Dozens of protesters gathered near the venue of France's far-right presidential candidate Eric Zemmour's rally on December 5. The leader's rally took place in Villepinte, near Paris. Police made arrests as protests were undeclared. The demonstrations took place near Villepinte Expo Hall.

It was Zemmour's first rally as an official candidate for presidential elections in 2022.

The rally was initially planned to take place at a venue in Paris, but was moved to Villepinte amid calls for protests, including by the anti-fascist Antifa group, at the original venue.

Zemmour, who was a prominent French far-right commentator, announced his candidacy on Tuesday (November 30) via a video played out live on Youtube and called on voters to take the country back "from minorities that oppress the majority."

A former journalist who has been convicted for inciting racial hatred, he becomes the top contender to challenge Marine Le Pen, leader of the more established far-right National Rally, for a place in a second round against President Emmanuel Macron.

His candidacy turns the election into a test of the endurance and limits of Europe's far right, which surged across the continent in the last decade but shows signs of reaching a ceiling as it pushes against boundaries of acceptable speech.

Zemmour, 63, is a hardline critic of Islam and immigration and has drawn support both from Le Pen's voter base and from the mainstream conservative right but has also alienated some voters that Le Pen had long sought to reassure.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Dozens of protesters gathered near the venue of France's far-right presidential candidate Eric Zemmour's rally on December 5. The leader's rally took place in Villepinte, near Paris.

Dozens of protesters gathered near the venue of France's far-right presidential candidate Eric Zemmour's rally on December 5. The leader's rally took place in Villepinte, near Paris. Police made arrests as protests were undeclared. The demonstrations took place near Villepinte Expo Hall. It was Zemmour's first rally as an official candidate for presidential elections in 2022. The rally was initially planned to take place at a venue in Paris, but was moved to Villepinte amid calls for protests, including by the anti-fascist Antifa group, at the original venue. Zemmour, who was a prominent French far-right commentator, announced his candidacy on Tuesday (November 30) via a video played out live on Youtube and called on voters to take the country back "from minorities that oppress the majority." A former journalist who has been convicted for inciting racial hatred, he becomes the top contender to challenge Marine Le Pen, leader of the more established far-right National Rally, for a place in a second round against President Emmanuel Macron. His candidacy turns the election into a test of the endurance and limits of Europe's far right, which surged across the continent in the last decade but shows signs of reaching a ceiling as it pushes against boundaries of acceptable speech. Zemmour, 63, is a hardline critic of Islam and immigration and has drawn support both from Le Pen's voter base and from the mainstream conservative right but has also alienated some voters that Le Pen had long sought to reassure. (With inputs from agencies)

France: Protesters march near far-right leader's rally, arrests made

A new draft introduced at the COP26 summit has demanded more urgent action against climate change and the emission of carbon dioxide. Climate activists want world leaders to back their words with action.

UN Climate summit: Rally for action against climate change, last-ditch scramble to save planet

Continuing with long-standing criticism of the 2020 polls and attacks on political foes, former US President Donald Trump slammed President Joe Biden's $3.5 trillion "socialist" spending "monstrosity" on all fronts, from economy to immigration. &nbsp;

Viewed as a likely 2024 presidential contender, Trump has criticised his successor's efforts to cobble together a coalition for the massive spending haul, saying the bill was "so bad". &nbsp;

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During a 'Save America' rally in Des Moines, Iowa, Trump said on Saturday night, "It's a socialist transformation bill, it's an open borders bill, (and) it's an American energy destruction bill." &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Joe Biden and the radical Left Democrats in Congress are trying to ram through a $3.5 trillion, wild, spending binge that costs more than the entire sum the United States has spent on any war in the history of our country," the leader said. &nbsp;

"Not only is this the largest spending bill of all time, it's the largest tax hike of all time. This monstrosity is so dangerous for our country and so bad for children and grandchildren to come. This monstrosity is a bill to end America as we know it. It's so bad," the former president said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/travellers-vaccinated-with-who-approved-covid-vaccines-can-enter-us-cdc-419527" hreflang="en">Travellers vaccinated with WHO approved Covid vaccines can enter US: CDC</a>

Suggesting Trump may take on several political opponents in 2024, the former president dropped hints about a campaign slogan, "Make America great again, again," as "America is not great right now." &nbsp;

If the former president enters the race, he would be a formidable candidate, suggests recent polling. A poll in Des Moines Register shows that Trump's approval rating has climbed to 53% in Iowa since leaving office. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Continuing with long-standing criticism of the 2020 polls and attacks on political foes, former US President Donald Trump slammed President Joe Biden's $3.5 trillion "socialist" spending "monstrosity" on all fronts, from economy to immigration.

Continuing with long-standing criticism of the 2020 polls and attacks on political foes, former US President Donald Trump slammed President Joe Biden's $3.5 trillion "socialist" spending "monstrosity" on all fronts, from economy to immigration. Viewed as a likely 2024 presidential contender, Trump has criticised his successor's efforts to cobble together a coalition for the massive spending haul, saying the bill was "so bad". Also Read: California becomes first state to ban secret removal of condom during sex During a 'Save America' rally in Des Moines, Iowa, Trump said on Saturday night, "It's a socialist transformation bill, it's an open borders bill, (and) it's an American energy destruction bill." "Joe Biden and the radical Left Democrats in Congress are trying to ram through a $3.5 trillion, wild, spending binge that costs more than the entire sum the United States has spent on any war in the history of our country," the leader said. "Not only is this the largest spending bill of all time, it's the largest tax hike of all time. This monstrosity is so dangerous for our country and so bad for children and grandchildren to come. This monstrosity is a bill to end America as we know it. It's so bad," the former president said. Also Read | Travellers vaccinated with WHO approved Covid vaccines can enter US: CDC Suggesting Trump may take on several political opponents in 2024, the former president dropped hints about a campaign slogan, "Make America great again, again," as "America is not great right now." If the former president enters the race, he would be a formidable candidate, suggests recent polling. A poll in Des Moines Register shows that Trump's approval rating has climbed to 53% in Iowa since leaving office. (With inputs from agencies)

At Iowa rally, Trump slams Biden's 'socialist' spending package

The supporters of Jair Bolsonaro are not that hard to find in Sinop, which is an agricultural boomtown in the Brazilian Amazon.&nbsp;

Around 80 per cent of voters backed the country’s ultra-conservative leader in the 2018 election.

“He’s a president of the people,” the Guardian quoted Marcos Watanabe, who is the head of the city’s conservative association, sporting a T-shirt stamped with Bolsonaro’s name.

The people are also as passionate as the president of Sinop’s farmers’ union, Ilson José Redivo.&nbsp;

He placed a billboard of his leader outside its headquarters with the slogan that read, "We believe in God and we value the family. We’re with Bolsonaro.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-normal-israels-health-expert-says-fourth-shot-of-covid-vaccine-needed-410904">Also read |&nbsp;New normal: Israel's health expert says fourth shot of Covid vaccine needed</a>

Redivo is one of the millions of Bolsonaro devotees expected to hit the streets on 7 September for one in a series of mass rallies that have jolted Brazilian politics and left many citizens fretting over the future of their country’s democracy.

“It will be the largest demonstration Brazil has ever seen,” Redivo claimed.

He further said that at least 20 buses were setting off from the state capital, Cuiabá, as well as other towns and cities across the agricultural heartlands.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Bolsonaro earlier said that he sees only three alternatives for his future: prison, death or victory.&nbsp;

In the polls, the right-wing populist leader is still trailing left-wing former President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva. Bolsonaro told evangelical leaders, "I have three alternatives for my future: being arrested, killed or victory." &nbsp;

The supporters of Jair Bolsonaro are not that hard to find in Sinop, which is an agricultural boomtown in the Brazilian Amazon. Around 80 per cent of voters backed the country’s ultra-conservative leader in the 2018 election.

The supporters of Jair Bolsonaro are not that hard to find in Sinop, which is an agricultural boomtown in the Brazilian Amazon. Around 80 per cent of voters backed the country’s ultra-conservative leader in the 2018 election. “He’s a president of the people,” the Guardian quoted Marcos Watanabe, who is the head of the city’s conservative association, sporting a T-shirt stamped with Bolsonaro’s name. The people are also as passionate as the president of Sinop’s farmers’ union, Ilson José Redivo. He placed a billboard of his leader outside its headquarters with the slogan that read, "We believe in God and we value the family. We’re with Bolsonaro.” Also read | New normal: Israel's health expert says fourth shot of Covid vaccine needed Redivo is one of the millions of Bolsonaro devotees expected to hit the streets on 7 September for one in a series of mass rallies that have jolted Brazilian politics and left many citizens fretting over the future of their country’s democracy. “It will be the largest demonstration Brazil has ever seen,” Redivo claimed. He further said that at least 20 buses were setting off from the state capital, Cuiabá, as well as other towns and cities across the agricultural heartlands. Meanwhile, Bolsonaro earlier said that he sees only three alternatives for his future: prison, death or victory. In the polls, the right-wing populist leader is still trailing left-wing former President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva. Bolsonaro told evangelical leaders, "I have three alternatives for my future: being arrested, killed or victory."

Fears of violence on Brazil’s streets as millions rally

A ‘Save America’ rally in Cullman, Alabama on Saturday night witnessed a change of heart in former US president Donald Trump towards coronavirus vaccine after he encouraged his supporters to get it. But in response, Trump was met with a round of boos. &nbsp;&nbsp;

While hosting the rally, he touted the benefit of the shot, saying vaccines are 'good'. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Trump said, “I believe totally in your freedoms, I do, you've got to do what you've got to do. But I recommend that you take the vaccines.” The crowd replied with jeers. &nbsp;

After the booing stopped, Trump said that you would be the 'first to know' if the vaccine was ineffective. &nbsp;

"If it doesn't work, you'll be the first to know. Ok? I'll call up Alabama and say, hey, you know what?... But, it is working. But you do have your freedoms. You have to keep -- you have to maintain that,” the president said. &nbsp;

"But I happened to take the vaccine," he added. He also said that families need to get [their] kids back to school. &nbsp;&nbsp;

On social media, Trump's remarks were also met with immense opposition.&nbsp;

A ‘Save America’ rally in Cullman, Alabama on Saturday night witnessed a change of heart in former US president Donald Trump towards coronavirus vaccine after he encouraged his supporters to get it.

A ‘Save America’ rally in Cullman, Alabama on Saturday night witnessed a change of heart in former US president Donald Trump towards coronavirus vaccine after he encouraged his supporters to get it. But in response, Trump was met with a round of boos. While hosting the rally, he touted the benefit of the shot, saying vaccines are 'good'. Trump said, “I believe totally in your freedoms, I do, you've got to do what you've got to do. But I recommend that you take the vaccines.” The crowd replied with jeers. After the booing stopped, Trump said that you would be the 'first to know' if the vaccine was ineffective. "If it doesn't work, you'll be the first to know. Ok? I'll call up Alabama and say, hey, you know what?... But, it is working. But you do have your freedoms. You have to keep -- you have to maintain that,” the president said. "But I happened to take the vaccine," he added. He also said that families need to get [their] kids back to school. On social media, Trump's remarks were also met with immense opposition.

Trump gets booed on advising Alabama rally supporters to take Covid vaccine shot

Some two thousand people took to the streets of downtown&nbsp;Lima&nbsp;on Saturday to call on Peru's Congress to remove&nbsp;leftist&nbsp;president Pedro&nbsp;Castillo&nbsp;and his cabinet.

Peru's first leader in decades with no ties to the country's political or economic elite,&nbsp;Castillo&nbsp;was sworn in on July 28 with a lengthy to-do list, including plans to reform the country's free-market-friendly constitution.&nbsp;

He has also sought to calm fears among investors, the business community and backers of right-wing opponent Keiko Fujimori, who have sought to portray him as a communist who would turn Peru into a new Venezuela.&nbsp;

Saturday saw demonstrators march just a few blocks from the government palace, denouncing what they dubbed a "social-communist government."

Gustavo Milano, 25, a law student, told AFP that "the youth have patriotic values and will go out to defend our country."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-says-thousands-fled-fighting-in-syrias-daraa-403264">Also read |&nbsp;UN says thousands fled fighting in Syria's Daraa</a>

"I want the investors to stay, not to leave, I want the dollar to go down," another protestor said.

The central Plaza San Martin saw protests until late at night, after which a few hundred demonstrators tried to march on the headquarters of the Presidency, where they were met with metal fences and barricades set up by the National Police.

Although there were no direct clashes between the police and protesters, the security forces did launch tear gas canisters and deployed some mounted units.

Castillo&nbsp;has faced a turbulent week and a half in office, stoking controversy with his appointment of Guido Bellido, an electronic engineer with no experience in public office, as his prime minister.

Peruvian media have reported that Bellido has been investigated by prosecutors for an alleged "apology for terrorism"&nbsp;over&nbsp;statements made after taking up his parliamentary seat last Friday -- which assured him immunity from prosecution.&nbsp;

A poll released Friday showed that 41% of Peruvians surveyed disapproved of&nbsp;Castillo's&nbsp;administration&nbsp;so far, with only five percent supportive of plans to draft a new Constitution.

Some two thousand people took to the streets of downtown Lima on Saturday to call on Peru's Congress to remove leftist president Pedro Castillo and his cabinet. Peru's first leader in decades with no ties to the country's political or economic elite, Castillo was sworn in on July 28 with a lengthy to-do list, including plans to reform the country's free-market-friendly constitution.

Some two thousand people took to the streets of downtown Lima on Saturday to call on Peru's Congress to remove leftist president Pedro Castillo and his cabinet. Peru's first leader in decades with no ties to the country's political or economic elite, Castillo was sworn in on July 28 with a lengthy to-do list, including plans to reform the country's free-market-friendly constitution. He has also sought to calm fears among investors, the business community and backers of right-wing opponent Keiko Fujimori, who have sought to portray him as a communist who would turn Peru into a new Venezuela. Saturday saw demonstrators march just a few blocks from the government palace, denouncing what they dubbed a "social-communist government." Gustavo Milano, 25, a law student, told AFP that "the youth have patriotic values and will go out to defend our country." Also read | UN says thousands fled fighting in Syria's Daraa "I want the investors to stay, not to leave, I want the dollar to go down," another protestor said. The central Plaza San Martin saw protests until late at night, after which a few hundred demonstrators tried to march on the headquarters of the Presidency, where they were met with metal fences and barricades set up by the National Police. Although there were no direct clashes between the police and protesters, the security forces did launch tear gas canisters and deployed some mounted units. Castillo has faced a turbulent week and a half in office, stoking controversy with his appointment of Guido Bellido, an electronic engineer with no experience in public office, as his prime minister. Peruvian media have reported that Bellido has been investigated by prosecutors for an alleged "apology for terrorism" over statements made after taking up his parliamentary seat last Friday -- which assured him immunity from prosecution. A poll released Friday showed that 41% of Peruvians surveyed disapproved of Castillo's administration so far, with only five percent supportive of plans to draft a new Constitution.

Over 2000 rally in Lima against leftist Castillo administration

Thousands of Brazilians took to the streets of Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia Sunday to support far-right President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/jair-bolsonaro">Jair Bolsonaro</a> in protest against the country's electronic voting system.

In Rio, some 3,000 people marched on Copacabana beach, many without face masks and dressed in Brazil's yellow-and-green flag colors.

"What we want is that the votes can be recounted publicly, for there to be more transparency, because there have been suspicions of fraud," protester Ronaldo Calvalcante, 46, told AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-bolsonaro-shuffles-cabinet-recreates-labour-ministry-401226" hreflang="en">Brazil's Bolsonaro shuffles cabinet, recreates labour ministry</a>

Bolsonaro has long been sniping at electronic voting, introduced in Brazil in 1996, and advocating instead for the use of "printable and auditable" paper ballots to be introduced for the 2022 presidential race.

People in Brazil cast their ballots electronically at voting stations, and Bolsonaro has for years been arguing for a paper printout to be made of each vote cast, suggesting the absence of a paper trail makes cheating easier.

The 66-year-old leader is under fire from several quarters; facing an investigation into his handling of the coronavirus pandemic that has killed more than half-a-million Brazilians, and with his popularity at a record low.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazilians-take-to-streets-again-to-demand-bolsonaros-impeachment-400450" hreflang="en">Brazilians take to streets again to demand Bolsonaro's impeachment</a>

Thousands of Brazilians have taken part in protests against his leadership.

Analysts say his attack on the voting system suggests he is bracing for defeat in elections next year, and to use fraud claims as a means of fighting back in the example of former US President Donald Trump, of whom Bolsonaro is a fervent admirer.

"Voting strictly electronically is theft! Voting with printed receipts is not complicated, people will adapt," said Roxana Guimaraes, a 45-year-old nurse also among the Rio demonstrators.&nbsp;

A large banner billowed from a crane on the beach with the slogan "Patria Amada" (Beloved Homeland), the slogan of the Bolsonaro government.

Thousands more demonstrated in the capital, Brasilia.

In a video message Bolsonaro insisted he would not accept elections that were not "fair and democratic."

He added he would do "whatever necessary" to ensure there are paper printouts of votes cast in the next election.

Last Thursday, in a Facebook Live event, the head of state spoke for more than two hours about his conviction that there had been fraud in the last two presidential elections, saying he should have won in the first round in 2018.

He has not provided evidence of such fraud, and Brazil's Superior Electoral Court insists the system is transparent and has never been tainted by irregularities.

Bolsonaro has called the court's president Luis Roberto Barroso an "imbecile" for suggesting introducing a paper ballot could open the process to manipulation.

Thousands of Brazilians took to the streets of Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia Sunday to support far-right President Jair Bolsonaro in protest against the country's electronic voting system.

Thousands of Brazilians took to the streets of Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia Sunday to support far-right President Jair Bolsonaro in protest against the country's electronic voting system. In Rio, some 3,000 people marched on Copacabana beach, many without face masks and dressed in Brazil's yellow-and-green flag colors. "What we want is that the votes can be recounted publicly, for there to be more transparency, because there have been suspicions of fraud," protester Ronaldo Calvalcante, 46, told AFP. Also read | Brazil's Bolsonaro shuffles cabinet, recreates labour ministry Bolsonaro has long been sniping at electronic voting, introduced in Brazil in 1996, and advocating instead for the use of "printable and auditable" paper ballots to be introduced for the 2022 presidential race. People in Brazil cast their ballots electronically at voting stations, and Bolsonaro has for years been arguing for a paper printout to be made of each vote cast, suggesting the absence of a paper trail makes cheating easier. The 66-year-old leader is under fire from several quarters; facing an investigation into his handling of the coronavirus pandemic that has killed more than half-a-million Brazilians, and with his popularity at a record low. Also read | Brazilians take to streets again to demand Bolsonaro's impeachment Thousands of Brazilians have taken part in protests against his leadership. Analysts say his attack on the voting system suggests he is bracing for defeat in elections next year, and to use fraud claims as a means of fighting back in the example of former US President Donald Trump, of whom Bolsonaro is a fervent admirer. "Voting strictly electronically is theft! Voting with printed receipts is not complicated, people will adapt," said Roxana Guimaraes, a 45-year-old nurse also among the Rio demonstrators. A large banner billowed from a crane on the beach with the slogan "Patria Amada" (Beloved Homeland), the slogan of the Bolsonaro government. Thousands more demonstrated in the capital, Brasilia. In a video message Bolsonaro insisted he would not accept elections that were not "fair and democratic." He added he would do "whatever necessary" to ensure there are paper printouts of votes cast in the next election. Last Thursday, in a Facebook Live event, the head of state spoke for more than two hours about his conviction that there had been fraud in the last two presidential elections, saying he should have won in the first round in 2018. He has not provided evidence of such fraud, and Brazil's Superior Electoral Court insists the system is transparent and has never been tainted by irregularities. Bolsonaro has called the court's president Luis Roberto Barroso an "imbecile" for suggesting introducing a paper ballot could open the process to manipulation.

Thousands take part in pro-Bolsonaro demonstrations in Brazil

Protesters&nbsp;and&nbsp;police&nbsp;clashed outside Greek parliament in Athens&nbsp;on Wednesday&nbsp;during&nbsp;a&nbsp;rally&nbsp;against&nbsp;coronavirus vaccinations.

Demonstrators and officers could be seen exchanging blows before&nbsp;police&nbsp;sent volleys of&nbsp;tear&nbsp;gas&nbsp;into the crowd of about 1,500 people.

Two&nbsp;water&nbsp;cannons&nbsp;fired on the crowds to disperse the protest. One protester stood in front of the&nbsp;water&nbsp;cannon&nbsp;as it was moving while another struck the vehicle.

Protesters, many of them unmasked, held&nbsp;Greek&nbsp;flags and crosses, singing the national anthem.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/greek-fm-nikos-dendias-says-india-greece-uae-to-establish-trilateral-dialogue-hits-out-turkey-397088">Also read |&nbsp;Greek FM Nikos Dendias says India, Greece, UAE to establish trilateral dialogue; hits out Turkey</a>

It is the second&nbsp;rally&nbsp;in a week&nbsp;against&nbsp;Greece's&nbsp;COVID-19 inoculation drive. A&nbsp;rally&nbsp;last Wednesday, prompted by a government decision to order the mandatory vaccination of healthcare workers and nursing home staff, drew some 5,000 people. The government has suggested other groups, such as teachers, may need to be vaccinated in the fall.

One placard read "hands off our children" as the vaccination programme opened to teenagers this month.

More than 4.7 million people have been fully vaccinated in the country of 11 million, more than 41 per cent.

Infections in Greece have been rising in recent weeks, and authorities reported almost 3,000 new cases on Wednesday.

The government has eased several restrictions in the last month as the tourism season is underway in the country.

Protesters and police clashed outside Greek parliament in Athens on Wednesday during a rally against coronavirus vaccinations. Demonstrators and officers could be seen exchanging blows before police sent volleys of tear gas into the crowd of about 1,500 people.

Protesters and police clashed outside Greek parliament in Athens on Wednesday during a rally against coronavirus vaccinations. Demonstrators and officers could be seen exchanging blows before police sent volleys of tear gas into the crowd of about 1,500 people. Two water cannons fired on the crowds to disperse the protest. One protester stood in front of the water cannon as it was moving while another struck the vehicle. Protesters, many of them unmasked, held Greek flags and crosses, singing the national anthem. Also read | Greek FM Nikos Dendias says India, Greece, UAE to establish trilateral dialogue; hits out Turkey It is the second rally in a week against Greece's COVID-19 inoculation drive. A rally last Wednesday, prompted by a government decision to order the mandatory vaccination of healthcare workers and nursing home staff, drew some 5,000 people. The government has suggested other groups, such as teachers, may need to be vaccinated in the fall. One placard read "hands off our children" as the vaccination programme opened to teenagers this month. More than 4.7 million people have been fully vaccinated in the country of 11 million, more than 41 per cent. Infections in Greece have been rising in recent weeks, and authorities reported almost 3,000 new cases on Wednesday. The government has eased several restrictions in the last month as the tourism season is underway in the country.

Greek police fire tear gas during clashes with protesters in rally against COVID-19 vaccines

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More than 5,000 anti-vaccine protesters, some them waving Greek flags and wooden crosses, rallied in&nbsp;Athens&nbsp;on Wednesday to oppose Greece's coronavirus vaccinations programme.

Shouting "take your vaccines and get out of here!" and calling on Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to resign, the protesters gathered outside parliament under heavy police presence.

Wednesday's protest was the biggest show of opposition to the inoculation drive. A recent poll by Pulse for Skai TV found most Greeks said they would get the vaccine, and the majority were in favour of the mandatory vaccination for some segments of the population.

About 41% of Greeks are fully vaccinated. On Monday, the government ordered the mandatory vaccination of healthcare workers and nursing home staff following a steep rise in new COVID-19 infections in the middle of the vital tourism season.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/greek-fm-nikos-dendias-says-india-greece-uae-to-establish-trilateral-dialogue-hits-out-turkey-397088">Also read |&nbsp;Greek FM Nikos Dendias says India, Greece, UAE to establish trilateral dialogue; hits out Turkey</a>

"Every person has the right to choose. We're choosing that the government does not choose for us," said Faidon Vovolis, a cardiologist, who has questioned the scientific research around face masks and the vaccine and heads the "Free Again" movement, which called the protest. Vovolis said he started the group in response to the government's "tough measures" to contain the virus.

Protests are fairly common in Greece and there have been several in recent months on issues ranging from a new labour law to the most recent Israeli military campaign on Gaza.

A country of 11 million, more than 444,700 people have been infected since the pandemic began and 12,782 have died. Authorities recorded nearly 3,000 new infections on Wednesday.

More than 5,000 anti-vaccine protesters, some them waving Greek flags and wooden crosses, rallied in Athens on Wednesday to oppose Greece's coronavirus vaccinations programme.

More than 5,000 anti-vaccine protesters, some them waving Greek flags and wooden crosses, rallied in Athens on Wednesday to oppose Greece's coronavirus vaccinations programme. Shouting "take your vaccines and get out of here!" and calling on Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to resign, the protesters gathered outside parliament under heavy police presence. Wednesday's protest was the biggest show of opposition to the inoculation drive. A recent poll by Pulse for Skai TV found most Greeks said they would get the vaccine, and the majority were in favour of the mandatory vaccination for some segments of the population. About 41% of Greeks are fully vaccinated. On Monday, the government ordered the mandatory vaccination of healthcare workers and nursing home staff following a steep rise in new COVID-19 infections in the middle of the vital tourism season. Also read | Greek FM Nikos Dendias says India, Greece, UAE to establish trilateral dialogue; hits out Turkey "Every person has the right to choose. We're choosing that the government does not choose for us," said Faidon Vovolis, a cardiologist, who has questioned the scientific research around face masks and the vaccine and heads the "Free Again" movement, which called the protest. Vovolis said he started the group in response to the government's "tough measures" to contain the virus. Protests are fairly common in Greece and there have been several in recent months on issues ranging from a new labour law to the most recent Israeli military campaign on Gaza. A country of 11 million, more than 444,700 people have been infected since the pandemic began and 12,782 have died. Authorities recorded nearly 3,000 new infections on Wednesday.

Thousands rally against COVID-19 vaccinations in Athens

Thousands of South Korean workers staged a rally in downtown Seoul to demand better conditions, video images showed on Saturday, defying a government ban and shrugging off warnings that their protest could ignite a new wave of the coronavirus. 
 
As South Korea battles a spike in infections fuelled by the highly infectious Delta variant, officials had denied permission for the protest, with Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum urging leaders of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions to cancel it. 
 
Marchers wearing masks blocked some of the main streets in the central district of Jongno, holding up signs with slogans such as 'Stop restructuring!' and 'Let's go! General strike!' video from the Yonhap news agency showed. 
 
The protest, which the union said drew as many as 8,000 participants, backed demands for wage hikes and measures to prevent accidents. 
 
But plans for the gathering had provoked concern about a repeat of the events of last summer, after a massive rally traced to a church sparked a second wave of infections nationwide. 
 
However, the union pushed ahead with Saturday's rally after a last-minute change of venue from the financial centre of Yeouido, where police had set up a barricade of buses and checkpoints to deter protesters. 
 
The union has said it is capable of ensuring a safe protest&nbsp;based on strict COVID-19 guidelines, and urged respect for its right to freedom of assembly. 
 
About 80% of South Korea's locally transmitted cases continue to come from the Seoul metropolitan area, home to more than half of the country's population of 52 million. Daily infections hit the highest in nearly six months on Thursday. 
 
Friday's 794 cases reported by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) were slightly lower than the previous day's figure. 
 
"Holding a large protest in the greater Seoul area is an extremely dangerous move that would only add fuel to the flames of COVID-19," Kim had said on Friday, warning that authorities would take all measures necessary to block the demonstration.

Thousands of South Korean workers staged a rally in downtown Seoul to demand better conditions, video images showed on Saturday, defying a government ban and shrugging off warnings that their protest could ignite a new wave of the coronavirus.

Thousands of South Korean workers staged a rally in downtown Seoul to demand better conditions, video images showed on Saturday, defying a government ban and shrugging off warnings that their protest could ignite a new wave of the coronavirus. As South Korea battles a spike in infections fuelled by the highly infectious Delta variant, officials had denied permission for the protest, with Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum urging leaders of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions to cancel it. Marchers wearing masks blocked some of the main streets in the central district of Jongno, holding up signs with slogans such as 'Stop restructuring!' and 'Let's go! General strike!' video from the Yonhap news agency showed. The protest, which the union said drew as many as 8,000 participants, backed demands for wage hikes and measures to prevent accidents. But plans for the gathering had provoked concern about a repeat of the events of last summer, after a massive rally traced to a church sparked a second wave of infections nationwide. However, the union pushed ahead with Saturday's rally after a last-minute change of venue from the financial centre of Yeouido, where police had set up a barricade of buses and checkpoints to deter protesters. The union has said it is capable of ensuring a safe protest based on strict COVID-19 guidelines, and urged respect for its right to freedom of assembly. About 80% of South Korea's locally transmitted cases continue to come from the Seoul metropolitan area, home to more than half of the country's population of 52 million. Daily infections hit the highest in nearly six months on Thursday. Friday's 794 cases reported by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) were slightly lower than the previous day's figure. "Holding a large protest in the greater Seoul area is an extremely dangerous move that would only add fuel to the flames of COVID-19," Kim had said on Friday, warning that authorities would take all measures necessary to block the demonstration.

Thousands of South Korean workers rally in coronavirus-hit Seoul

Former US president Donald Trump on Saturday reprised his baseless election grievances and painted a dystopian picture of the country under Democratic control in his first campaign-style rally since leaving the White House. 
His mission, in part, was to exact revenge on one of the Republicans, who voted for his historic second impeachment.

Trump's event on Saturday night at Ohio's Lorain County Fairgrounds, not far from Cleveland, was held to support Max Miller, a former White House aide, who is challenging Republican Rep&nbsp;Anthony Gonzalez for his congressional seat. Gonzalez was one of 10 GOP House members, who voted to impeach Trump for his role in inciting the deadly January&nbsp;6 insurrection at the Capitol building. Trump wants them to pay.&nbsp;

In his remarks, Trump revisited some of the false claims familiar from his fruitless challenges of President Joe Biden's election victory. "On the evening of November&nbsp;3, the election was over and then all of a sudden things started closing down all over," he said of election night. "We took a massive victory, they did, into something that should never be allowed."

In fact, Trump was describing a legitimate vote counting process that saw Biden take the lead as the night wore on, as Democratic-leaning cities in key states and results from mail-in ballots were reported. Trump administration election officials and top election officials in Republican-led states affirmed the validity of the election outcome. In another echo of the past, the crowd chanted 'Lock her up' at the mention of Hillary Clinton, the Democrat he defeated in 2016.

Traffic was backed up from the fairgrounds into town, where pro-Trump signs dotted residents' lawns. On street corners, vendors sold 'Trump 2024' flags and other merchandise as supporters arrived.

The rally, held five months after Trump left office under a cloud of violence, marks the beginning of a new, more public phase of his post-presidency. After spending much of his time behind closed doors building a political operation and fuming about the last election, Trump is planning a flurry of public appearances in the coming weeks. He'll hold another rally in Florida over the July Fourth weekend unattached to a midterm candidate and will travel to the southern border in the coming week to protest President Joe Biden's immigration policies.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former US president Donald Trump on Saturday reprised his baseless election grievances and painted a dystopian picture of the country under Democratic control in his first campaign-style rally since leaving the White House.

Former US president Donald Trump on Saturday reprised his baseless election grievances and painted a dystopian picture of the country under Democratic control in his first campaign-style rally since leaving the White House. His mission, in part, was to exact revenge on one of the Republicans, who voted for his historic second impeachment. Trump's event on Saturday night at Ohio's Lorain County Fairgrounds, not far from Cleveland, was held to support Max Miller, a former White House aide, who is challenging Republican Rep Anthony Gonzalez for his congressional seat. Gonzalez was one of 10 GOP House members, who voted to impeach Trump for his role in inciting the deadly January 6 insurrection at the Capitol building. Trump wants them to pay. In his remarks, Trump revisited some of the false claims familiar from his fruitless challenges of President Joe Biden's election victory. "On the evening of November 3, the election was over and then all of a sudden things started closing down all over," he said of election night. "We took a massive victory, they did, into something that should never be allowed." In fact, Trump was describing a legitimate vote counting process that saw Biden take the lead as the night wore on, as Democratic-leaning cities in key states and results from mail-in ballots were reported. Trump administration election officials and top election officials in Republican-led states affirmed the validity of the election outcome. In another echo of the past, the crowd chanted 'Lock her up' at the mention of Hillary Clinton, the Democrat he defeated in 2016. Traffic was backed up from the fairgrounds into town, where pro-Trump signs dotted residents' lawns. On street corners, vendors sold 'Trump 2024' flags and other merchandise as supporters arrived. The rally, held five months after Trump left office under a cloud of violence, marks the beginning of a new, more public phase of his post-presidency. After spending much of his time behind closed doors building a political operation and fuming about the last election, Trump is planning a flurry of public appearances in the coming weeks. He'll hold another rally in Florida over the July Fourth weekend unattached to a midterm candidate and will travel to the southern border in the coming week to protest President Joe Biden's immigration policies. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump airs old election grievances at campaign-style rally

Ethiopian pro-government demonstrators denounced the United States on Sunday for imposing restrictions on aid over the Tigray conflict, at a massive rally organised by the authorities to show support for their positions. 
 
More than 10,000 people attended the rally, some carrying banners written in English, Arabic and Amharic. Slogans included: 'USA show us your neutrality', 'Ethiopia doesn't need a caretaker', and 'Fill the dam', a reference to a huge Nile dam opposed by Egypt and Sudan. 
 
The demonstration was larger than typical pro-government rallies, and the public criticism of the United States was rare. 
 
Ethiopia is facing increasing international pressure over the conflict in Tigray, where it and neighbouring Eritrea sent troops last year to oust the regional authorities. 
 
A week ago, the United States imposed restrictions on economic and security assistance to Ethiopia over the conflict. Washington also said it would bar current or former Ethiopian or Eritrean officials it deems responsible for the crisis. 
 
The filling of the $4 billion Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam has also sparked international disputes. Ethiopia says the dam's electricity is needed to develop its economy; Sudan and Egypt say it violates their rights to Nile waters down river. 
 
"We will never kneel down. The preconditions and travel restrictions by the US&nbsp;and its allies are completely unacceptable. It needs to be corrected," Adanech Abebe, mayor of Addis Ababa, told the rally organised by the Ministry of Youth. 
 
Nejash Sheba, a 23-year-old Addis Ababa trader and member of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's Prosperity Party, told Reuters, he had been told by local officials to organise people in his area, and had brought 100 others with him to the rally. 
 
"I came here to show my support to Prosperity Party and to denounce the restrictions put on Ethiopia by America."

Ethiopian pro-government demonstrators denounced the United States on Sunday for imposing restrictions on aid over the Tigray conflict, at a massive rally organised by the authorities to show support for their positions.

Ethiopian pro-government demonstrators denounced the United States on Sunday for imposing restrictions on aid over the Tigray conflict, at a massive rally organised by the authorities to show support for their positions. More than 10,000 people attended the rally, some carrying banners written in English, Arabic and Amharic. Slogans included: 'USA show us your neutrality', 'Ethiopia doesn't need a caretaker', and 'Fill the dam', a reference to a huge Nile dam opposed by Egypt and Sudan. The demonstration was larger than typical pro-government rallies, and the public criticism of the United States was rare. Ethiopia is facing increasing international pressure over the conflict in Tigray, where it and neighbouring Eritrea sent troops last year to oust the regional authorities. A week ago, the United States imposed restrictions on economic and security assistance to Ethiopia over the conflict. Washington also said it would bar current or former Ethiopian or Eritrean officials it deems responsible for the crisis. The filling of the $4 billion Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam has also sparked international disputes. Ethiopia says the dam's electricity is needed to develop its economy; Sudan and Egypt say it violates their rights to Nile waters down river. "We will never kneel down. The preconditions and travel restrictions by the US and its allies are completely unacceptable. It needs to be corrected," Adanech Abebe, mayor of Addis Ababa, told the rally organised by the Ministry of Youth. Nejash Sheba, a 23-year-old Addis Ababa trader and member of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's Prosperity Party, told Reuters, he had been told by local officials to organise people in his area, and had brought 100 others with him to the rally. "I came here to show my support to Prosperity Party and to denounce the restrictions put on Ethiopia by America."

Ethiopians criticise United States at pro-government rally

One of the many Republican candidates vying to replace the governor of California in an upcoming vote caused a stir on Tuesday by bringing a bear to his political rally.&nbsp;

John Cox is campaigning on the theme of 'beauty and the beast',&nbsp;the ‘beauty' being current Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, known for his polished appearance in the state that is home to Hollywood. &nbsp;

Cox has cast himself as the 'beast', who will shake up politics in the most populous US state, where a brown bear features prominently on its flag.&nbsp;

"The beautiful politicians have failed California," Cox said during a rally in Sacramento, the state capital. "We need big, beastly changes to save it. I'll cut taxes, make California more affordable and shake up Sacramento."&nbsp;

For a publicity stunt, Cox brought a Kodiak bear, considered the largest ursine species, to his rally. &nbsp;

The bear, named "Tag," weighs about 1,100 pounds (500 kg) and was born in captivity and trained to appear in films and television series.&nbsp;

Tag displayed a locally appropriate laid-back attitude on Tuesday, content to wait patiently for the end of Cox's speech, munching on snacks given by his trainer or grooming himself with his tongue.&nbsp;

But the use of a bear for political and publicity purposes caused an outcry among animal rights advocates, such as PETA, who said&nbsp;it was "unfortunate and shameful that Tag the Kodiak bear has been exploited in this way."&nbsp;

"Bears need to be left alone, not confined to an open pen on asphalt and wheeled out for events," the NGO said on Twitter, urging "anyone with an ounce of decency to keep wild animals out of their publicity stunts."&nbsp;

A Republican-backed effort to recall Newsom, fueled by his handling of the coronavirus pandemic, has forced a special election that is set to be held later this year.&nbsp;

California allows voters to hold a referendum on replacing its governor if they can gather the signatures of 12 per cent of previous voters, which the campaign succeeded in doing.&nbsp;

(With input from agencies)&nbsp;

One of the many Republican candidates vying to replace the governor of California in an upcoming vote caused a stir on Tuesday by bringing a bear to his political rally.

One of the many Republican candidates vying to replace the governor of California in an upcoming vote caused a stir on Tuesday by bringing a bear to his political rally. John Cox is campaigning on the theme of 'beauty and the beast', the ‘beauty' being current Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, known for his polished appearance in the state that is home to Hollywood. Cox has cast himself as the 'beast', who will shake up politics in the most populous US state, where a brown bear features prominently on its flag. "The beautiful politicians have failed California," Cox said during a rally in Sacramento, the state capital. "We need big, beastly changes to save it. I'll cut taxes, make California more affordable and shake up Sacramento." For a publicity stunt, Cox brought a Kodiak bear, considered the largest ursine species, to his rally. The bear, named "Tag," weighs about 1,100 pounds (500 kg) and was born in captivity and trained to appear in films and television series. Tag displayed a locally appropriate laid-back attitude on Tuesday, content to wait patiently for the end of Cox's speech, munching on snacks given by his trainer or grooming himself with his tongue. But the use of a bear for political and publicity purposes caused an outcry among animal rights advocates, such as PETA, who said it was "unfortunate and shameful that Tag the Kodiak bear has been exploited in this way." "Bears need to be left alone, not confined to an open pen on asphalt and wheeled out for events," the NGO said on Twitter, urging "anyone with an ounce of decency to keep wild animals out of their publicity stunts." A Republican-backed effort to recall Newsom, fueled by his handling of the coronavirus pandemic, has forced a special election that is set to be held later this year. California allows voters to hold a referendum on replacing its governor if they can gather the signatures of 12 per cent of previous voters, which the campaign succeeded in doing. (With input from agencies)

California governor candidate brings a huge brown bear to rally 

Hundreds of demonstrators joined marches and rallies across Britain as part of a ‘national weekend of action’ against a proposed new law that would give police extra powers to curb protests.

Kill The Bill Protest in UK: Police clash with protesters at a rally

The crackdown by security forces on pro-democracy protesters has left 250 people dead since the beginning of the coup on February 1.

Myanmar Coup: Anti-Coup protesters rally across Myanmar

To call for an end to violence and discrimination against women and the scrapping of a proposed law that would restrict travel for many women, hundreds of women's right activists and their supporters took to streets in Nepal's capital on Friday.&nbsp;

The protesters marching in the heart of Kathmandu chanted slogans demanding equality. Activists say even though the country's constitution guarantees equal rights to women, there is much more that needs to be done to make it a reality.&nbsp;

They point to the proposed law that would require women under 40 years of age to get permission from their family and local government to travel to the Middle East or Africa as a violation of human rights. The government has said the regulation would help stop human trafficking, but has pointed out it is just a proposal and not a law till now.&nbsp;

The protesters tried to march to the prime minister's office but were blocked by riot police and barbed wire barricades. There were no clashes or violence.&nbsp;

Reshu Aryal, a rights activist in the rally, said she wanted to protest what she saw as police and official indifference to discrimination and sexual violence against women and girls.&nbsp;

To call for an end to violence and discrimination against women and the scrapping of a proposed law that would restrict travel for many women, hundreds of women's right activists and their supporters took to streets in Nepal's capital on Friday.

To call for an end to violence and discrimination against women and the scrapping of a proposed law that would restrict travel for many women, hundreds of women's right activists and their supporters took to streets in Nepal's capital on Friday. The protesters marching in the heart of Kathmandu chanted slogans demanding equality. Activists say even though the country's constitution guarantees equal rights to women, there is much more that needs to be done to make it a reality. They point to the proposed law that would require women under 40 years of age to get permission from their family and local government to travel to the Middle East or Africa as a violation of human rights. The government has said the regulation would help stop human trafficking, but has pointed out it is just a proposal and not a law till now. The protesters tried to march to the prime minister's office but were blocked by riot police and barbed wire barricades. There were no clashes or violence. Reshu Aryal, a rights activist in the rally, said she wanted to protest what she saw as police and official indifference to discrimination and sexual violence against women and girls.

Hundreds rally for women's rights in Nepal

The world's most popular cryptocurrency touched $29,300 before pulling back, most recently down 0.67% at $28,774.36. It has surged by nearly half since breaking $20,000 for the first time on December 16.

The price of Bitcoin topped $29,000 on Thursday for the first time, with the digital currency almost quadrupling in value this year amid heightened interest from investors big and small alike.

The world's most popular cryptocurrency touched $29,300 before pulling back, most recently down 0.67% at $28,774.36. It has surged by nearly half since breaking $20,000 for the first time on December 16.

Bitcoin's potential for quick gains, as well as expectations it could become a mainstream payment method, has attracted demand from larger U.S. investors, as well as from traders who normally stick to equities.

"You can buy a stock like Amazon, you can buy a stock like Apple, and you know what you got," said Dennis Dick, a proprietary trader at Bright Trading LLC. "Bitcoin you really just have digits on a screen and you're really hoping that the guy behind you sees it as being worth more than what you just paid for it, so it's a purely speculative view," he said.

Still, intrigued by the story behind bitcoin and the traction it was getting with institutional investors, he put 1% of his net worth into a bitcoin fund around five weeks ago, which has doubled in value since then, and he sold half on Thursday.

"When you double your money within five weeks, if you sell half of it, I figure now you’re playing with the house's money," he said.

Recent gains have taken bitcoin's market capitalization past $536 billion, according to industry website CoinMarketCap.

The world's most popular cryptocurrency touched $29,300 before pulling back, most recently down 0.67% at $28,774.36. It has surged by nearly half since breaking $20,000 for the first time on December 16.

The world's most popular cryptocurrency touched $29,300 before pulling back, most recently down 0.67% at $28,774.36. It has surged by nearly half since breaking $20,000 for the first time on December 16. The price of Bitcoin topped $29,000 on Thursday for the first time, with the digital currency almost quadrupling in value this year amid heightened interest from investors big and small alike. The world's most popular cryptocurrency touched $29,300 before pulling back, most recently down 0.67% at $28,774.36. It has surged by nearly half since breaking $20,000 for the first time on December 16. Bitcoin's potential for quick gains, as well as expectations it could become a mainstream payment method, has attracted demand from larger U.S. investors, as well as from traders who normally stick to equities. "You can buy a stock like Amazon, you can buy a stock like Apple, and you know what you got," said Dennis Dick, a proprietary trader at Bright Trading LLC. "Bitcoin you really just have digits on a screen and you're really hoping that the guy behind you sees it as being worth more than what you just paid for it, so it's a purely speculative view," he said. Still, intrigued by the story behind bitcoin and the traction it was getting with institutional investors, he put 1% of his net worth into a bitcoin fund around five weeks ago, which has doubled in value since then, and he sold half on Thursday. "When you double your money within five weeks, if you sell half of it, I figure now you’re playing with the house's money," he said. Recent gains have taken bitcoin's market capitalization past $536 billion, according to industry website CoinMarketCap.

Bitcoin touches record above $29,000, extending 2020 rally

Pakistan's united opposition held a massive rally to mark the 13th death anniversary of the country's former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. Benazir Bhutto was assasinated at a rally in Rawalpindi in 2007.

Pakistan's opposition held a massive rally for the former PM Benazir Bhutto

Amid the anti-government movement in the country, Pakistan’s major Opposition parties decided to go ahead with an anti-government rally on Sunday Quetta city as part of a campaign to oust Prime Minister Imran Khan, despite security threats.

Under Khan, Pakistan has experienced mounting censorship of the media and a crackdown on dissent, critics and opposition. But the campaign against him sought to tap into discontent over his handling of the economy, which was tanking even before the global coronavirus pandemic struck.

The Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), a coalition of 11 parties, was set up on September 20. The rally in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province, would be its third power show after two successful back-to-back gatherings in Gujranwala and Karachi this month.

The National Counter Terrorism Authority issued a security alert during the week, warning that it received “credible information” that opposition rallies in Quetta and Peshawar could be targeted by militants.

Balochistan government’s spokesperson Liaquat Ali Shahwani told the media on Friday that due to threat alert, the opposition parties should postpone the rally. Earlier, the provincial government banned pillion riding in Quetta.

However, PDM leaders rejected the call and announced that the Quetta rally would go ahead.

PDM president Maulana Fazlur Rehman, who is also chief of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), said that the provincial government should pack up and go home if it was unable to maintain law and order.

“It is the responsibility of the Balochistan government to provide complete security to the public meeting in the province,” he said.

Similar sentiments were expressed by Maryam Nawaz, leader of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and daughter of former premier Nawaz Sharif.

“If something happens, the provincial government will be responsible for it,” she said.

Sharif is expected to address the Quetta gathering via video-link from London.

The former prime minister had criticised Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa during the rally in Gujranwala.

Sharif has been in London since November last year after the Lahore High Court granted him permission to go abroad for four weeks for treating the heart disease and an immune system disorder.

The Pakistan military has repeatedly denied meddling in politics. Khan also denies the army helped him win the election.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the anti-government movement in the country, Pakistan’s major Opposition parties decided to go ahead with an anti-government rally on Sunday Quetta city as part of a campaign to oust Prime Minister Imran Khan, despite security threats.

Amid the anti-government movement in the country, Pakistan’s major Opposition parties decided to go ahead with an anti-government rally on Sunday Quetta city as part of a campaign to oust Prime Minister Imran Khan, despite security threats. Under Khan, Pakistan has experienced mounting censorship of the media and a crackdown on dissent, critics and opposition. But the campaign against him sought to tap into discontent over his handling of the economy, which was tanking even before the global coronavirus pandemic struck. The Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), a coalition of 11 parties, was set up on September 20. The rally in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province, would be its third power show after two successful back-to-back gatherings in Gujranwala and Karachi this month. The National Counter Terrorism Authority issued a security alert during the week, warning that it received “credible information” that opposition rallies in Quetta and Peshawar could be targeted by militants. Balochistan government’s spokesperson Liaquat Ali Shahwani told the media on Friday that due to threat alert, the opposition parties should postpone the rally. Earlier, the provincial government banned pillion riding in Quetta. However, PDM leaders rejected the call and announced that the Quetta rally would go ahead. PDM president Maulana Fazlur Rehman, who is also chief of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), said that the provincial government should pack up and go home if it was unable to maintain law and order. “It is the responsibility of the Balochistan government to provide complete security to the public meeting in the province,” he said. Similar sentiments were expressed by Maryam Nawaz, leader of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and daughter of former premier Nawaz Sharif. “If something happens, the provincial government will be responsible for it,” she said. Sharif is expected to address the Quetta gathering via video-link from London. The former prime minister had criticised Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa during the rally in Gujranwala. Sharif has been in London since November last year after the Lahore High Court granted him permission to go abroad for four weeks for treating the heart disease and an immune system disorder. The Pakistan military has repeatedly denied meddling in politics. Khan also denies the army helped him win the election. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan opposition to hold mass rally in Quetta calling for PM Imran Khan to go

Families of the victims of a 2018 suicide attack in Kabul gathered on Monday (September 14) at the graveyard of their loved ones and called for a lasting peace as Afghan government officials and the Taliban hold talks in Doha to end 19 years of war in the country.

Families of Afghan 2018 suicide attack rally at graveyard of their loved ones, calling for peace

One person was killed and another wounded in a shooting at a Black Lives Matter rally in the US state of Kentucky, police said.

The incident Saturday took place at Jefferson Square Park in the center of Louisville where protestors have gathered for weeks over the killing of African American woman Breonna Taylor.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-walmart-shooting-kills-2-people-4-wounded-309110">Also read|&nbsp;US: Walmart shooting kills 2 people; 4 wounded</a>

Her death in March helped fuel a campaign against racism and police brutality in the United States that has since spread across the globe.&nbsp;

Louisville Metro Police Department said officers were called to the park at around 9:00 pm. &nbsp;

"Calls then came in that Sheriff's Department personnel were in the park performing life-saving measures on a male who eventually died at the scene," the department said on Twitter.&nbsp;

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Soon after another person was shot across the street at the city's Hall of Justice, police added.&nbsp;

It was unclear if there was more than one shooter and authorities have yet to release any details of the victims.&nbsp;

Louisville mayor Greg Fischer said he was "deeply saddened by the violence."

Before the shooting, Fischer had urged counter-protesters to stay away from the park, after local newspaper Louisville Courier Journal reported that "armed patriot groups" were planning on confronting the demonstrators.&nbsp;

Louisville has seen especially passionate Black Lives Matter protests due to the police killing Taylor in her own apartment.

The 26-year-old emergency room technician was shot dead after police barged into her home, alleging that drug dealers had used the apartment to receive packages.

The case helped trigger fresh waves of anger in the United States over racial injustice and police brutality.

Those protests expanded dramatically after the May 25 killing of George Floyd, an unarmed black man who died in Minneapolis after a white police officer pinned his knee to Floyd's neck for more than eight minutes.

One person was killed and another wounded in a shooting at a Black Lives Matter rally in the US state of Kentucky, police said. The incident Saturday took place at Jefferson Square Park in the center of Louisville where protestors have gathered for weeks over the killing of African American woman Breonna Taylor.

One person was killed and another wounded in a shooting at a Black Lives Matter rally in the US state of Kentucky, police said. The incident Saturday took place at Jefferson Square Park in the center of Louisville where protestors have gathered for weeks over the killing of African American woman Breonna Taylor. Also read| US: Walmart shooting kills 2 people; 4 wounded Her death in March helped fuel a campaign against racism and police brutality in the United States that has since spread across the globe. Louisville Metro Police Department said officers were called to the park at around 9:00 pm. "Calls then came in that Sheriff's Department personnel were in the park performing life-saving measures on a male who eventually died at the scene," the department said on Twitter. Just about 9 p.m., there were reports of shots fired in Jefferson Square Park. Calls then came in that Sheriff’s Department personnel were in the park performing life-saving measures on a male who eventually died at the scene. — LMPD (@LMPD) June 28, 2020 × Soon after another person was shot across the street at the city's Hall of Justice, police added. It was unclear if there was more than one shooter and authorities have yet to release any details of the victims. Louisville mayor Greg Fischer said he was "deeply saddened by the violence." Before the shooting, Fischer had urged counter-protesters to stay away from the park, after local newspaper Louisville Courier Journal reported that "armed patriot groups" were planning on confronting the demonstrators. Louisville has seen especially passionate Black Lives Matter protests due to the police killing Taylor in her own apartment. The 26-year-old emergency room technician was shot dead after police barged into her home, alleging that drug dealers had used the apartment to receive packages. The case helped trigger fresh waves of anger in the United States over racial injustice and police brutality. Those protests expanded dramatically after the May 25 killing of George Floyd, an unarmed black man who died in Minneapolis after a white police officer pinned his knee to Floyd's neck for more than eight minutes.

One dead in shooting at US Black Lives Matter rally

The world-renowned annual Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra in Gujarat's Ahmedabad will be held for the first time in 143 years without the accompaniment of troupes, tableau trucks, and massive crowds in view of novel coronavirus outbreak.

Only three chariots, each to be pulled by 30 persons, will be taken out in the presence of temple trustees and priests as part of the 143rd edition of the yatra on June 23, coinciding with "Ashadhi Beej", said temple trustee Mahendra Jha.

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"This will be the first time in 143 years that only three chariots will take part. Due to coronavirus pandemic, there will be no trucks carrying devotees, akhadas, singing troupes, tableaux. It will be a simple affair and we want people to catch it live on television this time," he told PTI.

Traditionally, the procession, led by chariots of Lord Jagannath, brother Balbhadra and sister Subhadra, starts early morning from the 400-year-old temple and returns by late evening, the route full of people running into several hundred thousand, decorated elephants, some 100 trucks with tableaux, singers, akhadas etc.

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The procession comes back to the Lord Jagannath Temple after covering a distance of 18 kilometres in 12 hours.

"We will try to return to the temple as early as possible. All guidelines in place like social distancing etc will be followed strictly," Jha added.

The world-renowned annual Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra in Gujarat's Ahmedabad will be held for the first time in 143 years without the accompaniment of troupes, tableau trucks, and massive crowds in view of novel coronavirus outbreak.

The world-renowned annual Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra in Gujarat's Ahmedabad will be held for the first time in 143 years without the accompaniment of troupes, tableau trucks, and massive crowds in view of novel coronavirus outbreak. Only three chariots, each to be pulled by 30 persons, will be taken out in the presence of temple trustees and priests as part of the 143rd edition of the yatra on June 23, coinciding with "Ashadhi Beej", said temple trustee Mahendra Jha. Also read: COVID 19: India's cases nearly 2 lakh; ICMR conducts more than 1 lakh tests "This will be the first time in 143 years that only three chariots will take part. Due to coronavirus pandemic, there will be no trucks carrying devotees, akhadas, singing troupes, tableaux. It will be a simple affair and we want people to catch it live on television this time," he told PTI. Traditionally, the procession, led by chariots of Lord Jagannath, brother Balbhadra and sister Subhadra, starts early morning from the 400-year-old temple and returns by late evening, the route full of people running into several hundred thousand, decorated elephants, some 100 trucks with tableaux, singers, akhadas etc. Also read: Tamil Nadu crosses 1,000-mark in terms of new coronavirus cases in one day The procession comes back to the Lord Jagannath Temple after covering a distance of 18 kilometres in 12 hours. "We will try to return to the temple as early as possible. All guidelines in place like social distancing etc will be followed strictly," Jha added.

Gujarat Rath Yatra to be simple affair due to coronavirus outbreak

Protests resume in Hong Kong as 800,000 people take to the streets.

Protests resume in Hong Kong

Thousands rally in support of Suu Kyi Ahead of hearing.

Aung San Suu Kyi to defend Myanmar at ICJ

Thousands of backers of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-withholding-105-million-in-security-aid-for-lebanon-sources-259197">Lebanon's embattled president</a> rallied Sunday in a show of support, after more than two weeks of massive nationwide anti-graft protests that brought down the government.

They paid tribute to President Michel Aoun outside the capital, ahead of another demonstration planned in Beirut to demand a complete overhaul of a political system deemed inefficient and corrupt.

In the town of Baabda, supporters of the retired general turned head of state filled up a two-kilometre-long&nbsp;road leading to the presidential&nbsp;palace, an AFP correspondent said.

Fans of the president waved large Lebanese flags and orange-coloured banners of the political party he founded, the Free Patriotic Movement, he said.

"We are here, General. We won't abandon you as long as we live," one poster read, responding to a cross-sectarian movement calling for an end to his term.

Some Aoun supporters wore orange T-shirts while others held up portraits of the 84-year-old president.

"General Aoun is a reformist and sincere man,&nbsp;not corrupt nor a thief," said one supporter who gave her name as Diana.

"There has been corruption in the state for 30 years. The president isn't responsible. He's trying to fight against graft," she said.

In Baabda, Aoun supporters said they backed the general demands of protesters nationwide but insisted the president was the only man able to bring about reforms.

"There were slogans against the president. That's not fair," said Hanna Nader, an unemployed man in his forties.

More than 25 percent of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-president-calls-for-merit-based-government-in-nod-to-protesters-259178">Lebanese live in poverty</a>, the World Bank says.

Economic growth in Lebanon has stalled in recent years in the wake of repeated political crises, compounded by an eight-year civil war in neighbouring Syria.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Saad Hariri announced his cabinet would step down.

But it is still unclear what a new government will look like and if it will include independent technocrats as demanded by demonstrators.

Thousands of anti-government protesters flocked together in the northern city of Tripoli Saturday night, many from other parts of the country.

Thousands of backers of Lebanon's embattled president rallied Sunday in a show of support, after more than two weeks of massive nationwide anti-graft protests that brought down the government.

Thousands of backers of Lebanon's embattled president rallied Sunday in a show of support, after more than two weeks of massive nationwide anti-graft protests that brought down the government. They paid tribute to President Michel Aoun outside the capital, ahead of another demonstration planned in Beirut to demand a complete overhaul of a political system deemed inefficient and corrupt. In the town of Baabda, supporters of the retired general turned head of state filled up a two-kilometre-long road leading to the presidential palace, an AFP correspondent said. Fans of the president waved large Lebanese flags and orange-coloured banners of the political party he founded, the Free Patriotic Movement, he said. "We are here, General. We won't abandon you as long as we live," one poster read, responding to a cross-sectarian movement calling for an end to his term. Some Aoun supporters wore orange T-shirts while others held up portraits of the 84-year-old president. "General Aoun is a reformist and sincere man, not corrupt nor a thief," said one supporter who gave her name as Diana. "There has been corruption in the state for 30 years. The president isn't responsible. He's trying to fight against graft," she said. In Baabda, Aoun supporters said they backed the general demands of protesters nationwide but insisted the president was the only man able to bring about reforms. "There were slogans against the president. That's not fair," said Hanna Nader, an unemployed man in his forties. More than 25 percent of the Lebanese live in poverty, the World Bank says. Economic growth in Lebanon has stalled in recent years in the wake of repeated political crises, compounded by an eight-year civil war in neighbouring Syria. On Tuesday, Prime Minister Saad Hariri announced his cabinet would step down. But it is still unclear what a new government will look like and if it will include independent technocrats as demanded by demonstrators. Thousands of anti-government protesters flocked together in the northern city of Tripoli Saturday night, many from other parts of the country.

Thousands rally in support of Lebanese president

Hong Kong police fired volleys of tear gas to disperse thousands of protesters, many wearing banned face masks, who converged on the Kowloon harbour-front tourist district on Sunday (October 27) to denounce perceived police brutality over months of unrest.

Protests in Hong Kong continue; Rally against police brutality

Ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Haryana, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address an election rally in Ballabhgarh on Monday.

This will be the first of the four rallies the Prime Minister is scheduled to address in Haryana. He will be in Thanesar (Kurukshetra) and Dadri on October 15 while the last rally before polls commence in the state will be in the Jat-dominated Hissar on October 18.

The Prime Minister is likely to woo the voters using Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar's clean image and the developmental works done by the Centre along with the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir.

On Sunday, the BJP released its manifesto and made a host of promises to woo the electorates ahead of forthcoming Haryana Assembly elections.

In the manifesto titled 'Mhare sapno ka Haryana' (my dreams of Haryana), the BJP made a plethora of promises ranging from launching Haryana start-up mission, constitution of a new 'Yuva Vikas and Rozgar' ministry and one All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), doubling of farmers' income by 2022 and increase in pension.

The manifesto was released in the presence of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, BJP national working president J P Nadda and other party leaders.

Apart from the Prime Minister, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other party MPs too are scheduled to hold rallies in the state to help BJP's chances of retaining the state.

Elections to the 90-member Haryana Assembly will be held on October 21 along with 288-member Maharashtra Assembly. PM Modi is also set to address rallies in Maharashtra.

The counting of votes is scheduled to commence on October 24.

Ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Haryana, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address an election rally in Ballabhgarh on Monday. This will be the first of the four rallies the Prime Minister is scheduled to address in Haryana.

Ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Haryana, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address an election rally in Ballabhgarh on Monday. This will be the first of the four rallies the Prime Minister is scheduled to address in Haryana. He will be in Thanesar (Kurukshetra) and Dadri on October 15 while the last rally before polls commence in the state will be in the Jat-dominated Hissar on October 18. The Prime Minister is likely to woo the voters using Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar's clean image and the developmental works done by the Centre along with the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir. On Sunday, the BJP released its manifesto and made a host of promises to woo the electorates ahead of forthcoming Haryana Assembly elections. In the manifesto titled 'Mhare sapno ka Haryana' (my dreams of Haryana), the BJP made a plethora of promises ranging from launching Haryana start-up mission, constitution of a new 'Yuva Vikas and Rozgar' ministry and one All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), doubling of farmers' income by 2022 and increase in pension. The manifesto was released in the presence of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, BJP national working president J P Nadda and other party leaders. Apart from the Prime Minister, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other party MPs too are scheduled to hold rallies in the state to help BJP's chances of retaining the state. Elections to the 90-member Haryana Assembly will be held on October 21 along with 288-member Maharashtra Assembly. PM Modi is also set to address rallies in Maharashtra. The counting of votes is scheduled to commence on October 24.

Haryana Assembly polls: PM Modi to address rally in Ballabhgarh today

Nearly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tens-of-thousands-call-for-fair-elections-at-moscow-rally-242057">50,000 opposition supporters rallied </a>and dozens were arrested in Moscow on Saturday at one of the largest authorised protests since President Vladimir Putin's return to the Kremlin in 2012.

Demonstrators crowded the central Prospekt Andreya Sakharova street, where city authorities deployed a massive police presence, including officers in riot gear, after permitting for the rally to go ahead.

The White Counter, an NGO that tracks participants in rallies, counted 49,900 people, while Moscow police gave a much lower attendance figure of 20,000.

A total of 71 people were detained in Moscow and a further 80 were arrested in Russia's second-largest city of Saint Petersburg, according to OVD-Info, an NGO that monitors detentions at protests.

In recent weeks, thousands have attended street protests calling for free and fair elections after the exclusion of several opposition figures, including allies of top Putin critic Alexei Navalny, from local Moscow polls next month.

While the rally was authorised, Navalny -- who is currently in jail -- had urged supporters to walk peacefully through the city afterwards.

Navalny's associate, Boris Zolotarevsky, told protesters to proceed to Putin's administration offices. He was detained by police shortly afterwards.

- 'Citizens are hostages' -

At the rally, some protesters carried placards with slogans such as "Give us the right to vote!" and "You've lied to us enough", while others held up pictures of activists arrested at earlier demonstrations.&nbsp;

"I'm outraged by this injustice at every level. They're not letting candidates stand who have collected all the necessary signatures. They are arresting people who are protesting peacefully," said one protester, Irina Dargolts, a 60-year-old engineer.

"It feels like the country is a prisoner and its citizens are hostages... No one represents the people," said Dmitry Khobbotovsky, an activist for the Open Russia movement funded by Kremlin foe and former oligarch Mikhail Khodorkovsky.

Showing the movement's appeal to young Russians, one of the country's most famous rappers, Oxxxymiron, attended the rally and another popular rapper Face performed on stage.

"I'm performing here today so that my people have freedom and the right to choose," said Face, 22, known for his facial tattoos.

- Police crackdown - 
Riot police and the national guard had detained over 2,000 people at the previous two rallies, which were not authorised by city officials, and a dozen protesters face criminal charges and risk jail terms for "mass disorder".

Most opposition candidates banned from participating in the Moscow election have now been jailed for violating protest laws. &nbsp;

One of the rally speakers was the wife of opposition politician Dmitry Gudkov, who is serving a 30-day sentence.

"Each of us has the right to run for office and they are very afraid of that," said Valeriya Gudkova.&nbsp;

"We have real support from the public and they just have criminals in their electoral commissions."&nbsp;

- 'Attempt to gag us' -

As he enters his third decade in power, Putin's approval ratings have dropped significantly and critics say the authorities fear any outlet calling for wider political change.

The latest demonstration came this week as authorities mounted their harshest attack yet on Navalny's team, focusing on his anti-corruption foundation which publishes investigations of officials close to Putin.

One of the foundation's lawyers, Lyubov Sobol, was detained Saturday at her campaign office by police in riot gear, she wrote on social media.&nbsp;

Riot police also raided the studio where Navalny's supporters were set to run a live broadcast of the protest, activists said.

On Thursday, investigators raided the foundation's office as part of a probe into alleged acceptance of donations of laundered money and a court froze the foundation's accounts.

"This is the most aggressive attempt yet to gag us," Navalny wrote in a blog entry he issued through lawyers while serving a 30-day sentence.

Nearly 50,000 opposition supporters rallied and dozens were arrested in Moscow on Saturday at one of the largest authorised protests since President Vladimir Putin's return to the Kremlin in 2012.

Nearly 50,000 opposition supporters rallied and dozens were arrested in Moscow on Saturday at one of the largest authorised protests since President Vladimir Putin's return to the Kremlin in 2012. Demonstrators crowded the central Prospekt Andreya Sakharova street, where city authorities deployed a massive police presence, including officers in riot gear, after permitting for the rally to go ahead. The White Counter, an NGO that tracks participants in rallies, counted 49,900 people, while Moscow police gave a much lower attendance figure of 20,000. A total of 71 people were detained in Moscow and a further 80 were arrested in Russia's second-largest city of Saint Petersburg, according to OVD-Info, an NGO that monitors detentions at protests. In recent weeks, thousands have attended street protests calling for free and fair elections after the exclusion of several opposition figures, including allies of top Putin critic Alexei Navalny, from local Moscow polls next month. While the rally was authorised, Navalny -- who is currently in jail -- had urged supporters to walk peacefully through the city afterwards. Navalny's associate, Boris Zolotarevsky, told protesters to proceed to Putin's administration offices. He was detained by police shortly afterwards. - 'Citizens are hostages' - At the rally, some protesters carried placards with slogans such as "Give us the right to vote!" and "You've lied to us enough", while others held up pictures of activists arrested at earlier demonstrations. "I'm outraged by this injustice at every level. They're not letting candidates stand who have collected all the necessary signatures. They are arresting people who are protesting peacefully," said one protester, Irina Dargolts, a 60-year-old engineer. "It feels like the country is a prisoner and its citizens are hostages... No one represents the people," said Dmitry Khobbotovsky, an activist for the Open Russia movement funded by Kremlin foe and former oligarch Mikhail Khodorkovsky. Showing the movement's appeal to young Russians, one of the country's most famous rappers, Oxxxymiron, attended the rally and another popular rapper Face performed on stage. "I'm performing here today so that my people have freedom and the right to choose," said Face, 22, known for his facial tattoos. - Police crackdown - Riot police and the national guard had detained over 2,000 people at the previous two rallies, which were not authorised by city officials, and a dozen protesters face criminal charges and risk jail terms for "mass disorder". Most opposition candidates banned from participating in the Moscow election have now been jailed for violating protest laws. One of the rally speakers was the wife of opposition politician Dmitry Gudkov, who is serving a 30-day sentence. "Each of us has the right to run for office and they are very afraid of that," said Valeriya Gudkova. "We have real support from the public and they just have criminals in their electoral commissions." - 'Attempt to gag us' - As he enters his third decade in power, Putin's approval ratings have dropped significantly and critics say the authorities fear any outlet calling for wider political change. The latest demonstration came this week as authorities mounted their harshest attack yet on Navalny's team, focusing on his anti-corruption foundation which publishes investigations of officials close to Putin. One of the foundation's lawyers, Lyubov Sobol, was detained Saturday at her campaign office by police in riot gear, she wrote on social media. Riot police also raided the studio where Navalny's supporters were set to run a live broadcast of the protest, activists said. On Thursday, investigators raided the foundation's office as part of a probe into alleged acceptance of donations of laundered money and a court froze the foundation's accounts. "This is the most aggressive attempt yet to gag us," Navalny wrote in a blog entry he issued through lawyers while serving a 30-day sentence.

Dozens arrested at huge opposition rally in Moscow

This time, he didn't quite go there.

President Donald Trump on Thursday briefly renewed his criticism of four minority Democratic congresswomen at his first rally since the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-rebuke-trump-says-i-dont-have-a-racist-bone-in-my-body-236506">controversy erupted</a> when a crowd at a rally last month broke into a chant of "Send her back" about a US lawmaker who immigrated to the United States from Somalia.

But he did not name or dwell on them. The crowd as a whole did not chant, and the president - who was being watched for his response if such a unified cry erupted - did not have to show whether he would try to stop his supporters from engaging in a call that critics view as racist.

"While Republicans are working every day to build up our country, the rage-filled Democrat Party is trying to tear America apart. The Democrat Party is now being led by four left-wing extremists who reject everything that we hold dear," Trump told the crowd in Ohio, making reference to US Representative Ilhan Omar and three colleagues are known as "the Squad."

"No one has paid a higher price for the far-left's destructive agenda than Americans living in our nation's inner cities," he said.

And that was that. Trump continued on a long riff about Democrats' performance in inner cities, but he did not name Elijah Cummings, a black US congressman from Baltimore and civil rights champion, whom Trump has also recently criticized.

Trump still had plenty to say about his opponents, and the enthusiastic crowd chanted, "Lock Her Up!" when the president criticized his 2016 Democratic presidential rival, Hillary Clinton.

The Republican president also picked up on a theme from Wednesday night's Democratic presidential debate, in which former Democratic President Barack Obama's legacy came under criticism from some candidates seeking their party's nomination to run against Trump next year. Trump said they spent more time attacking Obama than they did attack him.

Democrats have criticized the attacks by Trump on Omar and the three other progressive congresswomen as racist. The attacks started with Trump's tweets last month saying they should "go back" to where they came from. Many Republicans have shrugged off the remarks.

All four are US citizens and Omar is the only one not born in the United States.

Trump looked on when supporters chanted: "Send Her back!" at a July 17 North Carolina rally after he recounted past comments by Omar. The next day, he said he disagreed with the chant, but later resumed his criticism of the congresswomen, saying they had said horrible things about the United States and defending the North Carolina crowd as "incredible patriots."

Before he left for Cincinnati, Trump was asked by reporters at the White House whether he would stop rally participants if they started that chant.

"I don’t know that you can stop people. ... I’d prefer that they don’t. But if they do it, we’ll have to make a decision then."

This time, he didn't quite go there. President Donald Trump on Thursday briefly renewed his criticism of four minority Democratic congresswomen at his first rally since the controversy erupted when a crowd at a rally last month broke into a chant of "Send her back" about a US lawmaker who immigrated to the United States from Somalia.

This time, he didn't quite go there. President Donald Trump on Thursday briefly renewed his criticism of four minority Democratic congresswomen at his first rally since the controversy erupted when a crowd at a rally last month broke into a chant of "Send her back" about a US lawmaker who immigrated to the United States from Somalia. But he did not name or dwell on them. The crowd as a whole did not chant, and the president - who was being watched for his response if such a unified cry erupted - did not have to show whether he would try to stop his supporters from engaging in a call that critics view as racist. "While Republicans are working every day to build up our country, the rage-filled Democrat Party is trying to tear America apart. The Democrat Party is now being led by four left-wing extremists who reject everything that we hold dear," Trump told the crowd in Ohio, making reference to US Representative Ilhan Omar and three colleagues are known as "the Squad." "No one has paid a higher price for the far-left's destructive agenda than Americans living in our nation's inner cities," he said. And that was that. Trump continued on a long riff about Democrats' performance in inner cities, but he did not name Elijah Cummings, a black US congressman from Baltimore and civil rights champion, whom Trump has also recently criticized. Trump still had plenty to say about his opponents, and the enthusiastic crowd chanted, "Lock Her Up!" when the president criticized his 2016 Democratic presidential rival, Hillary Clinton. The Republican president also picked up on a theme from Wednesday night's Democratic presidential debate, in which former Democratic President Barack Obama's legacy came under criticism from some candidates seeking their party's nomination to run against Trump next year. Trump said they spent more time attacking Obama than they did attack him. Democrats have criticized the attacks by Trump on Omar and the three other progressive congresswomen as racist. The attacks started with Trump's tweets last month saying they should "go back" to where they came from. Many Republicans have shrugged off the remarks. All four are US citizens and Omar is the only one not born in the United States. Trump looked on when supporters chanted: "Send Her back!" at a July 17 North Carolina rally after he recounted past comments by Omar. The next day, he said he disagreed with the chant, but later resumed his criticism of the congresswomen, saying they had said horrible things about the United States and defending the North Carolina crowd as "incredible patriots." Before he left for Cincinnati, Trump was asked by reporters at the White House whether he would stop rally participants if they started that chant. "I don’t know that you can stop people. ... I’d prefer that they don’t. But if they do it, we’ll have to make a decision then."

'Lock Her Up!' but no 'Send her Back!' chant at Trump rally in Ohio

The BSE Sensex ended 157 points higher Wednesday, driven by gains in metal, power and financial stocks ahead of June derivatives expiry.

Extending its gains for the second session, the 30-share index settled 157.14 points or 0.40 per cent, higher at 39,592.08. The index hit an intra-day high of 39,674.22 and a low of 39,319.64.

The broader NSE Nifty too rose 51.10 points, or 0.43 per cent, to finish at 11,847.55. During the day, the index touched a high of 11,871.85 and a low of 11,757.55.

Vedanta was the biggest gainer in the Sensex pack, rising 4.40 per cent. PowerGrid, Sun Pharma, Yes Bank, Tata Steel, HDFC Bank, Bajaj Finance, ICICI Bank and Bajaj Auto too ended up to 4.12 per cent higher.

On the other hand, Infosys, IndusInd Bank, Tech Mahindra, Bharti Airtel, Maruti, TCS and HDFC were among the top losers, shedding up to 1.12 per cent.

Buying interest was seen in metal, power, healthcare, capital goods and financial counters ahead of the expiry of June futures and options (F&amp;O) contracts scheduled for Thursday, traders said.

Domestic investors are also hoping for positive news on the trade front in the backdrop of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, traders added.

According to experts, equities witnessed gains after positive momentum was triggered in the domestic stock market on reports of swift monsoon progress in the country.

On the currency front, the Indian rupee was appreciated 22 paise to 69.13 against the US dollar intra-day.

Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, rose 1.17 per cent to USD 65.03 per barrel.

Globally, while bourses in Shanghai, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Seoul ended on a mixed note, equity markets in Europe were trading in the green in early deals.

The BSE Sensex ended 157 points higher Wednesday, driven by gains in metal, power and financial stocks ahead of June derivatives expiry. Extending its gains for the second session, the 30-share index settled 157.

The BSE Sensex ended 157 points higher Wednesday, driven by gains in metal, power and financial stocks ahead of June derivatives expiry. Extending its gains for the second session, the 30-share index settled 157.14 points or 0.40 per cent, higher at 39,592.08. The index hit an intra-day high of 39,674.22 and a low of 39,319.64. The broader NSE Nifty too rose 51.10 points, or 0.43 per cent, to finish at 11,847.55. During the day, the index touched a high of 11,871.85 and a low of 11,757.55. Vedanta was the biggest gainer in the Sensex pack, rising 4.40 per cent. PowerGrid, Sun Pharma, Yes Bank, Tata Steel, HDFC Bank, Bajaj Finance, ICICI Bank and Bajaj Auto too ended up to 4.12 per cent higher. On the other hand, Infosys, IndusInd Bank, Tech Mahindra, Bharti Airtel, Maruti, TCS and HDFC were among the top losers, shedding up to 1.12 per cent. Buying interest was seen in metal, power, healthcare, capital goods and financial counters ahead of the expiry of June futures and options (F&O) contracts scheduled for Thursday, traders said. Domestic investors are also hoping for positive news on the trade front in the backdrop of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, traders added. According to experts, equities witnessed gains after positive momentum was triggered in the domestic stock market on reports of swift monsoon progress in the country. On the currency front, the Indian rupee was appreciated 22 paise to 69.13 against the US dollar intra-day. Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, rose 1.17 per cent to USD 65.03 per barrel. Globally, while bourses in Shanghai, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Seoul ended on a mixed note, equity markets in Europe were trading in the green in early deals.

Sensex closes 157 points higher, Nifty near 11,850 as metal, bank stocks rally

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