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Hong Kong Protests continue; Demonstrators sing protest song

Hong Kong Protest: Women who was injured in protests attends court hearing

Hong Kong is bracing for more anti-government demonstrations and a "stress test" of its international airport this weekend, as protests in the Asian financial hub show no signs of abating and diplomatic tensions between China and some Western nations rise.

The Canadian Consulate in Hong Kong said on Friday it has suspended travel to mainland China for local staff, just days after an employee of the city's British Consulate was confirmed to have been detained in China.

China's foreign ministry confirmed on Wednesday that<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/family-of-detained-uk-consulate-worker-simon-cheng-rejects-made-up-report-244939"> Simon Cheng</a>, an employee of the British mission, had been detained in the border city of Shenzhen neighbouring Hong Kong.

Beijing has accused Britain and other Western countries of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadas-trudeau-says-wont-back-down-in-dispute-with-china-urges-restraint-in-hong-kong-244764"> meddling in its affairs </a>in Hong Kong.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/relations-with-canada-facing-serious-difficulties-responsibility-lies-entirely-on-the-canadian-side-china-244785">Canada</a>'s latest travel advisory on Thursday warned that increased screening of travellers' digital devices had been reported at border crossings between mainland China and Hong Kong.

Multiple protests are planned for Hong Kong on Friday, including a march by accountants to government headquarters and a "Baltic Chain" event where protesters will join hands across different districts in the Chinese territory.

In 1989, an estimated two million people joined arms across three Baltic states in a protest against Soviet rule that became known as the Baltic Way or Baltic Chain.

"The Baltic Way brought the world’s attention to their cause and inspired following generations," the rally organisers said in a statement. "We plead that you will not look away at this crucial time. Stand with Hong Kong."

The protests, originally over a now-suspended extradition bill to mainland China, have plunged Hong Kong into its deepest crisis since its British handover to Beijing in 1997 and pose a major challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Alphabet Inc's Google announced on Thursday its YouTube streaming video service had disabled 210 channels appearing to engage in a coordinated influence operation around the Hong Kong protests. Twitter and Facebook have also dismantled a similar campaign originating in mainland China.

Protests target airport

The unrest has widened into calls for greater freedom, fuelled by worries about the erosion of rights guaranteed under the "one country, two systems" formula, adopted after the 1997 handover, such as an independent judiciary and the right to protest.

Activists plan to disrupt transport to Hong Kong's international airport at the weekend.

"Go to the airport by different means, including MTR, Airport Bus, Taxi, Bike and Private Car to increase pressure on airport transport," protest organisers wrote online.

Hong Kong's airport, one of the world's busiest, was forced to close temporarily last week and hundreds of flights were cancelled or rescheduled when protesters and police clashed.

The Airport Authority published a half-page advertisement in major newspapers on Friday urging young people to "love Hong Kong" and said it opposed acts that "blocked and interfered with the operation of the airport". It said it would continue to work to maintain smooth operations.

Hong Kong's High Court on Friday extended an order restricting protesters at the city's international airport.

The order requires public demonstrations have the permission of authorities and is aimed at banning "those who want to deliberately obstruct or interfere with the normal use of the airport", said the court.

Nearly three months of anti-government rallies have plunged the city into crisis, drawing in corporate casualties such as Cathay Pacific amid mounting Chinese scrutiny over the involvement of some of the carrier's staff in protests.

Cathay confirmed on Friday that Rebecca Sy, the head of Cathay Dragon's Airlines Flight Attendants' Association, was no longer with the company. Her departure follows the shock resignation of Cathay CEO Rupert Hogg last week.

The Hong Kong Confederation of Trade Unions said it will hold a news conference later on Friday to provide details of Sy's departure.

The protests are already taking a toll on the city's economy and tourism, with the special administrative region on the cusp of its first recession in a decade.

Corporations, including big banks and property developers, have called for a restoration of law and order, while exhibitors are seeing widespread cancellations of events.

In the most recent case, international jewellers have sought the rescheduling of a huge trade fair with up to 40% of exhibitors threatening to pull out.

Demonstrators have five demands: withdraw the extradition bill, establish an independent inquiry into the protests and perceived police brutality, stop describing the protests as "rioting", waive charges against those arrested, and resume political reform.

Hong Kong is bracing for more anti-government demonstrations and a "stress test" of its international airport this weekend, as protests in the Asian financial hub show no signs of abating and diplomatic tensions between China and some Western nations rise.

Hong Kong is bracing for more anti-government demonstrations and a "stress test" of its international airport this weekend, as protests in the Asian financial hub show no signs of abating and diplomatic tensions between China and some Western nations rise. The Canadian Consulate in Hong Kong said on Friday it has suspended travel to mainland China for local staff, just days after an employee of the city's British Consulate was confirmed to have been detained in China. China's foreign ministry confirmed on Wednesday that Simon Cheng, an employee of the British mission, had been detained in the border city of Shenzhen neighbouring Hong Kong. Beijing has accused Britain and other Western countries of meddling in its affairs in Hong Kong. Canada's latest travel advisory on Thursday warned that increased screening of travellers' digital devices had been reported at border crossings between mainland China and Hong Kong. Multiple protests are planned for Hong Kong on Friday, including a march by accountants to government headquarters and a "Baltic Chain" event where protesters will join hands across different districts in the Chinese territory. In 1989, an estimated two million people joined arms across three Baltic states in a protest against Soviet rule that became known as the Baltic Way or Baltic Chain. "The Baltic Way brought the world’s attention to their cause and inspired following generations," the rally organisers said in a statement. "We plead that you will not look away at this crucial time. Stand with Hong Kong." The protests, originally over a now-suspended extradition bill to mainland China, have plunged Hong Kong into its deepest crisis since its British handover to Beijing in 1997 and pose a major challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping. Alphabet Inc's Google announced on Thursday its YouTube streaming video service had disabled 210 channels appearing to engage in a coordinated influence operation around the Hong Kong protests. Twitter and Facebook have also dismantled a similar campaign originating in mainland China. Protests target airport The unrest has widened into calls for greater freedom, fuelled by worries about the erosion of rights guaranteed under the "one country, two systems" formula, adopted after the 1997 handover, such as an independent judiciary and the right to protest. Activists plan to disrupt transport to Hong Kong's international airport at the weekend. "Go to the airport by different means, including MTR, Airport Bus, Taxi, Bike and Private Car to increase pressure on airport transport," protest organisers wrote online. Hong Kong's airport, one of the world's busiest, was forced to close temporarily last week and hundreds of flights were cancelled or rescheduled when protesters and police clashed. The Airport Authority published a half-page advertisement in major newspapers on Friday urging young people to "love Hong Kong" and said it opposed acts that "blocked and interfered with the operation of the airport". It said it would continue to work to maintain smooth operations. Hong Kong's High Court on Friday extended an order restricting protesters at the city's international airport. The order requires public demonstrations have the permission of authorities and is aimed at banning "those who want to deliberately obstruct or interfere with the normal use of the airport", said the court. Nearly three months of anti-government rallies have plunged the city into crisis, drawing in corporate casualties such as Cathay Pacific amid mounting Chinese scrutiny over the involvement of some of the carrier's staff in protests. Cathay confirmed on Friday that Rebecca Sy, the head of Cathay Dragon's Airlines Flight Attendants' Association, was no longer with the company. Her departure follows the shock resignation of Cathay CEO Rupert Hogg last week. The Hong Kong Confederation of Trade Unions said it will hold a news conference later on Friday to provide details of Sy's departure. The protests are already taking a toll on the city's economy and tourism, with the special administrative region on the cusp of its first recession in a decade. Corporations, including big banks and property developers, have called for a restoration of law and order, while exhibitors are seeing widespread cancellations of events. In the most recent case, international jewellers have sought the rescheduling of a huge trade fair with up to 40% of exhibitors threatening to pull out. Demonstrators have five demands: withdraw the extradition bill, establish an independent inquiry into the protests and perceived police brutality, stop describing the protests as "rioting", waive charges against those arrested, and resume political reform.

Hong Kong braces for fresh protests, Canada stops staff travel to mainland China

From umbrellas and Chinese calligraphy, to gas masks and helmets; Hong Kong protesters get inked

Riot&nbsp;police&nbsp;fired&nbsp;water&nbsp;cannon&nbsp;and tear gas to disperse&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;demonstrating in southeast <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heavy-downpours-wreak-havoc-in-istanbul-flooding-historic-grand-bazaar-243705">Turkey</a> on Tuesday against the ousting of three&nbsp;Kurdishmayors five months after they were elected.

Ankara replaced the pro-Kurdish&nbsp;Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) mayors with state officials on Monday and detained more than 400 people for suspected militant links in a step sharply criticised by opposition parties.

In Diyarbakir, the region's biggest city,&nbsp;police&nbsp;repeatedly&nbsp;used&nbsp;water&nbsp;cannon&nbsp;on small groups of&nbsp;protesters, who huddled on the streets to protect themselves from the&nbsp;water cannon and made victory signs with their hands.

Riot&nbsp;police&nbsp;struck&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;with&nbsp;batons&nbsp;as they fled the area.

The&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;gathered near city hall, which was sealed off by metal barriers after a state administrator took office there on Monday in place of the elected mayor.

"You can see here today a regime of pressure and persecution," HDP leader Sezai Temelli told reporters in a statement on the street in Diyarbakir as the&nbsp;police&nbsp;acted against the protesters.

"We will continue to resist wherever we are because&nbsp;resistance is our legitimate right," he said.

The Interior Ministry says the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-removes-pro-kurdish-mayors-244033">ousted HDP mayors</a> of the three major cities - Diyarbakir, Mardin and Van - are accused of various crimes including membership of a terrorist organisation and spreading terrorist group propaganda.

The HDP said the mayors' removal was a political coup and that it is a hostile stance against the political will of the&nbsp;Kurdish&nbsp;people.

The ministry also said on Monday it had launched an operation with some 2,300 commandos against Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) militants in three southeastern provinces.

President Tayyip Erdogan had warned before nationwide local elections in March of such a move against elected officials if they were found to have had connections to the PKK.

Erdogan frequently accuses the HDP of links to the PKK, which is designated a terrorist group by Turkey, the European Union and the United States. The HDP denies such links.

The removal of the mayors echoed the dismissal of dozens of mayors in 2016 over similar accusations, part of a purge that began after a failed coup.

Nearly 100 mayors and thousands of party members were jailed than in a crackdown that drew expressions of concern from the United States and European Union.

The PKK launched an insurgency against the&nbsp;Turkish&nbsp;state in 1984. More than 40,000 people have been killed in the conflict.

Riot police fired water cannon and tear gas to disperse protesters demonstrating in southeast Turkey on Tuesday against the ousting of three Kurdishmayors five months after they were elected.

Riot police fired water cannon and tear gas to disperse protesters demonstrating in southeast Turkey on Tuesday against the ousting of three Kurdishmayors five months after they were elected. Ankara replaced the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) mayors with state officials on Monday and detained more than 400 people for suspected militant links in a step sharply criticised by opposition parties. In Diyarbakir, the region's biggest city, police repeatedly used water cannon on small groups of protesters, who huddled on the streets to protect themselves from the water cannon and made victory signs with their hands. Riot police struck protesters with batons as they fled the area. The protesters gathered near city hall, which was sealed off by metal barriers after a state administrator took office there on Monday in place of the elected mayor. "You can see here today a regime of pressure and persecution," HDP leader Sezai Temelli told reporters in a statement on the street in Diyarbakir as the police acted against the protesters. "We will continue to resist wherever we are because resistance is our legitimate right," he said. The Interior Ministry says the ousted HDP mayors of the three major cities - Diyarbakir, Mardin and Van - are accused of various crimes including membership of a terrorist organisation and spreading terrorist group propaganda. The HDP said the mayors' removal was a political coup and that it is a hostile stance against the political will of the Kurdish people. The ministry also said on Monday it had launched an operation with some 2,300 commandos against Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) militants in three southeastern provinces. President Tayyip Erdogan had warned before nationwide local elections in March of such a move against elected officials if they were found to have had connections to the PKK. Erdogan frequently accuses the HDP of links to the PKK, which is designated a terrorist group by Turkey, the European Union and the United States. The HDP denies such links. The removal of the mayors echoed the dismissal of dozens of mayors in 2016 over similar accusations, part of a purge that began after a failed coup. Nearly 100 mayors and thousands of party members were jailed than in a crackdown that drew expressions of concern from the United States and European Union. The PKK launched an insurgency against the Turkish state in 1984. More than 40,000 people have been killed in the conflict.

Turkish police use water cannon, batons on Kurdish protesters

Office of the Mayor of London on anti-India protests. Mayor supports the right to peaceful protest, condemns violence from a small minority.

WION Gravitas: London Mayor's office on anti-India protests

Police in Portland, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../dayton-gunman-had-cocaine-xanax-alcohol-in- his-system-during-attack-243234">Oregon</a> arrested at least 13 people on Saturday as a right-wing group marched to a downtown waterfront park and anti-fascist counterprotesters scuffled with officers who tried to keep the two sides apart.

A rally by hundreds of supporters of the right-wing Proud Boys organization was met by a similar number of "antifa" opponents, and isolated clashes broke out between both sides and between antifa and police as the gathering wrapped up.

At least six people suffered minor injuries, according to police. One person was taken to a hospital. Officers said they seized weapons including chemical sprays, shields, metal and wooden poles, knives, and a stun gun from multiple groups.

At the peak of the demonstrations there were an estimated 1,200 protesters on the streets of the downtown district, said Portland Police Chief Danielle Outlaw.

Charges against those in custody would include disorderly conduct, interfering with police, resisting arrest, and unlawful use of a weapon, she said at a news conference.

Right-wing and anti-fascist factions have clashed in Portland several times in recent months, including a rally that turned violent in July last year.

Hours ahead of Saturday's competing demonstrations<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../trump-blames-mass-shootings-on-mentally-ill- calls-for-more-mental-institutions-243232">, US President Donald Trump</a> said "major consideration" was being given to designating antifa as a terrorist organization.

"Portland is being watched very closely. Hopefully the Mayor will be able to properly do his job!" Trump wrote on Twitter.

Ted Wheeler, Portland's mayor, said he was not concerning himself with tweets from Washington, and he praised the response by law enforcement.

"I'm grateful that this was largely a peaceful event," Wheeler told reporters at the news conference.

"Police did an exemplary job of de-escalating the situation, keeping the extremists on both sides separated for the most part, and preventing people who wanted to engage in acts of violence from confronting each other."

Police in Portland, Oregon arrested at least 13 people on Saturday as a right-wing group marched to a downtown waterfront park and anti-fascist counterprotesters scuffled with officers who tried to keep the two sides apart.

Police in Portland, Oregon arrested at least 13 people on Saturday as a right-wing group marched to a downtown waterfront park and anti-fascist counterprotesters scuffled with officers who tried to keep the two sides apart. A rally by hundreds of supporters of the right-wing Proud Boys organization was met by a similar number of "antifa" opponents, and isolated clashes broke out between both sides and between antifa and police as the gathering wrapped up. At least six people suffered minor injuries, according to police. One person was taken to a hospital. Officers said they seized weapons including chemical sprays, shields, metal and wooden poles, knives, and a stun gun from multiple groups. At the peak of the demonstrations there were an estimated 1,200 protesters on the streets of the downtown district, said Portland Police Chief Danielle Outlaw. Charges against those in custody would include disorderly conduct, interfering with police, resisting arrest, and unlawful use of a weapon, she said at a news conference. Right-wing and anti-fascist factions have clashed in Portland several times in recent months, including a rally that turned violent in July last year. Hours ahead of Saturday's competing demonstrations, US President Donald Trump said "major consideration" was being given to designating antifa as a terrorist organization. "Portland is being watched very closely. Hopefully the Mayor will be able to properly do his job!" Trump wrote on Twitter. Ted Wheeler, Portland's mayor, said he was not concerning himself with tweets from Washington, and he praised the response by law enforcement. "I'm grateful that this was largely a peaceful event," Wheeler told reporters at the news conference. "Police did an exemplary job of de-escalating the situation, keeping the extremists on both sides separated for the most part, and preventing people who wanted to engage in acts of violence from confronting each other."

Police make arrests as right-wing, anti-fascist groups rally in Portland

Over a thousand Hong Kong school teachers braved thunderstorms on Saturday to start a weekend of anti-government demonstrations that some activists fear could see tougher police tactics on the city's streets.

Over a thousand Hong Kong school teachers braved thunderstorms on Saturday to start a weekend of anti-government demonstrations that some activists fear could see tougher police tactics on the city's streets. Following the escalation in violence during the past few days, the demonstrations this weekend will provide a litmus test as to whether the protest movement can retain the broad support that it has appeared to enjoy. Demonstrators say they are fighting the erosion of the "one country, two systems" arrangement that enshrined some autonomy for Hong Kong since China took it back from Britain in 1997. During the past week, they have increasingly directed their frustrations toward police, who have responded with fiercer determination to clear them from the streets. Yu, aged in her 40s and a music teacher at a local secondary school, said she was determined to show support for protesting students, even though she didn't agree with all their actions. "I do appreciate their courage and caring about Hong Kong...they are braver than our government," she said. The teacher's rally was approved by the police and was peaceful. After gathering in the Central business district, they marched on the Government House residence of Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam, chanting "Hong Kong police know the law, they break the law". Anti-government demonstrators were also expected to march through Kowloon districts popular with traders and tourists from mainland China. The pro-democracy Civil Human Rights Front, which organised peaceful million-strong marches in June, has scheduled another protest for Sunday. "We all feel tensions are building and the level of stress is increasing," one front-line protester, Pun, 22, told Reuters during a sit-in at the international airport earlier in the week. "I know violence cannot fight violence but sometimes aggression is needed to attract the attention of the government and others," he said. "I have thrown rocks...I have also been hit by police with batons. We're all slowly getting used to this." Thousands of mostly young protesters forced a shutdown of flights at the city's Chek Lap Kok international airport on Monday, disrupting flights until late Tuesday. The Airport Authority obtained an interim court injunction on Wednesday to restrain people from "unlawfully and wilfully obstructing" its operations. Calls for restraint The increasingly violent confrontations have plunged one of Asia's financial capitals into its worst crisis for decades. The unrest also presents one of the biggest challenges for Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. Western governments, including the United States, have stepped up calls for restraint following ugly and chaotic scenes at the airport. The crisis is also resulting in corporate casualties, with the chief executive of Hong Kong carrier Cathay Pacific Airways quitting on Friday after China's aviation regulator demanded it suspends staff involved in or supporting the protests. Chinese officials have likened some actions by protesters to "terrorism" and Chinese state media outlets have urged a tougher response from Hong Kong police. Clashes became noticeably fiercer during the past week. Protesters have used slingshots to fire marbles at police, shone lasers at them and at times thrown bricks and firebombs. Police stations have been surrounded and attacked 76 times during the crisis, police said. Having fired tear gas to disperse protesters in the streets, and at one point in a subway station, police are warning that they could get tougher. Police have so far refrained from deploying armoured cars that could smash through barricades. Nor have they used water cannon two were purchased in 2014 or unleashed the force's dog squad on protesters. "We have in place a more flexible strategy," one police officer said. "We are in a far better position to have a more efficient and rapid response." China's People's Armed Police units have staged extensive drills across the border in Shenzhen in recent days, but Hong Kong police say they have the operational depth and strength to handle local tensions. As protesters have employed a flash-mob strategy, withdrawing when police advance, only to re-appear elsewhere, police have also begun using undercover officers, disguised as protesters, to gather intelligence and make arrests. Police have made some 750 arrests since the unrest began in June, and have charged some protesters with rioting which can attract a 10-year jail term as punishment. In some cases, the arrests have been accompanied by extensive property searches and seizure of phones and computers, police sources say. "They are doing these hit and run lately," one senior police officer told media earlier this week. "Arrests should be a natural consequence. If we can arrest more and more because they are undertaking illegal acts, so be it."

Hong Kong tense as a weekend of protests begins with teachers' rally in the rain

The European Union believes it is necessary to take urgent steps to de-escalate the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-unrest-protesters-defy-police-again-begin-banned-march-238981">situation in Hong Kong</a>, the bloc's foreign policy chief, Federica Mogherini, said in a statement on Saturday.

"The European Union recalls its close relations with Hong Kong under the ‘one country, two systems’ principle and its strong stake in its continued stability and prosperity. ... It is crucial that restraint is exercised, violence rejected, and urgent steps are taken to de-escalate the situation," the statement said.

The dialogue should involve all key participants in the process, it added.

"Fundamental freedoms, including the right of peaceful assembly, and Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy under the ‘one country, two systems’ principle, are enshrined in the Basic Law and in international agreements and must continue to be upheld," Mogherini concluded.

Thousands of teachers on Saturday flooded the streets of Hong Kong for an anti-government demonstration against the extradition law, a Sputnik correspondent reported from the scene.

Members of the Hong Kong Teachers Union gathered at the Chater Garden park in central Hong Kong. They marched to the office of the head of administration, Carrie Lam.

It rained heavily in Hong Kong but protesters said it would not prevent them from participating in the rally.

"We will go anyway. We do not care," one of the demonstrators told Sputnik ahead of the march.

Demands of the teachers union’s members are the same as those of other protesters. They include fully abandoning the extradition law, which would allow Hong Kong authorities to extradite suspects to various jurisdictions, including mainland China, without any bilateral agreements, which are currently required for it.

In the meantime, hundreds of anti-government protesters gathered in Mong Kok, one of the major shopping areas in the city. Police officers in full gear attempted to push them away. However, no clashes were seen in the area, the Sputnik correspondent reported.

The demonstrators later started hurling eggs at a nearby police station. They then lined up along the road and began chanting slogans. Dozens of police officers ultimately pushed them away, preventing the crowd from blocking the traffic.

China’s semi-autonomous region has been rocked by protests since early June. At first, the rallies were peaceful but they subsequently led to violent clashes between the demonstrators and the police. 
&nbsp;

The European Union believes it is necessary to take urgent steps to de-escalate the situation in Hong Kong, the bloc's foreign policy chief, Federica Mogherini, said in a statement on Saturday.

The European Union believes it is necessary to take urgent steps to de-escalate the situation in Hong Kong, the bloc's foreign policy chief, Federica Mogherini, said in a statement on Saturday. "The European Union recalls its close relations with Hong Kong under the ‘one country, two systems’ principle and its strong stake in its continued stability and prosperity. ... It is crucial that restraint is exercised, violence rejected, and urgent steps are taken to de-escalate the situation," the statement said. The dialogue should involve all key participants in the process, it added. "Fundamental freedoms, including the right of peaceful assembly, and Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy under the ‘one country, two systems’ principle, are enshrined in the Basic Law and in international agreements and must continue to be upheld," Mogherini concluded. Thousands of teachers on Saturday flooded the streets of Hong Kong for an anti-government demonstration against the extradition law, a Sputnik correspondent reported from the scene. Members of the Hong Kong Teachers Union gathered at the Chater Garden park in central Hong Kong. They marched to the office of the head of administration, Carrie Lam. It rained heavily in Hong Kong but protesters said it would not prevent them from participating in the rally. "We will go anyway. We do not care," one of the demonstrators told Sputnik ahead of the march. Demands of the teachers union’s members are the same as those of other protesters. They include fully abandoning the extradition law, which would allow Hong Kong authorities to extradite suspects to various jurisdictions, including mainland China, without any bilateral agreements, which are currently required for it. In the meantime, hundreds of anti-government protesters gathered in Mong Kok, one of the major shopping areas in the city. Police officers in full gear attempted to push them away. However, no clashes were seen in the area, the Sputnik correspondent reported. The demonstrators later started hurling eggs at a nearby police station. They then lined up along the road and began chanting slogans. Dozens of police officers ultimately pushed them away, preventing the crowd from blocking the traffic. China’s semi-autonomous region has been rocked by protests since early June. At first, the rallies were peaceful but they subsequently led to violent clashes between the demonstrators and the police.

European Union believes urgent steps needed to de-escalate Hong Kong crisis: Foreign policy chief

Russian opposition activists staged a string of pickets in central Moscow on Saturday to call for free elections and for charges against protesters detained at recent rallies to be dropped.

Moscow has been rocked by<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../russian-opposition-plans-major-moscow-protest -after-crackdown-241936"> weekly protests</a> for more than a month since the authorities barred opposition candidates from running in an election for the city's legislature in September.

Police have briefly detained more than 2,000 protesters in recent weeks, launched criminal cases against some dozen people for mass disorder and used force to disperse what they said were illegal protests.

In contrast, Saturday's solo pickets, spread across three locations in Moscow, were peaceful and opposition supporters scarce.

The recent opposition demonstrations have turned into the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/political-tensions-escalate-in-russia-239479">biggest sustained protest movement in Russia</a> since 2011-2013 when protesters took to the streets against perceived electoral fraud.

Earlier on Saturday, some 4,000 people attended a Communist rally in Moscow that had been authorised by the authorities to call for "clear and honest elections" in Moscow, police said.

Russian opposition activists staged a string of pickets in central Moscow on Saturday to call for free elections and for charges against protesters detained at recent rallies to be dropped.

Russian opposition activists staged a string of pickets in central Moscow on Saturday to call for free elections and for charges against protesters detained at recent rallies to be dropped. Moscow has been rocked by weekly protests for more than a month since the authorities barred opposition candidates from running in an election for the city's legislature in September. Police have briefly detained more than 2,000 protesters in recent weeks, launched criminal cases against some dozen people for mass disorder and used force to disperse what they said were illegal protests. In contrast, Saturday's solo pickets, spread across three locations in Moscow, were peaceful and opposition supporters scarce. The recent opposition demonstrations have turned into the biggest sustained protest movement in Russia since 2011-2013 when protesters took to the streets against perceived electoral fraud. Earlier on Saturday, some 4,000 people attended a Communist rally in Moscow that had been authorised by the authorities to call for "clear and honest elections" in Moscow, police said.

Russian opposition activists picket for free elections

Sudan has allowed Qatari broadcaster Al-Jazeera to reopen its Khartoum office, which they had shut down in May, the channel's director in the Sudanese capital told AFP Friday.

"The Sudanese authorities have agreed to let us resume our work in covering Sudan," Al-Musallami Al-Kabbashi said.

The Al-Jazeera crew had been informed in late May, at the height of the protests that brought down longtime ruler Omar al-Bashir, that their licence and work permits were being withdrawn.

The news channel's staff had handed over equipment and<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../sudan-authorities-shut-down-al-jazeera-office-as -protests-continue-223119"> closed down the office&nbsp;</a>afer being notified of the decision by the country's Transitional Military Council.

Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia broke off diplomatic ties with Doha in 2017, accusing it of terrorism, which it denies.

The generals, backed by those three powers, had resisted calls from African and Western governments to hand over the reins of power until a political deal was eventually reached with protest leaders last month.

A compromise for a 39-month transition to civilian rule was sealed on August 4 and is due to be officially signed on Saturday, during a ceremony to be attended by several foreign dignitaries.

Sudan has allowed Qatari broadcaster Al-Jazeera to reopen its Khartoum office, which they had shut down in May, the channel's director in the Sudanese capital told AFP Friday.

Sudan has allowed Qatari broadcaster Al-Jazeera to reopen its Khartoum office, which they had shut down in May, the channel's director in the Sudanese capital told AFP Friday. "The Sudanese authorities have agreed to let us resume our work in covering Sudan," Al-Musallami Al-Kabbashi said. The Al-Jazeera crew had been informed in late May, at the height of the protests that brought down longtime ruler Omar al-Bashir, that their licence and work permits were being withdrawn. The news channel's staff had handed over equipment and closed down the office afer being notified of the decision by the country's Transitional Military Council. Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia broke off diplomatic ties with Doha in 2017, accusing it of terrorism, which it denies. The generals, backed by those three powers, had resisted calls from African and Western governments to hand over the reins of power until a political deal was eventually reached with protest leaders last month. A compromise for a 39-month transition to civilian rule was sealed on August 4 and is due to be officially signed on Saturday, during a ceremony to be attended by several foreign dignitaries.

Sudan allows Al-Jazeera to reopen office: channel

Gravitas: 11 weeks of Unrest: Protests continue at Hong Kong Airport

The British government is&nbsp;concerned&nbsp;about the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../as-hong-kong-protesters-return-to-streets-for- tenth-week-riot-police-fire-tears-gas-into-rail-station-242309">latest&nbsp;violence&nbsp;</a>in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;and wants calm from all sides, a spokesman for British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday.

Hong&nbsp;Kong's airport <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../over-100-flights-cancelled-as-hong-kong- protesters-launch-city-wide-strike-240696">cancelled all flights</a> on Monday, with authorities blaming demonstrators for the disruption of one of the world's busiest terminals, an escalation in anti-government protests in the former British colony.

Johnson's spokesman said the Britain wanted the&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;government to engage with all parties in constructive dialogue.

The British government is concerned about the latest violence in Hong Kong and wants calm from all sides, a spokesman for British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday.

The British government is concerned about the latest violence in Hong Kong and wants calm from all sides, a spokesman for British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday. Hong Kong's airport cancelled all flights on Monday, with authorities blaming demonstrators for the disruption of one of the world's busiest terminals, an escalation in anti-government protests in the former British colony. Johnson's spokesman said the Britain wanted the Hong Kong government to engage with all parties in constructive dialogue.

Want Hong Kong government to engage with all parties: UK

Nurses, doctors, medical students and ordinary people with first aid training have clamoured to join what has become a small volunteer corps helping treat people on the frontlines of Hong Kong's protests that have engulfed the city for over two months.

'It's humanitarian': The medics helping Hong Kong's protesters

&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;police&nbsp;and&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;clashed in cat-and-mouse encounters across the city on Sunday, marking a shift in&nbsp;tactics&nbsp;during a tenth straight weekend of unrest in the former British colony where people are chafing at Chinese rule.

Seeking to clear streets quicker than before,&nbsp;police&nbsp;fired tear gas and charged with batons at flashpoints downtown and in working-class districts.

Demonstrators, who at one point lobbed two petrol bombs, retaliated with a flash-mob strategy: withdrawing when pressed, only to re-appear elsewhere.

The increasingly violent protests since June have plunged the Asian financial hub into its most serious crisis in decades and are one of the biggest popular challenges to Chinese leader Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012.

Despite the intense&nbsp;police&nbsp;response and a toughening stance from China, the movement that began two months ago in opposition to a bill allowing extradition to the mainland still seems to enjoy broad support in the city of more than 7 million people.

"We've been running all day but we're not tired," said Ah Sing, a protester in his 30s, wearing a black vest and surgical mask while he rushed from one protest to another.

"This is our response to Carrie Lam," he added, referring to the city's Beijing-backed leader. "If she doesn't listen to the people and respond to our reasonable demands, we're going to continue to spread protests across&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong."

Beijing says criminals and agitators are stirring violence, encouraged by "interfering" foreign powers including Britain.

Demonstrators say they are fighting against the erosion of the "one country, two systems" arrangement enshrining some autonomy for&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;when China took it back in 1997.

"Independence for&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;is not viable in the near term," acknowledged protester Sam, 23, a barrister, while music pumped from cabaret lounges in Wan Chai's bar district behind him, "But we have to fight for our freedoms and democracy."

Shortly after, riot&nbsp;police&nbsp;fired a volley-after volley of tear gas at his makeshift barricade of railings, wood and&nbsp;police&nbsp;cones, forcing&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;to withdraw.

Liberate Hong Kong

Tear gas was also used against&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;in several places in Kowloon, the main built-up area on the mainland side of&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;harbour. Demonstrators avoided heading to North Point, where local pro-Beijing groups had mobilised supporters.

Authorities have begun emphasising the damage on the city's economy, already buffeted by China's slowdown and the U.S.-China trade war. They are also applying pressure on big companies like Cathay Pacific Airways, which has been told to suspend staff engaged in illegal protests.

Police&nbsp;have arrested more than 600 people.

Yet activists' demands have grown to include greater democracy and Lam's resignation. They marched on Sunday despite an official ban, with confrontations coming at nightfall.

Chants of "Liberate&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong" echoed through the working-class area of Sham Shui Po when more than a thousand black-shirted&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;marched. Some residents cheered, while drivers honked horns or gave a thumbs-up.

"We have lived in&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong&nbsp;all our lives and this is the hardest time because the government is not listening to the citizens," said a 63-year-old man surnamed Leung, who joined a protest with his 93-year-old father in a wheelchair.

Hong&nbsp;Kong's government says the protests are pushing the city to an extremely dangerous edge.

"I fear the government's flat rejections of this is just one more missed opportunity to try to cool things down a bit," pro-democracy lawmaker Fernando Cheung told Reuters after a daytime rally near the financial centre's business district.

Young people have been at the forefront of activism.

They have dominated a peaceful sit-in at the city's international airport which entered its third day on Sunday, with about a thousand demonstrators singing songs and handing out flyers to arriving travellers amid a carnival atmosphere.

"I am concerned about my future, about&nbsp;Hong&nbsp;Kong's future, we all are," said Victor, a 27-year-old art tutor, his face slick with tears from tear-gas smoke near Wan Chai.

"We want to avoid China completely taking over. If we&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;leave, they will take over immediately."

Hong Kong police and protesters clashed in cat-and-mouse encounters across the city on Sunday, marking a shift in tactics during a tenth straight weekend of unrest in the former British colony where people are chafing at Chinese rule.

Hong Kong police and protesters clashed in cat-and-mouse encounters across the city on Sunday, marking a shift in tactics during a tenth straight weekend of unrest in the former British colony where people are chafing at Chinese rule. Seeking to clear streets quicker than before, police fired tear gas and charged with batons at flashpoints downtown and in working-class districts. Demonstrators, who at one point lobbed two petrol bombs, retaliated with a flash-mob strategy: withdrawing when pressed, only to re-appear elsewhere. The increasingly violent protests since June have plunged the Asian financial hub into its most serious crisis in decades and are one of the biggest popular challenges to Chinese leader Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. Despite the intense police response and a toughening stance from China, the movement that began two months ago in opposition to a bill allowing extradition to the mainland still seems to enjoy broad support in the city of more than 7 million people. "We've been running all day but we're not tired," said Ah Sing, a protester in his 30s, wearing a black vest and surgical mask while he rushed from one protest to another. "This is our response to Carrie Lam," he added, referring to the city's Beijing-backed leader. "If she doesn't listen to the people and respond to our reasonable demands, we're going to continue to spread protests across Hong Kong." Beijing says criminals and agitators are stirring violence, encouraged by "interfering" foreign powers including Britain. Demonstrators say they are fighting against the erosion of the "one country, two systems" arrangement enshrining some autonomy for Hong Kong when China took it back in 1997. "Independence for Hong Kong is not viable in the near term," acknowledged protester Sam, 23, a barrister, while music pumped from cabaret lounges in Wan Chai's bar district behind him, "But we have to fight for our freedoms and democracy." Shortly after, riot police fired a volley-after volley of tear gas at his makeshift barricade of railings, wood and police cones, forcing protesters to withdraw. Liberate Hong Kong Tear gas was also used against protesters in several places in Kowloon, the main built-up area on the mainland side of Hong Kong harbour. Demonstrators avoided heading to North Point, where local pro-Beijing groups had mobilised supporters. Authorities have begun emphasising the damage on the city's economy, already buffeted by China's slowdown and the U.S.-China trade war. They are also applying pressure on big companies like Cathay Pacific Airways, which has been told to suspend staff engaged in illegal protests. Police have arrested more than 600 people. Yet activists' demands have grown to include greater democracy and Lam's resignation. They marched on Sunday despite an official ban, with confrontations coming at nightfall. Chants of "Liberate Hong Kong" echoed through the working-class area of Sham Shui Po when more than a thousand black-shirted protesters marched. Some residents cheered, while drivers honked horns or gave a thumbs-up. "We have lived in Hong Kong all our lives and this is the hardest time because the government is not listening to the citizens," said a 63-year-old man surnamed Leung, who joined a protest with his 93-year-old father in a wheelchair. Hong Kong's government says the protests are pushing the city to an extremely dangerous edge. "I fear the government's flat rejections of this is just one more missed opportunity to try to cool things down a bit," pro-democracy lawmaker Fernando Cheung told Reuters after a daytime rally near the financial centre's business district. Young people have been at the forefront of activism. They have dominated a peaceful sit-in at the city's international airport which entered its third day on Sunday, with about a thousand demonstrators singing songs and handing out flyers to arriving travellers amid a carnival atmosphere. "I am concerned about my future, about Hong Kong's future, we all are," said Victor, a 27-year-old art tutor, his face slick with tears from tear-gas smoke near Wan Chai. "We want to avoid China completely taking over. If we protesters leave, they will take over immediately."

Hong Kong police and protesters refine battle tactics

Hong Kong police fired volleys of tear gas to disperse <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-braces-for-another-weekend-of-protests-241947">anti-government protesters on Saturday</a>, and demonstrators swiftly gathered elsewhere during another tense and restive weekend.&nbsp;

Weeks of increasingly violent protests have plunged Hong Kong into its most serious political crisis for decades, posing a serious challenge to the central government in Beijing.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-step-up-war-of-words-over-hong-kong-241944">US, China step up war of words over Hong Kong</a>

On Saturday activists rallied across the city - with thousands thronging the airport arrivals hall for a second day - while elsewhere police displayed a new willingness to quickly and forcibly clear them from the streets.&nbsp;

Tear gas was used with little warning not long after several hundred activists who had marched through Tai Po in the north of the territory had barricaded an intersection in the Tai Wai neighbourhood.

They dispersed, as noxious smoke also filled the underground station there, bringing train passengers to tears.&nbsp;

"If the government thinks we`ll give up and not come out anymore they`re wrong," said student Chris Wong, 20, at Tai Po.

"Carrie Lam is now spreading lies and blaming us for destroying Hong Kong`s economy. But she`s the one who is destroying Hong Kong," he said. "We`ll continue to fight...but we`re also going to be smart and wear them down."

Lam, Hong Kong`s leader, said on Friday the economy was being undermined by the protests, which began in June.

China, meanwhile, demanded that the city`s flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways suspend staff involved in the demonstrations. One of its pilots was arrested last week.&nbsp;

Lam`s warning about the economy and China`s targeting of a key Hong Kong business mark a toughening stance by authorities as they grapple with the crisis.

"We are very angry"

It did not deter thousands of demonstrators.

Leung Wai Man, a housewife in her 60s, said she had been motivated to march in Tai Po because she was angry about what she saw as the violent response by police at some protests.

"We are very angry about the police over arresting our teenagers," she said. She said she was worried about escalating violence, but added that "the protesters were just trying to protect themselves against police violence."&nbsp;

Young people have been at the forefront of the protests, worried about the erosion of freedoms in Hong Kong by China but also concerned with issues such as wealth disparities in the city. However, older people have also been appearing.

Earlier on Saturday, in two separate protests, small groups of elderly Hong Kongers and families marched near the financial centre`s business district. Both marches were peaceful.

"There are clashes in the recent protests and many parents are worried," said Fion Yim, 35, representative of the organising committee for what was billed as the family protest.

"The freedom to protect our children is very important. We hope to provide a safer place for parents and their kids to participate in rallies, and to voice their concerns."

Thousands of activists also filled the airport`s arrivals hall for a second day, some sitting and shouting slogans, while others drew protest posters and greeted arriving passengers.

There were no reports of flight disruptions.

The protests began after Hong Kong`s government tried introducing an extradition bill that would have allowed defendants to be sent to mainland China for trial.

The bill has been suspended, but protesters have stepped up their demands and are now calling for greater democracy and Lam`s resignation.

The protests have been condemned by the central government in Beijing. China has also accused foreign powers of fuelling the unrest. 
Hong Kong was guaranteed freedoms not granted in mainland China, including an independent judiciary, under a "one country, two systems" formula, when Britain handed it back to China in 1997.&nbsp;

On Friday, the US State department spokeswoman, Morgan Ortagus, said that Chinese media reports about a US diplomat who met with Hong Kong pro-democracy leaders "have gone from irresponsible to dangerous" and must stop.

Ortagus earlier called China a "thuggish regime" for disclosing photographs and personal details of the diplomat.

More protests are planned for Sunday, including one in Sham Shui Po, a working class neighbourhood that has been the scene of violent confrontations between activists and police. The government announced that public buildings there such as pools and libraries would be shut on Sunday afternoon.

Hong Kong police fired volleys of tear gas to disperse anti-government protesters on Saturday, and demonstrators swiftly gathered elsewhere during another tense and restive weekend.

Hong Kong police fired volleys of tear gas to disperse anti-government protesters on Saturday, and demonstrators swiftly gathered elsewhere during another tense and restive weekend. Weeks of increasingly violent protests have plunged Hong Kong into its most serious political crisis for decades, posing a serious challenge to the central government in Beijing. Also read: US, China step up war of words over Hong Kong On Saturday activists rallied across the city - with thousands thronging the airport arrivals hall for a second day - while elsewhere police displayed a new willingness to quickly and forcibly clear them from the streets. Tear gas was used with little warning not long after several hundred activists who had marched through Tai Po in the north of the territory had barricaded an intersection in the Tai Wai neighbourhood. They dispersed, as noxious smoke also filled the underground station there, bringing train passengers to tears. "If the government thinks we`ll give up and not come out anymore they`re wrong," said student Chris Wong, 20, at Tai Po. "Carrie Lam is now spreading lies and blaming us for destroying Hong Kong`s economy. But she`s the one who is destroying Hong Kong," he said. "We`ll continue to fight...but we`re also going to be smart and wear them down." Lam, Hong Kong`s leader, said on Friday the economy was being undermined by the protests, which began in June. China, meanwhile, demanded that the city`s flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways suspend staff involved in the demonstrations. One of its pilots was arrested last week. Lam`s warning about the economy and China`s targeting of a key Hong Kong business mark a toughening stance by authorities as they grapple with the crisis. "We are very angry" It did not deter thousands of demonstrators. Leung Wai Man, a housewife in her 60s, said she had been motivated to march in Tai Po because she was angry about what she saw as the violent response by police at some protests. "We are very angry about the police over arresting our teenagers," she said. She said she was worried about escalating violence, but added that "the protesters were just trying to protect themselves against police violence." Young people have been at the forefront of the protests, worried about the erosion of freedoms in Hong Kong by China but also concerned with issues such as wealth disparities in the city. However, older people have also been appearing. Earlier on Saturday, in two separate protests, small groups of elderly Hong Kongers and families marched near the financial centre`s business district. Both marches were peaceful. "There are clashes in the recent protests and many parents are worried," said Fion Yim, 35, representative of the organising committee for what was billed as the family protest. "The freedom to protect our children is very important. We hope to provide a safer place for parents and their kids to participate in rallies, and to voice their concerns." Thousands of activists also filled the airport`s arrivals hall for a second day, some sitting and shouting slogans, while others drew protest posters and greeted arriving passengers. There were no reports of flight disruptions. The protests began after Hong Kong`s government tried introducing an extradition bill that would have allowed defendants to be sent to mainland China for trial. The bill has been suspended, but protesters have stepped up their demands and are now calling for greater democracy and Lam`s resignation. The protests have been condemned by the central government in Beijing. China has also accused foreign powers of fuelling the unrest. Hong Kong was guaranteed freedoms not granted in mainland China, including an independent judiciary, under a "one country, two systems" formula, when Britain handed it back to China in 1997. On Friday, the US State department spokeswoman, Morgan Ortagus, said that Chinese media reports about a US diplomat who met with Hong Kong pro-democracy leaders "have gone from irresponsible to dangerous" and must stop. Ortagus earlier called China a "thuggish regime" for disclosing photographs and personal details of the diplomat. More protests are planned for Sunday, including one in Sham Shui Po, a working class neighbourhood that has been the scene of violent confrontations between activists and police. The government announced that public buildings there such as pools and libraries would be shut on Sunday afternoon.

Hong Kong police fire tear gas during another weekend of protests

China's aviation regulator on Friday demanded Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways suspend personnel who have engaged in illegal protests in the city from staffing flights into its airspace from August 10.

Hong Kong has been embroiled in increasingly violent anti-government street protests for the past two months, which a top Chinese official described this week as the greatest crisis since its return from British to Chinese rule in 1997.

Last week, a Cathay pilot was among over 40 people charged with rioting for allegedly taking part in violent clashes with the police near Beijing's main representative office in the city.

On Friday night, the Civil Aviation Administration of China said that Cathay crew who have engaged in the protests pose a threat to aviation safety in mainland China, according to a statement on its website.

The aviation authority ordered Cathay to provide identification information for its crew on mainland-bound flights.&nbsp;

Crew members that have not gained the authority's&nbsp;approval will not be allowed into its airspace, including on flights bound for other destinations.

The airline has also been ordered to draw up proposals to strengthen safety and security, said the statement.

In response, a Cathay Pacific spokesperson said: "We have received the directive and are studying it very carefully. We are treating it seriously and are following up accordingly."

"The safety of our passengers is always the top priority of Cathay Pacific. There is zero tolerance for any inappropriate and unprofessional behavior that may affect aviation safety. We deal with these incidents very seriously."

Cathay said on Thursday it respects "everyone`s right to express themselves in a peaceful and respectful manner," while insisting it "recognizes that Hong Kong SAR is a part of China".

"We do not condone any activities that jeopardize the stability of Hong Kong," it said.&nbsp;

On Monday aviation workers joined a strike that gridlocked Hong Kong, forcing airlines, including Cathay, to cancel hundreds of flights.

Responding to a question on the protests at a press conference earlier this week, Cathay chairman John Slosar said the company respects its staff`s opinions.

"We certainly wouldn't dream of telling them what they have to think about something. They're all adults, they're&nbsp;all service professionals. We respect them greatly," he said.

Global Times, published by the Communist Party`s official People`s Daily, ran news stories this week highlighting Cathay employees` participation in the ongoing protests.

Embattled Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam on Friday urged an end to the violence, claiming that the protests are dragging on the city`s economy.

Hong Kong-listed Cathay is 45% owned by Swire Pacific and 22.7% held by Air China, according to Refinitiv Eikon.

The airline has been Hong Kong`s flag carrier since the colonial era. Swire Pacific's parent, John Swire &amp; Sons Ltd, is a UK-based conglomerate with businesses ranging from property to transportation.

China's aviation regulator on Friday demanded Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways suspend personnel who have engaged in illegal protests in the city from staffing flights into its airspace from August 10.

China's aviation regulator on Friday demanded Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways suspend personnel who have engaged in illegal protests in the city from staffing flights into its airspace from August 10. Hong Kong has been embroiled in increasingly violent anti-government street protests for the past two months, which a top Chinese official described this week as the greatest crisis since its return from British to Chinese rule in 1997. Last week, a Cathay pilot was among over 40 people charged with rioting for allegedly taking part in violent clashes with the police near Beijing's main representative office in the city. On Friday night, the Civil Aviation Administration of China said that Cathay crew who have engaged in the protests pose a threat to aviation safety in mainland China, according to a statement on its website. The aviation authority ordered Cathay to provide identification information for its crew on mainland-bound flights. Crew members that have not gained the authority's approval will not be allowed into its airspace, including on flights bound for other destinations. The airline has also been ordered to draw up proposals to strengthen safety and security, said the statement. In response, a Cathay Pacific spokesperson said: "We have received the directive and are studying it very carefully. We are treating it seriously and are following up accordingly." "The safety of our passengers is always the top priority of Cathay Pacific. There is zero tolerance for any inappropriate and unprofessional behavior that may affect aviation safety. We deal with these incidents very seriously." Cathay said on Thursday it respects "everyone`s right to express themselves in a peaceful and respectful manner," while insisting it "recognizes that Hong Kong SAR is a part of China". "We do not condone any activities that jeopardize the stability of Hong Kong," it said. On Monday aviation workers joined a strike that gridlocked Hong Kong, forcing airlines, including Cathay, to cancel hundreds of flights. Responding to a question on the protests at a press conference earlier this week, Cathay chairman John Slosar said the company respects its staff`s opinions. "We certainly wouldn't dream of telling them what they have to think about something. They're all adults, they're all service professionals. We respect them greatly," he said. Global Times, published by the Communist Party`s official People`s Daily, ran news stories this week highlighting Cathay employees` participation in the ongoing protests. Embattled Hong Kong chief executive Carrie Lam on Friday urged an end to the violence, claiming that the protests are dragging on the city`s economy. Hong Kong-listed Cathay is 45% owned by Swire Pacific and 22.7% held by Air China, according to Refinitiv Eikon. The airline has been Hong Kong`s flag carrier since the colonial era. Swire Pacific's parent, John Swire & Sons Ltd, is a UK-based conglomerate with businesses ranging from property to transportation.

China orders Cathay Pacific to suspend staff backing Hong Kong protests

Police have fired tear gas in Hong Kong as they face off with protesters at multiple locations in the city. Outside the legislative complex, tear gas engulfed protesters, many of whom were holding umbrellas and wearing helmets and gas masks.

Police fire tear gas at multiple protests in HKong

China has condemned the recent anti-government protests in Hong Kong and has said that it is Hong Kong's priority to punish violence.

Hong Kong protests: China blames media for spreading panic

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-workers-in-germany-strike-over-pay-verdi-union-says-236173/amp">Amazon.com</a> Inc's &lt;AMZN.O&gt; Prime Day is now a major marketing opportunity and shopping event in the annual calendar for other US <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-delegation-to-discuss-indias-new-e-commerce-rules-during-trade-talks-235262&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj0oZi0gbnjAhUMr48KHXruCrEQFjAEegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3a1jsroKojRA5VApIzrXx-">retail companies</a>, rivalling the Thanksgiving holiday's Black Friday as a driver of sales.

Walmart Inc &lt;WMT.N&gt;, Target Corp &lt;TGT.N&gt; and eBay Inc &lt;EBAY.O&gt; all run their own special promotions to coincide with the annual sale, which this year Amazon has stretched to two days.

Target announced deal days which will run on the same days like Prime Day - July 15 and 16. Walmart offered promotions from July 14th-17th, while eBay announced a July 15 "crash sale."

"As the awareness of this shopping moment continues to build, we see this as a great opportunity to showcase our competitive advantage on price and inventory," an eBay spokesperson said.

Amazon's break-neck pace of growth, which has seen increasing numbers of shoppers ordering online instead of going to brick-and-mortar stores, is pushing other retailers to respond as they seek to remain competitive.

"There is this enormous halo effect to Prime Day," said Jaysen Gillespie, head of analytics and data science at ads firm Criteo, adding that non-Amazon retailers should experience large increases both in traffic to their websites and in sales.

"The rest of the industry is taking advantage of the free marketing that Jeff Bezos is providing, and they should really send him a thank you card saying, 'Hey, thanks for the awareness marketing - we'll take care of the conversion and close the deal now on our websites.'"

Some retailers also flaunted no membership fees.

Customers have to join Amazon Prime to get discounts during the 48-hour event. US members of the club pay $119 per year for benefits including one-day shipping, and they tend to buy more goods, more often from the Seattle-based retailer.

The mid-summer shopping event is estimated to bring in $5.8 billion in sales this year for Amazon globally, compared to $3.9 billion last year, according to Coresight Research. Amazon does not disclose figures for revenue generated during Prime Day shopping events.

Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba Group &lt;BABA.N&gt; reported sales of $30.8 billion during its 24-hour online retail frenzy Singles' Day in 2018.

Last year, when Prime Day lasted 36 hours and faced technical glitches, online shoppers bought more than 100 million products worldwide, at the time recording the largest daily sales for Amazon's own brand of Echo smart speakers, while the Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote and Echo Dot were the best-selling devices.

Other top-selling products around the world were table salt in India, Coke Zero and Kleenex tissues in Singapore and electric toothbrushes in China.

Pop star Lady Gaga announced a line of beauty products exclusively for sale on Amazon last week, which is available for pre-order during the promotional event.

"It's Christmas in July," said Tom Caporaso, chief executive of loyalty platform Clarus Commerce, citing company research that shows roughly 50% of consumers say they search other retailers to find the best price on Prime Day.

"That's telling you that consumers are definitely in the buying mode but are not 100% loyal to Amazon," he said.

To coincide with Prime Day, more than 2,000 workers at seven Amazon sites across Germany went on strike over pay and conditions for logistics workers for at least two days, labour union Verdi said on Monday.

Other protests have been planned across Europe and the United States, including at an Amazon warehouse in Shakopee in Minneapolis, where workers have scheduled a work stoppage and are demanding improved work conditions.

Employees are also calling on the company to do more to combat climate change and cut alleged business dealings with the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

"Events like Prime Day have become an opportunity for our critics, including unions, to raise awareness for their cause, in this case, increased membership dues," an Amazon spokesperson said in a statement on Monday.

"These groups are conjuring misinformation to work in their favour, when in fact we already offer the things they purport to be their cause — industry leading pay of $15 per hour, benefits, and a safe workplace for our employees."

Democratic presidential candidates and US Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren on Twitter threw their support behind the striking workers.

Shares of Amazon edged up 0.4% on Nasdaq shortly before the close of trading.

Amazon.com Inc's <AMZN.O> Prime Day is now a major marketing opportunity and shopping event in the annual calendar for other US retail companies, rivalling the Thanksgiving holiday's Black Friday as a driver of sales.

Amazon.com Inc's <AMZN.O> Prime Day is now a major marketing opportunity and shopping event in the annual calendar for other US retail companies, rivalling the Thanksgiving holiday's Black Friday as a driver of sales. Walmart Inc <WMT.N>, Target Corp <TGT.N> and eBay Inc <EBAY.O> all run their own special promotions to coincide with the annual sale, which this year Amazon has stretched to two days. Target announced deal days which will run on the same days like Prime Day - July 15 and 16. Walmart offered promotions from July 14th-17th, while eBay announced a July 15 "crash sale." "As the awareness of this shopping moment continues to build, we see this as a great opportunity to showcase our competitive advantage on price and inventory," an eBay spokesperson said. Amazon's break-neck pace of growth, which has seen increasing numbers of shoppers ordering online instead of going to brick-and-mortar stores, is pushing other retailers to respond as they seek to remain competitive. "There is this enormous halo effect to Prime Day," said Jaysen Gillespie, head of analytics and data science at ads firm Criteo, adding that non-Amazon retailers should experience large increases both in traffic to their websites and in sales. "The rest of the industry is taking advantage of the free marketing that Jeff Bezos is providing, and they should really send him a thank you card saying, 'Hey, thanks for the awareness marketing - we'll take care of the conversion and close the deal now on our websites.'" Some retailers also flaunted no membership fees. Customers have to join Amazon Prime to get discounts during the 48-hour event. US members of the club pay $119 per year for benefits including one-day shipping, and they tend to buy more goods, more often from the Seattle-based retailer. The mid-summer shopping event is estimated to bring in $5.8 billion in sales this year for Amazon globally, compared to $3.9 billion last year, according to Coresight Research. Amazon does not disclose figures for revenue generated during Prime Day shopping events. Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba Group <BABA.N> reported sales of $30.8 billion during its 24-hour online retail frenzy Singles' Day in 2018. Last year, when Prime Day lasted 36 hours and faced technical glitches, online shoppers bought more than 100 million products worldwide, at the time recording the largest daily sales for Amazon's own brand of Echo smart speakers, while the Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote and Echo Dot were the best-selling devices. Other top-selling products around the world were table salt in India, Coke Zero and Kleenex tissues in Singapore and electric toothbrushes in China. Pop star Lady Gaga announced a line of beauty products exclusively for sale on Amazon last week, which is available for pre-order during the promotional event. "It's Christmas in July," said Tom Caporaso, chief executive of loyalty platform Clarus Commerce, citing company research that shows roughly 50% of consumers say they search other retailers to find the best price on Prime Day. "That's telling you that consumers are definitely in the buying mode but are not 100% loyal to Amazon," he said. To coincide with Prime Day, more than 2,000 workers at seven Amazon sites across Germany went on strike over pay and conditions for logistics workers for at least two days, labour union Verdi said on Monday. Other protests have been planned across Europe and the United States, including at an Amazon warehouse in Shakopee in Minneapolis, where workers have scheduled a work stoppage and are demanding improved work conditions. Employees are also calling on the company to do more to combat climate change and cut alleged business dealings with the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). "Events like Prime Day have become an opportunity for our critics, including unions, to raise awareness for their cause, in this case, increased membership dues," an Amazon spokesperson said in a statement on Monday. "These groups are conjuring misinformation to work in their favour, when in fact we already offer the things they purport to be their cause — industry leading pay of $15 per hour, benefits, and a safe workplace for our employees." Democratic presidential candidates and US Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren on Twitter threw their support behind the striking workers. Shares of Amazon edged up 0.4% on Nasdaq shortly before the close of trading.

Amazon rivals ride on Prime Day marketing as protests unfold

Fresh round of protests are underway in streets of Hong Kong. Protests main aim is the complete withdrawal of Bill. Watch this video to know more.

Fresh protests underway in streets of Hong Kong

Protests against the controversial extradition bill.

Hong Kong Protest: Protesters break into government building

Thousands of protesters blocked entry to Hong Kong's government headquarters Wednesday, delaying a legislative session on a proposed extradition bill that has heightened fears over greater Chinese control and erosion of civil liberties in the semi-autonomous territory.

Hong Kong government asks protesters to leave

Protests Intensify In Hong Kong Against New Extradition Bill

Gravitas: Hong Kong's largest protest since 1997

Thousands filled the streets of Hong Kong on Sunday in a last bid to thwart a proposed extradition law that would allow suspects to be sent to China to face trial. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong sees anti-extradition protests

30 Years Ago, Young Protesters In China Gathered In Tiananmen Square In Beijing. They Demanded Greater Freedom. The Chinese State Responded By Sending Troops And Tanks. Thousands Died. This Report Revisits What Happened On June The Fourth.

Gravitas: 30 Years Of Pro-Democracy Protests In China

At least six&nbsp;people are dead and 200 injured in civil unrest in the Indonesian capital, its governor, Anies Baswedan, said on Wednesday after the election commission confirmed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesias-joko-widodo-wins-second-term-as-president-220251">President Joko Widodo had won last month's election</a>.

"As per 9 o'clock this morning, there were 200 people hurt being brought to five hospitals," the governor told broadcaster TVOne.

"The number of people dead was six," he said, adding that hospitals were conducting post mortems to determine the cause of death.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesia-election-joko-widodo-re-elected-as-indonesian-president-220329/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Earlier today, a police spokesman said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesian-police-arrest-at-least-20-amid-post-election-violence-220535">Indonesian police have arrested at least 20 people</a> accused of provoking riots in Jakarta.

The protests and riots came after the General Election Commission on Tuesday confirmed unofficial counts by private pollsters in the April 17 election, which gave Widodo a 55.5% share of votes against 44.5% for his opponent, former general Prabowo Subianto.

Widodo won more than 85 million votes of a total of 154 million cast in the world's third-largest democracy, but Prabowo told reporters he believed there had been widespread cheating and about 1,000 supporters gathered in Jakarta a day earlier.

(With inputs from Reuters)

At least six people are dead and 200 injured in civil unrest in the Indonesian capital, its governor, Anies Baswedan, said on Wednesday after the election commission confirmed President Joko Widodo had won last month's election.

At least six people are dead and 200 injured in civil unrest in the Indonesian capital, its governor, Anies Baswedan, said on Wednesday after the election commission confirmed President Joko Widodo had won last month's election. "As per 9 o'clock this morning, there were 200 people hurt being brought to five hospitals," the governor told broadcaster TVOne. "The number of people dead was six," he said, adding that hospitals were conducting post mortems to determine the cause of death. Earlier today, a police spokesman said that Indonesian police have arrested at least 20 people accused of provoking riots in Jakarta. The protests and riots came after the General Election Commission on Tuesday confirmed unofficial counts by private pollsters in the April 17 election, which gave Widodo a 55.5% share of votes against 44.5% for his opponent, former general Prabowo Subianto. Widodo won more than 85 million votes of a total of 154 million cast in the world's third-largest democracy, but Prabowo told reporters he believed there had been widespread cheating and about 1,000 supporters gathered in Jakarta a day earlier. (With inputs from Reuters)

At least six dead, 200 injured after unrest following Indonesia election result

Mali's president has named a new government after its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mali-government-resigns-after-massacre-insecurity-211722">predecessor resigned last month amid widespread protests</a> over an upsurge of deadly inter-communal violence, a presidency statement said.

Ibrahim Boubacar Keita on Sunday announced the new executive of 37 members under Prime Minister Boubou Cisse, who was appointed on April 22 to oversee the formation of a "broad-based" government.

Last week, Cisse signed a pact with opposition and majority party representatives in the capital Bamako, declaring their willingness to set up a "politically-inclusive" new government.

Cisse's predecessor Soumeylou Boubeye Maiga and his entire cabinet resigned on April 18 following the massacre of some 160 members of the Fulani herding community on March 23 in the village of Ogossagou near Mali's border with Burkina Faso.

Tens of thousands of people took to the streets on April 5 to protest against an upsurge of violence that has claimed around 600 lives, and which demonstrators said the government had failed to stop.

The new executive has as its foreign minister Tiebile Drame, who led the election campaign of opposition member Soumaila Cisse against Keita in 2018.

Cisse's URD party said it would continue to play a "constructive" opposition role.

UN scandal

The key portfolio of defence went to General Ibrahim Dahirou Dembele, former army chief of staff under the junta that emerged from a 2012 coup.

The role of justice minister went to Malick Coulibaly, president of Mali's National Commission for Human Rights (CNDH), who has held the post before.

UNAIDS chief Michel Sidibe, whose tenure at the agency was marred by allegations of serious mismanagement, was appointed health minister, the agency said.&nbsp;

It was not immediately clear whether Sidibe will leave his UN post. But he had been scheduled to stand down in June following widespread concerns over his conduct in office, including his handling of sexual assault allegations against one of his top deputies.

The new Mali government includes ten women, more than a quarter of the total but fewer than the previous team, which boasted about a third.

Since the appearance of a jihadist group under preacher Amadou Koufa in central Mali in 2015, recruiting mainly among the Dogon -- a hunting and farming community -- clashes between the Dogon and the nomadic Fulani have intensified.

Last week, the UN's MINUSMA mission said the Ogossagou massacre had been "planned, organised and coordinated" and could constitute a "crime against humanity."

Mali's president has named a new government after its predecessor resigned last month amid widespread protests over an upsurge of deadly inter-communal violence, a presidency statement said.

Mali's president has named a new government after its predecessor resigned last month amid widespread protests over an upsurge of deadly inter-communal violence, a presidency statement said. Ibrahim Boubacar Keita on Sunday announced the new executive of 37 members under Prime Minister Boubou Cisse, who was appointed on April 22 to oversee the formation of a "broad-based" government. Last week, Cisse signed a pact with opposition and majority party representatives in the capital Bamako, declaring their willingness to set up a "politically-inclusive" new government. Cisse's predecessor Soumeylou Boubeye Maiga and his entire cabinet resigned on April 18 following the massacre of some 160 members of the Fulani herding community on March 23 in the village of Ogossagou near Mali's border with Burkina Faso. Tens of thousands of people took to the streets on April 5 to protest against an upsurge of violence that has claimed around 600 lives, and which demonstrators said the government had failed to stop. The new executive has as its foreign minister Tiebile Drame, who led the election campaign of opposition member Soumaila Cisse against Keita in 2018. Cisse's URD party said it would continue to play a "constructive" opposition role. UN scandal The key portfolio of defence went to General Ibrahim Dahirou Dembele, former army chief of staff under the junta that emerged from a 2012 coup. The role of justice minister went to Malick Coulibaly, president of Mali's National Commission for Human Rights (CNDH), who has held the post before. UNAIDS chief Michel Sidibe, whose tenure at the agency was marred by allegations of serious mismanagement, was appointed health minister, the agency said. It was not immediately clear whether Sidibe will leave his UN post. But he had been scheduled to stand down in June following widespread concerns over his conduct in office, including his handling of sexual assault allegations against one of his top deputies. The new Mali government includes ten women, more than a quarter of the total but fewer than the previous team, which boasted about a third. Since the appearance of a jihadist group under preacher Amadou Koufa in central Mali in 2015, recruiting mainly among the Dogon -- a hunting and farming community -- clashes between the Dogon and the nomadic Fulani have intensified. Last week, the UN's MINUSMA mission said the Ogossagou massacre had been "planned, organised and coordinated" and could constitute a "crime against humanity."

Mali gets new government after protests

Thousands of Algerian students marched Tuesday through the capital calling for the overthrow of the "system" and trials for members of ousted president Abdelaziz Bouteflika's inner circle.

The rallies came as state media reported that Algeria's richest man has been detained in jail after his arrest as part of a corruption probe and Sunday's arrest of four other business tycoons. Some have close links to Bouteflika's entourage.

Students chanting "out with the government" gathered outside the iconic post office in the heart of Algiers as they have every week since the Bouteflika stepped down on April 2 in the face of<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/with-bouteflika-gone-hundreds-of-thousands-protest-in-algeria-to-demand-more-change-209938&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjSiaeSuubhAhW26XMBHfshBdIQFggNMAM&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2YBmp6bTNMU9NeOjBVoCNn"> mass protests against his 20-year rule.</a>

The police dialled down the security presence at the site after deploying en masse last Tuesday to prevent protesters from reaching what has become the emblematic point of rallies since anti-government demonstrations first erupted in February.&nbsp;

"Either it's us, or it's you. Out with the government!" chanted students, many of them draped in Algeria's national flag.&nbsp;

Architecture and civil engineering students wearing white and yellow construction helmets held banners aloft reading "Let's build a new Algeria".&nbsp;

Algerians are demanding a complete overhaul of the political system in the North African country, including the ouster of an interim government set up in the wake of Bouteflika's fall.

They are demanding that regime stalwarts be excluded from any political transition in the country, where presidential elections are due to take place on July 4 according to acting president Abdelkader Bensalah.

"We demand the departure of the entire gang that inherited Bouteflika's reign, headed by Bensalah and (Prime Minister) Noureddine Bedoui," said Hamza, a third-year civil engineering student at the University of Blida south of the capital.&nbsp;

"We want a new system that is committed to fighting the corruption that has plagued the country," said Hamid, a finance student in Algiers.&nbsp;

Issad Rebrab, Algeria's richest man and chief executive of the country's biggest privately-owned conglomerate Cevital, was placed in detention overnight, the APS news agency said.

Late Sunday four brothers from the powerful Kouninef family with links to Said Bouteflika, the younger brother and former advisor of the president, were arrested, state television reported.&nbsp;

The Kouninef family is hugely influential and the four brothers -- Abdelkader, Reda, Karim and Tarek -- have dealings in everything from agribusiness to civil engineering.

Business tycoon Rebrab, however, said last month he backed the protest movement but he has had tense relations with the Algerian authorities, which he accuses of blocking his investments in the country.

Thousands of Algerian students marched Tuesday through the capital calling for the overthrow of the "system" and trials for members of ousted president Abdelaziz Bouteflika's inner circle.

Thousands of Algerian students marched Tuesday through the capital calling for the overthrow of the "system" and trials for members of ousted president Abdelaziz Bouteflika's inner circle. The rallies came as state media reported that Algeria's richest man has been detained in jail after his arrest as part of a corruption probe and Sunday's arrest of four other business tycoons. Some have close links to Bouteflika's entourage. Students chanting "out with the government" gathered outside the iconic post office in the heart of Algiers as they have every week since the Bouteflika stepped down on April 2 in the face of mass protests against his 20-year rule. The police dialled down the security presence at the site after deploying en masse last Tuesday to prevent protesters from reaching what has become the emblematic point of rallies since anti-government demonstrations first erupted in February. "Either it's us, or it's you. Out with the government!" chanted students, many of them draped in Algeria's national flag. Architecture and civil engineering students wearing white and yellow construction helmets held banners aloft reading "Let's build a new Algeria". Algerians are demanding a complete overhaul of the political system in the North African country, including the ouster of an interim government set up in the wake of Bouteflika's fall. They are demanding that regime stalwarts be excluded from any political transition in the country, where presidential elections are due to take place on July 4 according to acting president Abdelkader Bensalah. "We demand the departure of the entire gang that inherited Bouteflika's reign, headed by Bensalah and (Prime Minister) Noureddine Bedoui," said Hamza, a third-year civil engineering student at the University of Blida south of the capital. "We want a new system that is committed to fighting the corruption that has plagued the country," said Hamid, a finance student in Algiers. Issad Rebrab, Algeria's richest man and chief executive of the country's biggest privately-owned conglomerate Cevital, was placed in detention overnight, the APS news agency said. Late Sunday four brothers from the powerful Kouninef family with links to Said Bouteflika, the younger brother and former advisor of the president, were arrested, state television reported. The Kouninef family is hugely influential and the four brothers -- Abdelkader, Reda, Karim and Tarek -- have dealings in everything from agribusiness to civil engineering. Business tycoon Rebrab, however, said last month he backed the protest movement but he has had tense relations with the Algerian authorities, which he accuses of blocking his investments in the country.

Thousands of Algerian students protest, calling for overthrow of the 'system'

Thousands of Sudanese demonstrators marched in Khartoum Saturday, many reaching the army headquarters for the first time since deadly protests against President Omar al-Bashir erupted last year, witnesses said.

Chanting "One Army, One People," the protesters rallied in the capital's streets, following a call by organisers to march on the army headquarters.

Protests have rocked the east African country since December, with angry crowds accusing Bashir's government of mismanaging the economy that has led to soaring food prices and regular shortages of fuel and foreign currency.

On February 22, the veteran leader imposed a nationwide state of emergency to quell the protests after an initial crackdown failed to rein in protesters.

Since the emergency rule came into effect, protests have been largely confined to the capital and its twin city of Omdurman, but organisers had called for widespread rallies and a march on the army headquarters on Saturday.

April 6 was chosen for the nationwide rallies as it was the day of a 1985 uprising that toppled the then regime of president Jaafar Nimeiri.

Before the demonstrations began, security forces deployed in large numbers in key Khartoum squares and in Omdurman, across the Nile.

"There's a heavy security deployment where the protesters were to gather for the march, but they still came out and are chanting anti-government slogans," a witness told AFP without revealing his name for security reasons.

Witnesses said plainclothes security agents were preventing even passers-by from reaching downtown areas.

Shops and markets in downtown Khartoum were ordered shut before the march by security agents, according to onlookers.

"Those walking in groups were immediately detained or asked to return to their homes by security forces," another onlooker said.

In recent days, activists have been circulating leaflets urging residents to participate in Saturday's march, several residents said.

The protest movement was initially led by the Sudanese Professionals Association, but later several political parties including the main opposition National Umma Party threw their support behind it.

Analysts say the movement has emerged as the biggest challenge yet to Bashir's three-decade rule.

The veteran leader has remained defiant, however, and has introduced tough measures that have seen protesters, opposition leaders, activists and journalists arrested.

Officials say 31 people have died in protest-related violence so far, but Human Rights Watch has put the death toll at 51 including children and medics.

Thousands of Sudanese demonstrators marched in Khartoum Saturday, many reaching the army headquarters for the first time since deadly protests against President Omar al-Bashir erupted last year, witnesses said.

Thousands of Sudanese demonstrators marched in Khartoum Saturday, many reaching the army headquarters for the first time since deadly protests against President Omar al-Bashir erupted last year, witnesses said. Chanting "One Army, One People," the protesters rallied in the capital's streets, following a call by organisers to march on the army headquarters. Protests have rocked the east African country since December, with angry crowds accusing Bashir's government of mismanaging the economy that has led to soaring food prices and regular shortages of fuel and foreign currency. On February 22, the veteran leader imposed a nationwide state of emergency to quell the protests after an initial crackdown failed to rein in protesters. Since the emergency rule came into effect, protests have been largely confined to the capital and its twin city of Omdurman, but organisers had called for widespread rallies and a march on the army headquarters on Saturday. April 6 was chosen for the nationwide rallies as it was the day of a 1985 uprising that toppled the then regime of president Jaafar Nimeiri. Before the demonstrations began, security forces deployed in large numbers in key Khartoum squares and in Omdurman, across the Nile. "There's a heavy security deployment where the protesters were to gather for the march, but they still came out and are chanting anti-government slogans," a witness told AFP without revealing his name for security reasons. Witnesses said plainclothes security agents were preventing even passers-by from reaching downtown areas. Shops and markets in downtown Khartoum were ordered shut before the march by security agents, according to onlookers. "Those walking in groups were immediately detained or asked to return to their homes by security forces," another onlooker said. In recent days, activists have been circulating leaflets urging residents to participate in Saturday's march, several residents said. The protest movement was initially led by the Sudanese Professionals Association, but later several political parties including the main opposition National Umma Party threw their support behind it. Analysts say the movement has emerged as the biggest challenge yet to Bashir's three-decade rule. The veteran leader has remained defiant, however, and has introduced tough measures that have seen protesters, opposition leaders, activists and journalists arrested. Officials say 31 people have died in protest-related violence so far, but Human Rights Watch has put the death toll at 51 including children and medics.

Sudan protesters reach army headquarters for first time: Source

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