Thailand's army chief on Tuesday warned against protests after a disputed election, invoking the revered monarchy and castigating people who he said "distort" democracy.

His words were the latest in a series of signals from the military and royalist establishment against opposition parties loyal to ousted ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra.

The inconclusive results to the March 24 election, pitting the party of the junta leader against an opposition alliance, have seen both the pro-army Palang Pracharat party and the opposition claim victory. Final results may not be clear for weeks.

General Apirat Kongsompong said the military would remain neutral in the election, in which his predecessor as army chief, Prayuth Chan-ocha, is seeking to stay in power as an elected prime minister, five years after he seized power in a coup.

"General Prayuth has to be on his own path and the army has to step back," Apirat said. "We cannot get involved in politics."

At the same time, Apirat made clear the military would not allow a repeat of past mass street demonstrations in which both supporters and opponents of Thaksin paralysed Bangkok for months on end.

"I cannot let Thais settle their differences on the streets anymore," Apirat told reporters, adding that both the eventual winners and losers in the election must settle their differences in parliament.

He also had harsh words for politicians he said "distort" democratic principles to make them incompatible with Thai culture that reveres the king above all else, a clear reference to Thaksin's party and its allies.

"This is not right," Apirat said of such politicians. "Thailand is a democracy with the king as the head of state."

Thaksin-loyal parties have won every election since 2001, even after he was ousted in a 2006 coup.

Thaksin has remained an influential political figure despite having lived in self-imposed exile since he fled Thailand in 2008 to escape a corruption trial that he said was politically motivated.

Last week, six other parties joined with the pro-Thaksin Pheu Thai party in a "democratic front" alliance, which they claim will gain enough seats in parliament to try to form a government and block Prayuth from staying in power.

"People should accept winning and losing," Apirat said. "Instead, they constructed a democratic side and a dictatorship side, which is not right. We are all Thais."

The army chief also alluded to an election-eve statement from King Maha Vajiralongkorn, telling reporters on Tuesday "we must choose good people to govern so that bad people don't have power".

King Vajiralongkorn's unexpected statement on March 23, which broke from his late father's practised silence on politics, mentioned "good" and "bad" people but did not specify any one party or politician.

However, less than a week after the vote, the king issued an official command that stripped Thaksin of all royal honours and decorations he had been given.

The king's command came on the heels of military moves to discredit Thaksin.

Last week the military said that Thaksin has acted "dishonourably" and stripped him from a pre-cadet school's achievement award as well as deleting his name from the school's hall of fame. 
&nbsp;

Thailand's army chief on Tuesday warned against protests after a disputed election, invoking the revered monarchy and castigating people who he said "distort" democracy.

Thailand's army chief on Tuesday warned against protests after a disputed election, invoking the revered monarchy and castigating people who he said "distort" democracy. His words were the latest in a series of signals from the military and royalist establishment against opposition parties loyal to ousted ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra. The inconclusive results to the March 24 election, pitting the party of the junta leader against an opposition alliance, have seen both the pro-army Palang Pracharat party and the opposition claim victory. Final results may not be clear for weeks. General Apirat Kongsompong said the military would remain neutral in the election, in which his predecessor as army chief, Prayuth Chan-ocha, is seeking to stay in power as an elected prime minister, five years after he seized power in a coup. "General Prayuth has to be on his own path and the army has to step back," Apirat said. "We cannot get involved in politics." At the same time, Apirat made clear the military would not allow a repeat of past mass street demonstrations in which both supporters and opponents of Thaksin paralysed Bangkok for months on end. "I cannot let Thais settle their differences on the streets anymore," Apirat told reporters, adding that both the eventual winners and losers in the election must settle their differences in parliament. He also had harsh words for politicians he said "distort" democratic principles to make them incompatible with Thai culture that reveres the king above all else, a clear reference to Thaksin's party and its allies. "This is not right," Apirat said of such politicians. "Thailand is a democracy with the king as the head of state." Thaksin-loyal parties have won every election since 2001, even after he was ousted in a 2006 coup. Thaksin has remained an influential political figure despite having lived in self-imposed exile since he fled Thailand in 2008 to escape a corruption trial that he said was politically motivated. Last week, six other parties joined with the pro-Thaksin Pheu Thai party in a "democratic front" alliance, which they claim will gain enough seats in parliament to try to form a government and block Prayuth from staying in power. "People should accept winning and losing," Apirat said. "Instead, they constructed a democratic side and a dictatorship side, which is not right. We are all Thais." The army chief also alluded to an election-eve statement from King Maha Vajiralongkorn, telling reporters on Tuesday "we must choose good people to govern so that bad people don't have power". King Vajiralongkorn's unexpected statement on March 23, which broke from his late father's practised silence on politics, mentioned "good" and "bad" people but did not specify any one party or politician. However, less than a week after the vote, the king issued an official command that stripped Thaksin of all royal honours and decorations he had been given. The king's command came on the heels of military moves to discredit Thaksin. Last week the military said that Thaksin has acted "dishonourably" and stripped him from a pre-cadet school's achievement award as well as deleting his name from the school's hall of fame.

Thai army chief warns against protests after disputed election

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Tens of thousands of Algerian students protested in the capital and other cities for a fifth day running on Tuesday against President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's plan to extend his 20-year rule by seeking a fifth term, witnesses said.

It was the fifth day of demonstrations but the first covered by state media after its journalists called on their employers to allow them to cover the protests.

Students were demanding that Bouteflika, 81, drop his intention to seek re-election in the April 18 presidential vote.

Bouteflika suffered a stroke in 2013, has been seen in public only a few times since and has given no known speeches in years.

Despite the rare outpouring of public dissent, Bouteflika's campaign manager said the president would file formal papers for re-election on March 3, 15 days before the vote.

"Nobody can decide to erase what we have in the constitution," Abdelmalek Sellal told a crowd of Bouteflika supporters in televised remarks. "It is his right to be a candidate."

The student protesters, who chanted "peaceful, peaceful" and "no to a fifth term", were also asking for government steps to provide jobs. More than a quarter of Algerians under 30 are unemployed.

"Many young people got their university degree but they are still unemployed," said a student who gave his name as Djahid.

Hundreds marched in central Algiers while other students held rallies inside faculties as police sought to prevent them leaving the university to link up with counterparts in the streets.

Rallies drawing up to thousands of people were also held in towns including Bejaia, Tizi Ouzou, Blida and Bouira, residents there told Reuters by telephone.

The state news agency APS said the protesters were demanding "change and reform". State television showed for the first time in its main evening news footage of demonstrations.

Bouteflika has not directly addressed the protests. The authorities said he would be travel to Geneva for unspecified medical checks, although there was no official confirmation he had left.

TABOO ON OPEN DISSENT BROKEN?

Many Algerians for years avoided politics in public, fearing trouble from the omnipresent security services, or having simply stopped caring as the country has been run by the same group of veterans since the 1954-1962 independence war with France.

Bouteflika himself has ruled since 1999 and stamped out a decade-long Islamist insurgency early in his rule. Many Algerians have long tolerated a political system with little space for dissent as a price to pay for peace and stability.

But the new protest waves appear to have broken the long taboo on public discussion of politics.

According to Bouteflika's opponents, there is no evidence he is in fit enough health to lead the country and that it is being ruled in his name by advisers. Authorities say he retains a firm grip on public affairs despite the rarity of his appearances.

A weak and divided opposition faces high hurdles in mounting an electoral challenge. Since the long-ruling FLN party again picked Bouteflika as its presidential candidate, several parties, trade unions and business groups have endorsed him.

Lower oil prices in recent years have damaged Algeria's economy, rekindling discontent.

Tens of thousands of Algerian students protested in the capital and other cities for a fifth day running on Tuesday against President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's plan to extend his 20-year rule by seeking a fifth term, witnesses said.

Tens of thousands of Algerian students protested in the capital and other cities for a fifth day running on Tuesday against President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's plan to extend his 20-year rule by seeking a fifth term, witnesses said. It was the fifth day of demonstrations but the first covered by state media after its journalists called on their employers to allow them to cover the protests. Students were demanding that Bouteflika, 81, drop his intention to seek re-election in the April 18 presidential vote. Bouteflika suffered a stroke in 2013, has been seen in public only a few times since and has given no known speeches in years. Despite the rare outpouring of public dissent, Bouteflika's campaign manager said the president would file formal papers for re-election on March 3, 15 days before the vote. "Nobody can decide to erase what we have in the constitution," Abdelmalek Sellal told a crowd of Bouteflika supporters in televised remarks. "It is his right to be a candidate." The student protesters, who chanted "peaceful, peaceful" and "no to a fifth term", were also asking for government steps to provide jobs. More than a quarter of Algerians under 30 are unemployed. "Many young people got their university degree but they are still unemployed," said a student who gave his name as Djahid. Hundreds marched in central Algiers while other students held rallies inside faculties as police sought to prevent them leaving the university to link up with counterparts in the streets. Rallies drawing up to thousands of people were also held in towns including Bejaia, Tizi Ouzou, Blida and Bouira, residents there told Reuters by telephone. The state news agency APS said the protesters were demanding "change and reform". State television showed for the first time in its main evening news footage of demonstrations. Bouteflika has not directly addressed the protests. The authorities said he would be travel to Geneva for unspecified medical checks, although there was no official confirmation he had left. TABOO ON OPEN DISSENT BROKEN? Many Algerians for years avoided politics in public, fearing trouble from the omnipresent security services, or having simply stopped caring as the country has been run by the same group of veterans since the 1954-1962 independence war with France. Bouteflika himself has ruled since 1999 and stamped out a decade-long Islamist insurgency early in his rule. Many Algerians have long tolerated a political system with little space for dissent as a price to pay for peace and stability. But the new protest waves appear to have broken the long taboo on public discussion of politics. According to Bouteflika's opponents, there is no evidence he is in fit enough health to lead the country and that it is being ruled in his name by advisers. Authorities say he retains a firm grip on public affairs despite the rarity of his appearances. A weak and divided opposition faces high hurdles in mounting an electoral challenge. Since the long-ruling FLN party again picked Bouteflika as its presidential candidate, several parties, trade unions and business groups have endorsed him. Lower oil prices in recent years have damaged Algeria's economy, rekindling discontent.

Algeria: Tens of thousands of students extend protests against President Bouteflika

Protests were held at various places on Saturday in Nepal over Pulwama terror attack in which over 40 security personnel were killed.

Hundreds of people gathered at Parsa, Majottari Rupandehi and other adjoining districts staged demonstration, condemning the attack and expressing solidarity with India, according to officials.

Over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed on February 14 in one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir when a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) rammed a vehicle carrying a huge quantity of explosives into their bus in Pulwama district.

Meanwhile, the staff members working in the Indian Mission in Nepal donated their one day salary for the fallen soldiers.

"We have decided to donate our one day salary for the family members of the deceased soldiers who were deliberately targeted for doing their job.

"Around hundred people, who are currently working in the Indian Embassy, have made the contribution because we firmly believe that terrorism cannot be justified in any way and we are with our Indian friends," said an Indian Embassy staffer.

A candlelight vigil was also observed on Friday.

Protests were held at various places on Saturday in Nepal over Pulwama terror attack in which over 40 security personnel were killed. Hundreds of people gathered at Parsa, Majottari Rupandehi and other adjoining districts staged demonstration, condemning the attack and expressing solidarity with India, according to officials.

Protests were held at various places on Saturday in Nepal over Pulwama terror attack in which over 40 security personnel were killed. Hundreds of people gathered at Parsa, Majottari Rupandehi and other adjoining districts staged demonstration, condemning the attack and expressing solidarity with India, according to officials. Over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed on February 14 in one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir when a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) rammed a vehicle carrying a huge quantity of explosives into their bus in Pulwama district. Meanwhile, the staff members working in the Indian Mission in Nepal donated their one day salary for the fallen soldiers. "We have decided to donate our one day salary for the family members of the deceased soldiers who were deliberately targeted for doing their job. "Around hundred people, who are currently working in the Indian Embassy, have made the contribution because we firmly believe that terrorism cannot be justified in any way and we are with our Indian friends," said an Indian Embassy staffer. A candlelight vigil was also observed on Friday.

Protests in Nepal against Pulwama terror attack

Two opposition leaders in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/eu-warns-nicaragua-of-sanctions-over-rights-abuses-191810">Nicaragua were handed sentences</a> of more than 200 years on Monday for participating in violent protests last year against President Daniel Ortega that left 325 people dead, their lawyer said.

Medardo Mairena was sentenced to 216 years in prison for "terrorism" and six other offences related to his participation in the protests that caused the death of four police officers and a civilian said lawyer Julio Montenegro from the non-governmental Permanent Commission for Human Rights.

Pedro Mena was given 210 years for terrorism and other offences.

Montenegro described the sentences as "unprecedented" and "overly exaggerated."

The two opposition leaders will serve only 30 years in prison, though, as that is the maximum allowed in Nicaraguan law.

Mairena is one of the leaders of the Civic Alliance for Justice and Democracy, an opposition group that was formed in May to try to find a solution to the country's political crisis through dialogue with the government.

Protests had begun in April and escalated quickly as they were met by a brutal government crackdown.

The talks broke down in June as Ortega refused the opposition's main demands to step down and bring forward presidential elections.

Protests lasted until October and as well as the many dead, more than 750 people were arrested and accused of terrorism.

The Nicaraguan opposition accuses former guerrilla leader Ortega, in power since 2007, of establishing a corrupt dictatorship with his wife and vice president Rosario Murillo.

Two opposition leaders in Nicaragua were handed sentences of more than 200 years on Monday for participating in violent protests last year against President Daniel Ortega that left 325 people dead, their lawyer said.

Two opposition leaders in Nicaragua were handed sentences of more than 200 years on Monday for participating in violent protests last year against President Daniel Ortega that left 325 people dead, their lawyer said. Medardo Mairena was sentenced to 216 years in prison for "terrorism" and six other offences related to his participation in the protests that caused the death of four police officers and a civilian said lawyer Julio Montenegro from the non-governmental Permanent Commission for Human Rights. Pedro Mena was given 210 years for terrorism and other offences. Montenegro described the sentences as "unprecedented" and "overly exaggerated." The two opposition leaders will serve only 30 years in prison, though, as that is the maximum allowed in Nicaraguan law. Mairena is one of the leaders of the Civic Alliance for Justice and Democracy, an opposition group that was formed in May to try to find a solution to the country's political crisis through dialogue with the government. Protests had begun in April and escalated quickly as they were met by a brutal government crackdown. The talks broke down in June as Ortega refused the opposition's main demands to step down and bring forward presidential elections. Protests lasted until October and as well as the many dead, more than 750 people were arrested and accused of terrorism. The Nicaraguan opposition accuses former guerrilla leader Ortega, in power since 2007, of establishing a corrupt dictatorship with his wife and vice president Rosario Murillo.

Nicaraguan opposition leaders sentenced to 200 years over protests

In pictures: 'Seeking independence is not a crime,' Barcelona protesters say, take to streets demanding justice

Seven <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-police-fire-rubber-bullets-tear-gas-to-scatter-ethnic-minority-protest-196896">Myanmar</a> students were sentenced to three months in jail with hard labour for burning portraits of officials in protest over campus safety, a student activist said Wednesday, the latest draconian response to rippling discontent with authorities.&nbsp;

Those jailed were among dozens enacting a mock funeral on December 28 calling for more security at a Mandalay university in central<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-activists-charged-after-protesting-independence-hero-statue-196112"> Myanmar </a>after a student's murder near its campus.&nbsp;

They burned paper coffins and portraits of the city's chief minister, Myanmar's security and home affairs ministers, and the head of the university, calling for increased security around the students' compound.

Three people were arrested during the protest and four others were detained a few days later when they rallied for their peers' release.&nbsp;

The seven students were each sentenced to a total of three months in prison with hard labour for protesting without permission and arson, student leader Ei Mon Khin told AFP by phone from the court.&nbsp;

"They will be taken to Obo prison in Mandalay later," she said.&nbsp;

Time served will be deducted from their sentences, meaning they face a further one and a half months in jail.

This is one of several recent examples of a heavy-handed response to protests by authorities.

On Tuesday police fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse a crowd of several thousand in eastern Kayah state, the latest in a string of rallies against a statue of Aung San, father of civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

He is widely revered by the majority ethnic Bamar (Burmese) population as an independence hero but is viewed critically among many ethnic minority groups, who see him as a symbol of Bamar domination.

Police agreed Tuesday evening to release dozens of arrested protesters in return for a suspension of the rallies while talks take place, state-run Global New Light of Myanmar reported, a development welcomed by rights groups.

"The Myanmar authorities have a long history of using excessive and lethal force against peaceful protesters," said Fortify Rights CEO Matthew Smith.&nbsp;

"The government needs to break the trend now."

Seven Myanmar students were sentenced to three months in jail with hard labour for burning portraits of officials in protest over campus safety, a student activist said Wednesday, the latest draconian response to rippling discontent with authorities.

Seven Myanmar students were sentenced to three months in jail with hard labour for burning portraits of officials in protest over campus safety, a student activist said Wednesday, the latest draconian response to rippling discontent with authorities. Those jailed were among dozens enacting a mock funeral on December 28 calling for more security at a Mandalay university in central Myanmar after a student's murder near its campus. They burned paper coffins and portraits of the city's chief minister, Myanmar's security and home affairs ministers, and the head of the university, calling for increased security around the students' compound. Three people were arrested during the protest and four others were detained a few days later when they rallied for their peers' release. The seven students were each sentenced to a total of three months in prison with hard labour for protesting without permission and arson, student leader Ei Mon Khin told AFP by phone from the court. "They will be taken to Obo prison in Mandalay later," she said. Time served will be deducted from their sentences, meaning they face a further one and a half months in jail. This is one of several recent examples of a heavy-handed response to protests by authorities. On Tuesday police fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse a crowd of several thousand in eastern Kayah state, the latest in a string of rallies against a statue of Aung San, father of civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi. He is widely revered by the majority ethnic Bamar (Burmese) population as an independence hero but is viewed critically among many ethnic minority groups, who see him as a symbol of Bamar domination. Police agreed Tuesday evening to release dozens of arrested protesters in return for a suspension of the rallies while talks take place, state-run Global New Light of Myanmar reported, a development welcomed by rights groups. "The Myanmar authorities have a long history of using excessive and lethal force against peaceful protesters," said Fortify Rights CEO Matthew Smith. "The government needs to break the trend now."

Myanmar students sentenced to hard labour over protest demanding campus safety

Myanmar police fired rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannon on Tuesday to disperse a <a href="http://13.232.42.114/south-asia/myanmar-activists-charged-after-protesting-independence-hero-statue-196112">protest over a statue of independence hero General Aung San</a> that is opposed by members of the Karenni ethnic minority, police and a protest leader said.

Organisers said at least 3,000 people had gathered on the Union Day holiday in Loikaw, the capital of the mountainous eastern state of Kayah, also known as Karenni, despite being denied permission for the demonstration.

"We are not objecting to the general's statue itself - we are demanding to implement his promises first," Khun Thomas, a leader of the Karenni State Youth Force, said at the protest, broadcast live on Facebook using smartphones.

"We are going to continue our protest."

The father of Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi, Aung San was the architect of a February 12, 1947 pact among some ethnic groups which is marked by the annual holiday, but which, minorities say, was never realised after his assassination that year.

On taking power in 2016, after decades of military-led governments, Suu Kyi set her top priority as securing peace with ethnic armed groups, but slow progress and rising dissatisfaction with her party in minority areas pose a challenge for elections set for next year.

Participants in Tuesday's protest, the largest in a series that began in the state in mid-2018 after officials announced plans to install the statue, demanded that its top official and finance minister resign for failing to negotiate with them.

More than 10 people suffered minor injuries in the police effort to scatter the protest, Khun Thomas told Reuters by telephone. Images posted on social media showed circular wounds on the faces and torsos of young men wearing traditional tunics.

The police tactics were meant only to intimidate protesters with noise, police chief Win Htay said.

"The situation is stable now," he added. "The kids are just showing their opinion."

This month's unveiling of the Loikaw statue, depicting the general in gold atop a horse, has revived the trend of protests, in which a total of 54 people have been charged since last year with unlawful assembly, incitement and defamation.

On Facebook, youth activists said they planned a separate protest in the commercial capital of Yangon on Tuesday to show support for the Loikaw demonstrators.

Myanmar police fired rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannon on Tuesday to disperse a protest over a statue of independence hero General Aung San that is opposed by members of the Karenni ethnic minority, police and a protest leader said.

Myanmar police fired rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannon on Tuesday to disperse a protest over a statue of independence hero General Aung San that is opposed by members of the Karenni ethnic minority, police and a protest leader said. Organisers said at least 3,000 people had gathered on the Union Day holiday in Loikaw, the capital of the mountainous eastern state of Kayah, also known as Karenni, despite being denied permission for the demonstration. "We are not objecting to the general's statue itself - we are demanding to implement his promises first," Khun Thomas, a leader of the Karenni State Youth Force, said at the protest, broadcast live on Facebook using smartphones. "We are going to continue our protest." The father of Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi, Aung San was the architect of a February 12, 1947 pact among some ethnic groups which is marked by the annual holiday, but which, minorities say, was never realised after his assassination that year. On taking power in 2016, after decades of military-led governments, Suu Kyi set her top priority as securing peace with ethnic armed groups, but slow progress and rising dissatisfaction with her party in minority areas pose a challenge for elections set for next year. Participants in Tuesday's protest, the largest in a series that began in the state in mid-2018 after officials announced plans to install the statue, demanded that its top official and finance minister resign for failing to negotiate with them. More than 10 people suffered minor injuries in the police effort to scatter the protest, Khun Thomas told Reuters by telephone. Images posted on social media showed circular wounds on the faces and torsos of young men wearing traditional tunics. The police tactics were meant only to intimidate protesters with noise, police chief Win Htay said. "The situation is stable now," he added. "The kids are just showing their opinion." This month's unveiling of the Loikaw statue, depicting the general in gold atop a horse, has revived the trend of protests, in which a total of 54 people have been charged since last year with unlawful assembly, incitement and defamation. On Facebook, youth activists said they planned a separate protest in the commercial capital of Yangon on Tuesday to show support for the Loikaw demonstrators.

Myanmar police fire rubber bullets, tear gas to scatter ethnic minority protest

Twelve Catalan secessionist leaders go on trial in Spain's Supreme Court on Tuesday, charged for their role in a failed independence bid 16 months ago that deeply divided the country and triggered the biggest <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-clamor-for-fresh-elections-in-spain-as-catalan-crisis-trundles-on-196712">political crisis </a>in decades.

Hundreds of police, including from anti-terrorism units, have been deployed around the Supreme Court building in central Madrid.

The defendants, f<a href="ww.wionews.com/world/meet-the-lawyers-who-will-defend-catalan-separatists-in-spains-supreme-court-195992">acing charges of rebellion </a>and misuse of public funds, will not speak in court on the first day of the trial, which is reserved for procedural issues. Nine of the defendants have been jailed without bail since late 2017 and early 2018.

The attempt to declare Catalonia's independence in October 2017 followed a referendum that had been carried out in defiance of a judicial ban and angered much of the rest of Spain. There was a shock at home and abroad when police used batons and rubber bullets on protesters on the day of the vote.

Supporters of the defendants say they are political prisoners and that the trial itself is political.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/madrid-demonstrators-reject-governments-catalonia-policy-196493">"The world is looking at Madrid</a> ... what they want is not to judge but to condemn on political reasons," Olivier Peter, a lawyer for one of the accused, told reporters on Monday.

The government rejects this, saying the defendants have broken the law and judges are handling the case without political interference, in line with the rule of law.

Secessionists have called on Catalans to briefly stop work at midday on Tuesday in protest against the trial and to join a rally in Barcelona in the evening. Another big demonstration is planned for Saturday and a general strike on February 21.

The political right organised a mass protest on Sunday in Madrid against any concessions by Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez to Catalan pro-independence parties.

The centre-right party Ciudadanos has called another rally next Sunday in Barcelona "in defence of the Constitution".

The pro-independence head of the Catalan regional government, Quim Torra, who will attend the opening session of the trial, called for the acquittal of the defendants.

The public prosecutor is seeking prison terms of up to 25 years.

The Geneva-based International Commission of Jurists, a human rights group of judges and lawyers, said the case risked restricting rights and could set a precedent.

"Vague, broadly defined offences of sedition or rebellion risk violation of the principle of legality, as well as an arbitrary and disproportionate interference with human rights," it said.

The trail starts as Sanchez's minority government faces a vote on the 2019 budget on Wednesday for which it needs the support of Catalan parties. They have so far vowed to block the bill, citing Sanchez's refusal to discuss independence, despite his efforts to ease tensions with the Catalans through talks.

Failure to approve the budget is likely to prompt a snap parliamentary election this year.

Twelve Catalan secessionist leaders go on trial in Spain's Supreme Court on Tuesday, charged for their role in a failed independence bid 16 months ago that deeply divided the country and triggered the biggest political crisis in decades.

Twelve Catalan secessionist leaders go on trial in Spain's Supreme Court on Tuesday, charged for their role in a failed independence bid 16 months ago that deeply divided the country and triggered the biggest political crisis in decades. Hundreds of police, including from anti-terrorism units, have been deployed around the Supreme Court building in central Madrid. The defendants, facing charges of rebellion and misuse of public funds, will not speak in court on the first day of the trial, which is reserved for procedural issues. Nine of the defendants have been jailed without bail since late 2017 and early 2018. The attempt to declare Catalonia's independence in October 2017 followed a referendum that had been carried out in defiance of a judicial ban and angered much of the rest of Spain. There was a shock at home and abroad when police used batons and rubber bullets on protesters on the day of the vote. Supporters of the defendants say they are political prisoners and that the trial itself is political. "The world is looking at Madrid ... what they want is not to judge but to condemn on political reasons," Olivier Peter, a lawyer for one of the accused, told reporters on Monday. The government rejects this, saying the defendants have broken the law and judges are handling the case without political interference, in line with the rule of law. Secessionists have called on Catalans to briefly stop work at midday on Tuesday in protest against the trial and to join a rally in Barcelona in the evening. Another big demonstration is planned for Saturday and a general strike on February 21. The political right organised a mass protest on Sunday in Madrid against any concessions by Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez to Catalan pro-independence parties. The centre-right party Ciudadanos has called another rally next Sunday in Barcelona "in defence of the Constitution". The pro-independence head of the Catalan regional government, Quim Torra, who will attend the opening session of the trial, called for the acquittal of the defendants. The public prosecutor is seeking prison terms of up to 25 years. The Geneva-based International Commission of Jurists, a human rights group of judges and lawyers, said the case risked restricting rights and could set a precedent. "Vague, broadly defined offences of sedition or rebellion risk violation of the principle of legality, as well as an arbitrary and disproportionate interference with human rights," it said. The trail starts as Sanchez's minority government faces a vote on the 2019 budget on Wednesday for which it needs the support of Catalan parties. They have so far vowed to block the bill, citing Sanchez's refusal to discuss independence, despite his efforts to ease tensions with the Catalans through talks. Failure to approve the budget is likely to prompt a snap parliamentary election this year.

Tensions high as Spain starts trial of Catalan separatists

Tens of thousands of people waving Spain's red-and-yellow flag demonstrated in Madrid on Sunday to oppose any concessions by the government to Catalan pro-independence parties and to call for early elections.

Demonstrators chanting "Spain! Spain!" and "We want to vote!" filled the Plaza de Colon in the city centre in the largest protest Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has faced in eight months in office.

The opposition centre-right and far-right parties called the rally, seeking to make a show of force against Sanchez by capitalising on anger with Catalonia's separatist leaders and the government's efforts to establish a dialogue with them.

Around 45,000 people attended, officials said.

The government's proposal last Tuesday to appoint a rapporteur in talks among political parties to address the Catalan independence crisis galvanized the opposition, which has deemed it a betrayal and a surrender to pressure from Catalan separatists.

"The time of Sanchez's government has ended," Popular Party leader Pablo Casado told reporters before the protest. Some banners at the rally read "Sanchez, liar" and "Spain is not negotiable and cannot be sold".

Sanchez, who replaced a conservative government last June in a vote of confidence, holds just a quarter of the seats in parliament and relies on backing from anti-austerity party Podemos, Catalan nationalists and other small parties to pass laws.

The government is squeezed on both sides of the Catalan issue: Deputy Prime Minister Carmen Calvo said on Friday the talks were on track to fail because Catalan pro-independence groups had rejected the government's proposed framework. The Catalan groups want a referendum on independence included on the agenda, which Madrid will not accept.

UNITY?

Ana Puente, a 73-year-old retiree who attended the gathering, said she was protesting for a "united Spain".

"The government is giving many things to supporters of Catalan independence and is going to break Spain apart," said Raquel García, 76, who was carrying a Spanish flag.

Sanchez rejected that argument, telling a separate rally in the northern city of Santander: "The government works for the unity of Spain and that means to unify Spaniards and not to put one against the other as the right is doing today in Colon square."

The protest took place two days before the start of the trial of 12 Catalan independence leaders, who face up to 25 years in prison on charges of rebellion and misuse of public funds for their role in a failed secession bid from Spain that they are accused of spearheading in 2017.

The government faces a key vote on Wednesday on its 2019 budget proposal, which will likely fail without the support of Catalan parties. But those parties have said their vote for the budget is conditional on the Catalan talks including the issue of independence, something the government will not include.

Failure by parliament to approve the budget bill could prompt a snap election before the next scheduled vote in 2020.

Recent opinion polls have shown the conservative Popular Party, center-right Ciudadanos and far-right Vox could together win a majority of seats in parliament if elections were held, allowing them to replace the Socialist government.

Tens of thousands of people waving Spain's red-and-yellow flag demonstrated in Madrid on Sunday to oppose any concessions by the government to Catalan pro-independence parties and to call for early elections.

Tens of thousands of people waving Spain's red-and-yellow flag demonstrated in Madrid on Sunday to oppose any concessions by the government to Catalan pro-independence parties and to call for early elections. Demonstrators chanting "Spain! Spain!" and "We want to vote!" filled the Plaza de Colon in the city centre in the largest protest Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has faced in eight months in office. The opposition centre-right and far-right parties called the rally, seeking to make a show of force against Sanchez by capitalising on anger with Catalonia's separatist leaders and the government's efforts to establish a dialogue with them. Around 45,000 people attended, officials said. The government's proposal last Tuesday to appoint a rapporteur in talks among political parties to address the Catalan independence crisis galvanized the opposition, which has deemed it a betrayal and a surrender to pressure from Catalan separatists. "The time of Sanchez's government has ended," Popular Party leader Pablo Casado told reporters before the protest. Some banners at the rally read "Sanchez, liar" and "Spain is not negotiable and cannot be sold". Sanchez, who replaced a conservative government last June in a vote of confidence, holds just a quarter of the seats in parliament and relies on backing from anti-austerity party Podemos, Catalan nationalists and other small parties to pass laws. The government is squeezed on both sides of the Catalan issue: Deputy Prime Minister Carmen Calvo said on Friday the talks were on track to fail because Catalan pro-independence groups had rejected the government's proposed framework. The Catalan groups want a referendum on independence included on the agenda, which Madrid will not accept. UNITY? Ana Puente, a 73-year-old retiree who attended the gathering, said she was protesting for a "united Spain". "The government is giving many things to supporters of Catalan independence and is going to break Spain apart," said Raquel García, 76, who was carrying a Spanish flag. Sanchez rejected that argument, telling a separate rally in the northern city of Santander: "The government works for the unity of Spain and that means to unify Spaniards and not to put one against the other as the right is doing today in Colon square." The protest took place two days before the start of the trial of 12 Catalan independence leaders, who face up to 25 years in prison on charges of rebellion and misuse of public funds for their role in a failed secession bid from Spain that they are accused of spearheading in 2017. The government faces a key vote on Wednesday on its 2019 budget proposal, which will likely fail without the support of Catalan parties. But those parties have said their vote for the budget is conditional on the Catalan talks including the issue of independence, something the government will not include. Failure by parliament to approve the budget bill could prompt a snap election before the next scheduled vote in 2020. Recent opinion polls have shown the conservative Popular Party, center-right Ciudadanos and far-right Vox could together win a majority of seats in parliament if elections were held, allowing them to replace the Socialist government.

Madrid demonstrators reject government's Catalonia policy

France's parliament on Tuesday passed a bill aimed at curbing violent protests in response to three months of anti-government demonstrations by the grassroots "yellow vests" movement.

Despite criticism that the law could curb civil liberties, it passed the lower house, the national assembly, by 387 votes to 92 thanks to the comfortable majority enjoyed by President Emmanuel Macron's centrist LREM party. It will now be discussed in the upper house, but the assembly has the last word.

The "anti-casseurs" (anti-hooligan) law bans protesters from hiding their faces, gives police greater powers to extract potential trouble-makers from demonstrations, and grants local authorities the right to ban individual protesters.

The "yellow vest" movement erupted in November as a protest against fuel taxes but has morphed into a broader revolt against inequality and Macron's presidency. It takes its name from the fluorescent vests that motorists in France carry in their cars.

Rioters ran amok in Paris during the early street protests, torching cars, smashing luxury boutiques and defacing the Arc de Triomphe. It was among the worst violence the capital has experienced since a 1968 student uprising.

France's parliament on Tuesday passed a bill aimed at curbing violent protests in response to three months of anti-government demonstrations by the grassroots "yellow vests" movement.

France's parliament on Tuesday passed a bill aimed at curbing violent protests in response to three months of anti-government demonstrations by the grassroots "yellow vests" movement. Despite criticism that the law could curb civil liberties, it passed the lower house, the national assembly, by 387 votes to 92 thanks to the comfortable majority enjoyed by President Emmanuel Macron's centrist LREM party. It will now be discussed in the upper house, but the assembly has the last word. The "anti-casseurs" (anti-hooligan) law bans protesters from hiding their faces, gives police greater powers to extract potential trouble-makers from demonstrations, and grants local authorities the right to ban individual protesters. The "yellow vest" movement erupted in November as a protest against fuel taxes but has morphed into a broader revolt against inequality and Macron's presidency. It takes its name from the fluorescent vests that motorists in France carry in their cars. Rioters ran amok in Paris during the early street protests, torching cars, smashing luxury boutiques and defacing the Arc de Triomphe. It was among the worst violence the capital has experienced since a 1968 student uprising.

French parliament passes law to curb violent protests

The Nepali Congress (NC), on Monday, took to the roads here to protest against the government, claiming that the activities of the government are going against the public interest.

“The Constitutional Council appoints ambassadors and head of other constitutional bodies.&nbsp;

While making the decisions from the council, the government has been making decisions on its own.

The provisions regarding the attorney of the appointments to be made by the cabinet and the constitutional council are mentioned on the constitution itself.&nbsp;

The President of the opposition party is must during the meeting and upon bearing the post. Sher Bahadur Deuba (NC President) should be present there," Bimalendra Nidhi, a senior leader from the opposition party said while addressing the protest in Janakpur.

"Without inviting or informing Sher Bahadur Deuba over the meeting you have heard that the ambassadors were appointed. The Nepali Congress then denounced the meeting. This is proof of the incumbent Communist Party’s Prime Minister and the Oli Government not following the democratic process, not as per the Constitution but going against it and defying it which works against the public will,” Nidhi further said.

The NC, which is also the largest opposition party, claim that the anti-government protest rallies were organized in all the 77 districts of the country against the “tyranny of the State”.

Along with this, the opposition has also blamed the government of marching against the will of the Constitution - Defying it, playing role in consolidating corruption, rape and crime, hefty hike in the market price, tax burden and bad governance.

The Central Committee meeting of the opposition Nepali Congress last month decided to organize demonstrations against the government.&nbsp;

The opposition previously has shown its solidarity over the demands of so-called `social activist` Dr Govinda KC when it staged protests in the Parliament, throwing the procession off the track.

The NC has also protested against the government’s step of endorsing the National Medical Education Bill, despite the protests and the objections.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Nepali Congress (NC), on Monday, took to the roads here to protest against the government, claiming that the activities of the government are going against the public interest.

The Nepali Congress (NC), on Monday, took to the roads here to protest against the government, claiming that the activities of the government are going against the public interest. “The Constitutional Council appoints ambassadors and head of other constitutional bodies. While making the decisions from the council, the government has been making decisions on its own. The provisions regarding the attorney of the appointments to be made by the cabinet and the constitutional council are mentioned on the constitution itself. The President of the opposition party is must during the meeting and upon bearing the post. Sher Bahadur Deuba (NC President) should be present there," Bimalendra Nidhi, a senior leader from the opposition party said while addressing the protest in Janakpur. "Without inviting or informing Sher Bahadur Deuba over the meeting you have heard that the ambassadors were appointed. The Nepali Congress then denounced the meeting. This is proof of the incumbent Communist Party’s Prime Minister and the Oli Government not following the democratic process, not as per the Constitution but going against it and defying it which works against the public will,” Nidhi further said. The NC, which is also the largest opposition party, claim that the anti-government protest rallies were organized in all the 77 districts of the country against the “tyranny of the State”. Along with this, the opposition has also blamed the government of marching against the will of the Constitution - Defying it, playing role in consolidating corruption, rape and crime, hefty hike in the market price, tax burden and bad governance. The Central Committee meeting of the opposition Nepali Congress last month decided to organize demonstrations against the government. The opposition previously has shown its solidarity over the demands of so-called `social activist` Dr Govinda KC when it staged protests in the Parliament, throwing the procession off the track. The NC has also protested against the government’s step of endorsing the National Medical Education Bill, despite the protests and the objections.

Nepal Opposition stages nationwide anti-government protests

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/sudans-bashir-fights-for-survival-as-protests-spread-193195">Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir</a> on Sunday pledged to bolster rural development, as he seeks to face down anti-government demonstrations that have rocked cities and villages.

The veteran leader has been on a charm offensive with rallies across the country in a bid to head off weeks of protests seen as the biggest threat to his 30-year rule.

On Sunday, he travelled across North Kordofan, addressing hundreds of people in three separate televised rallies, including a night-time event in the state capital of Al-Obeid.

In the morning he addressed hundreds of villagers in the day's first rally, promising to bring clean drinking water to rural areas "across Sudan".

The speech came after he inaugurated a new 340-kilometre (210 miles) highway linking North Kordofan to Omdurman, the twin city of Khartoum.

"Building such a road in present economic conditions is not an easy thing to achieve," said Bashir, after being escorted to the stage by dozens of men on camels as crowds of villagers clapped and whistled to Sudanese tunes.

"Along this road, we will bring electricity to boost the region's growth."

Hours later Bashir addressed a second rally where he called on the country's young men and women to help develop the country.

"The youth, for whom we have built universities, have to be ready to continue with the mission of building a new Sudan," he said in a village where hundreds had gathered.

The statement came after Prime Minister Moutaz Mousa Abdallah on Saturday called the protest movement a "respectable youth movement" and said its voice should be heeded.

As darkness fell, Bashir, dressed in traditional robe and turban, spoke to hundreds of cheering supporters, including students, at an open-air stadium in Al-Obeid where authorities have renovated an existing hospital.

"Patients often go to England, India or Jordan for surgeries, but now we can do them at Al-Obeid," he said as crowds cheered and loyalists set off fireworks.

Demonstrations erupted in Sudan in December after a government decision to triple the price of bread unleashed frustrations at years of deteriorating living conditions and growing hardship.

Officials say 30 people have died in protest-related violence, while rights group Human Rights Watch says at least 51 have been killed.

Bashir's attempts to rally support have so far failed to halt the wave of discontent, with the group leading the demonstrations calling for fresh protests over the next few days starting Sunday night.

Late on Sunday, a group of protesters chanted "revolution, revolution," in a neighbourhood of Omdurman, witnesses said.

Bashir and other senior Sudanese officials have repeatedly said that the government can be changed only through elections.

The leader, who came to power in an Islamist-backed coup in 1989, is considering running for a third elected presidential term in polls due next year.

Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on Sunday pledged to bolster rural development, as he seeks to face down anti-government demonstrations that have rocked cities and villages.

Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on Sunday pledged to bolster rural development, as he seeks to face down anti-government demonstrations that have rocked cities and villages. The veteran leader has been on a charm offensive with rallies across the country in a bid to head off weeks of protests seen as the biggest threat to his 30-year rule. On Sunday, he travelled across North Kordofan, addressing hundreds of people in three separate televised rallies, including a night-time event in the state capital of Al-Obeid. In the morning he addressed hundreds of villagers in the day's first rally, promising to bring clean drinking water to rural areas "across Sudan". The speech came after he inaugurated a new 340-kilometre (210 miles) highway linking North Kordofan to Omdurman, the twin city of Khartoum. "Building such a road in present economic conditions is not an easy thing to achieve," said Bashir, after being escorted to the stage by dozens of men on camels as crowds of villagers clapped and whistled to Sudanese tunes. "Along this road, we will bring electricity to boost the region's growth." Hours later Bashir addressed a second rally where he called on the country's young men and women to help develop the country. "The youth, for whom we have built universities, have to be ready to continue with the mission of building a new Sudan," he said in a village where hundreds had gathered. The statement came after Prime Minister Moutaz Mousa Abdallah on Saturday called the protest movement a "respectable youth movement" and said its voice should be heeded. As darkness fell, Bashir, dressed in traditional robe and turban, spoke to hundreds of cheering supporters, including students, at an open-air stadium in Al-Obeid where authorities have renovated an existing hospital. "Patients often go to England, India or Jordan for surgeries, but now we can do them at Al-Obeid," he said as crowds cheered and loyalists set off fireworks. Demonstrations erupted in Sudan in December after a government decision to triple the price of bread unleashed frustrations at years of deteriorating living conditions and growing hardship. Officials say 30 people have died in protest-related violence, while rights group Human Rights Watch says at least 51 have been killed. Bashir's attempts to rally support have so far failed to halt the wave of discontent, with the group leading the demonstrations calling for fresh protests over the next few days starting Sunday night. Late on Sunday, a group of protesters chanted "revolution, revolution," in a neighbourhood of Omdurman, witnesses said. Bashir and other senior Sudanese officials have repeatedly said that the government can be changed only through elections. The leader, who came to power in an Islamist-backed coup in 1989, is considering running for a third elected presidential term in polls due next year.

Sudan's Bashir vows rural development as new protests loom

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-president-bashir-extends-ceasefire-in-two-war-zones-193707">Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir</a> on Sunday pledged to bolster rural development, as he seeks to face down anti-government demonstrations that have rocked cities and villages.

The veteran leader has been on a charm offensive with rallies across the country in a bid to head off weeks of protests seen as the biggest threat to his 30-year rule.&nbsp;

Addressing hundreds of villagers in North Kordofan state at a televised event he promised to bring clean drinking water to rural areas "across Sudan" and open a new hospital in the region.&nbsp;

The speech came after he inaugurated a new 340-kilometre highway linking North Kordofan to Omdurman, the twin city of Khartoum.

"Building such a road in present economic conditions is not an easy thing to achieve," said Bashir, after being escorted to the stage by dozens of men on camels.&nbsp;

"Along this road, we will bring electricity to boost the region's growth."

Demonstrations erupted in Sudan in December after a government decision to triple the price of bread unleashed frustrations at years of deteriorating living conditions and growing hardship.

Officials say 30 people have died in protest-related violence, while rights group Human Rights Watch says at least 51 have been killed.

Bashir's attempts to rally support have so far failed to halt the wave of discontent, with the group leading the demonstrations calling for fresh protests over the next few days starting Sunday night.&nbsp;

Bashir and other senior Sudanese officials have repeatedly said that the government can be changed only through elections.

The leader, who came to power in an Islamist-backed coup in 1989, is considering running for a third elected presidential term in polls due next year.

Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on Sunday pledged to bolster rural development, as he seeks to face down anti-government demonstrations that have rocked cities and villages. The veteran leader has been on a charm offensive with rallies across the country in a bid to head off weeks of protests seen as the biggest threat to his 30-year rule. Addressing hundreds of villagers in North Kordofan state at a televised event he promised to bring clean drinking water to rural areas "across Sudan" and open a new hospital in the region. The speech came after he inaugurated a new 340-kilometre highway linking North Kordofan to Omdurman, the twin city of Khartoum. "Building such a road in present economic conditions is not an easy thing to achieve," said Bashir, after being escorted to the stage by dozens of men on camels. "Along this road, we will bring electricity to boost the region's growth." Demonstrations erupted in Sudan in December after a government decision to triple the price of bread unleashed frustrations at years of deteriorating living conditions and growing hardship. Officials say 30 people have died in protest-related violence, while rights group Human Rights Watch says at least 51 have been killed. Bashir's attempts to rally support have so far failed to halt the wave of discontent, with the group leading the demonstrations calling for fresh protests over the next few days starting Sunday night. Bashir and other senior Sudanese officials have repeatedly said that the government can be changed only through elections. The leader, who came to power in an Islamist-backed coup in 1989, is considering running for a third elected presidential term in polls due next year.

Sudan president Bashir vows rural development as new protests loom

Pakistani religious hardliners called on Wednesday for protests as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-asia-bibis-lawyer-returns-to-pakistan-to-aid-in-appeal-193043">Asia Bibi</a>, the Christian woman at the centre of a years-long blasphemy row, was expected to leave the country having cleared a last legal hurdle.

Although no protesters had yet gathered, a heavy contingent of police could be seen on Wednesday at a junction connecting Islamabad with neighbouring Rawalpindi, where an anti-blasphemy sit-in in 2017 paralysed the capital for weeks.

Calls for demonstrations came hours after the Supreme Court upheld its earlier decision to acquit Bibi in a case which drew worldwide attention to religious extremism in Pakistan.

Small demonstrations were held in some cities late Tuesday, but the leaders of the Tehreek-e-Labaik (TLP) party — the Islamist group which has led the protests — were detained weeks ago in a government crackdown.

"We cannot compromise on the honour of the Prophet," the group said in a statement released late Tuesday, calling on its supporters to demonstrate.

"Muslims, today is the time, and if you don't wake up today ... then wait for your death and your tears, because then you and your generations will be weeping."

Bibi, a labourer from central Punjab province, was convicted of blasphemy in 2010 and was on death row until her acquittal last year.

She has been in protective custody since, and the government has refused to reveal her whereabouts for fear of her being targeted by vigilantes.

On Tuesday the Supreme Court threw out a petition seeking a final appeal in the case.&nbsp;

"Is this the face of Islam that we want to show to the world?" Chief Justice Asif Saeed Khosa asked a packed courtroom in Islamabad as he delivered the decision, expressing frustration at the furious reaction by an extremist minority.

The ruling has set the stage for Bibi to finally leave the country.&nbsp;

Speculation is rampant that she will seek asylum in a North American or European country, and unconfirmed reports suggest her children have already fled to Canada.

Blasphemy remains a massively inflammatory issue in Pakistan, where even unproven accusations of insulting Islam can spark lynchings.

Many cases see Muslims accusing Muslims, and rights activists say blasphemy charges are frequently used to settle personal scores.&nbsp;

Minorities -- particularly Christians -- are often caught in the crossfire, while mere calls to reform the colonial-era laws against blasphemy have also provoked violence.&nbsp;

Pakistani religious hardliners called on Wednesday for protests as Asia Bibi, the Christian woman at the centre of a years-long blasphemy row, was expected to leave the country having cleared a last legal hurdle.

Pakistani religious hardliners called on Wednesday for protests as Asia Bibi, the Christian woman at the centre of a years-long blasphemy row, was expected to leave the country having cleared a last legal hurdle. Although no protesters had yet gathered, a heavy contingent of police could be seen on Wednesday at a junction connecting Islamabad with neighbouring Rawalpindi, where an anti-blasphemy sit-in in 2017 paralysed the capital for weeks. Calls for demonstrations came hours after the Supreme Court upheld its earlier decision to acquit Bibi in a case which drew worldwide attention to religious extremism in Pakistan. Small demonstrations were held in some cities late Tuesday, but the leaders of the Tehreek-e-Labaik (TLP) party — the Islamist group which has led the protests — were detained weeks ago in a government crackdown. "We cannot compromise on the honour of the Prophet," the group said in a statement released late Tuesday, calling on its supporters to demonstrate. "Muslims, today is the time, and if you don't wake up today ... then wait for your death and your tears, because then you and your generations will be weeping." Bibi, a labourer from central Punjab province, was convicted of blasphemy in 2010 and was on death row until her acquittal last year. She has been in protective custody since, and the government has refused to reveal her whereabouts for fear of her being targeted by vigilantes. On Tuesday the Supreme Court threw out a petition seeking a final appeal in the case. "Is this the face of Islam that we want to show to the world?" Chief Justice Asif Saeed Khosa asked a packed courtroom in Islamabad as he delivered the decision, expressing frustration at the furious reaction by an extremist minority. The ruling has set the stage for Bibi to finally leave the country. Speculation is rampant that she will seek asylum in a North American or European country, and unconfirmed reports suggest her children have already fled to Canada. Blasphemy remains a massively inflammatory issue in Pakistan, where even unproven accusations of insulting Islam can spark lynchings. Many cases see Muslims accusing Muslims, and rights activists say blasphemy charges are frequently used to settle personal scores. Minorities -- particularly Christians -- are often caught in the crossfire, while mere calls to reform the colonial-era laws against blasphemy have also provoked violence.

With Asia Bibi expected to leave Pakistan, hardliners call for protests

Juan Guaido, the Venezuelan opposition leader and self-proclaimed president, on Monday called for new street demonstrations as pressure intensified on President Nicolas Maduro and the crisis-stricken OPEC nation.

Countries around the world have recognized Guaido as Venezuela's rightful leader, and the United States vowed to starve Maduro's administration of oil revenue after he was sworn on January 10 for a second term that was widely dubbed illegitimate.

Maduro says the United States is promoting a coup against him and promised to stay in office, backed by Russia and China, which have bankrolled his government and fought off efforts to have his government disavowed by the United Nations.

Guaido said opposition sympathizers should take to the streets on Wednesday to pass out copies of a pamphlet proposing amnesty that would give some legal protection to members of the military in hopes they will turn against Maduro.

"We must remain united as active agents of change in every corner of the country," Guaido tweeted on Monday. "We're doing well, very well, Venezuela!"

On Sunday, Israel and Australia joined countries backing the 35-year-old Guaido, and US President Donald Trump said his government had accepted Venezuelan opposition figure Carlos Alfredo Vecchio as a diplomatic representative to the United States.

Guaido took advantage of a major street demonstration on January&nbsp;23 to swear himself in as the country's rightful leader, accusing Maduro of usurping power following a disputed 2018 re-election that countries around the world described as a fraud.

Guaido is asking for help in getting control of the Venezuelan government's offshore assets.

In recent days, he urged British Prime Minister Theresa May and Bank of England Governor Mark Carney to block Maduro's government from collecting more than $1 billion in gold held by the Bank of England.

Venezuela's once-buoyant socialist economic system has imploded from corruption and mismanagement since the collapse of world oil prices in 2014, pushing inflation to almost 2 million per cent and driving millions of Venezuelans to neighbouring countries.

Maduro says his government is the victim of an "economic war" led by his political adversaries with the help of Washington, which has levied several rounds of sanctions against the country since 2017.

Juan Guaido, the Venezuelan opposition leader and self-proclaimed president, on Monday called for new street demonstrations as pressure intensified on President Nicolas Maduro and the crisis-stricken OPEC nation.

Juan Guaido, the Venezuelan opposition leader and self-proclaimed president, on Monday called for new street demonstrations as pressure intensified on President Nicolas Maduro and the crisis-stricken OPEC nation. Countries around the world have recognized Guaido as Venezuela's rightful leader, and the United States vowed to starve Maduro's administration of oil revenue after he was sworn on January 10 for a second term that was widely dubbed illegitimate. Maduro says the United States is promoting a coup against him and promised to stay in office, backed by Russia and China, which have bankrolled his government and fought off efforts to have his government disavowed by the United Nations. Guaido said opposition sympathizers should take to the streets on Wednesday to pass out copies of a pamphlet proposing amnesty that would give some legal protection to members of the military in hopes they will turn against Maduro. "We must remain united as active agents of change in every corner of the country," Guaido tweeted on Monday. "We're doing well, very well, Venezuela!" On Sunday, Israel and Australia joined countries backing the 35-year-old Guaido, and US President Donald Trump said his government had accepted Venezuelan opposition figure Carlos Alfredo Vecchio as a diplomatic representative to the United States. Guaido took advantage of a major street demonstration on January 23 to swear himself in as the country's rightful leader, accusing Maduro of usurping power following a disputed 2018 re-election that countries around the world described as a fraud. Guaido is asking for help in getting control of the Venezuelan government's offshore assets. In recent days, he urged British Prime Minister Theresa May and Bank of England Governor Mark Carney to block Maduro's government from collecting more than $1 billion in gold held by the Bank of England. Venezuela's once-buoyant socialist economic system has imploded from corruption and mismanagement since the collapse of world oil prices in 2014, pushing inflation to almost 2 million per cent and driving millions of Venezuelans to neighbouring countries. Maduro says his government is the victim of an "economic war" led by his political adversaries with the help of Washington, which has levied several rounds of sanctions against the country since 2017.

Venezuela's Guaido calls for new protests as pressure on Maduro rises

'Yellow vests' march through Paris streets for 11th week of protests

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-police-tear-gas-protesters-ahead-of-parliament-march-witnesses-191651">Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir</a> does little to hide his contempt for the young men and women who have been protesting for more than a month to demand an end to his three-decade rule.

Addressing soldiers this month, Bashir, a 75-year-old former paratrooper who seized power in a bloodless coup in 1989, warned the "rats to go back to their holes" and said he would only move aside for another army officer, or at the ballot box.

"They said they want the army to take power. That's no problem. If someone comes in wearing khaki, we have no objection," Bashir, wearing his military uniform, told soldiers at a base in Atbara, the northern Sudanese city where the protests started.

"When the army moves, it doesn't move in a vacuum. It doesn't move in support of traitors. It moves in support of the homeland," he added in colloquial Arabic.

Bashir has long been a divisive figure.

Since taking office in what was then Africa's largest country, he fought a protracted civil war with southern rebels which ultimately ended with the secession of South Sudan in 2011, and the loss of more than 70 per cent of Sudan's oil.

Sudan has suffered prolonged periods of isolation since 1993 when the United States added Bashir's government to its list of terrorism sponsors for harbouring Islamist militants. Washington followed up with sanctions four years later.

Bashir has also been indicted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague over allegations of genocide in Sudan's Darfur region during an insurgency that began in 2003.

Now, he is facing almost daily defiance at home in towns and cities across the country, protests that are still spreading despite mass arrests and a harsh crackdown by security forces using tear gas and live ammunition.

Authorities say at least 30 people have died in the unrest, which started on Dec. 19 after the government tried to raise bread prices, while rights groups and local opposition figures say at least 45 have been killed. Hundreds have been injured and hundreds more detained.

"The current protests represent the biggest and deepest challenge to Bashir's rule because they indicate that the crisis has reached a new level," analyst Khalid al-Tijani said.

Economic meltdown

Bashir's critics blame him for Sudan's marginalisation and an economic meltdown that saw inflation soar to 72 per cent by the end of 2018 and left the country unable to pay for food imports.

Supporters blame a Western conspiracy designed to undermine Islamist rule in Sudan, just as Bashir rejected the ICC charges over Darfur as part of a neo-colonialist plot.

In the months before the protests began, Sudanese had already been struggling to makes ends meet. The government tried to introduce reforms, devaluing the Sudanese pound and relaxing import restrictions, all to little effect.

The government had hoped for quick financial support from wealthy Gulf Arab allies after Bashir sent troops to Yemen as part of Saudi-led alliance fighting rebels aligned with Iran, but help was slow to arrive.

The trigger for the wave of protests was a government attempt to introduce unsubsidised bread, allowing bakeries to sell at a higher price. That came on top of the crippling, drawn-out crisis that had led to fuel and banknote shortages.

The demonstrations quickly turned political, targeting ruling party offices and demanding Bashir step down.

Unlike previous bouts of unrest, the protests have spread to parts of the country normally loyal to Bashir - and the heavy-handed response has so far failed to stem the spread.

Security forces have mostly used tear gas and stun grenades to try to quash the protests, but demonstrators and local rights groups have also documented the use of live ammunition.

Protesters often repeat one chant: "Down, that's it." Others shout, "Down, down with Keezan," a derogatory name used to describe Islamists.

Humble beginnings

Bashir was born on Jan. 1, 1944 to a poor farming family in Hosh Bannaga, a small village consisting mainly of mud houses and dusty streets on the eastern bank of the Nile River, some 150 km (93 miles) north of the capital Khartoum.

He has often played up his humble beginnings. Earlier this month, he repeated a story he told in 2013 of how he broke a tooth while carrying concrete at a construction site where he worked as a student to pay for his education.

Bashir said he refused a silver tooth implant when he joined the military because he wanted to remember that incident whenever he looked in the mirror.

After graduating from Sudan's military academy in 1967, Bashir served in the Sudanese contingent despatched to Egypt to help in the war of attrition against Israel that began following the Six Day War in 1967.

As a young officer in the parachute regiment, he joined the armed wing of the Islamist Movement, which broke away from the Muslim Brotherhood and has ruled Sudan since Bashir took office.

The head of the junta that seized power in 1989, Bashir dissolved the military council in 1993 and has since ruled with an iron fist, accused by rights groups of violence and torture to get rid of his political opponents.

Darfur legacy

But it was Bashir's response to the insurgency in the western Darfur region that has come to define his legacy.

Facing an ICC arrest warrant over the death of an estimated 300,000 people in Darfur, Bashir has focused on his survival, holding on to power as a shield against a trial similar to that of former Yugoslav President Slobodan Milosevic.

Defying the ICC, Bashir continued to visit friendly foreign states as he tried to demonstrate he had not been cowed by the international arrest warrant issued by the court.

Bashir has sought to play on regional and international differences to improve Sudan's standing. In 2013, he hosted then Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmedinejad in Khartoum.

Two years later, Bashir joined a Saudi-led alliance that had intervened in Yemen's civil war as part of a strategy to contain Iran's expanding influence.

Bashir has also courted Turkey and Russia, at the same time as Khartoum stepped up security cooperation with Washington - hoping to speed up the country's emergence from decades of U.S. sanctions that were lifted in 2017.

Now, facing the most sustained challenge to his rule yet, Bashir will be counting on steadfast support from the security establishment he has nurtured for 30 years to see him through.

"We say to the youth, this country is yours, protect it, and if it goes up in smoke we won't be refugees, we will die here," he said this month, dressed in white robes and waving his trademark cane.

Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir does little to hide his contempt for the young men and women who have been protesting for more than a month to demand an end to his three-decade rule.

Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir does little to hide his contempt for the young men and women who have been protesting for more than a month to demand an end to his three-decade rule. Addressing soldiers this month, Bashir, a 75-year-old former paratrooper who seized power in a bloodless coup in 1989, warned the "rats to go back to their holes" and said he would only move aside for another army officer, or at the ballot box. "They said they want the army to take power. That's no problem. If someone comes in wearing khaki, we have no objection," Bashir, wearing his military uniform, told soldiers at a base in Atbara, the northern Sudanese city where the protests started. "When the army moves, it doesn't move in a vacuum. It doesn't move in support of traitors. It moves in support of the homeland," he added in colloquial Arabic. Bashir has long been a divisive figure. Since taking office in what was then Africa's largest country, he fought a protracted civil war with southern rebels which ultimately ended with the secession of South Sudan in 2011, and the loss of more than 70 per cent of Sudan's oil. Sudan has suffered prolonged periods of isolation since 1993 when the United States added Bashir's government to its list of terrorism sponsors for harbouring Islamist militants. Washington followed up with sanctions four years later. Bashir has also been indicted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague over allegations of genocide in Sudan's Darfur region during an insurgency that began in 2003. Now, he is facing almost daily defiance at home in towns and cities across the country, protests that are still spreading despite mass arrests and a harsh crackdown by security forces using tear gas and live ammunition. Authorities say at least 30 people have died in the unrest, which started on Dec. 19 after the government tried to raise bread prices, while rights groups and local opposition figures say at least 45 have been killed. Hundreds have been injured and hundreds more detained. "The current protests represent the biggest and deepest challenge to Bashir's rule because they indicate that the crisis has reached a new level," analyst Khalid al-Tijani said. Economic meltdown Bashir's critics blame him for Sudan's marginalisation and an economic meltdown that saw inflation soar to 72 per cent by the end of 2018 and left the country unable to pay for food imports. Supporters blame a Western conspiracy designed to undermine Islamist rule in Sudan, just as Bashir rejected the ICC charges over Darfur as part of a neo-colonialist plot. In the months before the protests began, Sudanese had already been struggling to makes ends meet. The government tried to introduce reforms, devaluing the Sudanese pound and relaxing import restrictions, all to little effect. The government had hoped for quick financial support from wealthy Gulf Arab allies after Bashir sent troops to Yemen as part of Saudi-led alliance fighting rebels aligned with Iran, but help was slow to arrive. The trigger for the wave of protests was a government attempt to introduce unsubsidised bread, allowing bakeries to sell at a higher price. That came on top of the crippling, drawn-out crisis that had led to fuel and banknote shortages. The demonstrations quickly turned political, targeting ruling party offices and demanding Bashir step down. Unlike previous bouts of unrest, the protests have spread to parts of the country normally loyal to Bashir - and the heavy-handed response has so far failed to stem the spread. Security forces have mostly used tear gas and stun grenades to try to quash the protests, but demonstrators and local rights groups have also documented the use of live ammunition. Protesters often repeat one chant: "Down, that's it." Others shout, "Down, down with Keezan," a derogatory name used to describe Islamists. Humble beginnings Bashir was born on Jan. 1, 1944 to a poor farming family in Hosh Bannaga, a small village consisting mainly of mud houses and dusty streets on the eastern bank of the Nile River, some 150 km (93 miles) north of the capital Khartoum. He has often played up his humble beginnings. Earlier this month, he repeated a story he told in 2013 of how he broke a tooth while carrying concrete at a construction site where he worked as a student to pay for his education. Bashir said he refused a silver tooth implant when he joined the military because he wanted to remember that incident whenever he looked in the mirror. After graduating from Sudan's military academy in 1967, Bashir served in the Sudanese contingent despatched to Egypt to help in the war of attrition against Israel that began following the Six Day War in 1967. As a young officer in the parachute regiment, he joined the armed wing of the Islamist Movement, which broke away from the Muslim Brotherhood and has ruled Sudan since Bashir took office. The head of the junta that seized power in 1989, Bashir dissolved the military council in 1993 and has since ruled with an iron fist, accused by rights groups of violence and torture to get rid of his political opponents. Darfur legacy But it was Bashir's response to the insurgency in the western Darfur region that has come to define his legacy. Facing an ICC arrest warrant over the death of an estimated 300,000 people in Darfur, Bashir has focused on his survival, holding on to power as a shield against a trial similar to that of former Yugoslav President Slobodan Milosevic. Defying the ICC, Bashir continued to visit friendly foreign states as he tried to demonstrate he had not been cowed by the international arrest warrant issued by the court. Bashir has sought to play on regional and international differences to improve Sudan's standing. In 2013, he hosted then Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmedinejad in Khartoum. Two years later, Bashir joined a Saudi-led alliance that had intervened in Yemen's civil war as part of a strategy to contain Iran's expanding influence. Bashir has also courted Turkey and Russia, at the same time as Khartoum stepped up security cooperation with Washington - hoping to speed up the country's emergence from decades of U.S. sanctions that were lifted in 2017. Now, facing the most sustained challenge to his rule yet, Bashir will be counting on steadfast support from the security establishment he has nurtured for 30 years to see him through. "We say to the youth, this country is yours, protect it, and if it goes up in smoke we won't be refugees, we will die here," he said this month, dressed in white robes and waving his trademark cane.

Sudan's Bashir fights for survival as protests spread

Thousands of Australians attended "Invasion Day" rallies across the country on Saturday calling for a rethink of national day celebrations they say are disrespectful to indigenous people.

The annual January 26 Australia Day holiday commemorates the arrival of the first British settlers in 1788, but for many Australians it marks the beginning of colonial oppression of Aboriginal people.

Several thousand joined the annual march in Melbourne Saturday chanting "Always was, always will be Aboriginal land", and holding placards stating "Australia is a crime scene".

Thousands more joined similar demonstrations in major cities around the country, calling for a change of date, or for the day to be abolished altogether.

"Why would you want to celebrate this concept called Australia? It is founded on lies, founded on genocide, founded on murder," Melbourne protestor Dominic Guerrera told AFP. "There's nothing to celebrate in that."

Divisions have deepened in recent years with increasing calls to change the date.

Amid the heightened sensitivities this week Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced government funding of a voyage to mark the 250th anniversary of explorer Captain James Cook's first journey to Australia.

Canberra pledged about $6.5 million to a circumnavigation of Australia in a replica of Cook's ship, the Endeavour, which in 1770 brought the British into contact with eastern Australia and foreshadowed the colonisation of the continent.

The story of Cook's voyage and his "discovery" of territory declared New South Wales on the east coast has stirred debate in Australia, with Aboriginal people inhabiting the land for more than 60,000 years before the first European explorers arrived.

Meanwhile, the uncovering this week in London of the remains of British explorer Matthew Flinders, who is credited as the first to circumnavigate the Australian continent in 1802-1803, has also added to the controversy.

An aboriginal aide to Flinders named Bungaree has been largely eclipsed by his British captain, but historians now believe he played a crucial role in success of the voyage.

Morrison, who has resisted calls to change the date, said Saturday Australia cannot "walk away" from its past. &nbsp;

"Australia is the story of being overcome, to be able to see the better nature of Australians and the values we hold together, all races, all peoples, all cultures, all religions, all languages even," he told reporters.

Aboriginal people remain the most disadvantaged Australians, with higher rates of poverty, ill-health and imprisonment than any other community.

Australia Day is also celebrated across the county, with picnics, traditional Aboriginal performances and citizenship ceremonies, where more than 16,000 new Australians pledged their commitment to the nation Saturday.

Thousands of Australians attended "Invasion Day" rallies across the country on Saturday calling for a rethink of national day celebrations they say are disrespectful to indigenous people.

Thousands of Australians attended "Invasion Day" rallies across the country on Saturday calling for a rethink of national day celebrations they say are disrespectful to indigenous people. The annual January 26 Australia Day holiday commemorates the arrival of the first British settlers in 1788, but for many Australians it marks the beginning of colonial oppression of Aboriginal people. Several thousand joined the annual march in Melbourne Saturday chanting "Always was, always will be Aboriginal land", and holding placards stating "Australia is a crime scene". Thousands more joined similar demonstrations in major cities around the country, calling for a change of date, or for the day to be abolished altogether. "Why would you want to celebrate this concept called Australia? It is founded on lies, founded on genocide, founded on murder," Melbourne protestor Dominic Guerrera told AFP. "There's nothing to celebrate in that." Divisions have deepened in recent years with increasing calls to change the date. Amid the heightened sensitivities this week Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced government funding of a voyage to mark the 250th anniversary of explorer Captain James Cook's first journey to Australia. Canberra pledged about $6.5 million to a circumnavigation of Australia in a replica of Cook's ship, the Endeavour, which in 1770 brought the British into contact with eastern Australia and foreshadowed the colonisation of the continent. The story of Cook's voyage and his "discovery" of territory declared New South Wales on the east coast has stirred debate in Australia, with Aboriginal people inhabiting the land for more than 60,000 years before the first European explorers arrived. Meanwhile, the uncovering this week in London of the remains of British explorer Matthew Flinders, who is credited as the first to circumnavigate the Australian continent in 1802-1803, has also added to the controversy. An aboriginal aide to Flinders named Bungaree has been largely eclipsed by his British captain, but historians now believe he played a crucial role in success of the voyage. Morrison, who has resisted calls to change the date, said Saturday Australia cannot "walk away" from its past. "Australia is the story of being overcome, to be able to see the better nature of Australians and the values we hold together, all races, all peoples, all cultures, all religions, all languages even," he told reporters. Aboriginal people remain the most disadvantaged Australians, with higher rates of poverty, ill-health and imprisonment than any other community. Australia Day is also celebrated across the county, with picnics, traditional Aboriginal performances and citizenship ceremonies, where more than 16,000 new Australians pledged their commitment to the nation Saturday.

'Invasion Day' protests draw thousands on Australia's national day

Thirteen people have died during two days of unrest in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/hola-im-mike-pence-us-vp-delivers-message-of-support-to-venezuelans-192101">Venezuela amid protests </a>against leftist leader Nicolas Maduro, a Caracas-based rights group reported Wednesday.

The deaths, mostly from gunshot wounds, were recorded in the capital and across the country, along with reports of looting in Brazilian border state Bolivar, the Venezuelan Observatory of Social Conflict told AFP.

Unrest first kicked off on Monday when 27 soldiers rose up against Maduro at a command post in Caracas, calling upon people to "take to the streets" in a video circulated on social media.

But the most fierce began Tuesday night in Caracas and Bolivar -- continuing Wednesday throughout Venezuela on a day of huge opposition-backed demonstrations against Maduro.

In Bolivar's San Felix, demonstrators burned a statue of former president Hugo Chavez late Tuesday night.

On Wednesday, anti-riot police confronted protesters in east Caracas following the march called for by opposition leader Juan Guaido, who declared himself Venezuela's interim president as part of his aim to remove Maduro.

Chaos erupted when dozens of young people, some hooded, blocked a key route through the wealthy Altamira neighbourhood -- only for military personnel to fire tear gasses and rubber bullets, which were, in turn, met with stones from protesters.

Apart from the capital Caracas, deaths were reported in Tachira, Barinas, Portuguesa, Amazonas and Bolivar states.

Wednesday's demonstration, meanwhile, marked the first significant clash between the government and the opposition in the streets after violent protests left 125 people dead between April and July 2017.

Juan Guaido -- the opposition-led legislature head who declared himself "acting president" -- called for the protests two weeks ago.&nbsp;

His aim is to remove Maduro, set up a transitional government and hold elections.

He accuses Maduro of being a usurper following his disputed re-election in a poll dismissed as a fraud by the European Union, the US and OAS.

Thirteen people have died during two days of unrest in Venezuela amid protests against leftist leader Nicolas Maduro, a Caracas-based rights group reported Wednesday.

Thirteen people have died during two days of unrest in Venezuela amid protests against leftist leader Nicolas Maduro, a Caracas-based rights group reported Wednesday. The deaths, mostly from gunshot wounds, were recorded in the capital and across the country, along with reports of looting in Brazilian border state Bolivar, the Venezuelan Observatory of Social Conflict told AFP. Unrest first kicked off on Monday when 27 soldiers rose up against Maduro at a command post in Caracas, calling upon people to "take to the streets" in a video circulated on social media. But the most fierce began Tuesday night in Caracas and Bolivar -- continuing Wednesday throughout Venezuela on a day of huge opposition-backed demonstrations against Maduro. In Bolivar's San Felix, demonstrators burned a statue of former president Hugo Chavez late Tuesday night. On Wednesday, anti-riot police confronted protesters in east Caracas following the march called for by opposition leader Juan Guaido, who declared himself Venezuela's interim president as part of his aim to remove Maduro. Chaos erupted when dozens of young people, some hooded, blocked a key route through the wealthy Altamira neighbourhood -- only for military personnel to fire tear gasses and rubber bullets, which were, in turn, met with stones from protesters. Apart from the capital Caracas, deaths were reported in Tachira, Barinas, Portuguesa, Amazonas and Bolivar states. Wednesday's demonstration, meanwhile, marked the first significant clash between the government and the opposition in the streets after violent protests left 125 people dead between April and July 2017. Juan Guaido -- the opposition-led legislature head who declared himself "acting president" -- called for the protests two weeks ago. His aim is to remove Maduro, set up a transitional government and hold elections. He accuses Maduro of being a usurper following his disputed re-election in a poll dismissed as a fraud by the European Union, the US and OAS.

13 dead in two days of Venezuela unrest: Rights group

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<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-garment-workers-reject-wage-hike-walk-off-job-190243&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwizxLPUi_LfAhWYiXAKHQToCEsQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw11m1JegTHjQ00_pjANUu0X">Bangladesh factories</a> making clothes for Western brands have sacked hundreds of workers after more than a week of strikes and clashes over wages, police and trade unions said Wednesday.

The country's $30 billion clothing industry is the world's second-largest after <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.wionews.com/world/canada-asks-china-clemency-for-convicted-drug-trafficker-190654&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjnir7zi_LfAhVMQ48KHaUzABUQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0_Retnfxy5S1hOjupDeoRT">China</a>. It's some four million workers at 4,500 factories make garments for global retail giants H&amp;M, Walmart and many others.

Protests by thousands of employees over low wages began earlier this month, prompting scores of manufacturers to halt production.

One worker was killed and more than 50 injured last week after police fired rubber bullets and tear gas at protesters in a key industrial town outside the capital Dhaka.

The demonstrations died down this week after the government agreed to raise salaries, but many returned to work on Wednesday to discover they had been laid off.

A top union leader said at least 750 workers at various companies in the manufacturing hub of Ashulia had found notices hanging on factory gates informing them of their dismissal along with photos of their faces.

"This is unjust. The owners are doing it to create a climate of fear so that no one can dare to stage protests or demand fair wages," the leader said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"Police told me not to create trouble. Otherwise, I'll be disappeared."

Police and a senior factory manager gave a lower total of around 400 workers fired for damaging equipment during the strike -- with more than half from one Ashulia plant called Metro Knitting and Dyeing.

Metro Knitting's general manager Atiqul Islam told AFP that the company has reported nearly 300 workers to police for smashing the factory's CCTV cameras and computers.

"Some 10,000 apparel items made for export also went missing," Islam added.

So far 12 arrests have been made for vandalism during the unrest, local police said.

The strikes came a few weeks after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina — accused by rights and opposition groups of becoming increasingly authoritarian — was re-elected on December 30 after a violence-plagued campaign.

Bangladesh factories making clothes for Western brands have sacked hundreds of workers after more than a week of strikes and clashes over wages, police and trade unions said Wednesday.

Bangladesh factories making clothes for Western brands have sacked hundreds of workers after more than a week of strikes and clashes over wages, police and trade unions said Wednesday. The country's $30 billion clothing industry is the world's second-largest after China. It's some four million workers at 4,500 factories make garments for global retail giants H&M, Walmart and many others. Protests by thousands of employees over low wages began earlier this month, prompting scores of manufacturers to halt production. One worker was killed and more than 50 injured last week after police fired rubber bullets and tear gas at protesters in a key industrial town outside the capital Dhaka. The demonstrations died down this week after the government agreed to raise salaries, but many returned to work on Wednesday to discover they had been laid off. A top union leader said at least 750 workers at various companies in the manufacturing hub of Ashulia had found notices hanging on factory gates informing them of their dismissal along with photos of their faces. "This is unjust. The owners are doing it to create a climate of fear so that no one can dare to stage protests or demand fair wages," the leader said, speaking on condition of anonymity. "Police told me not to create trouble. Otherwise, I'll be disappeared." Police and a senior factory manager gave a lower total of around 400 workers fired for damaging equipment during the strike -- with more than half from one Ashulia plant called Metro Knitting and Dyeing. Metro Knitting's general manager Atiqul Islam told AFP that the company has reported nearly 300 workers to police for smashing the factory's CCTV cameras and computers. "Some 10,000 apparel items made for export also went missing," Islam added. So far 12 arrests have been made for vandalism during the unrest, local police said. The strikes came a few weeks after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina — accused by rights and opposition groups of becoming increasingly authoritarian — was re-elected on December 30 after a violence-plagued campaign.

Hundreds sacked after Bangladesh garment strikes

Defiant Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir said Monday that ongoing protests will not lead to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-police-break-up-new-protests-as-opposition-leader-arrested-187246">a change in government</a>, as he addressed a rally of cheering supporters in war-torn Darfur.

"Demonstrations will not change the government," Bashir told crowds of supporters gathered in Niyala, the capital of South Darfur state, where just a day ago police had broken up an anti-government demonstration.

"There's only one road to power and that is through the ballot box. The Sudanese people will decide in 2020 who will govern them," said Bashir, who is planning to run for the presidency for the third time in elections to be held next year.

Deadly protests have rocked Sudan since December when angry crowds took to the streets in towns and villages against a government decision to raise the price of bread.

At least 24 people have died in the protests, which swiftly turned into nationwide anti-government rallies, with protesters calling on Bashir to step down.

"Sudan has many enemies and those enemies have few people among us who don't want stability and security," said Bashir, waving his trademark cane as supporters chanted "stay, stay".

"We will not allow anyone to destroy our homeland by looting and burning our properties."

In the initial days of protests, several buildings and offices of Bashir's ruling National Congress Party were set on fire in towns and villages.

On Sunday, the first anti-government demonstrations were held in Niyala and El-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur.

Bashir is wanted by the Hague-based International Criminal Court for war crimes and genocide allegedly committed in Darfur where a brutal conflict had erupted in 2003.

Deadly protests have rocked Sudan since December when angry crowds took to the streets in towns and villages against a government decision to raise the price of bread.

Defiant Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir said Monday that ongoing protests will not lead to a change in government, as he addressed a rally of cheering supporters in war-torn Darfur. "Demonstrations will not change the government," Bashir told crowds of supporters gathered in Niyala, the capital of South Darfur state, where just a day ago police had broken up an anti-government demonstration. "There's only one road to power and that is through the ballot box. The Sudanese people will decide in 2020 who will govern them," said Bashir, who is planning to run for the presidency for the third time in elections to be held next year. Deadly protests have rocked Sudan since December when angry crowds took to the streets in towns and villages against a government decision to raise the price of bread. At least 24 people have died in the protests, which swiftly turned into nationwide anti-government rallies, with protesters calling on Bashir to step down. "Sudan has many enemies and those enemies have few people among us who don't want stability and security," said Bashir, waving his trademark cane as supporters chanted "stay, stay". "We will not allow anyone to destroy our homeland by looting and burning our properties." In the initial days of protests, several buildings and offices of Bashir's ruling National Congress Party were set on fire in towns and villages. On Sunday, the first anti-government demonstrations were held in Niyala and El-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur. Bashir is wanted by the Hague-based International Criminal Court for war crimes and genocide allegedly committed in Darfur where a brutal conflict had erupted in 2003.

Sudan protests 'will not change government': President Omar al-Bashir

Special Officer, Law and Order in Pampa on Sunday stated that 11 women devotees, who had come to offer prayers at Sabarimala temple, have returned now, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

"We can't use force. It might create a law and order problem," Shaji Sugunan told media.&nbsp;

Tension prevailed at Pamba, the foothills of the Lord Ayyappa Temple in Kerala, on Sunday morning as a group of 11 women, below the age of 50 years, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/11-women-try-to-trek-sabarimala-tension-prevails-in-pamba-185911">tried to trek the hilltop shrine</a>, even as devotees protested against the move.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Shaji Sugunan, Special Officer, Law and Order, Pampa: 11 women devotees had come to offer prayers at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a> but they were stopped by other pilgrims. The women devotees have returned now. We can't use force. It might create a law and order problem. <a href="https://t.co/n4niymysY2">pic.twitter.com/n4niymysY2</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1076751496451108865?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Though they attempted to trek through the traditional forest path, about five kilometres from the temple complex, they could not go forward as devotees started a "namajapa" (chanting of hymns of the lord) protest against them.

The women, members of the Chennai-based "Manithi" outfit, were seen squatting on the road. Police had thrown a security ring around them.

Kerala Police was forced to take over 20 protesters into custody after protests turned violent.

The police and the women devotees were forced to flee to safety after more protestors came rushing down the pathway.

The delegation of women devotees then agreed to return stating that the police had forced them to leave, adding that they will return and seek legal help.&nbsp;

Anxiety had loomed large in and around Sabarimala Temple for some days as 'Manithi' had declared last week that a group of 50 women, all below the traditionally barred age of 50 years, would visit the shrine.

Kerala had witnessed massive protests by devotees opposing the entry of girls and women in the 10-50 age group into the Sabarimala Temple since the Kerala government decided to implement the September 28 verdict of the Supreme Court permitting women of all age groups there.

Over a dozen women have so far made unsuccessful attempts to trek the holy hills.

Four transgenders, who were earlier stopped from proceeding towards the Lord Ayyappa temple citing security reasons, offered prayers at the hill shrine under heavy police security earlier this week.

The Kerala High Court earlier this month appointed a three-member committee, vesting them with powers to oversee law and order and other problems faced by pilgrims during the ongoing annual season.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Special Officer, Law and Order in Pampa on Sunday stated that 11 women devotees, who had come to offer prayers at Sabarimala temple, have returned now, news agency ANI reported.

Special Officer, Law and Order in Pampa on Sunday stated that 11 women devotees, who had come to offer prayers at Sabarimala temple, have returned now, news agency ANI reported. "We can't use force. It might create a law and order problem," Shaji Sugunan told media. Tension prevailed at Pamba, the foothills of the Lord Ayyappa Temple in Kerala, on Sunday morning as a group of 11 women, below the age of 50 years, tried to trek the hilltop shrine, even as devotees protested against the move. Shaji Sugunan, Special Officer, Law and Order, Pampa: 11 women devotees had come to offer prayers at #SabarimalaTemple but they were stopped by other pilgrims. The women devotees have returned now. We can't use force. It might create a law and order problem. pic.twitter.com/n4niymysY2 — ANI (@ANI) December 23, 2018 × Though they attempted to trek through the traditional forest path, about five kilometres from the temple complex, they could not go forward as devotees started a "namajapa" (chanting of hymns of the lord) protest against them. The women, members of the Chennai-based "Manithi" outfit, were seen squatting on the road. Police had thrown a security ring around them. Kerala Police was forced to take over 20 protesters into custody after protests turned violent. The police and the women devotees were forced to flee to safety after more protestors came rushing down the pathway. The delegation of women devotees then agreed to return stating that the police had forced them to leave, adding that they will return and seek legal help. Anxiety had loomed large in and around Sabarimala Temple for some days as 'Manithi' had declared last week that a group of 50 women, all below the traditionally barred age of 50 years, would visit the shrine. Kerala had witnessed massive protests by devotees opposing the entry of girls and women in the 10-50 age group into the Sabarimala Temple since the Kerala government decided to implement the September 28 verdict of the Supreme Court permitting women of all age groups there. Over a dozen women have so far made unsuccessful attempts to trek the holy hills. Four transgenders, who were earlier stopped from proceeding towards the Lord Ayyappa temple citing security reasons, offered prayers at the hill shrine under heavy police security earlier this week. The Kerala High Court earlier this month appointed a three-member committee, vesting them with powers to oversee law and order and other problems faced by pilgrims during the ongoing annual season. (With inputs from agencies)

Group of 11 women devotees return from Sabarimala amid intensifying protests 

WION Your Story: Thousands march in Brussels against UN migration pact

Thousands march in Brussels against UN migration pact

Slogans like "We want justice" and "Release all Baloch Missing Persons" echoed across Balochistan as a large number of women and children joined massive rallies against enforced disappearances in the Pakistani province on Monday.

In Dera Ghazi Khan, the protesters demanded the immediate release of hundreds of Baloch political activists, students and other intellectuals who had been illegally abducted by secret services and the Army in the past few months.

The family members of Baloch missing persons have been protesting for the past few months, but their voice is unheard by Islamabad. They demand enforced disappearances should be criminalised.

Among many women who have joined the protest for the safe release of their husband is Zarina Baloch, wife of Shabir Baloch. Zarina`s husband was abducted on 14 October 2016 and she has never heard of him again. She has travelled from Awaran to set up a protest camp in capital Quetta.

There are many such families who have been silently fighting for injustice. In Quetta, a large number of missing persons` families were joined by civil rights and human rights activists to work for the safe recovery of Baloch missing persons.

Nasurallah Baloch, Chairman of Voice of Baloch Missing Persons said in his address, "Baloch women and children have been protesting since morning to evening for the safe recovery of their sons and brothers. Now, every Baloch must stand and give support to mothers and children. We want to tell those powerful officials and politicians as how the revolution will take birth in Balochistan".

"I have high praise for our mothers and sisters who have come on streets to seek justice for their loved ones who are disappeared. The civil society activists and human rights organizations in Balochistan will stand with you," said Nasrullah while announcing an indefinite protest for enforced disappeared persons.

Baloch human rights activist Mama Qadeer Baloch also joined the protest rally in Quetta and demand justice for innocent Baloch who have been languishing in illegal detention centres. It is believed many of these missing persons were killed and their mutilated bodies were thrown in isolated places by the secret agencies.

Balochistan is a resource-rich province of Pakistan, which the indigenous people claim to be forcefully occupied. The Baloch, who have been fighting for independence from Pakistan, are being targeted by secret agencies like the ISI and Military Intelligence. The people, who are generally targetted are the journalists, youth leaders, doctors, teachers and other intellectual people, who have been resisting against Islamabad.

The number of enforced disappearances and target killings has increased in Balochistan since China launched its multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in the region. Balochistan`s Gwadar Port is the prime transit point, in which China is investing huge money.

Slogans like "We want justice" and "Release all Baloch Missing Persons" echoed across Balochistan as a large number of women and children joined massive rallies against enforced disappearances in the Pakistani province on Monday.

Slogans like "We want justice" and "Release all Baloch Missing Persons" echoed across Balochistan as a large number of women and children joined massive rallies against enforced disappearances in the Pakistani province on Monday. In Dera Ghazi Khan, the protesters demanded the immediate release of hundreds of Baloch political activists, students and other intellectuals who had been illegally abducted by secret services and the Army in the past few months. The family members of Baloch missing persons have been protesting for the past few months, but their voice is unheard by Islamabad. They demand enforced disappearances should be criminalised. Among many women who have joined the protest for the safe release of their husband is Zarina Baloch, wife of Shabir Baloch. Zarina`s husband was abducted on 14 October 2016 and she has never heard of him again. She has travelled from Awaran to set up a protest camp in capital Quetta. There are many such families who have been silently fighting for injustice. In Quetta, a large number of missing persons` families were joined by civil rights and human rights activists to work for the safe recovery of Baloch missing persons. Nasurallah Baloch, Chairman of Voice of Baloch Missing Persons said in his address, "Baloch women and children have been protesting since morning to evening for the safe recovery of their sons and brothers. Now, every Baloch must stand and give support to mothers and children. We want to tell those powerful officials and politicians as how the revolution will take birth in Balochistan". "I have high praise for our mothers and sisters who have come on streets to seek justice for their loved ones who are disappeared. The civil society activists and human rights organizations in Balochistan will stand with you," said Nasrullah while announcing an indefinite protest for enforced disappeared persons. Baloch human rights activist Mama Qadeer Baloch also joined the protest rally in Quetta and demand justice for innocent Baloch who have been languishing in illegal detention centres. It is believed many of these missing persons were killed and their mutilated bodies were thrown in isolated places by the secret agencies. Balochistan is a resource-rich province of Pakistan, which the indigenous people claim to be forcefully occupied. The Baloch, who have been fighting for independence from Pakistan, are being targeted by secret agencies like the ISI and Military Intelligence. The people, who are generally targetted are the journalists, youth leaders, doctors, teachers and other intellectual people, who have been resisting against Islamabad. The number of enforced disappearances and target killings has increased in Balochistan since China launched its multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in the region. Balochistan`s Gwadar Port is the prime transit point, in which China is investing huge money.

Massive anti-Pakistan protests held across Balochistan

Protests erupted against Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and Pak Army for brutal killing of Pashtun police officer, Tahir Dawar. Pashtuns in Pakistan chanted slogans against the Pakistan Army and ISI for brutally killing Dawar.

A large number of people came out on the streets at various cities and towns, including capital Peshawar, to condemn kidnapping and target killing of a Pashtun.

Tahir was gone missing in Islamabad about two weeks ago and his dead body was found in Afghanistan at the international border.

Taliban denied any role in the killing. Pashtoons believe that ISI kidnapped Tahir and killed him because he eliminated Taliban operatives during operations against terrorism and was sympathetic to the demands for return of thousands of missing Pashtuns.

Superintendent Tahir Dawar was head of Peshawar Police's rural area circle.

He survived two suicide attacks by terrorists. Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) chief Manzoor Pansteen met the brother of the slain police officer in Peshawar and expended full support to the grieved family to raise voice against the brutal murder.

Protests erupted against Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and Pak Army for brutal killing of Pashtun police officer, Tahir Dawar. Pashtuns in Pakistan chanted slogans against the Pakistan Army and ISI for brutally killing Dawar.

Protests erupted against Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and Pak Army for brutal killing of Pashtun police officer, Tahir Dawar. Pashtuns in Pakistan chanted slogans against the Pakistan Army and ISI for brutally killing Dawar. A large number of people came out on the streets at various cities and towns, including capital Peshawar, to condemn kidnapping and target killing of a Pashtun. Tahir was gone missing in Islamabad about two weeks ago and his dead body was found in Afghanistan at the international border. Taliban denied any role in the killing. Pashtoons believe that ISI kidnapped Tahir and killed him because he eliminated Taliban operatives during operations against terrorism and was sympathetic to the demands for return of thousands of missing Pashtuns. Superintendent Tahir Dawar was head of Peshawar Police's rural area circle. He survived two suicide attacks by terrorists. Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) chief Manzoor Pansteen met the brother of the slain police officer in Peshawar and expended full support to the grieved family to raise voice against the brutal murder.

Protests erupt against ISI, Pakistan Army for killing Pashtun police officer

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