whom he knew.

"We love Jay, and he had such a huge heart. God bless him and the life he lived," Gibson wrote on social media. "I'm going to wait to make any public statements until after the family can."

Trump later re-tweeted a photo of a man identified as Jay Bishop and described in that post as "a good American that loved his country and Backed the Blue," an apparent reference to police. "He was murdered in Portland by ANTIFA."

Trump wrote, "Rest in Peace Jay!" in his retweet.

UNDER FIRE FROM TWO SIDES

The mayor also came under renewed fire from several left-wing Oregon-based civil rights and community organizations that have been at odds with Wheeler and called for his resignation in an open letter on Sunday.

"Amid 94 days and nights of protests against police brutality, Mayor Wheeler has fundamentally failed in his responsibilities to the residents of Portland," the letter said.

Police warned against individuals taking to Twitter on the basis of misinformation.

"There are many who are sharing information on social media who are jumping to conclusions that are not based on facts," Lovell said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/demonstrations-again-turn-violent-in-downtown-portland-322469" hreflang="en">Demonstrations again turn violent in downtown Portland</a>

He said the shooting was preceded by a "political rally involving a vehicle caravan that traveled through Portland for several hours." He said those vehicles had departed from a prescribed protest route that was supposed to funnel them along Interstate 5, outside Portland, to the site of the rally in neighboring Clackamas County.

He said that by the time the shooting took place, the caravan had already cleared that section of downtown, and that there were no police at the spot when it happened.

Protests, which have grown violent at times, have roiled downtown Portland every night for more than three months following the May 25 killing of George Floyd, the Black man who died under the knee of a white police officer in Minneapolis.

The demonstrators, demanding reforms of police practices they view as racist and abusive, have frequently clashed with law enforcement and on occasion with counter-protesters associated with right-wing militia groups.

The Trump administration in July deployed federal forces to Portland to crack down on the protests, drawing widespread criticism that the presence of federal agents in the city only heightened tensions.

On Sunday's broadcast of ABC's "This Week" program, acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf said, "All options continue to be on the table" to resolve Portland's unrest.

Officials in Portland, Oregon, said on Sunday they were braced for an escalation of protest-related violence that has convulsed the city for three months, citing social media posts vowing revenge for a fatal shooting amid weekend street clashes between supporters of President Donald Trump and counter-demonstrators.

Officials in Portland, Oregon, said on Sunday they were braced for an escalation of protest-related violence that has convulsed the city for three months, citing social media posts vowing revenge for a fatal shooting amid weekend street clashes between supporters of President Donald Trump and counter-demonstrators. "For those of you saying on Twitter this morning that you plan to come to Portland to seek retribution, I'm calling on you to stay away," Mayor Ted Wheeler told an afternoon news conference, urging individuals of all political persuasions to join in renouncing violence. He also lashed out at Trump for political rhetoric that he said "encouraged division and stoked violence," and brushed aside a flurry of weekend Twitter posts from the president criticizing Wheeler and urging the mayor to request help from the federal government to restore order. Also read: One dead as Trump supporters, protesters clash in Portland "It's an aggressive stance. It's not collaborative," Wheeler said of Trump's tweets. "I'd appreciate it if the president would support us or stay the hell out of the way." Wheeler and Police Chief Chuck Lovell said investigators were still working to establish the sequence of events leading to the fatal shooting late Saturday in downtown Portland, and they provided few new details about the investigation. Lovell said it remained to be determined whether the shooting was connected to skirmishes that night between a caravan of protesters driving through the city's downtown district in pickup trucks waving pro-Trump flags and counter-protesters on the streets. Video on social media showed individuals in the beds of the pickups firing paint-balls and spraying chemical irritants at opposing demonstrators as they rode by, while those on the street hurled objects at the trucks and tried to block them. Authorities have not identified the shooting victim. But the New York Times reported the man gunned down was wearing a hat with the insignia of the right-wing group Patriot Prayer. On Sunday, the leader of the group, Joey Gibson, appeared to confirm that the victim was a Patriot Prayer member whom he knew. "We love Jay, and he had such a huge heart. God bless him and the life he lived," Gibson wrote on social media. "I'm going to wait to make any public statements until after the family can." Trump later re-tweeted a photo of a man identified as Jay Bishop and described in that post as "a good American that loved his country and Backed the Blue," an apparent reference to police. "He was murdered in Portland by ANTIFA." Trump wrote, "Rest in Peace Jay!" in his retweet. UNDER FIRE FROM TWO SIDES The mayor also came under renewed fire from several left-wing Oregon-based civil rights and community organizations that have been at odds with Wheeler and called for his resignation in an open letter on Sunday. "Amid 94 days and nights of protests against police brutality, Mayor Wheeler has fundamentally failed in his responsibilities to the residents of Portland," the letter said. Police warned against individuals taking to Twitter on the basis of misinformation. "There are many who are sharing information on social media who are jumping to conclusions that are not based on facts," Lovell said. Also read: Demonstrations again turn violent in downtown Portland He said the shooting was preceded by a "political rally involving a vehicle caravan that traveled through Portland for several hours." He said those vehicles had departed from a prescribed protest route that was supposed to funnel them along Interstate 5, outside Portland, to the site of the rally in neighboring Clackamas County. He said that by the time the shooting took place, the caravan had already cleared that section of downtown, and that there were no police at the spot when it happened. Protests, which have grown violent at times, have roiled downtown Portland every night for more than three months following the May 25 killing of George Floyd, the Black man who died under the knee of a white police officer in Minneapolis. The demonstrators, demanding reforms of police practices they view as racist and abusive, have frequently clashed with law enforcement and on occasion with counter-protesters associated with right-wing militia groups. The Trump administration in July deployed federal forces to Portland to crack down on the protests, drawing widespread criticism that the presence of federal agents in the city only heightened tensions. On Sunday's broadcast of ABC's "This Week" program, acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf said, "All options continue to be on the table" to resolve Portland's unrest.

Portland mayor urges restraint, renunciation of violence after fatal shooting

As nearly 40 dead dolphins washed up on the shore after the tragic and massive oil spill in Mauritius, locals are demanding a detailed investigation of the same.

The dolphins that washed up in Maritius were, presumably, negatively affected by the toxic oil spill caused by a crack in the Japanes ship in the ocean.

Locals are now protestung against the unintentional deaths of dolphins and are demanding thorough investigation of the same. Several environmentalists are demanding a detailed investigation of whether or not the death of dolphins is related to the oil spill.

However, as per preliminary investigations, experts have revealed that the dead dolphins had&nbsp;wounds on their bodies but no trace of oil.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-40-dolphins-die-in-area-hit-by-mauritius-oil-spill-323756">Also read:&nbsp;At least 40 dolphins die in area hit by Mauritius oil spill</a>

"The preliminary results show that the animals did not have trace of hydrocarbon in their respiratory system, nor in their skin, throat or stomach," the report said.

However, the locals are not satisfied with the initial reports.&nbsp;"We do not trust the government and the diluted information they`ve been feeding us regarding the management and responses to the oil spill," Fabiola Monty, 33 a Mauritian environmental scientist

Protestors held banners that showed dolphins covered in oil with slogan of "all lives matter". Several participants of the protest also asked the government to resign over such a deadly mistake.&nbsp;Mauritian flags were also waved across the packed square of St Louis Cathedral.

So far, two dolphins' bodies have been investigated, and the results for next 20-25 dolphins is expected in a few days.&nbsp;The autopsy on the first two was conducted by the government-run Albion Fisheries Research Centre.

The government has assured the locals that an autopsy will be performed on all the dead dolphins, and not some.

Local environmental group Eco-Sud, which took part in Saturday`s protest, said in a statement on Friday that representatives from civil society should be present during the autopsies and called for a second opinion from independent specialists.

Meanwhile, the government has started two different investigations. First is by the local police which will be looking into the crew's responsibility and role into this environmental tragedy, and the second will be by a senior Shipping Ministry official to study the whole incident that happened during the hit.

As nearly 40 dead dolphins washed up on the shore after the tragic and massive oil spill in Mauritius, locals are demanding a detailed investigation of the same.

As nearly 40 dead dolphins washed up on the shore after the tragic and massive oil spill in Mauritius, locals are demanding a detailed investigation of the same. The dolphins that washed up in Maritius were, presumably, negatively affected by the toxic oil spill caused by a crack in the Japanes ship in the ocean. Locals are now protestung against the unintentional deaths of dolphins and are demanding thorough investigation of the same. Several environmentalists are demanding a detailed investigation of whether or not the death of dolphins is related to the oil spill. However, as per preliminary investigations, experts have revealed that the dead dolphins had wounds on their bodies but no trace of oil. Also read: At least 40 dolphins die in area hit by Mauritius oil spill "The preliminary results show that the animals did not have trace of hydrocarbon in their respiratory system, nor in their skin, throat or stomach," the report said. However, the locals are not satisfied with the initial reports. "We do not trust the government and the diluted information they`ve been feeding us regarding the management and responses to the oil spill," Fabiola Monty, 33 a Mauritian environmental scientist Protestors held banners that showed dolphins covered in oil with slogan of "all lives matter". Several participants of the protest also asked the government to resign over such a deadly mistake. Mauritian flags were also waved across the packed square of St Louis Cathedral. So far, two dolphins' bodies have been investigated, and the results for next 20-25 dolphins is expected in a few days. The autopsy on the first two was conducted by the government-run Albion Fisheries Research Centre. The government has assured the locals that an autopsy will be performed on all the dead dolphins, and not some. Local environmental group Eco-Sud, which took part in Saturday`s protest, said in a statement on Friday that representatives from civil society should be present during the autopsies and called for a second opinion from independent specialists. Meanwhile, the government has started two different investigations. First is by the local police which will be looking into the crew's responsibility and role into this environmental tragedy, and the second will be by a senior Shipping Ministry official to study the whole incident that happened during the hit.

Thousands take to streets to protest over dead dolphins in Mauritius

Tens of thousands of demonstrators massed in central Minsk on Sunday to demand the resignation of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, the latest in a wave of protests against his disputed re-election.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eus-top-diplomat-warns-belarus-to-avoid-being-second-ukraine-322588" hreflang="en">EU's top diplomat warns Belarus to avoid being 'second Ukraine'</a>

The authoritarian leader has ordered the military into full combat readiness in the face of the biggest challenge to his 26-year rule of the ex-Soviet state.

He has dispatched his notorious riot police to disperse rallies that erupted after he claimed a sixth term in an election two weeks ago that critics say was rigged.

Crowds of protesters carrying the red-and-white flag of the opposition flooded Independence Square and marched through the capital chanting "freedom" and "we will not forget, we will not forgive" as passing cars honked in support.

"We have just two demands: fair elections and stop the violence," 32-year-old Igor told AFP.

Officials had warned Belarusians against participating in "illegal demonstrations" and local news outlets published footage showing water cannon and riot police with shields moving towards Independence Square.&nbsp;

The defence ministry said it would intervene to protect "sacred" World War II memorials and several metro stations in Minsk were closed.

<h2>Human chain&nbsp;</h2>

Opposition-leaning media said more than 100,000 protesters had convened in the capital for the second Sunday in a row and smaller demonstrations were also reported in provincial cities.

"Lukashenko wants everyone to leave and live like it was. But it won't be like it used to be," said Nikita, a 28-year-old protester.

In solidarity, demonstrators in neighbouring Lithuania are forming a human chain from Vilnius to the&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;border, three decades after residents of the Baltic states joined hands and linked their capital cities in a mass protest against Soviet rule.&nbsp;

<h2>No 'second Ukraine'&nbsp;</h2>

The EU has rejected the election results and vowed to sanction Belarusians responsible for ballot fraud and a police crackdown that has seen nearly 7,000 people arrested, with allegations of gruesome torture and abuse in police custody.

Top EU diplomat Josep Borrell warned that&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;should not be allowed to become a "second Ukraine" and said it was necessary to deal with the 65-year-old Lukashenko, Europe's longest serving leader.

Outgoing OSCE chairman Edi Rama also offered to mediated a resolution to the crisis, in a letter obtained by AFP to his successor Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde.

The man branded "Europe's last dictator" has brushed aside the calls to go, dismissed the possibility of holding a new vote and instructed his security services to quell unrest and secure the borders.

His judiciary opened a criminal investigation into the opposition's Coordination Council that is seeking new elections and the peaceful transition of power, after he said opponents wanted to "seize power".

<h2>'Fatherland in danger'&nbsp;</h2>

The former collective farm boss ordered the military into full combat readiness during an army inspection near the border with the EU on Saturday and warned about NATO troop "stirrings" in neighbouring countries.

"The fatherland is now in danger. We cannot joke," Lukashenko said.

Lithuania's President Gitanas Nauseda said Lukashenko was trying to "divert attention" from the unrest at home, while NATO dismissed the claims as baseless.

The unlikely leader of&nbsp;Belarus's opposition, 37-year-old Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, fled to Vilnius fearing reprisals for mounting the greatest challenge to Lukashenko and claiming election victory.

In an interview with AFP ahead of the demonstrations, she urged protesters to continue to exert pressure on the authorities, saying it was "important to continue to be united in the struggle for the rights".

The authorities have to understand "we are not a protest movement... we are a majority and we will not step away. We are not afraid of them any more."

Lukashenko's opponents have organised strikes and the largest protests in the country's recent history, with more than 100,000 people turning out in Minsk alone last weekend.

Yet fewer workers at state-run factories -- usually a bastion of support for Lukashenko -- have continued to strike, with activists citing pressure from the authorities.

The president has threatened from Monday to shut down production lines where workers have put down their tools.

Staff at state-run media outlets have also staged walkouts and Lukashenko admitted this week that journalists from Russia had been flown in to replace them.

Russia, his powerful ally, has warned European leaders against interfering in&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;and the Kremlin has said it would intervene if necessary.

US Deputy&nbsp;Secretary of State Stephen Biegun&nbsp;will visit Lithuania as part of a trip next week that will also include a stop in Russia for talks on the election fallout.

He is planning to meet with Tikhanovskaya, her representatives told AFP.

Lukashenko's army inspection Saturday came ahead of large-scale military exercises planned on the border with the European Union between August 28 and 31.

Tens of thousands of demonstrators massed in central Minsk on Sunday to demand the resignation of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, the latest in a wave of protests against his disputed re-election.

Tens of thousands of demonstrators massed in central Minsk on Sunday to demand the resignation of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, the latest in a wave of protests against his disputed re-election. Also read: EU's top diplomat warns Belarus to avoid being 'second Ukraine' The authoritarian leader has ordered the military into full combat readiness in the face of the biggest challenge to his 26-year rule of the ex-Soviet state. He has dispatched his notorious riot police to disperse rallies that erupted after he claimed a sixth term in an election two weeks ago that critics say was rigged. Crowds of protesters carrying the red-and-white flag of the opposition flooded Independence Square and marched through the capital chanting "freedom" and "we will not forget, we will not forgive" as passing cars honked in support. "We have just two demands: fair elections and stop the violence," 32-year-old Igor told AFP. Officials had warned Belarusians against participating in "illegal demonstrations" and local news outlets published footage showing water cannon and riot police with shields moving towards Independence Square. The defence ministry said it would intervene to protect "sacred" World War II memorials and several metro stations in Minsk were closed. Human chain Opposition-leaning media said more than 100,000 protesters had convened in the capital for the second Sunday in a row and smaller demonstrations were also reported in provincial cities. "Lukashenko wants everyone to leave and live like it was. But it won't be like it used to be," said Nikita, a 28-year-old protester. In solidarity, demonstrators in neighbouring Lithuania are forming a human chain from Vilnius to the Belarus border, three decades after residents of the Baltic states joined hands and linked their capital cities in a mass protest against Soviet rule. No 'second Ukraine' The EU has rejected the election results and vowed to sanction Belarusians responsible for ballot fraud and a police crackdown that has seen nearly 7,000 people arrested, with allegations of gruesome torture and abuse in police custody. Top EU diplomat Josep Borrell warned that Belarus should not be allowed to become a "second Ukraine" and said it was necessary to deal with the 65-year-old Lukashenko, Europe's longest serving leader. Outgoing OSCE chairman Edi Rama also offered to mediated a resolution to the crisis, in a letter obtained by AFP to his successor Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde. The man branded "Europe's last dictator" has brushed aside the calls to go, dismissed the possibility of holding a new vote and instructed his security services to quell unrest and secure the borders. His judiciary opened a criminal investigation into the opposition's Coordination Council that is seeking new elections and the peaceful transition of power, after he said opponents wanted to "seize power". 'Fatherland in danger' The former collective farm boss ordered the military into full combat readiness during an army inspection near the border with the EU on Saturday and warned about NATO troop "stirrings" in neighbouring countries. "The fatherland is now in danger. We cannot joke," Lukashenko said. Lithuania's President Gitanas Nauseda said Lukashenko was trying to "divert attention" from the unrest at home, while NATO dismissed the claims as baseless. The unlikely leader of Belarus's opposition, 37-year-old Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, fled to Vilnius fearing reprisals for mounting the greatest challenge to Lukashenko and claiming election victory. In an interview with AFP ahead of the demonstrations, she urged protesters to continue to exert pressure on the authorities, saying it was "important to continue to be united in the struggle for the rights". The authorities have to understand "we are not a protest movement... we are a majority and we will not step away. We are not afraid of them any more." Lukashenko's opponents have organised strikes and the largest protests in the country's recent history, with more than 100,000 people turning out in Minsk alone last weekend. Yet fewer workers at state-run factories -- usually a bastion of support for Lukashenko -- have continued to strike, with activists citing pressure from the authorities. The president has threatened from Monday to shut down production lines where workers have put down their tools. Staff at state-run media outlets have also staged walkouts and Lukashenko admitted this week that journalists from Russia had been flown in to replace them. Russia, his powerful ally, has warned European leaders against interfering in Belarus and the Kremlin has said it would intervene if necessary. US Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun will visit Lithuania as part of a trip next week that will also include a stop in Russia for talks on the election fallout. He is planning to meet with Tikhanovskaya, her representatives told AFP. Lukashenko's army inspection Saturday came ahead of large-scale military exercises planned on the border with the European Union between August 28 and 31.

Mass Belarus protests to demand Lukashenko's resignation

Around 1,500 people marched through the streets of the Russian far eastern city of Khabarovsk on Saturday, marking the seventh consecutive weekend of protests after the region`s governor was detained in early July.

Residents of Khabarovsk, 6,110 km (3,800 miles) east of Moscow, have protested since the detention of Sergei Furgal, the region`s popular governor, on July 9 in connection with murder charges which he denies.

His supporters say the detention is politically motivated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-critic-alexei-navalny-airlifted-to-germany-condition-stable-after-landing-322296">Also read:&nbsp;Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny airlifted to Germany; condition stable after landing</a>

People marched on Saturday with posters reading "Freedom to Furgal" and "Belarus - Khabarovsk is with you" - a sign of support for opposition rallies in Belarus protesting against the alleged rigging of its presidential election.

On Saturday, posters wishing recovery for Alexei Navalny, a Kremlin critic who collapsed on a plane on Thursday after drinking tea that his allies believe was laced with poison, were also seen among the people marching in Khabarovsk.

Navalny was evacuated from the Siberian city of Omsk and brought to Germany for medical treatment on Saturday.

Regional authorities estimated around 1,500 people took part in Saturday`s march, a smaller turnout than in previous weeks.

Around 1,500 people marched through the streets of the Russian far eastern city of Khabarovsk on Saturday, marking the seventh consecutive weekend of protests after the region`s governor was detained in early July.

Around 1,500 people marched through the streets of the Russian far eastern city of Khabarovsk on Saturday, marking the seventh consecutive weekend of protests after the region`s governor was detained in early July. Residents of Khabarovsk, 6,110 km (3,800 miles) east of Moscow, have protested since the detention of Sergei Furgal, the region`s popular governor, on July 9 in connection with murder charges which he denies. His supporters say the detention is politically motivated. Also read: Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny airlifted to Germany; condition stable after landing People marched on Saturday with posters reading "Freedom to Furgal" and "Belarus - Khabarovsk is with you" - a sign of support for opposition rallies in Belarus protesting against the alleged rigging of its presidential election. On Saturday, posters wishing recovery for Alexei Navalny, a Kremlin critic who collapsed on a plane on Thursday after drinking tea that his allies believe was laced with poison, were also seen among the people marching in Khabarovsk. Navalny was evacuated from the Siberian city of Omsk and brought to Germany for medical treatment on Saturday. Regional authorities estimated around 1,500 people took part in Saturday`s march, a smaller turnout than in previous weeks.

Protesters hold seventh anti-Kremlin march over detained governor

Belarus locals formed a human chain leading to a detention center in Minsk to protest against the corrupt government and the re-election of the&nbsp;President Alexander Lukashenko.&nbsp;

Belarus opposition challenger Svetlana Tikhanovskaya voiced defiance on Friday after President Alexander Lukashenko's government opened a criminal probe into attempts to "seize power".

In her first public comments since fleeing to Lithuania, Tikhanovskaya said Belarusians would "never accept the current leadership again" after a crackdown on mass protests following a disputed August 9 election.

"They can never forgive and forget all the violence that our citizens have suffered," she said.

Tikhanovskaya, a political novice who only put forward her candidacy when her blogger husband was arrested ahead of the vote, also told reporters she loved her homeland and planned to return "when I feel safe there".

"It should be clear to the president that there is a need for change. I hope that good sense prevails and the people will be heard and there will be new elections," she said, declining to comment on whether she would be a candidate in any fresh vote.

A nervous-looking Tikhanovskaya also refused to answer questions about her own safety or about what compelled her to leave Belarus in the aftermath of the election.

"As for threats, you know I don't think I would like to discuss this question now," she said in English.

"Every person in our country feels fear and is scared now, but it's our mission to step over all our fears and move further."

Supporters and the Lithuanian government have said she had little choice but to leave after coming under intense pressure from the authorities during a meeting at the Central Election Commission in Minsk.

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'Fear and falsehoods'

Tikhanovskaya's campaign helped to inspire unprecedented mass protests against Lukashenko's 26-year rule in the former Soviet republic.

The strongman claimed a sixth term with 80 per cent of the vote in the poll. &nbsp;

The EU has rejected Lukashenko's re-election and is planning sanctions against those it holds responsible for violence against protesters.

Lukashenko said on Friday he would resolve the political crisis "in the coming days".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-urges-dialogue-between-belarusian-authorities-and-citizens-to-resolve-crisis-322203">Also read:&nbsp;Russia urges dialogue between Belarusian authorities and citizens to resolve crisis</a>

He also accused the United States of "directing" the anti-government protesters in order to create a buffer zone with Belarus, the three Baltic states and Ukraine between Russia.

Asked about Russian support for Lukashenko, Tikhanovskaya said: "I call on all countries of the world to respect the sovereignty of the Republic of Belarus."

"We don't want to live in fear and falsehoods any more," she said, calling for striking workers to liaise with a Coordination Council she set up to organise pro-democracy protests.

"The creation of the Coordination Council is aimed at negotiating a peaceful handover of power."

'Intimidation' accusation

Belarus on Thursday opened a criminal probe into the Coordination Council, saying it was an unconstitutional attempt to topple Lukashenko.

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Lawyer Maxim Znak, a member of the council, was cheered as he arrived for questioning at the Minsk offices of the investigative committee, supporters chanting: "One for all, all for one!"

The EU on Friday demanded that Belarus halt the investigation, accusing the government of "intimidation".

"The Coordination Council, which consists of representatives of different parts of Belarusian society, reached out to the authorities for a dialogue and the authorities answered with the opening of a criminal case," EU foreign affairs spokeswoman Nabila Massrali said in a statement.

"In doing so, the Belarusian state authorities have once again reverted to intimidation based on political grounds," she said.

"We expect the Belarusian authorities to stop the criminal case and instead to engage in a dialogue in view of moving towards a peaceful way out of the current crisis."

The United Nations on Friday said it was "seriously concerned" about more than 100 people still being detained in Belarus in connection with the protests, even though several thousand more have been released.

"We call on the authorities in Belarus to immediately release all those who have been unlawfully or arbitrarily detained," said Elizabeth Throssel, a spokeswoman for the UN human rights office.

Belarus locals formed a human chain leading to a detention center in Minsk to protest against the corrupt government and the re-election of the President Alexander Lukashenko.

Belarus locals formed a human chain leading to a detention center in Minsk to protest against the corrupt government and the re-election of the President Alexander Lukashenko. Belarus opposition challenger Svetlana Tikhanovskaya voiced defiance on Friday after President Alexander Lukashenko's government opened a criminal probe into attempts to "seize power". In her first public comments since fleeing to Lithuania, Tikhanovskaya said Belarusians would "never accept the current leadership again" after a crackdown on mass protests following a disputed August 9 election. "They can never forgive and forget all the violence that our citizens have suffered," she said. Tikhanovskaya, a political novice who only put forward her candidacy when her blogger husband was arrested ahead of the vote, also told reporters she loved her homeland and planned to return "when I feel safe there". "It should be clear to the president that there is a need for change. I hope that good sense prevails and the people will be heard and there will be new elections," she said, declining to comment on whether she would be a candidate in any fresh vote. A nervous-looking Tikhanovskaya also refused to answer questions about her own safety or about what compelled her to leave Belarus in the aftermath of the election. "As for threats, you know I don't think I would like to discuss this question now," she said in English. "Every person in our country feels fear and is scared now, but it's our mission to step over all our fears and move further." Supporters and the Lithuanian government have said she had little choice but to leave after coming under intense pressure from the authorities during a meeting at the Central Election Commission in Minsk. × 'Fear and falsehoods' Tikhanovskaya's campaign helped to inspire unprecedented mass protests against Lukashenko's 26-year rule in the former Soviet republic. The strongman claimed a sixth term with 80 per cent of the vote in the poll. The EU has rejected Lukashenko's re-election and is planning sanctions against those it holds responsible for violence against protesters. Lukashenko said on Friday he would resolve the political crisis "in the coming days". Also read: Russia urges dialogue between Belarusian authorities and citizens to resolve crisis He also accused the United States of "directing" the anti-government protesters in order to create a buffer zone with Belarus, the three Baltic states and Ukraine between Russia. Asked about Russian support for Lukashenko, Tikhanovskaya said: "I call on all countries of the world to respect the sovereignty of the Republic of Belarus." "We don't want to live in fear and falsehoods any more," she said, calling for striking workers to liaise with a Coordination Council she set up to organise pro-democracy protests. "The creation of the Coordination Council is aimed at negotiating a peaceful handover of power." 'Intimidation' accusation Belarus on Thursday opened a criminal probe into the Coordination Council, saying it was an unconstitutional attempt to topple Lukashenko. × Lawyer Maxim Znak, a member of the council, was cheered as he arrived for questioning at the Minsk offices of the investigative committee, supporters chanting: "One for all, all for one!" The EU on Friday demanded that Belarus halt the investigation, accusing the government of "intimidation". "The Coordination Council, which consists of representatives of different parts of Belarusian society, reached out to the authorities for a dialogue and the authorities answered with the opening of a criminal case," EU foreign affairs spokeswoman Nabila Massrali said in a statement. "In doing so, the Belarusian state authorities have once again reverted to intimidation based on political grounds," she said. "We expect the Belarusian authorities to stop the criminal case and instead to engage in a dialogue in view of moving towards a peaceful way out of the current crisis." The United Nations on Friday said it was "seriously concerned" about more than 100 people still being detained in Belarus in connection with the protests, even though several thousand more have been released. "We call on the authorities in Belarus to immediately release all those who have been unlawfully or arbitrarily detained," said Elizabeth Throssel, a spokeswoman for the UN human rights office.

Belarus: Protesters form human chain leading to a detention centre

Crowds of people are continuing to participate in the protests against police brutality and racial discrimination in Seattle following the death of African American George Floyd in May.

More people join protests in Seattle months after George Floyd's death

Thai police arrested activist lawyer Anon Nampa on Wednesday over an Aug. 3 protest at which he called for reform of the powerful monarchy, the second time he has been arrested this month, a police officer said.

Anon, 36, has been at the forefront of a movement that has staged protests almost daily for the past month in the Southeast Asian country. He was the first to call openly for changes to King Maha Vajiralongkorn's role, breaking a longstanding taboo.

Anon had been charged with sedition, said the officer, who declined to be named because he was not authorised to speak to media. He did not give further details. Neither Anon, who already has several other cases pending against him, nor his lawyer were available for comment.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/anti-government-protesters-target-king-pm-in-thailand-321298" hreflang="en">Anti-government protesters target King, PM in Thailand</a>

Police said earlier they had warrants for Anon and five other activists. They had all been at an event where a call was made for reforms to the monarchy as well as broader demands for a new constitution and elections and an end to the harassment of government opponents.

Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, a former junta leader who rejects activists' accusations that last year's election was manipulated to keep him in power, said he acknowledged student demands but they should not touch the monarchy.

"There are 67 million Thais," Prayuth told reporters. "I believe the majority do not agree with the protesters."

Demonstrators challenging the monarchy say greater democracy is impossible without changes that would limit the king's constitutional role in a country that has had 13 successful coups since absolute monarchy ended in 1932.

The Royal Palace has not responded to the demands.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/tensions-swell-in-thailand-ahead-of-fresh-pro-democracy-protest-320926" hreflang="en">Tensions swell in Thailand ahead of fresh pro-democracy protest</a>

Insulting the monarchy can lead to a 15-year jail sentence, but Prayuth has said the king had requested no prosecutions under the lese majeste laws for now. Sedition carries a term of up to seven years.

The protest movement drew 10,000 people to the biggest demonstration in years in Bangkok on Sunday, and this week some high school pupils have joined protests that started on university campuses.

Hundreds of Thai high school students rallied at the education ministry on Wednesday and gave three-finger "Hunger Games" salutes in support of an anti-government protests and to demand more freedom in schools.

Many also wore white ribbons to show their support.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society had filed a cybercrime complaint against exiled academic Pavin Chachavalpongpun for creating a Facebook group deemed critical of the monarchy, a spokesman said.

The group, called Royalist Marketplace, has more than one million members.

The ministry said it acted after Facebook had not acted on its request to shut the group down.

"The ministry's action is the crudest form of information censorship. It goes against the freedom of expression that we are all entitled to," Pavin told Reuters.

In Bangkok, some 200 Thai rightists set up a group to oppose the anti-government protesters. So far, counter protests have drawn only a few dozen people.

Thai police arrested activist lawyer Anon Nampa on Wednesday over an Aug. 3 protest at which he called for reform of the powerful monarchy, the second time he has been arrested this month, a police officer said.

Thai police arrested activist lawyer Anon Nampa on Wednesday over an Aug. 3 protest at which he called for reform of the powerful monarchy, the second time he has been arrested this month, a police officer said. Anon, 36, has been at the forefront of a movement that has staged protests almost daily for the past month in the Southeast Asian country. He was the first to call openly for changes to King Maha Vajiralongkorn's role, breaking a longstanding taboo. Anon had been charged with sedition, said the officer, who declined to be named because he was not authorised to speak to media. He did not give further details. Neither Anon, who already has several other cases pending against him, nor his lawyer were available for comment. Also read: Anti-government protesters target King, PM in Thailand Police said earlier they had warrants for Anon and five other activists. They had all been at an event where a call was made for reforms to the monarchy as well as broader demands for a new constitution and elections and an end to the harassment of government opponents. Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, a former junta leader who rejects activists' accusations that last year's election was manipulated to keep him in power, said he acknowledged student demands but they should not touch the monarchy. "There are 67 million Thais," Prayuth told reporters. "I believe the majority do not agree with the protesters." Demonstrators challenging the monarchy say greater democracy is impossible without changes that would limit the king's constitutional role in a country that has had 13 successful coups since absolute monarchy ended in 1932. The Royal Palace has not responded to the demands. Also read: Tensions swell in Thailand ahead of fresh pro-democracy protest Insulting the monarchy can lead to a 15-year jail sentence, but Prayuth has said the king had requested no prosecutions under the lese majeste laws for now. Sedition carries a term of up to seven years. The protest movement drew 10,000 people to the biggest demonstration in years in Bangkok on Sunday, and this week some high school pupils have joined protests that started on university campuses. Hundreds of Thai high school students rallied at the education ministry on Wednesday and gave three-finger "Hunger Games" salutes in support of an anti-government protests and to demand more freedom in schools. Many also wore white ribbons to show their support. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society had filed a cybercrime complaint against exiled academic Pavin Chachavalpongpun for creating a Facebook group deemed critical of the monarchy, a spokesman said. The group, called Royalist Marketplace, has more than one million members. The ministry said it acted after Facebook had not acted on its request to shut the group down. "The ministry's action is the crudest form of information censorship. It goes against the freedom of expression that we are all entitled to," Pavin told Reuters. In Bangkok, some 200 Thai rightists set up a group to oppose the anti-government protesters. So far, counter protests have drawn only a few dozen people.

Thai police arrest activist over monarchy protest

A Thai court issued arrest warrants Wednesday for six pro-democracy activists involved in recent rallies that have seen frank discussion of the monarchy and calls for an overhaul of the government.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/down-with-the-dictatorship-thailand-witness-biggest-anti-government-protest-in-years-321005">'Down with the dictatorship': Thailand witness biggest anti-government protest in years</a>

The near-daily demonstrations by a youth-led pro-democracy movement have been largely tolerated by authorities so far, but police said Wednesday they now had warrants to arrest half a dozen of the most prominent protesters.

They will be charged with "sedition, computer crimes act, violating the diseases control act and using loudspeakers", Pathum Thani provincial police commander Chayut Marayat told AFP.

While the use of punitive lese majeste legislation has slowed in recent years, legal observers say the military-aligned government has stepped up other legal mechanisms to target dissent -- including using sedition and computer crime laws.&nbsp;

Two of the warrants issued Wednesday are for protesters previously arrested and bailed -- human rights lawyer Anon Numpa and student leader Panupong Jadnok -- but they now face fresh charges related to a rally on August 10 at Thammasat University.

That rally drew some 5,000 supporters who listened as Anon and Panupong talked about reform of the kingdom's monarchy -- a taboo topic in Thailand.

Speakers at weeks of rallies have been openly critical of the government of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha -- a former army chief who seized power in a 2014 coup.

At the Thammasat rally, however, they also demanded greater accounting of palace finances and the abolition of the controversial royal defamation laws which carry a sentence of up to 15 years in prison.&nbsp;

King Maha Vajiralongkorn sits at the apex of Thai power, buttressed by a powerful arch-royalist military and the country's billionaire clans.&nbsp;

Since he ascended the throne in 2016, the king has made unprecedented changes to the institution -- including amassing direct control of the palace's fortune, which is estimated to be worth up to $60 billion.&nbsp;

So far, none of the pro-democracy activists have been charged with royal defamation, but their demands have angered pro-royalist supporters and spurred several smaller counter-protests.&nbsp;

A Thai court issued arrest warrants Wednesday for six pro-democracy activists involved in recent rallies that have seen frank discussion of the monarchy and calls for an overhaul of the government.

A Thai court issued arrest warrants Wednesday for six pro-democracy activists involved in recent rallies that have seen frank discussion of the monarchy and calls for an overhaul of the government. Also see: 'Down with the dictatorship': Thailand witness biggest anti-government protest in years The near-daily demonstrations by a youth-led pro-democracy movement have been largely tolerated by authorities so far, but police said Wednesday they now had warrants to arrest half a dozen of the most prominent protesters. They will be charged with "sedition, computer crimes act, violating the diseases control act and using loudspeakers", Pathum Thani provincial police commander Chayut Marayat told AFP. While the use of punitive lese majeste legislation has slowed in recent years, legal observers say the military-aligned government has stepped up other legal mechanisms to target dissent -- including using sedition and computer crime laws. Two of the warrants issued Wednesday are for protesters previously arrested and bailed -- human rights lawyer Anon Numpa and student leader Panupong Jadnok -- but they now face fresh charges related to a rally on August 10 at Thammasat University. That rally drew some 5,000 supporters who listened as Anon and Panupong talked about reform of the kingdom's monarchy -- a taboo topic in Thailand. Speakers at weeks of rallies have been openly critical of the government of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha -- a former army chief who seized power in a 2014 coup. At the Thammasat rally, however, they also demanded greater accounting of palace finances and the abolition of the controversial royal defamation laws which carry a sentence of up to 15 years in prison. King Maha Vajiralongkorn sits at the apex of Thai power, buttressed by a powerful arch-royalist military and the country's billionaire clans. Since he ascended the throne in 2016, the king has made unprecedented changes to the institution -- including amassing direct control of the palace's fortune, which is estimated to be worth up to $60 billion. So far, none of the pro-democracy activists have been charged with royal defamation, but their demands have angered pro-royalist supporters and spurred several smaller counter-protests.

Thai court issues warrants after protesters tackle royal taboos

Pupils at more than a dozen Thai high schools raised three-finger "Hunger Games" salutes during the national anthem on Tuesday in a sign of spreading support for student-led anti-government protests.

Demonstrations that began on university campuses have taken place almost daily since mid-July in an increasing challenge to the ruling establishment in the Southeast Asian country that has long been dominated by the army and the monarchy.

High school protests during morning assemblies began in at least eight schools on Monday. The three-finger salute has been a symbol of calls for democracy since Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha first took power in a 2014 coup.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/anti-government-protesters-target-king-pm-in-thailand-321298" hreflang="en">Anti-government protesters target King, PM in Thailand</a>

Some students also wore white ribbons to show their support for protesters, who seek Prayuth's departure, a new constitution and an end to the harassment of activists. Some students have also called for reforms to the monarchy, once a taboo subject.&nbsp;

"I want to show that I don't like dictatorship and want true democracy," said one 17-year-old student who joined the protest at a government school on Monday and said she did not want to be named for fear of reprisals after pressure from teachers.

The school did not respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Education Minister Nataphol Teepsuwan said at an educational fair in Bangkok on Monday that the students had the right to express themselves and should not be punished, but also warned that there was a limit to how far they should go.

Prayuth told reporters he was willing to listen to the students but questioned the motives of some.

"I heard from some students that those that don't want to take part in these actions gets bullied into doing it," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/tensions-swell-in-thailand-ahead-of-fresh-pro-democracy-protest-320926" hreflang="en">Tensions swell in Thailand ahead of fresh pro-democracy protest</a>

Protesters accuse Prayuth of holding on to power unfairly after elections last year under rules drawn up his junta. He says the elections were fair.

Apart from the political demands, some pupils complain of a school system which emphasises obedience and tradition, from lining up daily for the national anthem to strict rules on uniforms, haircuts and behaviour.

"Students see politics through the lens of school life that lacks democracy and has many highly authoritarian elements," said Prajak Kongkirati, a political scientist at Thammasat University in Bangkok.&nbsp;

"What we are witnessing is the beginning of a social revolution."

A hashtag that translates as #WhiteRibbonAgainstDictatorship was used nearly 1 million times on Twitter while others trending included #ThreeFingersForNationalAnthem.

Videos shared on social media show some teachers trying to stop students from giving the salutes, but in other schools teachers have joined in raising their hands.

Increasing support for the protest movement was evident in Bangkok on Sunday when more than 10,000 people joined the biggest demonstration for years.

High school students said they were planning further protests on Wednesday, including one at the Ministry of Education.

Pupils at more than a dozen Thai high schools raised three-finger "Hunger Games" salutes during the national anthem on Tuesday in a sign of spreading support for student-led anti-government protests.

Pupils at more than a dozen Thai high schools raised three-finger "Hunger Games" salutes during the national anthem on Tuesday in a sign of spreading support for student-led anti-government protests. Demonstrations that began on university campuses have taken place almost daily since mid-July in an increasing challenge to the ruling establishment in the Southeast Asian country that has long been dominated by the army and the monarchy. High school protests during morning assemblies began in at least eight schools on Monday. The three-finger salute has been a symbol of calls for democracy since Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha first took power in a 2014 coup. Also read: Anti-government protesters target King, PM in Thailand Some students also wore white ribbons to show their support for protesters, who seek Prayuth's departure, a new constitution and an end to the harassment of activists. Some students have also called for reforms to the monarchy, once a taboo subject. "I want to show that I don't like dictatorship and want true democracy," said one 17-year-old student who joined the protest at a government school on Monday and said she did not want to be named for fear of reprisals after pressure from teachers. The school did not respond to a Reuters request for comment. Education Minister Nataphol Teepsuwan said at an educational fair in Bangkok on Monday that the students had the right to express themselves and should not be punished, but also warned that there was a limit to how far they should go. Prayuth told reporters he was willing to listen to the students but questioned the motives of some. "I heard from some students that those that don't want to take part in these actions gets bullied into doing it," he said. Also read: Tensions swell in Thailand ahead of fresh pro-democracy protest Protesters accuse Prayuth of holding on to power unfairly after elections last year under rules drawn up his junta. He says the elections were fair. Apart from the political demands, some pupils complain of a school system which emphasises obedience and tradition, from lining up daily for the national anthem to strict rules on uniforms, haircuts and behaviour. "Students see politics through the lens of school life that lacks democracy and has many highly authoritarian elements," said Prajak Kongkirati, a political scientist at Thammasat University in Bangkok. "What we are witnessing is the beginning of a social revolution." A hashtag that translates as #WhiteRibbonAgainstDictatorship was used nearly 1 million times on Twitter while others trending included #ThreeFingersForNationalAnthem. Videos shared on social media show some teachers trying to stop students from giving the salutes, but in other schools teachers have joined in raising their hands. Increasing support for the protest movement was evident in Bangkok on Sunday when more than 10,000 people joined the biggest demonstration for years. High school students said they were planning further protests on Wednesday, including one at the Ministry of Education.

Thai school 'Hunger Games' salute protests spread

Facing growing protests that have posed the biggest challenge to his 26 years in power, President Alexander Lukashenko said on Monday he was ready to share power in Belarus, although not under pressure from the streets.&nbsp;

His apparent concession came after exiled opposition politician Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya said she was willing to lead the country.

Amid increasing demands to quit after the biggest protest against him yet, Lukashenko faced heckling from workers at a factory he visited in Minsk on Monday morning with people chanting "Step Down" as he tried to answer their questions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/belarusian-opposition-politician-tsikhanouskaya-says-she-is-ready-to-lead-nation-321113" hreflang="en">Belarusian opposition politician Tsikhanouskaya says she is ready to lead nation</a>

Opponents of Lukashenko say he rigged a presidential election on Aug. 9 to secure a sixth term in power. He denies losing, citing official results that gave him just over 80% of the vote.

He told workers on Monday there would be no new presidential election, something the opposition wants, until he was killed.

The official Belta news agency quoted him as saying he would be willing to share power however, and to change the constitution, but that he was not prepared to do so under pressure from protesters.&nbsp;

Work was already underway on possible changes to the constitution that could redistribute power, Belta reported him as saying.&nbsp;

Speaking in a video address from Lithuania, opposition politician Tsikhanouskaya urged security and law enforcement officers to switch sides from Lukashenko's government, saying their past behaviour would be forgiven if they did so now.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/pope-francis-appeals-for-justice-to-be-respected-in-belarus-320981" hreflang="en">Pope Francis appeals for justice to be respected in Belarus</a>

"I am ready to take responsibility and act as a national leader during this period," Tsikhanouskaya said, saying it was essential to make the most of the momentum generated by a week of protests.&nbsp;

She called for the creation of a legal mechanism to ensure that a new fair presidential election could be held.&nbsp;

Her video was released as Interfax reported that employees from the state broadcaster BT has gone on strike, after several of their presenters and staff publicly resigned last week in solidarity with the protesters.

The broadcaster was showing re-runs of old programmes on Monday morning before issuing a fresh news bulletin. Videos circulating on social media suggested BT had at one point aired footage of an empty studio with white sofas, and music playing.&nbsp;

Reuters could not independently confirm that and the broadcaster could not immediately be reached for comment.&nbsp;

Thousands of protesters marched in Minsk on Monday morning to the state-run Minsk Automobile Plant (MAZ) to where Lukashenko flew by helicopter to speak to striking workers.&nbsp;

Lukashenko played down the impact of the strikes, saying "those who want to work, let them work. They do not want to work, well, we will not force them," according to comments released by Belta.&nbsp;

The media outlet Tut.By reported that workers at Belaruskali, one of the world's largest potash producers, had also threatened to stop production. The state-owned firm, which is a key source of dollar revenue for Belarus, told Reuters on Monday its plant was still working.

Facing growing protests that have posed the biggest challenge to his 26 years in power, President Alexander Lukashenko said on Monday he was ready to share power in Belarus, although not under pressure from the streets.

Facing growing protests that have posed the biggest challenge to his 26 years in power, President Alexander Lukashenko said on Monday he was ready to share power in Belarus, although not under pressure from the streets. His apparent concession came after exiled opposition politician Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya said she was willing to lead the country. Amid increasing demands to quit after the biggest protest against him yet, Lukashenko faced heckling from workers at a factory he visited in Minsk on Monday morning with people chanting "Step Down" as he tried to answer their questions. Also read: Belarusian opposition politician Tsikhanouskaya says she is ready to lead nation Opponents of Lukashenko say he rigged a presidential election on Aug. 9 to secure a sixth term in power. He denies losing, citing official results that gave him just over 80% of the vote. He told workers on Monday there would be no new presidential election, something the opposition wants, until he was killed. The official Belta news agency quoted him as saying he would be willing to share power however, and to change the constitution, but that he was not prepared to do so under pressure from protesters. Work was already underway on possible changes to the constitution that could redistribute power, Belta reported him as saying. Speaking in a video address from Lithuania, opposition politician Tsikhanouskaya urged security and law enforcement officers to switch sides from Lukashenko's government, saying their past behaviour would be forgiven if they did so now. Also read: Pope Francis appeals for justice to be respected in Belarus "I am ready to take responsibility and act as a national leader during this period," Tsikhanouskaya said, saying it was essential to make the most of the momentum generated by a week of protests. She called for the creation of a legal mechanism to ensure that a new fair presidential election could be held. Her video was released as Interfax reported that employees from the state broadcaster BT has gone on strike, after several of their presenters and staff publicly resigned last week in solidarity with the protesters. The broadcaster was showing re-runs of old programmes on Monday morning before issuing a fresh news bulletin. Videos circulating on social media suggested BT had at one point aired footage of an empty studio with white sofas, and music playing. Reuters could not independently confirm that and the broadcaster could not immediately be reached for comment. Thousands of protesters marched in Minsk on Monday morning to the state-run Minsk Automobile Plant (MAZ) to where Lukashenko flew by helicopter to speak to striking workers. Lukashenko played down the impact of the strikes, saying "those who want to work, let them work. They do not want to work, well, we will not force them," according to comments released by Belta. The media outlet Tut.By reported that workers at Belaruskali, one of the world's largest potash producers, had also threatened to stop production. The state-owned firm, which is a key source of dollar revenue for Belarus, told Reuters on Monday its plant was still working.

President Lukashenko says he is ready to share power in Belarus as protests mount

Belarus government started releasing the detained prisoners to declare peace between the government and the citizens. The prisoners had been detained while protesting against Belarus President&nbsp;Alexander Lukashenko's rule.

The prisoners were released in the early hours of Friday and were greeted with friends and family who welcomed the detainees with tears, hugs, blankets, water and food.

The government also took responsibility for the violence that erupted during the protests.&nbsp;"I take responsibility and apologise for injuries of random people at the protests who got it in the neck," said Minister of Internal Affairs Yuri Karayev.

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The statement came after thousands of detained protestors complained of mistreatment in the cramped-up holding cells. Out of 6,700 detained protestors, hundreds of them came out with bruises over their bodies and face. Some of the detainees claimed they were beaten up after being dragged out of their cells. However,&nbsp;Deputy Interior Minister Alexander Barsukov declined any form of mistreatment or abuse in the holding cells.

President's ally, the head of a national state council Natalya Kochanova, announced that the President had called for a review for the detentions made. "We don`t fight, we don`t need war," she said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-says-police-detained-about-700-protesters-overnight-320212">Also read:&nbsp;Belarus says police detained about 700 protesters overnight</a>

While almost all prisoners were released from the Minsk detention centre, nearly two detainees lost their lives. EU Ambassadors reached the spot of the violence, later, to pay respects to the ones who lost their lives protesting against the government. "We are here to mourn the loss of life and also to show solidarity with the victims of the violence and abuse that has taken place over many Belarusian towns and cities over the last few days," EU envoy Dirk Schuebel said.

Belarus residents have been protesting against the sixth-term of the President&nbsp;Lukashenko, whom they accuse of rigging the election process to stay in power. However,&nbsp;Lukashenko has denied all allegations, claiming the protestors are colluding with foreign establishments and are criminals and unemployed people.

Belarus government started releasing the detained prisoners to declare peace between the government and the citizens. The prisoners had been detained while protesting against Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko's rule.

Belarus government started releasing the detained prisoners to declare peace between the government and the citizens. The prisoners had been detained while protesting against Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko's rule. The prisoners were released in the early hours of Friday and were greeted with friends and family who welcomed the detainees with tears, hugs, blankets, water and food. The government also took responsibility for the violence that erupted during the protests. "I take responsibility and apologise for injuries of random people at the protests who got it in the neck," said Minister of Internal Affairs Yuri Karayev. × The statement came after thousands of detained protestors complained of mistreatment in the cramped-up holding cells. Out of 6,700 detained protestors, hundreds of them came out with bruises over their bodies and face. Some of the detainees claimed they were beaten up after being dragged out of their cells. However, Deputy Interior Minister Alexander Barsukov declined any form of mistreatment or abuse in the holding cells. President's ally, the head of a national state council Natalya Kochanova, announced that the President had called for a review for the detentions made. "We don`t fight, we don`t need war," she said. Also read: Belarus says police detained about 700 protesters overnight While almost all prisoners were released from the Minsk detention centre, nearly two detainees lost their lives. EU Ambassadors reached the spot of the violence, later, to pay respects to the ones who lost their lives protesting against the government. "We are here to mourn the loss of life and also to show solidarity with the victims of the violence and abuse that has taken place over many Belarusian towns and cities over the last few days," EU envoy Dirk Schuebel said. Belarus residents have been protesting against the sixth-term of the President Lukashenko, whom they accuse of rigging the election process to stay in power. However, Lukashenko has denied all allegations, claiming the protestors are colluding with foreign establishments and are criminals and unemployed people.

Belarus protestors released; government denies violence in holding cells

The world's richest man Jeff Bezos&nbsp;is being compared to the ruler of an autocracy and&nbsp;the ones making the&nbsp;accusation are his employees at Amazon.

Reducing employee benefits while getting rich during the pandemic,&nbsp;Amazon is fiercely cracking down on workers who ask such questions and to make Jeff Bezos listen to the demands protesters are banging on his door in New York.

Over the last two months, Bezos' New York apartment building has turned into a scene of protest with&nbsp;employees&nbsp;banging on the door. It&nbsp;is not an isolated incident&nbsp;since the Wuhan virus outbreak, Amazon workers have been protesting across the world.

According to them, the e-commerce giant has done little to keep its employees safe.&nbsp;The employees complain about lack of personal protective equipment, negligent safety guidelines, callous and unrealistic performance standards and inadequate compensation.

In June, Amazon ended wage increases and double overtime pay. For warehouse workers&nbsp;the hard pay of two dollars per hour has been discontinued. Health benefits have also been cut.&nbsp;

E-commerce is one of the few businesses that are flourishing during the pandemic with&nbsp;no dearth of money.&nbsp;Amazon has posted its biggest profit since its founding nearly 26-years ago helping Jeff Bezos retain the world's richest tag.

The protesters have made an additional demand this time not to Jeff Bezos, but legislators.&nbsp;It's being called the "Tax Bezos" movement.

A month ago, protesters even put a guillotine in front of Bezos' house to send a signal --- the death of all the wealthy men.

Amazon has not taken these protests lightly. At the Staten Island warehouse, employees walked out over safety concerns.

Chris Smalls who led the protest was fired. According to Amazon, Smalls was fired for not maintaining the social distancing norms but protesters say that is not the reason. Amazon is retaliating against vocal employees to stop them from forming unions.

In its defence&nbsp;the company says it acquired 100 million face masks for its workers in the last quarter and&nbsp;created jobs by hiring 175,000 people since the virus outbreak and spent nearly $700 million on employee benefits.

The world's richest man Jeff Bezos is being compared to the ruler of an autocracy and the ones making the accusation are his employees at Amazon. Reducing employee benefits while getting rich during the pandemic, Amazon is fiercely cracking down on workers who ask such questions and to make Jeff Bezos listen to the demands protesters are banging on his door in New York.

The world's richest man Jeff Bezos is being compared to the ruler of an autocracy and the ones making the accusation are his employees at Amazon. Reducing employee benefits while getting rich during the pandemic, Amazon is fiercely cracking down on workers who ask such questions and to make Jeff Bezos listen to the demands protesters are banging on his door in New York. Over the last two months, Bezos' New York apartment building has turned into a scene of protest with employees banging on the door. It is not an isolated incident since the Wuhan virus outbreak, Amazon workers have been protesting across the world. According to them, the e-commerce giant has done little to keep its employees safe. The employees complain about lack of personal protective equipment, negligent safety guidelines, callous and unrealistic performance standards and inadequate compensation. In June, Amazon ended wage increases and double overtime pay. For warehouse workers the hard pay of two dollars per hour has been discontinued. Health benefits have also been cut. E-commerce is one of the few businesses that are flourishing during the pandemic with no dearth of money. Amazon has posted its biggest profit since its founding nearly 26-years ago helping Jeff Bezos retain the world's richest tag. The protesters have made an additional demand this time not to Jeff Bezos, but legislators. It's being called the "Tax Bezos" movement. A month ago, protesters even put a guillotine in front of Bezos' house to send a signal --- the death of all the wealthy men. Amazon has not taken these protests lightly. At the Staten Island warehouse, employees walked out over safety concerns. Chris Smalls who led the protest was fired. According to Amazon, Smalls was fired for not maintaining the social distancing norms but protesters say that is not the reason. Amazon is retaliating against vocal employees to stop them from forming unions. In its defence the company says it acquired 100 million face masks for its workers in the last quarter and created jobs by hiring 175,000 people since the virus outbreak and spent nearly $700 million on employee benefits.

'Tax Bezos': Amazon employees protest against Jeff Bezos over reduced benefits

At least one person died as Belarusian police clashed with protesters on Monday after the opposition accused President Alexander Lukashenko of rigging his re-election victory amid a chorus of criticism from Western leaders.

Helmeted police fired tear gas, rubber bullets and stun grenades and used batons to disperse thousands of people in Minsk in a second night of violence. Protesters set up barricades in several areas and threw Molotov cocktails.

One man died while trying to throw an unidentified explosive device at police that blew up in his hands, the government said. Local media reported clashes breaking out in other towns.

In Pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/water-cannons-tear-gas-stun-grenades-protesters-clash-with-belarus-police-after-election-results-319520" hreflang="en">Water cannons, tear gas, stun grenades: Protesters clash with Belarus police after election results</a>

In power for more than a quarter of a century, Lukashenko claimed a landslide win against Svetlana Tikhanouskaya, a former English teacher who emerged from obscurity to lead the biggest challenge to his rule in years.&nbsp;

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the vote was "not free and fair" and condemned "ongoing violence against protesters and the detention of opposition supporters."

Events are being closely watched by Russia, whose oil exports run through Belarus to the West and which has long regarded the country as a buffer zone against NATO. They are also being monitored by the West, which has tried to lure Minsk from Moscow's orbit.&nbsp;

Germany called for the European Union to discuss sanctions on Belarus that were lifted in 2016 to foster better relations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin used a congratulatory telegram to nudge Lukashenko to accept deeper ties between the two nations, which the Belarusian leader has previously rejected as an assault on his country's independence.

Foreign observers have not judged an election to be free and fair in Belarus since 1995, and the run-up to the vote saw authorities jail Lukashenko's rivals and open criminal investigations of others who voiced opposition.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/us-joins-chorus-with-european-nations-raises-concerns-over-belarus-elections-319580" hreflang="en">US joins chorus with European nations, raises concerns over Belarus elections</a>

Tikhanouskaya's campaign rallies drew some of the biggest crowds since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991.&nbsp;

Her team were unable to reach her by phone after she left the election commission building on Monday. Earlier she told reporters she considered herself the election winner.

"The authorities are not listening to us. The authorities need to think about peaceful ways to hand over power," said Tikhanouskaya, who entered the race after her blogger husband was jailed. "Of course we do not recognise the results."&nbsp;

'NO REVOLUTION'

The opposition said it was ready to hold talks with the authorities. There was no immediate response to that offer from Lukashenko, a former Soviet collective farm manager who has kept Belarus under tight control since 1994.&nbsp;

He faces discontent over his handling of the economy, the COVID-19 pandemic and human rights abuses. But the president signalled he would not step down.

"We won't allow the country to be torn apart," the 65-year-old leader was quoted by the Belta news agency as saying.

Lukashenko repeated allegations that shadowy forces abroad were trying to manipulate protesters he called "sheep" in order to topple him, something he said he would never allow.

"They are trying to orchestrate mayhem," said Lukashenko. "But I have already warned: there will be no revolution."

The European Union's foreign policy chief and its commissioner for enlargement said the election had been marred by "disproportionate and unacceptable state violence against peaceful protesters".&nbsp;

"We condemn the violence and call for the immediate release of all (those) detained during last night," Josep Borrell and Oliver Varhelyi said in a joint statement.&nbsp;

Neighbouring Poland wants a special EU summit on Belarus.

At least one person died as Belarusian police clashed with protesters on Monday after the opposition accused President Alexander Lukashenko of rigging his re-election victory amid a chorus of criticism from Western leaders.

At least one person died as Belarusian police clashed with protesters on Monday after the opposition accused President Alexander Lukashenko of rigging his re-election victory amid a chorus of criticism from Western leaders. Helmeted police fired tear gas, rubber bullets and stun grenades and used batons to disperse thousands of people in Minsk in a second night of violence. Protesters set up barricades in several areas and threw Molotov cocktails. One man died while trying to throw an unidentified explosive device at police that blew up in his hands, the government said. Local media reported clashes breaking out in other towns. In Pics: Water cannons, tear gas, stun grenades: Protesters clash with Belarus police after election results In power for more than a quarter of a century, Lukashenko claimed a landslide win against Svetlana Tikhanouskaya, a former English teacher who emerged from obscurity to lead the biggest challenge to his rule in years. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the vote was "not free and fair" and condemned "ongoing violence against protesters and the detention of opposition supporters." Events are being closely watched by Russia, whose oil exports run through Belarus to the West and which has long regarded the country as a buffer zone against NATO. They are also being monitored by the West, which has tried to lure Minsk from Moscow's orbit. Germany called for the European Union to discuss sanctions on Belarus that were lifted in 2016 to foster better relations. Russian President Vladimir Putin used a congratulatory telegram to nudge Lukashenko to accept deeper ties between the two nations, which the Belarusian leader has previously rejected as an assault on his country's independence. Foreign observers have not judged an election to be free and fair in Belarus since 1995, and the run-up to the vote saw authorities jail Lukashenko's rivals and open criminal investigations of others who voiced opposition. Also read: US joins chorus with European nations, raises concerns over Belarus elections Tikhanouskaya's campaign rallies drew some of the biggest crowds since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. Her team were unable to reach her by phone after she left the election commission building on Monday. Earlier she told reporters she considered herself the election winner. "The authorities are not listening to us. The authorities need to think about peaceful ways to hand over power," said Tikhanouskaya, who entered the race after her blogger husband was jailed. "Of course we do not recognise the results." 'NO REVOLUTION' The opposition said it was ready to hold talks with the authorities. There was no immediate response to that offer from Lukashenko, a former Soviet collective farm manager who has kept Belarus under tight control since 1994. He faces discontent over his handling of the economy, the COVID-19 pandemic and human rights abuses. But the president signalled he would not step down. "We won't allow the country to be torn apart," the 65-year-old leader was quoted by the Belta news agency as saying. Lukashenko repeated allegations that shadowy forces abroad were trying to manipulate protesters he called "sheep" in order to topple him, something he said he would never allow. "They are trying to orchestrate mayhem," said Lukashenko. "But I have already warned: there will be no revolution." The European Union's foreign policy chief and its commissioner for enlargement said the election had been marred by "disproportionate and unacceptable state violence against peaceful protesters". "We condemn the violence and call for the immediate release of all (those) detained during last night," Josep Borrell and Oliver Varhelyi said in a joint statement. Neighbouring Poland wants a special EU summit on Belarus.

Bloody clashes in Belarus as West condemns crackdown after election

Lebanese police fired tear gas to try to disperse rock-throwing protesters blocking a road near parliament in Beirut on Sunday in a second day of anti-government demonstrations triggered by last week's devastating explosion.

Fire broke out at an entrance to Parliament Square as demonstrators tried to break into a cordoned-off area, TV footage showed. Protesters also broke into the housing and transport ministry offices.

Two government ministers resigned amid the political fallout of the blast and months of economic crisis, saying the government had failed to reform.

Tuesday's explosion of more than 2,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate killed 158 people and injured more than 6,000, compounding months of political and economic collapse and prompting furious calls for the government to quit.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-for-lebanon-to-hold-transparent-investigation-into-blast-319274" hreflang="en">Trump calls for Lebanon to hold 'transparent investigation' into blast</a>

Riot police wearing body armour and carrying batons clashed with demonstrators as thousands converged on Parliament Square and nearby Martyrs' Square, a Reuters correspondent said.

"We gave these leaders so many chances to help us and they always failed. We want them all out, especially Hezbollah, because it's a militia and just intimidates people with its weapons," Walid Jamal, an unemployed demonstrator, said, referring to the country's most influential Iran-backed armed grouping that has ministers in the government.

The country's top Christian Maronite cleric, Patriarch Bechara Boutros al-Rai, said the cabinet should resign as it cannot "change the way it governs".

"The resignation of an MP or a minister is not enough ... the whole government should resign as it is unable to help the country recover," he said in his Sunday sermon.

Lebanon's environment minister resigned on Sunday, saying the government had lost a number of opportunities to reform, a statement said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanons-future-at-stake-macron-tells-donor-countries-during-un-backed-conference-319251" hreflang="en">'Lebanon's future at stake': Macron tells donor countries during UN-backed conference</a>

Damianos Kattar's departure follows the resignation of Information Minister Manal Abdel Samad earlier on Sunday&nbsp;in the wake of the explosion.

Anger boiled over into violent scenes in central Beirut on Saturday. Those protests were the biggest since October when thousands of people took to the streets to demand an end to corruption, bad governance and mismanagement.

About 10,000 people gathered at Martyrs' Square, which was transformed into a battle zone in the evening between police and protesters who tried to break down a barrier along a road leading to parliament. Some demonstrators stormed government ministries and the Association of Lebanese Banks.&nbsp;

One policeman was killed and the Red Cross said more than 170 people were injured in clashes.

'CHANGE THE GOVERNMENT'

"The police fired at me. But that won't stop us from demonstrating until we change the government from top to bottom," Younis Flayti, 55, a retired army officer, said on Sunday.

Nearby, mechanic Sabir Jamali sat beside a noose attached to a wooden frame in Martyrs' Square, intended as a symbolic warning to Lebanese leaders to resign or face hanging.

"Every leader who oppresses us should be hanged," he said, adding he will protest again.

Lawyer Maya Habli surveyed the demolished port.

"People should sleep in the streets and demonstrate against the government until it falls," she said.

The prime minister and presidency have said 2,750 tonnes of highly explosive ammonium nitrate, which is used in making fertilisers and bombs, had been stored for six years without safety measures at the port warehouse.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-information-minister-quits-in-wake-of-beirut-explosion-319243" hreflang="en">Lebanon information minister quits in wake of Beirut explosion</a>

The government has said it will hold those responsible to account.

An emergency donor conference in France raised pledges worth nearly 253 million euros ($298 million) for immediate humanitarian relief, the French presidency said.

For many, the blast was a dreadful reminder of the 1975-1990 civil war that tore the nation apart and destroyed swathes of Beirut, much of which has since been rebuilt.

"I worked in Kuwait for 15 years in sanitation to save money and build a gift shop in Lebanon and it was destroyed by the explosion," said Maroun Shehadi.

"Nothing will change until our leaders just leave."

Lebanese police fired tear gas to try to disperse rock-throwing protesters blocking a road near parliament in Beirut on Sunday in a second day of anti-government demonstrations triggered by last week's devastating explosion.

Lebanese police fired tear gas to try to disperse rock-throwing protesters blocking a road near parliament in Beirut on Sunday in a second day of anti-government demonstrations triggered by last week's devastating explosion. Fire broke out at an entrance to Parliament Square as demonstrators tried to break into a cordoned-off area, TV footage showed. Protesters also broke into the housing and transport ministry offices. Two government ministers resigned amid the political fallout of the blast and months of economic crisis, saying the government had failed to reform. Tuesday's explosion of more than 2,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate killed 158 people and injured more than 6,000, compounding months of political and economic collapse and prompting furious calls for the government to quit. Also read: Trump calls for Lebanon to hold 'transparent investigation' into blast Riot police wearing body armour and carrying batons clashed with demonstrators as thousands converged on Parliament Square and nearby Martyrs' Square, a Reuters correspondent said. "We gave these leaders so many chances to help us and they always failed. We want them all out, especially Hezbollah, because it's a militia and just intimidates people with its weapons," Walid Jamal, an unemployed demonstrator, said, referring to the country's most influential Iran-backed armed grouping that has ministers in the government. The country's top Christian Maronite cleric, Patriarch Bechara Boutros al-Rai, said the cabinet should resign as it cannot "change the way it governs". "The resignation of an MP or a minister is not enough ... the whole government should resign as it is unable to help the country recover," he said in his Sunday sermon. Lebanon's environment minister resigned on Sunday, saying the government had lost a number of opportunities to reform, a statement said. Also read: 'Lebanon's future at stake': Macron tells donor countries during UN-backed conference Damianos Kattar's departure follows the resignation of Information Minister Manal Abdel Samad earlier on Sunday in the wake of the explosion. Anger boiled over into violent scenes in central Beirut on Saturday. Those protests were the biggest since October when thousands of people took to the streets to demand an end to corruption, bad governance and mismanagement. About 10,000 people gathered at Martyrs' Square, which was transformed into a battle zone in the evening between police and protesters who tried to break down a barrier along a road leading to parliament. Some demonstrators stormed government ministries and the Association of Lebanese Banks. One policeman was killed and the Red Cross said more than 170 people were injured in clashes. 'CHANGE THE GOVERNMENT' "The police fired at me. But that won't stop us from demonstrating until we change the government from top to bottom," Younis Flayti, 55, a retired army officer, said on Sunday. Nearby, mechanic Sabir Jamali sat beside a noose attached to a wooden frame in Martyrs' Square, intended as a symbolic warning to Lebanese leaders to resign or face hanging. "Every leader who oppresses us should be hanged," he said, adding he will protest again. Lawyer Maya Habli surveyed the demolished port. "People should sleep in the streets and demonstrate against the government until it falls," she said. The prime minister and presidency have said 2,750 tonnes of highly explosive ammonium nitrate, which is used in making fertilisers and bombs, had been stored for six years without safety measures at the port warehouse. Also read: Lebanon information minister quits in wake of Beirut explosion The government has said it will hold those responsible to account. An emergency donor conference in France raised pledges worth nearly 253 million euros ($298 million) for immediate humanitarian relief, the French presidency said. For many, the blast was a dreadful reminder of the 1975-1990 civil war that tore the nation apart and destroyed swathes of Beirut, much of which has since been rebuilt. "I worked in Kuwait for 15 years in sanitation to save money and build a gift shop in Lebanon and it was destroyed by the explosion," said Maroun Shehadi. "Nothing will change until our leaders just leave."

Beirut police fire tear gas as protesters regroup and two ministers quit

Twenty-four hours ago, a pair of explosions shook entire Beirut. Many know the cause of the blast, however, several questions remained unanswered.

Was the blast in Beirut a terrorist attack? Who is to blame? And what does it mean for a volatile West Asia?

At least 100 people have died in this twin explosion so far. More than 4,000 are injured. This is now a humanitarian crisis. Up to 300,000 people have been left homeless.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-five-videos-tell-the-tale-of-beirut-blasts-318451/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The damage could range from 3 to 5 billion dollars.

The cause of the explosion? Ammonium nitrate. There were two blasts in the port area of Beirut. There were 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate stored there.

This chemical is used as a fertiliser in agriculture. It can be used in explosives too.

But, for now, officials in Lebanon haven’t been able to ascertain the exact cause of the blast.

Lebanon’s prime minister has declared the guilty will be punished.

The biggest question right now is this.

Was this accidental? Or was it a terrorist attack?

No one knows for sure. A local media report rules out the terrorism angle. Reportedly, a defence official has said this wasn’t a terrorist act.

What were the circumstances that led to this catastrophe?

There are no clear answers yet. Reports say the first blast may have happened at a fireworks warehouse in the port.

The fire then could have spread to the stockpile of ammonium nitrate. Something, that had been stored in a depot for six years now.

But, this calamity only makes the situation worse for Lebanon.

Before the explosion, Lebanon was suffering as the value of its currency had plunged.

The Lebanese economy is on life support. There was an influx of refugees from neighbouring Syria and the outbreak of Wuhan virus. This pandemic had pushed Lebanon to its knees.

This explosion will seriously cripple Lebanon. The implications are many.

First, the explosion is a big blow for Lebanon’s economy.

It has destroyed its biggest port. Lebanon is an import-dependent country.

Local authorities are now worried. How are they going to bring in food, medical and other badly needed supplies?

While there is an alternative, a port in tripoli could handle the imports. But, there could be serious shortages.

The country imports 90% of its wheat consumption. Nearly half of Lebanon's population lives below the poverty line. 35% of the people are reportedly out of work.

Already, the central bank had to dip into its reserves. Just to subsidize wheat, fuel and medicine.

This is Lebanon’s worst crisis in decades and it couldn’t have come at a worse time.

Last year, Lebanon witnessed massive protests against the political establishment.

These were nationwide protests against corruption, economic mismanagement and sectarian politics. There could be another wave of protests. 
This is a crisis of gigantic proportions.

Earlier today, Beirut's governor broke down in tears during a tv interview at the blast site. Several countries have now come forward with help. The European nations have rushed aid to Lebanon with some nations even offering relief.

Twenty-four hours ago, a pair of explosions shook entire Beirut. Many know the cause of the blast, however, several questions remained unanswered. Was the blast in Beirut a terrorist attack?

Twenty-four hours ago, a pair of explosions shook entire Beirut. Many know the cause of the blast, however, several questions remained unanswered. Was the blast in Beirut a terrorist attack? Who is to blame? And what does it mean for a volatile West Asia? At least 100 people have died in this twin explosion so far. More than 4,000 are injured. This is now a humanitarian crisis. Up to 300,000 people have been left homeless. The damage could range from 3 to 5 billion dollars. The cause of the explosion? Ammonium nitrate. There were two blasts in the port area of Beirut. There were 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate stored there. This chemical is used as a fertiliser in agriculture. It can be used in explosives too. But, for now, officials in Lebanon haven’t been able to ascertain the exact cause of the blast. Lebanon’s prime minister has declared the guilty will be punished. The biggest question right now is this. Was this accidental? Or was it a terrorist attack? No one knows for sure. A local media report rules out the terrorism angle. Reportedly, a defence official has said this wasn’t a terrorist act. What were the circumstances that led to this catastrophe? There are no clear answers yet. Reports say the first blast may have happened at a fireworks warehouse in the port. The fire then could have spread to the stockpile of ammonium nitrate. Something, that had been stored in a depot for six years now. But, this calamity only makes the situation worse for Lebanon. Before the explosion, Lebanon was suffering as the value of its currency had plunged. The Lebanese economy is on life support. There was an influx of refugees from neighbouring Syria and the outbreak of Wuhan virus. This pandemic had pushed Lebanon to its knees. This explosion will seriously cripple Lebanon. The implications are many. First, the explosion is a big blow for Lebanon’s economy. It has destroyed its biggest port. Lebanon is an import-dependent country. Local authorities are now worried. How are they going to bring in food, medical and other badly needed supplies? While there is an alternative, a port in tripoli could handle the imports. But, there could be serious shortages. The country imports 90% of its wheat consumption. Nearly half of Lebanon's population lives below the poverty line. 35% of the people are reportedly out of work. Already, the central bank had to dip into its reserves. Just to subsidize wheat, fuel and medicine. This is Lebanon’s worst crisis in decades and it couldn’t have come at a worse time. Last year, Lebanon witnessed massive protests against the political establishment. These were nationwide protests against corruption, economic mismanagement and sectarian politics. There could be another wave of protests. This is a crisis of gigantic proportions. Earlier today, Beirut's governor broke down in tears during a tv interview at the blast site. Several countries have now come forward with help. The European nations have rushed aid to Lebanon with some nations even offering relief.

First economy, then protests and now explosions: How Lebanon situation turned from bad to worse?

The United States recently witnessed its worst protests in the recent history. Clubbed with the coronavirus pandemic, it put a lot of pressure on people to rethink their safety.

Owing to this, more Americans are buying firearms than ever before. The US’ Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) undertook 3.6 million background checks in just the month of July 2020. This marks the third highest month on record for arms sales since the agency began logging stats in 1998.

Over 2 million checks

In July 2019, the FBI had conducted 2 million background checks.&nbsp;June had broken all records in terms of background checks, with 3.9 million background checks. In March, the number stood at 3.7 million.

The states with the highest number of firearms sales include Illinois, Kentucky, Texas, Florida, and California, where most checks were performed related to selling, transferring, or licensing guns.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-to-sue-nevada-for-mail-in-ballots-317967" hreflang="en">Trump threatens to sue Nevada for mail-in ballots</a>

US law mandates background checks on every buyer, regardless if whether the gun was purchased at a store, or during a gun show.

Upon purchasing a gun, the buyer must present their identification to the seller, and fills out a form made by the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This form includes the buyer’s address, age, race, criminal history.

Following this, the FBI conducts a database check on whether the buyer had any history of crime.

Factors contributing to this surge

The US has been volatile lately, be it due to the COVID-19 pandemic which has killed more people in the US than elsewhere. People were ordered to stay in during the pandemic. Additionally, the anti-racism protests fuelled by the murder of George Floyd in the hands of the police led to a lot of rioting across the country.

Most of the protests remained peaceful, but owing to sporadic rioting, the National Guard was sent in to many places to contain the violence. In the city of Portland, Oregon, people clashed with federal forces on multiple occasions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-sets-september-15-deadline-for-tiktok-sale-317963" hreflang="en">Donald Trump sets September 15 deadline for TikTok sale</a>

The US has a history of witnessing a spike in the number of firearms sales in the aftermath of a tragedy, IN 2012, a 39 per cent spike in sales was noted by the FBI. This came in the aftermath of a deadly shooting at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut.

An additional 48 per cent checks were also performed by the FBI in 2015 after the terrorist attack in San Bernardino, California.

A concern of safety may be driving such high sales of guns. National Rifle Association’s official told CNN that this happens when people worry about their safety, causing a spike in firearm sales.

The United States recently witnessed its worst protests in the recent history. Clubbed with the coronavirus pandemic, it put a lot of pressure on people to rethink their safety.

The United States recently witnessed its worst protests in the recent history. Clubbed with the coronavirus pandemic, it put a lot of pressure on people to rethink their safety. Owing to this, more Americans are buying firearms than ever before. The US’ Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) undertook 3.6 million background checks in just the month of July 2020. This marks the third highest month on record for arms sales since the agency began logging stats in 1998. Over 2 million checks In July 2019, the FBI had conducted 2 million background checks. June had broken all records in terms of background checks, with 3.9 million background checks. In March, the number stood at 3.7 million. The states with the highest number of firearms sales include Illinois, Kentucky, Texas, Florida, and California, where most checks were performed related to selling, transferring, or licensing guns. Also read: Trump threatens to sue Nevada for mail-in ballots US law mandates background checks on every buyer, regardless if whether the gun was purchased at a store, or during a gun show. Upon purchasing a gun, the buyer must present their identification to the seller, and fills out a form made by the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. This form includes the buyer’s address, age, race, criminal history. Following this, the FBI conducts a database check on whether the buyer had any history of crime. Factors contributing to this surge The US has been volatile lately, be it due to the COVID-19 pandemic which has killed more people in the US than elsewhere. People were ordered to stay in during the pandemic. Additionally, the anti-racism protests fuelled by the murder of George Floyd in the hands of the police led to a lot of rioting across the country. Most of the protests remained peaceful, but owing to sporadic rioting, the National Guard was sent in to many places to contain the violence. In the city of Portland, Oregon, people clashed with federal forces on multiple occasions. Also read: Donald Trump sets September 15 deadline for TikTok sale The US has a history of witnessing a spike in the number of firearms sales in the aftermath of a tragedy, IN 2012, a 39 per cent spike in sales was noted by the FBI. This came in the aftermath of a deadly shooting at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut. An additional 48 per cent checks were also performed by the FBI in 2015 after the terrorist attack in San Bernardino, California. A concern of safety may be driving such high sales of guns. National Rifle Association’s official told CNN that this happens when people worry about their safety, causing a spike in firearm sales.

Protests and pandemic cause Americans to buy more firearms, FBI records reveal

The Iraqi government said on Thursday that nearly 560 protesters and security forces were killed in months of anti-government unrest that erupted last year.

Iraq says nearly 560 protesters and security forces killed in anti-government unrest

Demonstrations continue to rage in Israel after thousands more gather to protest against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem on Saturday. These demonstrators gathered outside Israeli PM's residence.

Israel: Another night of violent protests in Jerusalem

Tens of thousands marched in the Russian far east on Saturday, the third such weekend protest in a row, to express their anger over what they say is President Vladimir Putin's mishandling of a local political crisis.

Thousands protest against Putin in Russia's far east

Tens of thousands marched in the Russian far east on Saturday, the third such weekend protest in a row, to express their anger over what they say is President Vladimir Putin's mishandling of a local political crisis.

Residents of Khabarovsk, around 3,800 miles (6,110 km) and seven time zones east of Moscow, are unhappy about the detention this month of the wider region's popular governor, Sergei Furgal, who was arrested on murder charges he denies.

His arrest, which his supporters say was politically motivated, triggered the protests and created a headache for the Kremlin which is trying to troubleshoot a COVID-19-induced drop in real incomes and keep a lid on unrest.

Protesters chanted "Putin resign!" and "Putin is a thief!". Demonstrators say they want Furgal, who they think has been set up, to be flown back from Moscow and put on trial in Khabarovsk.

City authorities estimated around 6,500 people had taken part. One local media outlet put the number at up to 20,000, while other outlets and opposition activists said upwards of 50,000 had attended and that it was the biggest protest of its kind so far.

"Give us our Furgal back," said a local businesswoman called Viktoria. "This is our choice."

The protests have highlighted anger among some over what they see as policies emanating from detached Moscow-based authorities.

Supporters of Furgal, a member of the nationalist LDPR party, feel he is being belatedly punished for defeating a candidate from the ruling pro-Putin United Russia party in 2018. The Kremlin says Furgal has serious charges to answer.

Such sustained demonstrations are unusual for Russia's regions, as is the fact that the authorities have not yet moved to break them up.

In an apparent move to defuse tensions, Putin on Monday named a new acting governor. But protesters said they felt insulted by the choice of Mikhail Degtyaryov, who has no connection with the region, and have demanded he step down.

Tens of thousands marched in the Russian far east on Saturday, the third such weekend protest in a row, to express their anger over what they say is President Vladimir Putin's mishandling of a local political crisis. Residents of Khabarovsk, around 3,800 miles (6,110 km) and seven time zones east of Moscow, are unhappy about the detention this month of the wider region's popular governor, Sergei Furgal, who was arrested on murder charges he denies. His arrest, which his supporters say was politically motivated, triggered the protests and created a headache for the Kremlin which is trying to troubleshoot a COVID-19-induced drop in real incomes and keep a lid on unrest. Protesters chanted "Putin resign!" and "Putin is a thief!". Demonstrators say they want Furgal, who they think has been set up, to be flown back from Moscow and put on trial in Khabarovsk. City authorities estimated around 6,500 people had taken part. One local media outlet put the number at up to 20,000, while other outlets and opposition activists said upwards of 50,000 had attended and that it was the biggest protest of its kind so far. "Give us our Furgal back," said a local businesswoman called Viktoria. "This is our choice." The protests have highlighted anger among some over what they see as policies emanating from detached Moscow-based authorities. Supporters of Furgal, a member of the nationalist LDPR party, feel he is being belatedly punished for defeating a candidate from the ruling pro-Putin United Russia party in 2018. The Kremlin says Furgal has serious charges to answer. Such sustained demonstrations are unusual for Russia's regions, as is the fact that the authorities have not yet moved to break them up. In an apparent move to defuse tensions, Putin on Monday named a new acting governor. But protesters said they felt insulted by the choice of Mikhail Degtyaryov, who has no connection with the region, and have demanded he step down.

Tens of thousands protest against Putin in Russian far east

Thousands of Bulgarians gathered for a fourth day &nbsp;on Sunday in Sofia and other cities to protest against corruption and demand the resignation of the conservative government. 
 
Over 3,000 protesters shouted "Mafia" and "Resign" outside the government headquarters in Sofia and marched to parliament. 
 
The protests in the capital were sparked by an unprecedented raid by heavily armed police and prosecutors on the presidential headquarters on Thursday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/bulgarias-borissov-demands-resignation-of-mafia-type-government-amid-anti-corruption-protests-312608" hreflang="en">Bulgaria's Borissov demands resignation of 'mafia' type government amid anti-corruption protests</a> 
 
President Rumen Radev's legal affairs and anti-corruption secretary and his security and defence advisor were detained for questioning and their offices searched&nbsp;as part of two separate probes into influence-peddling and disclosure of state secrets. 
 
Protesters also gathered in at least ten other towns on Sunday. 
 
The searches on Thursday sparked public anger and brought thousands of demonstrators onto the streets of Sofia to condemn the raids as an attack by the government and the chief prosecutor against the Socialists-backed Radev. 
 
The president is an outspoken critic of the cabinet of Prime Minister Boyko Borisov, accusing it of "links with oligarchs". 
 
Borisov on Saturday refused to resign but opponents launched an online petition aiming to gather as many as one million signatures to demand his ouster. 
 
The Socialist opposition in parliament also said Sunday that they would table a no confidence motion against the cabinet for "corruption" next Wednesday, appealing to protesters to back them. 
 
Friday's rallies turned violent with 18 protesters arrested, including two men who were hospitalised after being beaten, prompting an even bigger turnout on Saturday when Radev joined protesters in their demand for the resignation of the cabinet and the chief prosecutor. 
 
Police had appealed for restraint ahead of Sunday's demonstration and the interior ministry announced late Sunday that the rally had ended without incident. 
 
Thirteen years after joining the EU as its poorest country, Bulgaria has also remained the bloc's most graft-prone member state, according to Transparency International's corruption perception index. 
 
A new rally is scheduled for Monday afternoon and another nationwide protest for Thursday.

Thousands of Bulgarians gathered for a fourth day on Sunday in Sofia and other cities to protest against corruption and demand the resignation of the conservative government.

Thousands of Bulgarians gathered for a fourth day on Sunday in Sofia and other cities to protest against corruption and demand the resignation of the conservative government. Over 3,000 protesters shouted "Mafia" and "Resign" outside the government headquarters in Sofia and marched to parliament. The protests in the capital were sparked by an unprecedented raid by heavily armed police and prosecutors on the presidential headquarters on Thursday. Also read: Bulgaria's Borissov demands resignation of 'mafia' type government amid anti-corruption protests President Rumen Radev's legal affairs and anti-corruption secretary and his security and defence advisor were detained for questioning and their offices searched as part of two separate probes into influence-peddling and disclosure of state secrets. Protesters also gathered in at least ten other towns on Sunday. The searches on Thursday sparked public anger and brought thousands of demonstrators onto the streets of Sofia to condemn the raids as an attack by the government and the chief prosecutor against the Socialists-backed Radev. The president is an outspoken critic of the cabinet of Prime Minister Boyko Borisov, accusing it of "links with oligarchs". Borisov on Saturday refused to resign but opponents launched an online petition aiming to gather as many as one million signatures to demand his ouster. The Socialist opposition in parliament also said Sunday that they would table a no confidence motion against the cabinet for "corruption" next Wednesday, appealing to protesters to back them. Friday's rallies turned violent with 18 protesters arrested, including two men who were hospitalised after being beaten, prompting an even bigger turnout on Saturday when Radev joined protesters in their demand for the resignation of the cabinet and the chief prosecutor. Police had appealed for restraint ahead of Sunday's demonstration and the interior ministry announced late Sunday that the rally had ended without incident. Thirteen years after joining the EU as its poorest country, Bulgaria has also remained the bloc's most graft-prone member state, according to Transparency International's corruption perception index. A new rally is scheduled for Monday afternoon and another nationwide protest for Thursday.

Fourth night of anti-government protests in Bulgaria

Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets in the Argentine capital of Buenos Aires on Thursday (July 9) to protest against the national government and the quarantine measures imposed in the city, during Argentina's independence day amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Argentines protest against strict lockdown measures

A political storm is brewing in Nepal, where calls for Prime Minister KP Sharma OIi’s exit are getting louder everyday.&nbsp;A wave which was seen as a party conflict has spread to the streets in Nepal. Since early June, large groups of people have been taking to the streets across Nepal, mostly young protesters.

Unafraid of the pandemic, people of Nepal, especially the youth are angry with Nepal's response to the pandemic, and are demanding a better strategy to counter the virus.&nbsp; Nepal currently has over 15,000 cases of COVID-19, with the number climbing everyday.&nbsp;The protesters feel that the Oli government is not doing enough, and are demanding better testing and quarantine strategies, while calling for the protection of healthcare workers. Additionally, they want an end to corruption.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/south-asia/nepals-ruling-communist-party-meet-to-decide-pm-olis-future-postponed-to-wednesday-310991" hreflang="en">Nepal's ruling communist party meet to decide PM Oli's future postponed to Wednesday</a>

The protesters have been using social media to mobilise and to build pressure on the Oli government. Nepal's healthcare system has come under intense scrutiny recently. Allegations of corruption and misallocation of funds have been levied against members of the government.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-senior-advisers-in-nepal-pms-govt-receive-kickbacks-from-covid-contracts-311232/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Taking kickbacks?

In April, several senior members of the Oli government were accused of taking kickbacks in connection with the purchase of Chinese personal protection equipment.

China was under fire for providing faulty equipment across the globe. Reports say that Nepal bought testing kits from China. The delivery of these kits was delayed, and they simply didn’t work. Two separate investigations are underway into Nepal's COVID-19 dealings with China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/south-asia/nepal-ruling-nepal-communist-party-impasse-continues-310835" hreflang="en">Nepal: Ruling Nepal Communist Party impasse continues</a>

Even though Oli tried to distance himself from the corruption cases, members of his own party have started a campaign against him.

On Monday, the top committee of Nepal's ruling Communist Party was supposed to meet, but was postponed. The standing committee is set to reconvene on Wednesday.

Former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal - known as Prachand - is pushing for Oli's resignation. Reports indicate that the numbers are on his side. But Oli recently met Dahal informally.

China - not too far behind! 

China's ambassador to Nepal Hou Yanqi met has been meeting with senior leaders of the Nepal Communist Party. On Sunday, she met former Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, who also wants Oli to resign.

Six days ago, Nepal alongside three other senior leaders had took on Oli during a party meeting, asking for his resignation.

A political storm is brewing in Nepal, where calls for Prime Minister KP Sharma OIi’s exit are getting louder everyday. A wave which was seen as a party conflict has spread to the streets in Nepal.

A political storm is brewing in Nepal, where calls for Prime Minister KP Sharma OIi’s exit are getting louder everyday. A wave which was seen as a party conflict has spread to the streets in Nepal. Since early June, large groups of people have been taking to the streets across Nepal, mostly young protesters. Unafraid of the pandemic, people of Nepal, especially the youth are angry with Nepal's response to the pandemic, and are demanding a better strategy to counter the virus. Nepal currently has over 15,000 cases of COVID-19, with the number climbing everyday. The protesters feel that the Oli government is not doing enough, and are demanding better testing and quarantine strategies, while calling for the protection of healthcare workers. Additionally, they want an end to corruption. Also read: Nepal's ruling communist party meet to decide PM Oli's future postponed to Wednesday The protesters have been using social media to mobilise and to build pressure on the Oli government. Nepal's healthcare system has come under intense scrutiny recently. Allegations of corruption and misallocation of funds have been levied against members of the government. Taking kickbacks? In April, several senior members of the Oli government were accused of taking kickbacks in connection with the purchase of Chinese personal protection equipment. China was under fire for providing faulty equipment across the globe. Reports say that Nepal bought testing kits from China. The delivery of these kits was delayed, and they simply didn’t work. Two separate investigations are underway into Nepal's COVID-19 dealings with China. Also read: Nepal: Ruling Nepal Communist Party impasse continues Even though Oli tried to distance himself from the corruption cases, members of his own party have started a campaign against him. On Monday, the top committee of Nepal's ruling Communist Party was supposed to meet, but was postponed. The standing committee is set to reconvene on Wednesday. Former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal - known as Prachand - is pushing for Oli's resignation. Reports indicate that the numbers are on his side. But Oli recently met Dahal informally. China - not too far behind! China's ambassador to Nepal Hou Yanqi met has been meeting with senior leaders of the Nepal Communist Party. On Sunday, she met former Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, who also wants Oli to resign. Six days ago, Nepal alongside three other senior leaders had took on Oli during a party meeting, asking for his resignation.

Nepal's anti-Oli sentiment deepens as youth mobilise protests

Kenyan police on Tuesday fired teargas and arrested activists gathering for a march against perceived government injustice that has been given extra impetus this year by allegations by rights groups of police brutality during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Activists said protesters from several areas had planned to march from their homes to the centre of the capital Nairobi, but many were dispersed or arrested before reaching there. Samuel Kiriro said six of his colleagues from rights group the Ghetto Foundation in the Mathare slum had been arrested.

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For those who made it into the city centre, police fired more teargas and made further arrests, a Reuters witness said.

Activists rally each year on July 7, marking the date in 1990 when opponents of late president Daniel Arap Moi launched a bid to open up multiparty politics. The protest is called "Saba Saba" - "seven seven" in Swahili - because of the date.

This year, protesters have been galvanised by mounting accusations of police brutality during the coronavirus lockdown.

"The police have been killing a lot of people ... During this pandemic, it has gotten worse," said Michael Njau, an activist at Kiamaiko Justice Centre.

Police were not immediately available to respond to multiple requests for comment.

Rights group Amnesty International said Kenyan police had killed at least 100 people in 2020, with 21 related to COVID infractions, such as curfew or mask violations. In March, in the first 10 days of the curfew, at least six people were killed, Human Rights Watch has said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/kenya-court-rejects-chinas-multi-billion-dollar-bri-rail-project-308428" hreflang="en">Kenya court rejects China's multi-billion dollar BRI rail project</a>

Over the weekend, protesters in western Kenya set fire to a police station after an officer allegedly killed a hawker for selling fake hand sanitisers. The officer was taken into police custody, a police report seen by Reuters said.

Kenya police spokesman Charles Owino told Kenyan TV station NTV in June, responding to allegations of brutality, it was fair to highlight the issues "but it is also important for us to try and get results of investigations for each and every matter" to avoid setting the public against the police.

In April, President Uhuru Kenyatta said there had been "some challenges" in the initial stages, adding: "I want to apologise to all Kenyans maybe for some excesses that were conducted."

Kenyan police on Tuesday fired teargas and arrested activists gathering for a march against perceived government injustice that has been given extra impetus this year by allegations by rights groups of police brutality during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Kenyan police on Tuesday fired teargas and arrested activists gathering for a march against perceived government injustice that has been given extra impetus this year by allegations by rights groups of police brutality during the COVID-19 lockdown. Activists said protesters from several areas had planned to march from their homes to the centre of the capital Nairobi, but many were dispersed or arrested before reaching there. Samuel Kiriro said six of his colleagues from rights group the Ghetto Foundation in the Mathare slum had been arrested. Also read: Swarms of locusts devastate parts of northern Kenya For those who made it into the city centre, police fired more teargas and made further arrests, a Reuters witness said. Activists rally each year on July 7, marking the date in 1990 when opponents of late president Daniel Arap Moi launched a bid to open up multiparty politics. The protest is called "Saba Saba" - "seven seven" in Swahili - because of the date. This year, protesters have been galvanised by mounting accusations of police brutality during the coronavirus lockdown. "The police have been killing a lot of people ... During this pandemic, it has gotten worse," said Michael Njau, an activist at Kiamaiko Justice Centre. Police were not immediately available to respond to multiple requests for comment. Rights group Amnesty International said Kenyan police had killed at least 100 people in 2020, with 21 related to COVID infractions, such as curfew or mask violations. In March, in the first 10 days of the curfew, at least six people were killed, Human Rights Watch has said. Also read: Kenya court rejects China's multi-billion dollar BRI rail project Over the weekend, protesters in western Kenya set fire to a police station after an officer allegedly killed a hawker for selling fake hand sanitisers. The officer was taken into police custody, a police report seen by Reuters said. Kenya police spokesman Charles Owino told Kenyan TV station NTV in June, responding to allegations of brutality, it was fair to highlight the issues "but it is also important for us to try and get results of investigations for each and every matter" to avoid setting the public against the police. In April, President Uhuru Kenyatta said there had been "some challenges" in the initial stages, adding: "I want to apologise to all Kenyans maybe for some excesses that were conducted."

Kenyan police fire teargas, arrest marchers protesting at brutality

Trump, virus and protests: Here is how Fourth of July celebrations unfolded!

Two protesters were injured, one critically, in Seattle early on Saturday, when the women were hit by a speeding car that drove past other stopped vehicles into a crowd demonstrating on an interstate highway, police said.

The driver of the car, a 27-year-old Seattle man, was arrested at the scene of the incident, which occurred at about 1:30 a.m. PDT (0830 GMT), and faces multiple felony charges, Washington State Patrol Trooper Chase Van Cleave said by phone.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-f-16-fighter-jet-crashes-in-south-carolina-310067">Also watch:&nbsp;US F-16 fighter jet crashes in South Carolina</a>

"He was placed in custody when troopers arrived on scene," Van Cleave said by phone. "The investigation is still ongoing. At this time we`re not suspecting drugs or alcohol as a factor in the crash."

Police did not identify the suspect or the victims, both women, one of whom is in her 30s and hospitalized in serious condition. The other woman, who is in her 20s, sustained life-threatening injuries and was listed in critical condition, Van Cleave said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-explosions-rock-somalian-cities-4-dead-several-injured-310717">Also read:&nbsp;Two explosions rock Somalian cities; 4 dead, several injured</a>

Investigators do not know whether the driver intended to hit the demonstrators, he said. Seattle has been the scene of numerous demonstrations, some of them on interstate highways, since the May 25 killing of George Floyd on a Minneapolis street while he was in police custody, which was captured on video.

A video of the Seattle incident shared on social media shows a lone white car speeding up Interstate-5, swerving to avoid a van that was parked to block the roadway and heading toward a small group of panicked protesters who tried to scurry away.

The car can be seen striking two individuals near the side of the roadway, both of whom were flipped over the car`s roof before landing on the pavement.

Two protesters were injured, one critically, in Seattle early on Saturday, when the women were hit by a speeding car that drove past other stopped vehicles into a crowd demonstrating on an interstate highway, police said.

Two protesters were injured, one critically, in Seattle early on Saturday, when the women were hit by a speeding car that drove past other stopped vehicles into a crowd demonstrating on an interstate highway, police said. The driver of the car, a 27-year-old Seattle man, was arrested at the scene of the incident, which occurred at about 1:30 a.m. PDT (0830 GMT), and faces multiple felony charges, Washington State Patrol Trooper Chase Van Cleave said by phone. Also watch: US F-16 fighter jet crashes in South Carolina "He was placed in custody when troopers arrived on scene," Van Cleave said by phone. "The investigation is still ongoing. At this time we`re not suspecting drugs or alcohol as a factor in the crash." Police did not identify the suspect or the victims, both women, one of whom is in her 30s and hospitalized in serious condition. The other woman, who is in her 20s, sustained life-threatening injuries and was listed in critical condition, Van Cleave said. Also read: Two explosions rock Somalian cities; 4 dead, several injured Investigators do not know whether the driver intended to hit the demonstrators, he said. Seattle has been the scene of numerous demonstrations, some of them on interstate highways, since the May 25 killing of George Floyd on a Minneapolis street while he was in police custody, which was captured on video. A video of the Seattle incident shared on social media shows a lone white car speeding up Interstate-5, swerving to avoid a van that was parked to block the roadway and heading toward a small group of panicked protesters who tried to scurry away. The car can be seen striking two individuals near the side of the roadway, both of whom were flipped over the car`s roof before landing on the pavement.

Two Seattle protesters hit by car on highway, one critically injured

The police officer charged with the murder of Rayshard Brooks, who was killed on June 12, has been released from jail, a local television network WSBTV reported.

Garrett Rolfe, the officer in question, has been released on the condition of wearing an ankle monitor and obeying a curfew. The 27-year-old’s bond has been set at $500,000. He was charged with murder.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/ex-atlanta-policeman-charged-with-felony-murder-of-rayshard-brooks-306662" hreflang="en">Ex-Atlanta policeman charged with felony murder of Rayshard Brooks</a>

Brooks, a black man was killed amid protests over the murder of George Floyd at the hands of the police. Protests escalated after news broke that Brooks was shot in the back twice by Atlanta police on June 12, outside of a fast-food restaurant.

Over the last month, protests across the United States soared again racist behaviour by police, with many analysts backing the view that black folks are more susceptible to police brutality in the country, and have a higher rate of dying in an altercation with the police.

<h6><img alt="A Wendy’s burns following a rally against racial inequality and the police shooting death of Rayshard Brooks, in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fda07367-db75-47e9-959d-fc89c295f261" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-6_5.jpg" /> 
A Wendy’s burns following a rally against racial inequality and the police shooting death of&nbsp;Rayshard&nbsp;Brooks, in Atlanta, Georgia, US | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

A second officer involved in the murder, Devin Brosnan, 26, was put on administrative duty and charged with aggravated assault. Following the uproar, the city's police chief had resigned.

Protesters had torched the Wendy’s restaurant where Brooks was killed. The employees of the restaurant had called the police saying that a man had fallen asleep in the parking lot.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/gravitas-anti-racism-movement-another-black-man-killed-in-us-306137/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Brooks was killed amid a national wave of protests in the US sparked by the murder of George Floyd, a black man who died after a white police officer, Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck for nine minutes. He was charged with second-degree murder and other three Minneapolis officers were charged with aiding and abetting.

Brooks was sleeping in his car when the police officer encountered him in the restaurant’s drive-through lane. Rolfe and Brosnan proceeded to administer a sobriety test, which led the situation to escalate.

In a video, Brooks was seen grabbing one of the officer’s Taser stun guns, and pointing it towards Rolfe before he was shot. However, investigators found that Rolfe had full knowledge of the fact that Taser had already been used twice, rendering it useless.

(With inputs from Reuters)

The police officer charged with the murder of Rayshard Brooks, who was killed on June 12, has been released from jail, a local television network WSBTV reported.

The police officer charged with the murder of Rayshard Brooks, who was killed on June 12, has been released from jail, a local television network WSBTV reported. Garrett Rolfe, the officer in question, has been released on the condition of wearing an ankle monitor and obeying a curfew. The 27-year-old’s bond has been set at $500,000. He was charged with murder. Also read: Ex-Atlanta policeman charged with felony murder of Rayshard Brooks Brooks, a black man was killed amid protests over the murder of George Floyd at the hands of the police. Protests escalated after news broke that Brooks was shot in the back twice by Atlanta police on June 12, outside of a fast-food restaurant. Over the last month, protests across the United States soared again racist behaviour by police, with many analysts backing the view that black folks are more susceptible to police brutality in the country, and have a higher rate of dying in an altercation with the police. A Wendy’s burns following a rally against racial inequality and the police shooting death of Rayshard Brooks, in Atlanta, Georgia, US | Reuters A second officer involved in the murder, Devin Brosnan, 26, was put on administrative duty and charged with aggravated assault. Following the uproar, the city's police chief had resigned. Protesters had torched the Wendy’s restaurant where Brooks was killed. The employees of the restaurant had called the police saying that a man had fallen asleep in the parking lot. Brooks was killed amid a national wave of protests in the US sparked by the murder of George Floyd, a black man who died after a white police officer, Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck for nine minutes. He was charged with second-degree murder and other three Minneapolis officers were charged with aiding and abetting. Brooks was sleeping in his car when the police officer encountered him in the restaurant’s drive-through lane. Rolfe and Brosnan proceeded to administer a sobriety test, which led the situation to escalate. In a video, Brooks was seen grabbing one of the officer’s Taser stun guns, and pointing it towards Rolfe before he was shot. However, investigators found that Rolfe had full knowledge of the fact that Taser had already been used twice, rendering it useless. (With inputs from Reuters)

Former officer charged with murdering Rayshard Brooks released from jail

The US Department of Homeland Security announce a special new task force Wednesday to protect historic monuments across the country, some of which have come under attack for glorifying the country's racist past. 
 
Acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf said in a statement that he was positioning "rapid deployment teams" around the country to protect monuments and statues during the July 4th Independence Day holiday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/four-men-charged-for-trying-to-pull-down-statue-outside-white-house-309230" hreflang="en">Four men charged for trying to pull down statue outside White House</a> 
 
Many monuments have come under attack, and some pulled down, in the past month as protestors against police abuse of African Americans target figures of the pro-slavery south in the 1860s Civil War and other symbols of the country's legacy of slavery. 
 
But the monument protests have extended to revered early presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, both slave owners. 
 
In some cases, local governments under popular pressure have decided to remove the monuments themselves. 
 
President Donald Trump expressed outrage when on June 22 demonstrators attempted to pull down a statue directly in front of the White House of president Andrew Jackson, another slave owner who presided over the mass expulsion of Native Americans from their homelands in the 1830s.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/trump-issues-wanted-poster-for-people-who-vandalized-statues-308903" hreflang="en">Trump issues 'wanted' poster for people who vandalized statues</a> 
 
Trump demanded US law enforcement arrest and prosecute anyone who damages a monument and imprison them for the maximum 10 years. 
 
"DHS is answering the president's call to use our law enforcement personnel across the country to protect our historic landmarks," Wolf said in the statement.&nbsp; 
 
"We won't stand idly by while violent anarchists and rioters seek not only to vandalize and destroy the symbols of our nation, but to disrupt law and order and sow chaos in our communities." 
 
The new "Protecting American Communities Task Force" will coordinate law enforcement and provide intelligence to protect monuments, he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/trump-signs-executive-order-to-protect-statues-makes-it-twitter-official-308907" hreflang="en">Trump signs executive order to protect statues; makes it Twitter-official</a> 
 
Trump tweeted early Wednesday that his recent executive order to protect monuments and statues is now in effect, reminding that damaging federal property could bring more than 10 years in prison. 
 
"Please do not put yourself in jeopardy. Many people now under arrest!" he wrote.

The US Department of Homeland Security announce a special new task force Wednesday to protect historic monuments across the country, some of which have come under attack for glorifying the country's racist past.

The US Department of Homeland Security announce a special new task force Wednesday to protect historic monuments across the country, some of which have come under attack for glorifying the country's racist past. Acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf said in a statement that he was positioning "rapid deployment teams" around the country to protect monuments and statues during the July 4th Independence Day holiday. Also read: Four men charged for trying to pull down statue outside White House Many monuments have come under attack, and some pulled down, in the past month as protestors against police abuse of African Americans target figures of the pro-slavery south in the 1860s Civil War and other symbols of the country's legacy of slavery. But the monument protests have extended to revered early presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, both slave owners. In some cases, local governments under popular pressure have decided to remove the monuments themselves. President Donald Trump expressed outrage when on June 22 demonstrators attempted to pull down a statue directly in front of the White House of president Andrew Jackson, another slave owner who presided over the mass expulsion of Native Americans from their homelands in the 1830s. Also read: Trump issues 'wanted' poster for people who vandalized statues Trump demanded US law enforcement arrest and prosecute anyone who damages a monument and imprison them for the maximum 10 years. "DHS is answering the president's call to use our law enforcement personnel across the country to protect our historic landmarks," Wolf said in the statement. "We won't stand idly by while violent anarchists and rioters seek not only to vandalize and destroy the symbols of our nation, but to disrupt law and order and sow chaos in our communities." The new "Protecting American Communities Task Force" will coordinate law enforcement and provide intelligence to protect monuments, he said. Also read: Trump signs executive order to protect statues; makes it Twitter-official Trump tweeted early Wednesday that his recent executive order to protect monuments and statues is now in effect, reminding that damaging federal property could bring more than 10 years in prison. "Please do not put yourself in jeopardy. Many people now under arrest!" he wrote.

US creates force to protect monuments amid anti-racism protests

At least 50 people were killed in Ethiopia's Oromiya region in protests following the fatal shooting of a popular singer, a regional spokesman said on Wednesday, laying bare splits in the prime minister's political heartland ahead of next year's polls.&nbsp;

Musician Haacaaluu Hundeessaa was shot dead on Monday night in what police said was a targeted killing.&nbsp;

Protests reflecting anger at the killing of a popular figure and a sense of political marginalisation broke out the next morning in the capital and other towns and cities in the surrounding Oromiya region.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/egypt-sudan-ethiopia-wont-fill-disputed-dam-before-accord-308912" hreflang="en">Egypt, Sudan: Ethiopia won't fill disputed dam before accord</a>

The dead included protesters and members of the security forces, spokesman Getachew Balcha said. Some businesses had also been set on fire.

"We were not prepared for this," he said.

Police said late on Tuesday that a policeman was also killed in Addis Ababa, and three explosions there had killed and injured an unspecified number of people.&nbsp;

Prominent Oromo opposition leader Bekele Gerba and media mogul Jawar Mohammed were also arrested when Jawar's bodyguards refused to disarm during a stand-off with police.&nbsp;

Haacaaluu, whose funeral will be held Thursday, provided a soundtrack to a generation of young protesters. Their three years of bloody street demonstrations forced the unprecedented resignation of the previous prime minister and the appointment of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in 2018.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/egypt-is-committed-to-a-diplomatic-solution-to-ethiopias-dam-crisis-sisi-307352" hreflang="en">Egypt is committed to a diplomatic solution to Ethiopia's dam crisis: Sisi</a>

Abiy, Haacaaluu and Jawar are all Oromo, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, which has long complained of being excluded from power.&nbsp;

Jawar was a prominent supporter of Abiy's appointment, but became more openly critical last year. Jawar's popular Oromo Media Network gives him the ability to mobilise support quickly across Oromiya and his power base could pose a significant challenge to Abiy's party in next year's elections.&nbsp;

Ethiopia's federal structure means power was traditionally derived by claiming the support of large ethnic voting blocs. Under the previous administration, voting was rarely free or fair and opposition activists were often jailed, torture or driven into exile.

Abiy has allowed much greater political freedoms and promised the next polls will be free and fair. But his new ruling party, based on a pan-Ethiopian vision, faces stiff competition from newly emboldened regional powerbrokers like Jawar determined to stake claims for their people after decades of repression.&nbsp;

At least 50 people were killed in Ethiopia's Oromiya region in protests following the fatal shooting of a popular singer, a regional spokesman said on Wednesday, laying bare splits in the prime minister's political heartland ahead of next year's polls.

At least 50 people were killed in Ethiopia's Oromiya region in protests following the fatal shooting of a popular singer, a regional spokesman said on Wednesday, laying bare splits in the prime minister's political heartland ahead of next year's polls. Musician Haacaaluu Hundeessaa was shot dead on Monday night in what police said was a targeted killing. Protests reflecting anger at the killing of a popular figure and a sense of political marginalisation broke out the next morning in the capital and other towns and cities in the surrounding Oromiya region. Also read: Egypt, Sudan: Ethiopia won't fill disputed dam before accord The dead included protesters and members of the security forces, spokesman Getachew Balcha said. Some businesses had also been set on fire. "We were not prepared for this," he said. Police said late on Tuesday that a policeman was also killed in Addis Ababa, and three explosions there had killed and injured an unspecified number of people. Prominent Oromo opposition leader Bekele Gerba and media mogul Jawar Mohammed were also arrested when Jawar's bodyguards refused to disarm during a stand-off with police. Haacaaluu, whose funeral will be held Thursday, provided a soundtrack to a generation of young protesters. Their three years of bloody street demonstrations forced the unprecedented resignation of the previous prime minister and the appointment of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in 2018. Also read: Egypt is committed to a diplomatic solution to Ethiopia's dam crisis: Sisi Abiy, Haacaaluu and Jawar are all Oromo, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, which has long complained of being excluded from power. Jawar was a prominent supporter of Abiy's appointment, but became more openly critical last year. Jawar's popular Oromo Media Network gives him the ability to mobilise support quickly across Oromiya and his power base could pose a significant challenge to Abiy's party in next year's elections. Ethiopia's federal structure means power was traditionally derived by claiming the support of large ethnic voting blocs. Under the previous administration, voting was rarely free or fair and opposition activists were often jailed, torture or driven into exile. Abiy has allowed much greater political freedoms and promised the next polls will be free and fair. But his new ruling party, based on a pan-Ethiopian vision, faces stiff competition from newly emboldened regional powerbrokers like Jawar determined to stake claims for their people after decades of repression.

At least 52 killed in Ethiopia protests over singer's death

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