Trouble continues to mount for New York's Governor Andrew Cuomo. Protesters gathered outside Cuomo's office, chanted slogans and also held up placards for the Governor to immediately resign.

Protesters gather outside Andrew Cuomo's office in New York

Britain's Finance Minister Philip Hammond said on Sunday he would resign on Wednesday before his expected sacking by the favourite to become Britain's next prime minister, Boris Johnson, takes office.

"I am sure I am not going to be sacked because I am going to resign before we get to that point," Hammond told the BBC's Andrew Marr Show.

"Assuming that Boris Johnson becomes prime minister, I understand that his conditions for serving in his government would include accepting a no-deal (EU) exit on the 31st of October. That is not something I could ever sign up to," he said.

British Foreign Minister Jeremy Hunt is also in the running for the country's top seat, after outgoing prime minister Theresa May leaves office on Wednesday.

Britain's Finance Minister Philip Hammond said on Sunday he would resign on Wednesday before his expected sacking by the favourite to become Britain's next prime minister, Boris Johnson, takes office.

Britain's Finance Minister Philip Hammond said on Sunday he would resign on Wednesday before his expected sacking by the favourite to become Britain's next prime minister, Boris Johnson, takes office. "I am sure I am not going to be sacked because I am going to resign before we get to that point," Hammond told the BBC's Andrew Marr Show. "Assuming that Boris Johnson becomes prime minister, I understand that his conditions for serving in his government would include accepting a no-deal (EU) exit on the 31st of October. That is not something I could ever sign up to," he said. British Foreign Minister Jeremy Hunt is also in the running for the country's top seat, after outgoing prime minister Theresa May leaves office on Wednesday.

Britain's Finance Minister Philip Hammond to resign on Wednesday over no-deal Brexit

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-dismisses-pil-against-fm-arun-jaitley-182167">Finance Minister Arun Jaitley</a>&nbsp;on Monday appreciated the service rendered by RBI Governor Urjit Patel saying it was a pleasure to deal with him and has benefitted from his scholarship.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rbi-governor-urjit-patel-resigns-cites-personal-reasons-182915">Patel on&nbsp; Monday resigned as RBI Governor</a>, nearly 9 months ahead of his three-year tenure was to come to an end.

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Finance Minister Arun Jaitley: Govt acknowledges with deep sense of appreciation the services rendered by Dr Urjit Patel to this country, both in his capacity as Governor &amp; Deputy Governor of RBI. I wish Dr Patel all the very best and many more years of public service. (File pic) <a href="https://t.co/o7W5OwG9Ah">pic.twitter.com/o7W5OwG9Ah</a>
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"The Government acknowledges with a deep sense of appreciation the services rendered by Dr Urjit Patel to this country both in his capacity as the Governor and the Deputy Governor of the RBI. It was a pleasure for me to deal with him and benefit from his scholarship," Jaitley tweeted.

"I wish Dr Patel all the very best and many more years of public service," he said.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday appreciated the service rendered by RBI Governor Urjit Patel saying it was a pleasure to deal with him and has benefitted from his scholarship.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday appreciated the service rendered by RBI Governor Urjit Patel saying it was a pleasure to deal with him and has benefitted from his scholarship. Patel on Monday resigned as RBI Governor, nearly 9 months ahead of his three-year tenure was to come to an end. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley: Govt acknowledges with deep sense of appreciation the services rendered by Dr Urjit Patel to this country, both in his capacity as Governor & Deputy Governor of RBI. I wish Dr Patel all the very best and many more years of public service. (File pic) pic.twitter.com/o7W5OwG9Ah — ANI (@ANI) December 10, 2018 × "The Government acknowledges with a deep sense of appreciation the services rendered by Dr Urjit Patel to this country both in his capacity as the Governor and the Deputy Governor of the RBI. It was a pleasure for me to deal with him and benefit from his scholarship," Jaitley tweeted. "I wish Dr Patel all the very best and many more years of public service," he said.

Government appreciates Urjit Patel's service as RBI Governor: Jaitley

South African Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba resigned on Tuesday, the presidency announced, two weeks after a public standards watchdog said he had violated the constitution by lying under oath in court.

Gigaba, a close ally of ousted former president Jacob Zuma, had recently vowed not to step down after also being caught up in a leaked sex tape scandal.

A statement from President Cyril Ramaphosa's office announced that Gigaba said he had resigned "to relieve the President from undue pressure" and to allow Ramaphosa to focus on saving the country from "economic meltdown".

Gigaba, 47, was once seen as rising star of the ANC ruling party, leading the party's youth wing and being quickly promoted into the ministerial ranks.

But he became entangled in graft allegations during Zuma's time in office.

Gigaba's exit removes a key Zuma loyalist from the government led since February by Ramaphosa, who has vowed to root out the corruption reputed to have flourished under Zuma.

Gigaba was reprimanded last month by the&nbsp;public protector ombudswoman after he testified in a 2017 court case filed by a company controlled by the wealthy Oppenheimer family.

Ombudswoman Busisiwe Mkhwebane recommended that Ramaphosa take disciplinary action against the minister for "telling an untruth under oath and before a court of law".

Zuma ally

The allegations were probed after a complaint from the opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) party.

The court case hinged on whether Gigaba had given the Oppenheimers approval to have a private terminal at Johannesburg airport.

Gigaba has also said he was recently the target of extortion attempts after a private sex video was stolen by hacking.

Gigaba served as finance minister for a year under Zuma, who was ousted as president by the ANC party in February over mounting graft scandals.

When Ramaphosa succeeded Zuma, he moved Gigaba to the home affairs ministry.

Gigaba has been linked to corruption allegations against the wealthy Gupta family, who are suspected of benefitting from unfair and hugely lucrative government contracts under Zuma.

A judicial inquiry, which opened in August, is investigating allegations that Zuma and the Guptas organised a web of corrupt deals at government departments and public enterprises in a scandal known as "state capture".

All the accused deny any wrongdoing.

South Africa, Africa's most advanced economy, slipped into recession in the second quarter of this year, and suffers a stubbornly high unemployment of about 28 percent.

The country will hold general elections in May.

Nhlanhla Nene resigned as finance minister last month over undisclosed meetings with the Guptas.

South African Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba resigned on Tuesday, the presidency announced, two weeks after a public standards watchdog said he had violated the constitution by lying under oath in court.

South African Home Affairs Minister Malusi Gigaba resigned on Tuesday, the presidency announced, two weeks after a public standards watchdog said he had violated the constitution by lying under oath in court. Gigaba, a close ally of ousted former president Jacob Zuma, had recently vowed not to step down after also being caught up in a leaked sex tape scandal. A statement from President Cyril Ramaphosa's office announced that Gigaba said he had resigned "to relieve the President from undue pressure" and to allow Ramaphosa to focus on saving the country from "economic meltdown". Gigaba, 47, was once seen as rising star of the ANC ruling party, leading the party's youth wing and being quickly promoted into the ministerial ranks. But he became entangled in graft allegations during Zuma's time in office. Gigaba's exit removes a key Zuma loyalist from the government led since February by Ramaphosa, who has vowed to root out the corruption reputed to have flourished under Zuma. Gigaba was reprimanded last month by the public protector ombudswoman after he testified in a 2017 court case filed by a company controlled by the wealthy Oppenheimer family. Ombudswoman Busisiwe Mkhwebane recommended that Ramaphosa take disciplinary action against the minister for "telling an untruth under oath and before a court of law". Zuma ally The allegations were probed after a complaint from the opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) party. The court case hinged on whether Gigaba had given the Oppenheimers approval to have a private terminal at Johannesburg airport. Gigaba has also said he was recently the target of extortion attempts after a private sex video was stolen by hacking. Gigaba served as finance minister for a year under Zuma, who was ousted as president by the ANC party in February over mounting graft scandals. When Ramaphosa succeeded Zuma, he moved Gigaba to the home affairs ministry. Gigaba has been linked to corruption allegations against the wealthy Gupta family, who are suspected of benefitting from unfair and hugely lucrative government contracts under Zuma. A judicial inquiry, which opened in August, is investigating allegations that Zuma and the Guptas organised a web of corrupt deals at government departments and public enterprises in a scandal known as "state capture". All the accused deny any wrongdoing. South Africa, Africa's most advanced economy, slipped into recession in the second quarter of this year, and suffers a stubbornly high unemployment of about 28 percent. The country will hold general elections in May. Nhlanhla Nene resigned as finance minister last month over undisclosed meetings with the Guptas.

South Africa home minister resigns after watchdog ruling

Frenchman Zinedine Zidane called a press conference on Thursday to announce that he has resigned from the post of Real Madrid's manager.

Zidane confirmed that he will leave Real Madrid this summer.

Recently, Real Madrid clinched the Champions Trophy for the third consecutive time after defeating Liverpool in the finals.

After winning the competition, there were rumours over the exit of two players Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale.

It was suspected that Zizou has called the press conference to tell the future of mentioned players but he gave a shocker instead.

"I love this club a lot, the president, who gave me everything – to play first at this great club. I’ll always be thankful. Today I need to change, for me, for everyone, for this I’ve taken the decision," Zidane&nbsp;added.

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&nbsp;

Zinedine Zidane has called a press conference to announce that he has resigned from the post of Real Madrid's manager

Frenchman Zinedine Zidane called a press conference on Thursday to announce that he has resigned from the post of Real Madrid's manager. Zidane confirmed that he will leave Real Madrid this summer. Recently, Real Madrid clinched the Champions Trophy for the third consecutive time after defeating Liverpool in the finals. After winning the competition, there were rumours over the exit of two players Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale. It was suspected that Zizou has called the press conference to tell the future of mentioned players but he gave a shocker instead. "I love this club a lot, the president, who gave me everything – to play first at this great club. I’ll always be thankful. Today I need to change, for me, for everyone, for this I’ve taken the decision," Zidane added. ×

Football: Zinedine Zidane steps down as Real Madrid manager

Two days after taking the oath Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa has resigned from his post on Saturday, ahead of the floor test in the Assembly.&nbsp;

The BJP Chief Minister, who was sworn in on Thursday could not gather the support of MLAs to prove majority in the state assembly during the floor test.

He made an emotional speech before he announced his resignation. He said that the people of Karnataka will now be "ruled by an unholy alliance".

The BJP was eight short of the majority mark in the 224-member Karnataka Assembly.&nbsp;

Following 72 hours of high drama, which involved a midnight session at the Supreme Court, leaked audio tapes, and hidden lawmakers, the BJP failed to secure seven MLAs that it needed to pass the floor test in the House.

BJP had won the first round of the legal battle after the results were out on May 15 but failed to gather the support of MLAs to prove majority in the Karnataka state Assembly.&nbsp;

Since the numbers are not in favour of the BJP, Yeddyurappa stepped down from his post today, saying that he is thankful for the love and support people gave him.&nbsp;

"The election results are now out. Today is the floor test. Think for once, if we had 113, the picture would have been different," BS Yeddyurappa said.&nbsp;

The results of the Karnataka Assembly Elections threw up a fractured mandate on the counting day and led to political instability in the state.&nbsp;

On May 15, the BJP emerged as the single largest party with 104 seats, followed by the Congress with 78, JD(S) with 37. Three seats were bagged by independent candidates in the 224-member Assembly where elections were held for 222 seats.&nbsp;

For 2019, I promise, we will win 28 out of all 28 Lok Sabha seats. I won't relent. I will continue to fight. I thank people of Karnataka Yeddyurappa

Two days after taking the oath Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa has resigned from his post on Saturday, ahead of the floor test in the Assembly. The BJP Chief Minister, who was sworn in on Thursday could not gather the support of MLAs to prove majority in the state assembly during the floor test. He made an emotional speech before he announced his resignation. He said that the people of Karnataka will now be "ruled by an unholy alliance". The BJP was eight short of the majority mark in the 224-member Karnataka Assembly. Following 72 hours of high drama, which involved a midnight session at the Supreme Court, leaked audio tapes, and hidden lawmakers, the BJP failed to secure seven MLAs that it needed to pass the floor test in the House. BJP had won the first round of the legal battle after the results were out on May 15 but failed to gather the support of MLAs to prove majority in the Karnataka state Assembly. Since the numbers are not in favour of the BJP, Yeddyurappa stepped down from his post today, saying that he is thankful for the love and support people gave him. "The election results are now out. Today is the floor test. Think for once, if we had 113, the picture would have been different," BS Yeddyurappa said. The results of the Karnataka Assembly Elections threw up a fractured mandate on the counting day and led to political instability in the state. On May 15, the BJP emerged as the single largest party with 104 seats, followed by the Congress with 78, JD(S) with 37. Three seats were bagged by independent candidates in the 224-member Assembly where elections were held for 222 seats.

Yeddyurappa resigns as Karnataka CM before trust vote, BJP fails to prove majority

&nbsp;Armenian Prime Minister Serzh Sarksyan said on Monday he was resigning to help safeguard civic peace following almost two weeks of mass street protests that have plunged the impoverished ex-Soviet republic into political crisis.

Sarksyan, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, had served as Armenia's president for a decade until this month and had faced accusations of clinging to power when parliament elected him as prime minister last week.

Under a revised constitution, the prime minister now holds most power in the tiny southern Caucasus nation, while the presidency has become largely ceremonial.

Pressure on the 63-year-old to quit had increased sharply on Monday when unarmed soldiers in the capital Yerevan joined the anti-government protests, which first erupted on April 13.

Though peaceful, the tumult has threatened to destabilise Armenia, a key Russian ally in a volatile region riven by its decades-long, low-level conflict with Azerbaijan. Moscow, which has two military bases in Armenia, was closely watching events.

"I got it wrong," Sarksyan said in a statement issued by his office.

"In the current situation there are several solutions, but I won't choose any of them. It's not my style. I am quitting the country's leadership and the post of prime minister of Armenia."

He said he was bowing to protesters' demands and wanted his country to remain peaceful.

Armenia's 2025 dollar-denominated bond fell 0.83 cents after Sarksyan said he would resign, hitting a one-year low.

Former Armenian prime minister Karen Karapetyan, an ally of Sarksyan from his ruling pro-Russian Republican Party, was named as acting prime minister, Russia's RIA news agency reported, citing the Armenian government's press office.

Armenia's political parties in parliament now have seven days to put forward the name of a new prime minister. Sarksyan's allies remain in key positions in the government and it remains unclear whether his resignation will herald any real change. Protesters loudly celebrated Sarksyan's resignation.

Some hugged policemen in the street amid repeated cries of "Hurrah!", others beeped car horns, and some residents of Yerevan were even seen dancing outside.

The protests which toppled Sarksyan lasted for 11 days and saw tens of thousands of protesters march through Yerevan and other towns, blocking streets and staging sit-ins that disrupted daily life.

On Sunday police had detained three opposition leaders and nearly 200 protesters, drawing a rebuke from the European Union. Police released Nikol Pashinyan, a lawmaker regarded as the main opposition leader, on Monday.

Asked about the crisis on Monday before Sarksyan's resignation, the Kremlin called Armenia an "extraordinarily important country" for Russia, but dismissed the idea it might intervene, calling the crisis a domestic matter.

Last week Putin rang Sarksyan to congratulate him on becoming premier. As president, Sarksyan took Armenia, a country of about three million people, into a Russia-backed economic bloc and bought weapons from Moscow.

The protesters' complaints were mainly domestic and focussed on pervasive corruption and poverty in a country that won independence from Moscow in 1991 but has been hampered by its conflict with Azerbaijan over the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh and other issues.

But critics have also accused Sarkasyan of moving landlocked Armenia too close to Russia at the expense of better ties with the West and increased prosperity, and it was unclear whether his political demise could lead to a change in foreign policy.

In what may have been a turning point in the protests, soldiers wearing military uniforms marched through Yerevan on Monday morning with the protesters.

Images broadcast on the internet and social media showed the soldiers hugging protesters and waving the country's national flag, in a development the Armenian Defence Ministry condemned as illegal and promised to harshly punish.

Opposition leader Pashinyan had told Sarkasyan that his time was up in a tense meeting on Sunday.

"The situation in Armenia has changed, you don't have the power of which you are told," he had told him. "In Armenia, the power has passed to the people."

Sarksyan, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, had served as Armenia's president for a decade until this month and had faced accusations of clinging to power when parliament elected him as prime minister last week

Armenian Prime Minister Serzh Sarksyan said on Monday he was resigning to help safeguard civic peace following almost two weeks of mass street protests that have plunged the impoverished ex-Soviet republic into political crisis. Sarksyan, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, had served as Armenia's president for a decade until this month and had faced accusations of clinging to power when parliament elected him as prime minister last week. Under a revised constitution, the prime minister now holds most power in the tiny southern Caucasus nation, while the presidency has become largely ceremonial. Pressure on the 63-year-old to quit had increased sharply on Monday when unarmed soldiers in the capital Yerevan joined the anti-government protests, which first erupted on April 13. Though peaceful, the tumult has threatened to destabilise Armenia, a key Russian ally in a volatile region riven by its decades-long, low-level conflict with Azerbaijan. Moscow, which has two military bases in Armenia, was closely watching events. "I got it wrong," Sarksyan said in a statement issued by his office. "In the current situation there are several solutions, but I won't choose any of them. It's not my style. I am quitting the country's leadership and the post of prime minister of Armenia." He said he was bowing to protesters' demands and wanted his country to remain peaceful. Armenia's 2025 dollar-denominated bond fell 0.83 cents after Sarksyan said he would resign, hitting a one-year low. Former Armenian prime minister Karen Karapetyan, an ally of Sarksyan from his ruling pro-Russian Republican Party, was named as acting prime minister, Russia's RIA news agency reported, citing the Armenian government's press office. Armenia's political parties in parliament now have seven days to put forward the name of a new prime minister. Sarksyan's allies remain in key positions in the government and it remains unclear whether his resignation will herald any real change. Protesters loudly celebrated Sarksyan's resignation. Some hugged policemen in the street amid repeated cries of "Hurrah!", others beeped car horns, and some residents of Yerevan were even seen dancing outside. The protests which toppled Sarksyan lasted for 11 days and saw tens of thousands of protesters march through Yerevan and other towns, blocking streets and staging sit-ins that disrupted daily life. On Sunday police had detained three opposition leaders and nearly 200 protesters, drawing a rebuke from the European Union. Police released Nikol Pashinyan, a lawmaker regarded as the main opposition leader, on Monday. Asked about the crisis on Monday before Sarksyan's resignation, the Kremlin called Armenia an "extraordinarily important country" for Russia, but dismissed the idea it might intervene, calling the crisis a domestic matter. Last week Putin rang Sarksyan to congratulate him on becoming premier. As president, Sarksyan took Armenia, a country of about three million people, into a Russia-backed economic bloc and bought weapons from Moscow. The protesters' complaints were mainly domestic and focussed on pervasive corruption and poverty in a country that won independence from Moscow in 1991 but has been hampered by its conflict with Azerbaijan over the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh and other issues. But critics have also accused Sarkasyan of moving landlocked Armenia too close to Russia at the expense of better ties with the West and increased prosperity, and it was unclear whether his political demise could lead to a change in foreign policy. In what may have been a turning point in the protests, soldiers wearing military uniforms marched through Yerevan on Monday morning with the protesters. Images broadcast on the internet and social media showed the soldiers hugging protesters and waving the country's national flag, in a development the Armenian Defence Ministry condemned as illegal and promised to harshly punish. Opposition leader Pashinyan had told Sarkasyan that his time was up in a tense meeting on Sunday. "The situation in Armenia has changed, you don't have the power of which you are told," he had told him. "In Armenia, the power has passed to the people."

Armenian Prime Minister Serzh Sarksyan resigns following 11 day mass protest

Mauritian President Ameenah Gurib-Fakim will step down next week, the prime minister said on Friday, after she was accused of using a credit card issued by an international non-governmental organisation to buy clothes and jewellery.

Pravind Jugnauth, the prime minister, told reporters Gurib-Fakim would resign after March 12, after the celebration of the country&#39;s 50th anniversary.

He did not comment on the row over credit card expenditure but he has previously said everyone should shoulder their responsibility, when asked about the issue by reporters.

Gurib-Fakim, a chemistry professor, was appointed to the largely ceremonial post in 2015, as the island nation&#39;s first female president, has denied any wrongdoing and said she had refunded all the money in question.

&quot;I do not owe anything to anybody. Why is this issue coming up now almost a year later on the eve of our independence day celebrations,&quot; she said in a March 7 speech.

The local L&#39;express newspaper reported that the president had shopped in Italy and Dubai, using a credit card issued by Planet Earth Institute.

The organisation supports education by offering scholarships, and the president served there as an unpaid director. The newspaper reported that the card was to promote a doctorate programme named after the president.

Planet Earth Institute was not immediately available for comment.

Pravind Jugnauth, the prime minister, told reporters Ameenah Gurib-Fakim would resign after March 12, after the celebration of the country's 50th anniversary

Mauritian President Ameenah Gurib-Fakim will step down next week, the prime minister said on Friday, after she was accused of using a credit card issued by an international non-governmental organisation to buy clothes and jewellery. Pravind Jugnauth, the prime minister, told reporters Gurib-Fakim would resign after March 12, after the celebration of the country's 50th anniversary. He did not comment on the row over credit card expenditure but he has previously said everyone should shoulder their responsibility, when asked about the issue by reporters. Gurib-Fakim, a chemistry professor, was appointed to the largely ceremonial post in 2015, as the island nation's first female president, has denied any wrongdoing and said she had refunded all the money in question. "I do not owe anything to anybody. Why is this issue coming up now almost a year later on the eve of our independence day celebrations," she said in a March 7 speech. The local L'express newspaper reported that the president had shopped in Italy and Dubai, using a credit card issued by Planet Earth Institute. The organisation supports education by offering scholarships, and the president served there as an unpaid director. The newspaper reported that the card was to promote a doctorate programme named after the president. Planet Earth Institute was not immediately available for comment.

Mauritius president to resign after credit card expenditure row

Ethiopia&rsquo;s Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn said on Thursday he had submitted his resignation as both premier and the chairman of the ruling coalition in an effort to facilitate reforms following a period of mass unrest.

Desalegn said in a televised address to the country, &quot;I see my resignation as vital in the bid to carry out reforms that would lead to sustainable peace and democracy.&quot;

The resignation - unprecedented in Ethiopia&rsquo;s history - followed a wave of strikes this week in towns near the capital and demonstrations successfully demanding the release of more opposition leaders.

Hailemariam added, however, that he will stay on as prime minister in a caretaker capacity, until the ruling Ethiopian People&#39;s Revolutionary Democratic Front&nbsp;(EPRDF) and the country&#39;s parliament accept his resignation and name a new premier.

Hailemariam oversaw a smooth handover following the death of former Marxist rebel Meles Zenawi, turning the relatively little-known politician and technocrat to an influential leader.

The announcement came after the government released hundreds of political prisoners, including some prominent opposition members.

More than 6,000 political prisoners have been freed since January as the government struggles to placate simmering anger among the two largest ethnic groups, the Oromo and Amharic, who complain they are under-represented in the country&rsquo;s corridors of power.

However, in 2015, months of anti-government demonstrations spread across Ethiopia, leaving hundreds dead and prompting parliament to declare a 10-month state nationwide state of emergency in October 2016.

Ethiopia is the region&rsquo;s largest economy and a key Western ally in the fight against Islamist militancy but rights groups criticize its government for jailing journalists and political opponents.

It was not clear who would replace Hailemariam. He also resigned as chairman of the ruling coalition, which has governed since it defeated a military regime in 1991.

&ldquo;Unrest and a political crisis have led to the loss of lives and displacement of many,&rdquo; Hailemariam said in a televised speech. &ldquo;I see my resignation as vital in the bid to carry out reforms that would lead to sustainable peace and democracy.&rdquo;

Hailemariam added, however, that he will stay on as prime minister in a caretaker capacity, until the ruling Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) and the country's parliament accept his resignation and name a new premier

Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn said on Thursday he had submitted his resignation as both premier and the chairman of the ruling coalition in an effort to facilitate reforms following a period of mass unrest. Desalegn said in a televised address to the country, "I see my resignation as vital in the bid to carry out reforms that would lead to sustainable peace and democracy." The resignation - unprecedented in Ethiopia’s history - followed a wave of strikes this week in towns near the capital and demonstrations successfully demanding the release of more opposition leaders. Hailemariam added, however, that he will stay on as prime minister in a caretaker capacity, until the ruling Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) and the country's parliament accept his resignation and name a new premier. Hailemariam oversaw a smooth handover following the death of former Marxist rebel Meles Zenawi, turning the relatively little-known politician and technocrat to an influential leader. The announcement came after the government released hundreds of political prisoners, including some prominent opposition members. More than 6,000 political prisoners have been freed since January as the government struggles to placate simmering anger among the two largest ethnic groups, the Oromo and Amharic, who complain they are under-represented in the country’s corridors of power. However, in 2015, months of anti-government demonstrations spread across Ethiopia, leaving hundreds dead and prompting parliament to declare a 10-month state nationwide state of emergency in October 2016. Ethiopia is the region’s largest economy and a key Western ally in the fight against Islamist militancy but rights groups criticize its government for jailing journalists and political opponents. It was not clear who would replace Hailemariam. He also resigned as chairman of the ruling coalition, which has governed since it defeated a military regime in 1991. “Unrest and a political crisis have led to the loss of lives and displacement of many,” Hailemariam said in a televised speech. “I see my resignation as vital in the bid to carry out reforms that would lead to sustainable peace and democracy.”

Ethiopia's PM resigns following mass unrest

The struggle for power in South Africa intensified Wednesday as President Jacob Zuma raged against a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/south-african-mps-set-to-finally-oust-zuma-thursday-anc-32863" target="_blank">resignation order</a> from his own party ahead of a vote in parliament set to throw him out of office.

Zuma, whose reputation has been stained by years-long allegations of graft, has been instructed to step down by the African National Congress (ANC) party.

But the order is a party-level order and Zuma -- a renowned political survivor -- is under no constitutional obligation to obey.

Unless he resigns beforehand, parliament will hold a vote of no-confidence in the president on Thursday, when the ANC says its lawmakers will finally oust him from power.

Zuma, who faces as ignomious end to his nine years in office, has been at loggerheads with deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa, his expected successor and the new head of the ANC.

&quot;It was very unfair to me that this (resignation) issue is raised,&quot; Zuma said in an unannounced TV interview with state broadcaster SABC.

In a rambling 45-minute conversation, Zuma did not directly refuse to resign, but said that he disagreed with &quot;the manner in which the decision is being implemented.&quot;

He repeatedly said he was not defying the ANC leadership, but added that &quot;I don&#39;t agree, as there is no evidence of if I have done anything wrong.&quot;

He said he would make a further statement later Wednesday.

The ANC on Tuesday had &quot;recalled&quot; Zuma from his post after days of failed closed-door negotiations with Ramaphosa.

The party&#39;s national executive committee ordered the recall in a 13-hour meeting at a hotel outside Pretoria.

&#39;We can no longer wait&#39; 
ANC treasurer-general Paul Mashatile told reporters that parliament, where the party has a large majority, would vote out Zuma on Thursday and could elect Ramaphosa as president as early as Friday.

&quot;For us, as the ANC leadership, we can no longer wait,&quot; Mashatile said. &quot;The decision has been taken and must be implemented.&quot;

Earlier Wednesday, police raided the Johannesburg home of the Gupta business family, which is accused of overseeing a web of corruption under Zuma&#39;s rule.

Police said three unidentified people had been arrested in investigations into &quot;Vrede Farm&quot; -- allegations that millions of dollars of public money meant for poor dairy farmers were siphoned off by the Guptas.

Local media reported that Zuma had been pushing for an exit deal that included covering his potentially ruinous legal fees from prolonged court battles against multiple criminal charges.

One case relates to 783 payments he allegedly received linked to an arms deal before he came to power.

Many other graft allegations against him have centred on the three Gupta brothers, who are accused of unfairly obtaining lucrative government contracts and even being able to choose Zuma&#39;s ministerial appointments.

Zuma has admitted he is friends with the Guptas, originally from India, but has denied any wrongdoing.

Susan Booysen, a politics professor at Stellenbosch University, said that Zuma may still resign before a parliamentary vote -- albeit grudgingly.

&quot;I think that he is an angry person... and he is very reluctant to go,&quot; Booysen told AFP.

The political wrangle has plunged South Africa -- the continent&#39;s most developed economy -- into confusion over who is running the country, with last week&#39;s annual State of the Nation address cancelled.

Opposition parties have called for early elections as the ANC&#39;s turbulent transfer of power grinds on.

Decline of Mandela&#39;s party 
Zuma&#39;s presidency has been marred by slow economic growth, continuing racial inequality and record unemployment that have fuelled public frustration.

He was scheduled to stand down next year after serving the maximum two terms since coming to power in 2009.

In 2008, Zuma&#39;s supporters pushed out then-president Thabo Mbeki via a similar &quot;recall&quot; manoeuvre over allegations of abuse of power.

In local polls in 2016, the ANC recorded its worst electoral result since coming to power in 1994 with Nelson Mandela at the helm as white-minority rule fell.

Ramaphosa, 65, the deputy president, must revive the economy and crack down on what he has admitted is rampant government corruption if he is to boost the party&#39;s tarnished reputation before a tricky election next year.

He is a former trade unionist and Mandela ally who led talks to end apartheid in the early 1990s and then became a multi-millionaire businessman before returning to politics.

Zuma&#39;s hold over the ANC was shaken in December when his chosen successor -- his former wife Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma -- narrowly lost to Ramaphosa in a vote for the new party leader.

The ANC has insisted there will be no delay to the budget speech, which is due on February 21.

Zuma has been instructed to step down by the African National Congress (ANC) part

The struggle for power in South Africa intensified Wednesday as President Jacob Zuma raged against a resignation order from his own party ahead of a vote in parliament set to throw him out of office. Zuma, whose reputation has been stained by years-long allegations of graft, has been instructed to step down by the African National Congress (ANC) party. But the order is a party-level order and Zuma -- a renowned political survivor -- is under no constitutional obligation to obey. Unless he resigns beforehand, parliament will hold a vote of no-confidence in the president on Thursday, when the ANC says its lawmakers will finally oust him from power. Zuma, who faces as ignomious end to his nine years in office, has been at loggerheads with deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa, his expected successor and the new head of the ANC. "It was very unfair to me that this (resignation) issue is raised," Zuma said in an unannounced TV interview with state broadcaster SABC. In a rambling 45-minute conversation, Zuma did not directly refuse to resign, but said that he disagreed with "the manner in which the decision is being implemented." He repeatedly said he was not defying the ANC leadership, but added that "I don't agree, as there is no evidence of if I have done anything wrong." He said he would make a further statement later Wednesday. The ANC on Tuesday had "recalled" Zuma from his post after days of failed closed-door negotiations with Ramaphosa. The party's national executive committee ordered the recall in a 13-hour meeting at a hotel outside Pretoria. 'We can no longer wait' ANC treasurer-general Paul Mashatile told reporters that parliament, where the party has a large majority, would vote out Zuma on Thursday and could elect Ramaphosa as president as early as Friday. "For us, as the ANC leadership, we can no longer wait," Mashatile said. "The decision has been taken and must be implemented." Earlier Wednesday, police raided the Johannesburg home of the Gupta business family, which is accused of overseeing a web of corruption under Zuma's rule. Police said three unidentified people had been arrested in investigations into "Vrede Farm" -- allegations that millions of dollars of public money meant for poor dairy farmers were siphoned off by the Guptas. Local media reported that Zuma had been pushing for an exit deal that included covering his potentially ruinous legal fees from prolonged court battles against multiple criminal charges. One case relates to 783 payments he allegedly received linked to an arms deal before he came to power. Many other graft allegations against him have centred on the three Gupta brothers, who are accused of unfairly obtaining lucrative government contracts and even being able to choose Zuma's ministerial appointments. Zuma has admitted he is friends with the Guptas, originally from India, but has denied any wrongdoing. Susan Booysen, a politics professor at Stellenbosch University, said that Zuma may still resign before a parliamentary vote -- albeit grudgingly. "I think that he is an angry person... and he is very reluctant to go," Booysen told AFP. The political wrangle has plunged South Africa -- the continent's most developed economy -- into confusion over who is running the country, with last week's annual State of the Nation address cancelled. Opposition parties have called for early elections as the ANC's turbulent transfer of power grinds on. Decline of Mandela's party Zuma's presidency has been marred by slow economic growth, continuing racial inequality and record unemployment that have fuelled public frustration. He was scheduled to stand down next year after serving the maximum two terms since coming to power in 2009. In 2008, Zuma's supporters pushed out then-president Thabo Mbeki via a similar "recall" manoeuvre over allegations of abuse of power. In local polls in 2016, the ANC recorded its worst electoral result since coming to power in 1994 with Nelson Mandela at the helm as white-minority rule fell. Ramaphosa, 65, the deputy president, must revive the economy and crack down on what he has admitted is rampant government corruption if he is to boost the party's tarnished reputation before a tricky election next year. He is a former trade unionist and Mandela ally who led talks to end apartheid in the early 1990s and then became a multi-millionaire businessman before returning to politics. Zuma's hold over the ANC was shaken in December when his chosen successor -- his former wife Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma -- narrowly lost to Ramaphosa in a vote for the new party leader. The ANC has insisted there will be no delay to the budget speech, which is due on February 21.

Defiant Zuma holds on despite resignation order

News reports had earlier said that Zimbabwe bowling coach Makhaya Ntini had stepped down but the former South African pacer has now said that he was in fact asked to.

&quot;The honest truth is that I didn&#39;t resign,&quot; Ntini said.

&quot;I received a text message from the MD saying that he would like to talk to me. He reminded me that we had a chat about four months ago regarding some of the players&#39; unhappiness. Some of the players and the staff members went to see him and reported that they are not happy with the job I am doing and that the job that I was given was not meant for me,&quot; Ntini said.

&quot;None&nbsp;of the players&nbsp;came and confronted me if they were not happy,&quot; he added.

The controversy erupted just two days before the team was scheduled to travel to Bangladesh for a tri-nation series against&nbsp;Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) meanwhile said in an official statement that they &quot;reluctantly&quot; accepted Ntini&#39;s resignation and acknowledged his immense hard work.

ZC also confirmed that&nbsp;Heath Streak would be taking over as bowling coach.

&quot;Makhaya&#39;s experience and immense knowledge of the game have helped to bolster the ZC national team into a competitive outfit that went on to record Zimbabwe&#39;s first ever away one-day international series win over Sri Lanka in 2017,&quot; ZC said in their statement.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/ZimCricketv?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZimCricketv</a> regrets to announce that Makhaya Ntini, the National Team Bowling Coach, has tendered his resignation, with immediate effect. And while reluctantly accepting his resignation, ZC fully appreciates and respects his decision, and wishes him all the best for the future. <a href="https://t.co/2VEnLYh7Ex">pic.twitter.com/2VEnLYh7Ex</a>
&mdash; Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZimCricketv/status/949904664467820545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Ntini had been coaching Zimbabwe since January 2016.

&nbsp;

'The honest truth is that I didn't resign,' Zimbabwe's bowling coach said

News reports had earlier said that Zimbabwe bowling coach Makhaya Ntini had stepped down but the former South African pacer has now said that he was in fact asked to. "The honest truth is that I didn't resign," Ntini said. "I received a text message from the MD saying that he would like to talk to me. He reminded me that we had a chat about four months ago regarding some of the players' unhappiness. Some of the players and the staff members went to see him and reported that they are not happy with the job I am doing and that the job that I was given was not meant for me," Ntini said. "None of the players came and confronted me if they were not happy," he added. The controversy erupted just two days before the team was scheduled to travel to Bangladesh for a tri-nation series against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) meanwhile said in an official statement that they "reluctantly" accepted Ntini's resignation and acknowledged his immense hard work. ZC also confirmed that Heath Streak would be taking over as bowling coach. "Makhaya's experience and immense knowledge of the game have helped to bolster the ZC national team into a competitive outfit that went on to record Zimbabwe's first ever away one-day international series win over Sri Lanka in 2017," ZC said in their statement. @ZimCricketv regrets to announce that Makhaya Ntini, the National Team Bowling Coach, has tendered his resignation, with immediate effect. And while reluctantly accepting his resignation, ZC fully appreciates and respects his decision, and wishes him all the best for the future. pic.twitter.com/2VEnLYh7Ex — Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) January 7, 2018 × Ntini had been coaching Zimbabwe since January 2016.

Didn't resign, was told to, says Makhaya Ntini

The ruling Congress in Meghalaya today suffered a setback when five of its MLAs, including former Deputy Chief Minister Rowell Lyngdoh, resigned from the state Assembly.&nbsp;

Along with them three other MLAs, including one from the United Democratic Party and two Independents, tendered resignation from the House, Assembly Principal Secretary Andrew Simons told PTI.&nbsp;

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Meghalaya: Eight MLAs including five from the ruling Congress party have resigned from the state assembly <a href="https://t.co/w3aGeFFhsw">pic.twitter.com/w3aGeFFhsw</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/946726864751489024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Rowell, a veteran Congress leader of the state, later announced that all the eight MLAs, who have quit, would join the National People&#39;s Party at a rally of that party next week.&nbsp;

The 60-member Meghalaya Assembly had 30 Congress MLAs.&nbsp;

Today&#39;s resignation comes days after another Congress MLA, P N Syiem, resigned from the party.&nbsp;

With today&#39;s resignation the number of Congress legislators in the Assembly has come down to 24.&nbsp;

The term of the current House expires on March 6 and elections are due early next year in the state along with Nagaland and Tripura.&nbsp;

The five Congress Legislators who put in their papers from the House had earlier rebelled against Chief Minister Mukul Sangma and the party leadership.&nbsp;

Four of the five Congress Legislators were part of the state Cabinet earlier and were sacked by the chief minister in the past on alleged ground of incompetence.&nbsp;

They were joined by party MLA Mlangaitlang Dhar in quitting the membership of the Assembly.&nbsp;

&quot;Eight MLAs submitted their resignation to me at the office of the Speaker today. The Speaker was on a tour and was not available at his office,&quot; Assembly Principal Secretary Andrew Simons told PTI.&nbsp;

He said the resignation letters have been sent by email to Speaker Abu Taher Mondal.&nbsp;

Three others who quit are Remington Pyngrope (UDP) and two Independents-- Stephanson Mukhim and Hopeful Bamon.&nbsp;

&quot;We are joining the NPP on January 4 at a rally at Pologrounds,&quot; Rowell told reporters.&nbsp;

He said it was a difficult decision to leave the Congress but he was compelled to do so &quot;because of the people&quot;.&nbsp;

Hitting out at the chief minister, the former deputy chief minister said, &quot;The autocratic style of functioning of the chief minister had made it difficult for me and others to function in the government.&quot;&nbsp;

Rowell said the decision to set up a medical college in the state capital Shillong on PPP mode and another one in Tura to be funded by the state government, was taken without consultations in the cabinet.&nbsp;

He also slammed the state Congress president D D Lapang, who he alleged gave in to the diktats of the chief minister and went ahead and dissolved the block Congress committee in many constituencies including his.&nbsp;

Senior Congress leader and former cabinet minister Prestone Tynsong said the prospects of the Congress in Meghalaya will be badly hit.

The 60-member Meghalaya Assembly had 30 Congress MLAs

The ruling Congress in Meghalaya today suffered a setback when five of its MLAs, including former Deputy Chief Minister Rowell Lyngdoh, resigned from the state Assembly. Along with them three other MLAs, including one from the United Democratic Party and two Independents, tendered resignation from the House, Assembly Principal Secretary Andrew Simons told PTI. Meghalaya: Eight MLAs including five from the ruling Congress party have resigned from the state assembly pic.twitter.com/w3aGeFFhsw — ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2017 × Rowell, a veteran Congress leader of the state, later announced that all the eight MLAs, who have quit, would join the National People's Party at a rally of that party next week. The 60-member Meghalaya Assembly had 30 Congress MLAs. Today's resignation comes days after another Congress MLA, P N Syiem, resigned from the party. With today's resignation the number of Congress legislators in the Assembly has come down to 24. The term of the current House expires on March 6 and elections are due early next year in the state along with Nagaland and Tripura. The five Congress Legislators who put in their papers from the House had earlier rebelled against Chief Minister Mukul Sangma and the party leadership. Four of the five Congress Legislators were part of the state Cabinet earlier and were sacked by the chief minister in the past on alleged ground of incompetence. They were joined by party MLA Mlangaitlang Dhar in quitting the membership of the Assembly. "Eight MLAs submitted their resignation to me at the office of the Speaker today. The Speaker was on a tour and was not available at his office," Assembly Principal Secretary Andrew Simons told PTI. He said the resignation letters have been sent by email to Speaker Abu Taher Mondal. Three others who quit are Remington Pyngrope (UDP) and two Independents-- Stephanson Mukhim and Hopeful Bamon. "We are joining the NPP on January 4 at a rally at Pologrounds," Rowell told reporters. He said it was a difficult decision to leave the Congress but he was compelled to do so "because of the people". Hitting out at the chief minister, the former deputy chief minister said, "The autocratic style of functioning of the chief minister had made it difficult for me and others to function in the government." Rowell said the decision to set up a medical college in the state capital Shillong on PPP mode and another one in Tura to be funded by the state government, was taken without consultations in the cabinet. He also slammed the state Congress president D D Lapang, who he alleged gave in to the diktats of the chief minister and went ahead and dissolved the block Congress committee in many constituencies including his. Senior Congress leader and former cabinet minister Prestone Tynsong said the prospects of the Congress in Meghalaya will be badly hit.

Meghalaya: Five Congress MLAs resign from Assembly

Vitaly Mutko, a Russian deputy prime minister has announced his resignation from his role as the 2018 World Cup organising committee&#39;s chairman less than six months before the tournament begins in Russia.&nbsp;

The decision comes the same month as his lifetime ban from the Olympics following an investigation into allegations of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/russian-sports-minister-mutko-in-doping-controversy-spotlight-2760">state-sponsoring doping</a>.&nbsp;

&quot;I have decided to file the claim in the CAS tomorrow,&quot; The Straits Times quoted Mutko as saying.

Mutoko will be replaced by Alexei Sorokin, who is Russia 2018 chief executive and has also take his place on the FIFA council, reports said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/russian-sports-minister-says-doping-cover-up-stories-are-silly-revenge-296">Russian sports minister says doping cover-up stories are silly revenge</a>

The Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the World Cup stated that their performance and preparation will not be affected by this decision. &nbsp;

Russia is hosting next year&rsquo;s football World Cup in 11 cities including Moscow, St Petersburg and Sochi.&nbsp;

According to local Russian media, Vitaly Mutko announced the suspension from his post during Russia&#39;s RFS football federation executive board meeting.

The decision comes the same month as his lifetime ban from the Olympics following an investigation into allegations of state-sponsoring doping

Vitaly Mutko, a Russian deputy prime minister has announced his resignation from his role as the 2018 World Cup organising committee's chairman less than six months before the tournament begins in Russia. The decision comes the same month as his lifetime ban from the Olympics following an investigation into allegations of state-sponsoring doping. "I have decided to file the claim in the CAS tomorrow," The Straits Times quoted Mutko as saying. Mutoko will be replaced by Alexei Sorokin, who is Russia 2018 chief executive and has also take his place on the FIFA council, reports said. Also read: Russian sports minister says doping cover-up stories are silly revenge The Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the World Cup stated that their performance and preparation will not be affected by this decision. Russia is hosting next year’s football World Cup in 11 cities including Moscow, St Petersburg and Sochi. According to local Russian media, Vitaly Mutko announced the suspension from his post during Russia's RFS football federation executive board meeting.

Vitaly Mutko resigns as chairman from 2018 Russia World Cup organising committee

The&nbsp;Pakistani Islamist group whose supporters clashed with the police over the weekend have decided to stop its week-long protest after the government agreed to its demands and the law minister resigned, its spokesman said on Monday.

&quot;Our main demand has been accepted,&quot; Ejaz Ashrafi, spokesman of the Tahreek-e-Labaik group, told Reuters. &quot;Government will announce the law minister&rsquo;s resignation and we will end our sit-in today.&quot;

Pakistan Law Minister Zahid Hamid submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi late on Sunday, media reports said.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/6-dead-200-injured-in-clashes-between-pakistan-police-protesters-25159" target="_blank">Islamabad: 6 dead, over 200 injured in clashes between Pakistan police, protesters</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-army-silent-as-islamists-police-clash-again-25183" target="_blank">Islamabad: Protesters, security forces clash again; army still not seen</a>

Hamid said he hoped his resignation would bring the crisis to an end.&nbsp;

&quot;In order to restore peace, I have made up my mind to step down,&quot; media reports quoted him as saying.

The protesters had accused Hamid of blasphemy after rules that required lawmakers to reference the Prophet Mohammed while taking their oaths were weakened.

The government had apologised, blaming the changes on clerical mistakes.

Hamid too had earlier apologised to the protesters.&nbsp;

Hamid, media reports said,&nbsp;was concerned about his safety after his ancestral home in Pasrur was attacked by protesters on Saturday.&nbsp;

The reports added that he wants the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leadership to make certain his name is cleared of the controversy after his resignation.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Hamid said he hoped his resignation would bring an end to the ongoing protests in Islamabad

The Pakistani Islamist group whose supporters clashed with the police over the weekend have decided to stop its week-long protest after the government agreed to its demands and the law minister resigned, its spokesman said on Monday. "Our main demand has been accepted," Ejaz Ashrafi, spokesman of the Tahreek-e-Labaik group, told Reuters. "Government will announce the law minister’s resignation and we will end our sit-in today." Pakistan Law Minister Zahid Hamid submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi late on Sunday, media reports said. Islamabad: 6 dead, over 200 injured in clashes between Pakistan police, protesters Islamabad: Protesters, security forces clash again; army still not seen Hamid said he hoped his resignation would bring the crisis to an end. "In order to restore peace, I have made up my mind to step down," media reports quoted him as saying. The protesters had accused Hamid of blasphemy after rules that required lawmakers to reference the Prophet Mohammed while taking their oaths were weakened. The government had apologised, blaming the changes on clerical mistakes. Hamid too had earlier apologised to the protesters. Hamid, media reports said, was concerned about his safety after his ancestral home in Pasrur was attacked by protesters on Saturday. The reports added that he wants the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leadership to make certain his name is cleared of the controversy after his resignation.

Pakistan law minister Zahid Hamid resigns, Islamist group to call off protest

Bangladesh&#39;s first Hindu Chief Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha, facing graft and money laundering allegations, has resigned a month after he went on leave abroad amid a row with the government over a crucial Supreme Court judgement, a senior official said today.

Sinha assumed office on January 17, 2015 as the country&#39;s 21st Chief Justice. He is scheduled to retire on January 31 next.

&quot;His&nbsp;resignation letter has reached Bangabhaban (presidential palace),&quot; President&#39;s press secretary Joynal Abedin said&nbsp;without elaborating, but legal experts said this confirmation meant that Sinha has quit his office.

Officials familiar with the development said, Sinha submitted his resignation letter to Bangladesh Embassy in Singapore on the last day of his month-long leave yesterday, where he had gone for medical checkups.

On October 13, he had left Dhaka for Australia on a private tour amid reports that the government was upset with him over his decision to scrap parliament&#39;s authority in impeaching Supreme Court (SC) judges.

Before his departure, Sinha had said that he was &#39;embarrassed&#39;&nbsp;over the controversy surrounding his July ruling.

&quot;I am the guardian of the judiciary, in the interest of the judiciary, I am leaving temporarily so that its image does not get hurt. I will return,&quot; he briefly told newsmen before leaving Dhaka.

Row with the government and the higher judiciary started in July this year when the apex court declared as void the 16th constitutional amendment, scrapping Parliament&#39;s authority in impeaching SC judges.

The dispute grew in the subsequent weeks as many ministers attacked Sinha for slamming the government for reactions over the verdict, and cited Pakistan&#39;s example where Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was stripped of the premiership following an apex court ruling.

Before leaving home, Sinha said he &#39;firmly believes&#39;&nbsp;that his stance over the verdict was misinterpreted to the government, upsetting Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina but expected her to realise soon the fact.

A day after his departure, the Supreme Court issued a statement saying that other judges of the apex court had decided not to sit in the bench with Sinha over allegations of &#39;grave&#39;&nbsp;graft and moral lapses, brought to their notice by President Abdul Hamid.

&quot;This written statement&nbsp; is misleading,&quot; a Supreme Court statement said, adding that President Hamid on September 30, invited all the five apex court judges to Bangabhaban, barring the chief justice, and handed over to them &#39;evidences of 11 specific allegations&#39;&nbsp;against Sinha.

It said the allegations included some grave charges like money laundering, financial irregularities, corruption and moral lapses.

In unitary Bangladesh, the Supreme Court has two wings, the High Court Division and the apex Appellate Division.

According to the SC statement, all the five apex court judges held a meeting on the next day and subsequently met Sinha and sought his explanation about the allegations but &#39;didn&#39;t get any acceptable explanation or reply&#39;.

&quot;So all of them&nbsp;clearly conveyed to him that until the disposal of those charges it will not be possible for them to share the bench with him to deliver justice,&quot; the statement said.

Former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia-led main opposition outside parliament, BNP had put their weight behind Sinha while its standing Committee Member and former law minister Moudud Ahmed blamed the government for &quot;forcing&quot; him to quit.

&quot;Sinha&#39;s resignation day will be marked as a black chapter,&quot; he said accusing the government of &#39;smashing independence&#39;&nbsp;in the judiciary.

The President had appointed senior most judge of the apex court Abdul Wahhab Miah as the acting chief justice.&nbsp;

According to Bangladesh Constitution, if the chief justice&#39;s office becomes vacant, the next senior most judge of the Appellate Division will perform his duties.

Sinha belonged to ethnic minority Tripura community and since his appointment in 2015 he chaired the apex court in upholding death penalties of several leading perpetrators of 1971 war crimes.

Bangladesh's first Hindu Chief Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha has been facing graft and money laundering allegations

Bangladesh's first Hindu Chief Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha, facing graft and money laundering allegations, has resigned a month after he went on leave abroad amid a row with the government over a crucial Supreme Court judgement, a senior official said today. Sinha assumed office on January 17, 2015 as the country's 21st Chief Justice. He is scheduled to retire on January 31 next. "His resignation letter has reached Bangabhaban (presidential palace)," President's press secretary Joynal Abedin said without elaborating, but legal experts said this confirmation meant that Sinha has quit his office. Officials familiar with the development said, Sinha submitted his resignation letter to Bangladesh Embassy in Singapore on the last day of his month-long leave yesterday, where he had gone for medical checkups. On October 13, he had left Dhaka for Australia on a private tour amid reports that the government was upset with him over his decision to scrap parliament's authority in impeaching Supreme Court (SC) judges. Before his departure, Sinha had said that he was 'embarrassed' over the controversy surrounding his July ruling. "I am the guardian of the judiciary, in the interest of the judiciary, I am leaving temporarily so that its image does not get hurt. I will return," he briefly told newsmen before leaving Dhaka. Row with the government and the higher judiciary started in July this year when the apex court declared as void the 16th constitutional amendment, scrapping Parliament's authority in impeaching SC judges. The dispute grew in the subsequent weeks as many ministers attacked Sinha for slamming the government for reactions over the verdict, and cited Pakistan's example where Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was stripped of the premiership following an apex court ruling. Before leaving home, Sinha said he 'firmly believes' that his stance over the verdict was misinterpreted to the government, upsetting Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina but expected her to realise soon the fact. A day after his departure, the Supreme Court issued a statement saying that other judges of the apex court had decided not to sit in the bench with Sinha over allegations of 'grave' graft and moral lapses, brought to their notice by President Abdul Hamid. "This written statement is misleading," a Supreme Court statement said, adding that President Hamid on September 30, invited all the five apex court judges to Bangabhaban, barring the chief justice, and handed over to them 'evidences of 11 specific allegations' against Sinha. It said the allegations included some grave charges like money laundering, financial irregularities, corruption and moral lapses. In unitary Bangladesh, the Supreme Court has two wings, the High Court Division and the apex Appellate Division. According to the SC statement, all the five apex court judges held a meeting on the next day and subsequently met Sinha and sought his explanation about the allegations but 'didn't get any acceptable explanation or reply'. "So all of them clearly conveyed to him that until the disposal of those charges it will not be possible for them to share the bench with him to deliver justice," the statement said. Former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia-led main opposition outside parliament, BNP had put their weight behind Sinha while its standing Committee Member and former law minister Moudud Ahmed blamed the government for "forcing" him to quit. "Sinha's resignation day will be marked as a black chapter," he said accusing the government of 'smashing independence' in the judiciary. The President had appointed senior most judge of the apex court Abdul Wahhab Miah as the acting chief justice. According to Bangladesh Constitution, if the chief justice's office becomes vacant, the next senior most judge of the Appellate Division will perform his duties. Sinha belonged to ethnic minority Tripura community and since his appointment in 2015 he chaired the apex court in upholding death penalties of several leading perpetrators of 1971 war crimes.

Bangladesh chief justice resigns amid controversy

Infosys&nbsp;Ltd&#39;s new chairman said his priorities were to find a CEO, reconstitute the board and shape future strategy, as he sought to calm investors frazzled by the recent shock exit of the firm&#39;s chief over a prolonged row with its founders.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/my-role-will-be-oversight-governance-help-with-ceo-search-nandan-nilekani-19481">Nandan Nilekani, one of&nbsp;</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/reports-of-infosys-co-founder-nilekanis-board-return-trigger-stock-rebound-19453">Infosys&#39; seven founders and a former CEO</a>, was named chairman late Thursday in a victory for the founders, who led by Narayana Murthy have waged an increasingly acrimonious battle with the board for months over alleged corporate governance lapses.

Vishal Sikka, the first non-founder CEO of&nbsp;Infosys, resigned last week blaming Murthy for creating an &quot;untenable atmosphere&quot;, sparking a sell-off in&nbsp;Infosys&nbsp;shares and wiping billions of dollars off the company&#39;s market value.

&quot;I have come in to focus on the future of the company, I have come in to take the company forward and deal with its challenges,&quot; Nilekani told investors on a call on Friday, adding he would stay with the IT firm for as long as needed.

Earlier in the day, he tweeted: &quot;Joined @Infosys&nbsp;at 26, rejoined it at 62. Life does turn full circle!&quot;

Credited for increasing&nbsp;Infosys&#39; revenue to $2 billion from $500 million during his 2002-2007 stint as it chief, Nilekani said his key task would be to assist in the search for a new leader from within the company or outside, adding that&nbsp;Infosys&nbsp;alumni would also be considered for the role.

India&#39;s No. 2 software services exporter is looking for a CEO who will be able to manage a large global firm, accelerate strategy execution and oversee its transformation, he said.

Chief Operating Officer Pravin Rao has been named interim CEO and will remain in the post until a replacement is found.

The management reboot comes at a time when the firm, like the rest of India&#39;s over $150 billion IT sector, is bracing for a potential change in U.S. work visa rules that could restrict the movement of engineers and developers to its biggest market.

&quot;Any incremental news of stability is good, especially the fact that someone like a Nandan, who&#39;s one of the most successful CEOs in Indian corporate history, is back,&quot; said Vaibhav Dhasmana, IT analyst at Jefferies.

Nilekani, however, refrained from commenting on&nbsp;Infosys&#39; future strategy, apart from saying it would be aligned with global developments and that he saw tremendous opportunity in software, data and machine learning.

More businesses are trying to adopt automation and services such as big data, cloud, and analytics to become agile and prevent being disrupted by nimbler start-ups.

&quot;I have a very open mind. I will request our strategy team to take a complete inventory of all things that are going on,&quot; Nilekani said, adding the current strategy would be reviewed on the basis of market size, growth and other factors.

There will be no changes in the capital allocation policy and a $2 billion share buyback will also proceed as planned, Nilekani said.

Nilekani, who along with his family owns about 2.3 percent of&nbsp;Infosys&nbsp;and, according to Forbes, is worth $1.72 billion, would also need to tackle retention of senior level executives critical to rolling out strategy.

The architect of India&#39;s ambitious biometric identity program, Nilekani said he would engage with shareholders and customers, and resolve differences over corporate governance.

Disagreements between founders and the board centered around a rise in Sikka&#39;s pay, the acquisition of automation firm Panaya for $200 million and a severance package offered to a former finance chief.

Infosys&nbsp;shares plumbed a more than three-year low on Monday but they have risen since on expectations of Nilekani&#39;s return. Indian markets were closed for a public holiday on Friday.

Vishal Sikka, the first non-founder CEO of Infosys, resigned last week blaming Murthy

Infosys Ltd's new chairman said his priorities were to find a CEO, reconstitute the board and shape future strategy, as he sought to calm investors frazzled by the recent shock exit of the firm's chief over a prolonged row with its founders. Nandan Nilekani, one of Infosys' seven founders and a former CEO, was named chairman late Thursday in a victory for the founders, who led by Narayana Murthy have waged an increasingly acrimonious battle with the board for months over alleged corporate governance lapses. Vishal Sikka, the first non-founder CEO of Infosys, resigned last week blaming Murthy for creating an "untenable atmosphere", sparking a sell-off in Infosys shares and wiping billions of dollars off the company's market value. "I have come in to focus on the future of the company, I have come in to take the company forward and deal with its challenges," Nilekani told investors on a call on Friday, adding he would stay with the IT firm for as long as needed. Earlier in the day, he tweeted: "Joined @Infosys at 26, rejoined it at 62. Life does turn full circle!" Credited for increasing Infosys' revenue to $2 billion from $500 million during his 2002-2007 stint as it chief, Nilekani said his key task would be to assist in the search for a new leader from within the company or outside, adding that Infosys alumni would also be considered for the role. India's No. 2 software services exporter is looking for a CEO who will be able to manage a large global firm, accelerate strategy execution and oversee its transformation, he said. Chief Operating Officer Pravin Rao has been named interim CEO and will remain in the post until a replacement is found. The management reboot comes at a time when the firm, like the rest of India's over $150 billion IT sector, is bracing for a potential change in U.S. work visa rules that could restrict the movement of engineers and developers to its biggest market. "Any incremental news of stability is good, especially the fact that someone like a Nandan, who's one of the most successful CEOs in Indian corporate history, is back," said Vaibhav Dhasmana, IT analyst at Jefferies. Nilekani, however, refrained from commenting on Infosys' future strategy, apart from saying it would be aligned with global developments and that he saw tremendous opportunity in software, data and machine learning. More businesses are trying to adopt automation and services such as big data, cloud, and analytics to become agile and prevent being disrupted by nimbler start-ups. "I have a very open mind. I will request our strategy team to take a complete inventory of all things that are going on," Nilekani said, adding the current strategy would be reviewed on the basis of market size, growth and other factors. There will be no changes in the capital allocation policy and a $2 billion share buyback will also proceed as planned, Nilekani said. Nilekani, who along with his family owns about 2.3 percent of Infosys and, according to Forbes, is worth $1.72 billion, would also need to tackle retention of senior level executives critical to rolling out strategy. The architect of India's ambitious biometric identity program, Nilekani said he would engage with shareholders and customers, and resolve differences over corporate governance. Disagreements between founders and the board centered around a rise in Sikka's pay, the acquisition of automation firm Panaya for $200 million and a severance package offered to a former finance chief. Infosys shares plumbed a more than three-year low on Monday but they have risen since on expectations of Nilekani's return. Indian markets were closed for a public holiday on Friday.

Infosys chairman Nandan Nilekani's priorities: Focus on CEO search, new board

Britain&#39;s former prime minister&nbsp;David&nbsp;Cameron&nbsp;has resigned his seat in the House of Commons, he told broadcaster ITV in an interview Monday.

Cameron&nbsp;stepped down as prime minister in June, hours after Britain voted to leave the European Union in a referendum in which he had campaigned to stay in the bloc.

&quot;In my view, with modern politics, with the circumstances of my resignation it isn&#39;t really possible to be a proper backbench MP as a former prime minister,&quot;&nbsp;Cameron&nbsp;told the broadcaster.

&quot;I think everything you do will become a big distraction and a big diversion from what the government needs to do for our country.&quot;

Cameron&#39;s resignation from parliament is unusually quick -- former prime ministers have typically retained their seats for a number of years after leaving the official Downing Street residence. 
 
(AFP)

Cameron had resigned as the prime minister days after Remain campaign lost the EU referendum in June

Britain's former prime minister David Cameron has resigned his seat in the House of Commons, he told broadcaster ITV in an interview Monday. Cameron stepped down as prime minister in June, hours after Britain voted to leave the European Union in a referendum in which he had campaigned to stay in the bloc. "In my view, with modern politics, with the circumstances of my resignation it isn't really possible to be a proper backbench MP as a former prime minister," Cameron told the broadcaster. "I think everything you do will become a big distraction and a big diversion from what the government needs to do for our country." Cameron's resignation from parliament is unusually quick -- former prime ministers have typically retained their seats for a number of years after leaving the official Downing Street residence. (AFP)

Former British PM David Cameron steps down from parliament

Nepal Parliament today started a three-day discussion on the no-confidence motion filed against embattled Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli after all the three bills related to the annual budget were rejected by majority vote. 
 
Speaking in the 598-member House, Communist Party of Nepal (CPN) (Maoist Centre) chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal &#39;Prachanda&#39; sought the support of the lawmakers for the no-confidence motion. 
 
The no-trust motion was registered by the largest party in the parliament Nepali Congress, CPN-Maoist Centre and CPN-United. 
They have been demanding that Oli should resign to clear the way for formation of a new government. 
 
A total of 281 parliamentarians of 13 parties have supported the motion. The parliament will hold discussions for three days on the motion. 
 
Earlier in the day, the parliament rejected all three budget-related bills by majority vote. 
 
Nepali Congress and Maoist had decided to table the bills before tabling the no-trust motion as per the request of the ruling parties, but they voted against it. 
 
The parliament meeting has been postponed till tomorrow morning. 
 
Oli, who became prime minister last October heading Nepal&#39;s eighth government in the past 10 years, has been facing a no-trust motion after the Maoists withdrew support from the coalition government last week. 
 
Nepali Congress and the Maoists tabled the no-trust motion against Oli, accusing him of not honouring his past commitments. 
Oli has refused to step down, despite the fact that the coalition government led by him is in minority after the Maoists withdrew their support to the coalition government. 
 
(PTI)

The no-confidence motion was registered by the largest party in the Parliament, the Nepali Congress, seeking support of other lawmakers

Nepal Parliament today started a three-day discussion on the no-confidence motion filed against embattled Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli after all the three bills related to the annual budget were rejected by majority vote. Speaking in the 598-member House, Communist Party of Nepal (CPN) (Maoist Centre) chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' sought the support of the lawmakers for the no-confidence motion. The no-trust motion was registered by the largest party in the parliament Nepali Congress, CPN-Maoist Centre and CPN-United. They have been demanding that Oli should resign to clear the way for formation of a new government. A total of 281 parliamentarians of 13 parties have supported the motion. The parliament will hold discussions for three days on the motion. Earlier in the day, the parliament rejected all three budget-related bills by majority vote. Nepali Congress and Maoist had decided to table the bills before tabling the no-trust motion as per the request of the ruling parties, but they voted against it. The parliament meeting has been postponed till tomorrow morning. Oli, who became prime minister last October heading Nepal's eighth government in the past 10 years, has been facing a no-trust motion after the Maoists withdrew support from the coalition government last week. Nepali Congress and the Maoists tabled the no-trust motion against Oli, accusing him of not honouring his past commitments. Oli has refused to step down, despite the fact that the coalition government led by him is in minority after the Maoists withdrew their support to the coalition government. (PTI)

Nepal Parliament begins discussion on no-trust motion against Prime Minister Oli

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