In a tit-for-tat action, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda are recalling diplomats from each other's capitals. The actions come amid intense fighting between Congolese forces and Rwandan-backed fighters in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, which has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 soldiers serving with peacekeeping forces in the DRC.

DR Congo conflict: Rwanda-backed rebels make advances in eastern DR Congo

Six people have died in Rwanda from an outbreak of a deadly virus called Marburg. Most of the victims were healthcare workers. Rwanda has stepped up efforts to contain Marburg as 20 cases reported. Watch to know more.

Marburg Outbreak Claims Six Lives In Rwanda

Marburg Virus concerns people of Rwanda. Six people have died in Rwanda from an outbreak of a deadly virus called Marburg. Most of the victims were healthcare workers. Rwanda has stepped up efforts to contain Marburg as 20 cases reported. Watch to know more.

Rwanda Confirms First Marburg Outbreak, Claims Six Lives

Rwanda is battling the deadly Marburg virus, which has killed at least six people in its first-ever outbreak.

The country's health minister, Sabin Nsanzimana, said that most of those killed were healthcare workers in the intensive care unit of the hospital.

Since Friday (September 27), 26 cases of the Marburg virus have been confirmed in the country. To stop the virus from spreading, the government has implemented measures like contact tracing, quarantining affected individuals and launching public health awareness campaigns.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Marburg virus?</h2>

The Marburg virus is a highly infectious virus and has a high fatality rate from 24 per cent to 88 per cent, as per the World Health Organisation.&nbsp;

In 1967, the virus was first identified and linked to African green monkeys imported from Uganda.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/virus-ev-d68-which-sometimes-paralyses-kids-is-spreading-across-us-reports-760115">Virus EV-D68, which sometimes paralyses kids, is spreading across US: Reports</a>

<h2>How does the virus spread among people?</h2>

Egyptian rousette fruit bat is the primary carrier of the Marburg virus, from which it is transmitted to humans. The virus is also carried by African green monkeys and pigs.

Among humans, the virus spreads through contact with contaminated bedding or surfaces, infected semen and bodily fluids (blood, saliva, vomit, etc.).

<h2>What are the symptoms of Marburg virus?</h2>

In the patients infected with the Marburg virus, symptoms like high fever, severe headaches, and muscle pains are seen in the initial days.

After three days, patients have reported suffering severe symptoms like watery diarrhoea, stomach pain, vomiting, and bleeding from various parts of the body.

"The appearance of patients at this phase has been described as showing 'ghost-like' drawn features, deep-set eyes, expressionless faces, and extreme lethargy," stated the WHO.

In some patients, a non-itchy rash has also been seen between two and seven days. Some people also develop severe haemorrhagic manifestations in a week.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Next Covid From China: Killer Virus Found in Chinese Fur Farms

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In fatal cases, there is bleeding from multiple areas like the nose, gums, eyes&nbsp;and vagina.

<h2>How can the&nbsp;disease be treated?</h2>

The doctors have been providing supportive care and administering oral or intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration. However, as per the WHO, there is no proven treatment for the&nbsp;Marburg virus.

To test the symptoms of Marburg virus infection, people are using diagnostic methods like antibody enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), antigen detection tests, serum neutralization tests, reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay, and virus isolation by cell culture.

<h2>What measures should be adopted to control spread of the virus?</h2>

According to the health authorities, to control the spread of the virus, control measures like no physical contact with those infected, avoiding eating bushmeat or coming in contact with pigs, washing hands regularly, and using sanitiser should be implemented.

(With inputs from agencies)

Rwanda is battling the deadly Marburg virus, which has killed at least six people in its first-ever outbreak. The country's health minister, Sabin Nsanzimana, said that most of those killed were healthcare workers in the intensive care unit of the hospital.

Rwanda is battling the deadly Marburg virus, which has killed at least six people in its first-ever outbreak. The country's health minister, Sabin Nsanzimana, said that most of those killed were healthcare workers in the intensive care unit of the hospital. Since Friday (September 27), 26 cases of the Marburg virus have been confirmed in the country. To stop the virus from spreading, the government has implemented measures like contact tracing, quarantining affected individuals and launching public health awareness campaigns. What is the Marburg virus? The Marburg virus is a highly infectious virus and has a high fatality rate from 24 per cent to 88 per cent, as per the World Health Organisation. In 1967, the virus was first identified and linked to African green monkeys imported from Uganda. Also Read: Virus EV-D68, which sometimes paralyses kids, is spreading across US: Reports How does the virus spread among people? Egyptian rousette fruit bat is the primary carrier of the Marburg virus, from which it is transmitted to humans. The virus is also carried by African green monkeys and pigs. Among humans, the virus spreads through contact with contaminated bedding or surfaces, infected semen and bodily fluids (blood, saliva, vomit, etc.). What are the symptoms of Marburg virus? In the patients infected with the Marburg virus, symptoms like high fever, severe headaches, and muscle pains are seen in the initial days. After three days, patients have reported suffering severe symptoms like watery diarrhoea, stomach pain, vomiting, and bleeding from various parts of the body. "The appearance of patients at this phase has been described as showing 'ghost-like' drawn features, deep-set eyes, expressionless faces, and extreme lethargy," stated the WHO. In some patients, a non-itchy rash has also been seen between two and seven days. Some people also develop severe haemorrhagic manifestations in a week. Watch: Next Covid From China: Killer Virus Found in Chinese Fur Farms In fatal cases, there is bleeding from multiple areas like the nose, gums, eyes and vagina. How can the disease be treated? The doctors have been providing supportive care and administering oral or intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration. However, as per the WHO, there is no proven treatment for the Marburg virus. To test the symptoms of Marburg virus infection, people are using diagnostic methods like antibody enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), antigen detection tests, serum neutralization tests, reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay, and virus isolation by cell culture. What measures should be adopted to control spread of the virus? According to the health authorities, to control the spread of the virus, control measures like no physical contact with those infected, avoiding eating bushmeat or coming in contact with pigs, washing hands regularly, and using sanitiser should be implemented. (With inputs from agencies)

Killer ‘eye-bleeding’ Marburg virus creates havoc in Rwanda. Here's what it is

Denmark on Monday (August 26) announced plans to establish new embassies in Senegal, Tunisia, and Rwanda, as well as to enhance its diplomatic presence in other African nations.

Denmark on Monday (August 26) announced plans to establish new embassies in Senegal, Tunisia, and Rwanda, as well as to enhance its diplomatic presence in other African nations. The foreign ministry says that these new embassies are part of a broader “Africa strategy.” "In addition, the government will, among other things, increase the diplomatic muscle power at the embassies in Egypt, Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria and Ghana," the statement said. Earlier this month, Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen hinted at this strategy during the Moderate party's summer conference. He also mentioned that the plan includes initiatives to attract more African students to Denmark. "We have a clear interest in the African countries looking towards us in Europe when they have to chart the course for their future. We must show that we can offer an attractive alternative to the increasing Chinese and Russian influence on the continent. We must do this, among other things, by investing more in Africa and doing more business with African companies, just as we must cultivate mutual understanding and, among other things, work to ensure that more young Africans can come to study in Denmark," said Rasmussen. Also read: No peace for Gaza as ceasefire talks fail in Cairo over Philadelphi corridor While the embassies in Senegal and Tunisia will be entirely new, the Rwandan embassy will be an extension of an existing Danish office in the country. Denmark is also set to upgrade its embassies in South Africa, Kenya, Egypt, and Nigeria, transforming them into regional hubs to improve diplomatic efforts across larger areas of Africa. Denmark to close embassies in Mali and Burkina Faso Additionally, Denmark has decided to close its embassies in Mali and Burkina Faso due to the limited scope for diplomatic action following recent military coups in the Sahel region. Alongside these changes, a special representative will be appointed to oversee matters in the African Great Lakes and Sahel region. (With inputs from agencies)

'Africa strategy': Denmark to open embassies in Senegal, Tunisia and Rwanda

Rwanda's all-powerful President Paul Kagame was sworn in on Sunday for a fourth term after sweeping to victory in elections last month with more than 99 per cent of the vote.

Several dozen heads of state and other dignitaries from African nations joined the inauguration ceremony at a packed 45,000-seat stadium in Kigali, where crowds had started gathering from the early morning.

Kagame took the oath of office before Chief Justice Faustin Ntezilyayo, pledging to "preserve peace and national sovereignty, consolidate national unity".

The outcome of the July 15 poll was never in doubt for the iron-fisted Kagame, who has ruled the small African nation since the 1994 genocide, as de facto leader and then president.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-never-again-global-capitals-light-up-to-mark-30-years-of-1994-rwanda-genocide-708769">The Capitals: 'Never again', global capitals light up to mark 30 years of 1994 Rwanda genocide</a>

He won 99.18 per cent of ballots cast to secure another five years in power, according to the National Electoral Commission.

Rights activists said the 66-year-old's overwhelming victory was a stark reminder of the lack of democracy in Rwanda.

Only two candidates were authorised to run against him out of eight applicants, with several prominent Kagame critics barred.

Democratic Green Party leader Frank Habineza scraped into second place with 0.5 per cent of the vote, against 0.32 per cent for independent Philippe Mpayimana.

<h2>DRC ceasefire talks</h2>

Kagame is credited with rebuilding a ruined nation after the genocide, when Hutu extremists unleashed 100 days of vicious bloodletting targeting the Tutsi minority, killing around 800,000 people, mainly Tutsis but also Hutu moderates.&nbsp;

But rights activists and opponents say he rules in a climate of fear, crushing any dissent with intimidation, arbitrary detentions, killings and enforced disappearances.

Kigali is also accused of stoking instability in the east of its much larger neighbour the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Also watch |&nbsp;30 years of Rwanda Genocide ceremony takes place in Delhi

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Angola's President Joao Lourenco, among those attending Sunday's ceremony, was due to have private talks with Kagame on a DRC ceasefire deal, the Angolan presidency said.

Luanda brokered the agreement last month after a meeting between the foreign ministers of DRC and Rwanda, which is accused of backing the M23 rebel group fighting Kinshasa's armed forces.

But on August 4, the day the deal was supposed to take effect, M23 rebels -- who have seized territory in the east since launching a new offensive at the end of 2021 -- captured a town on the border with Uganda.

With 65 per cent of the population aged under 30, Kagame is the only leader most Rwandans have ever known.

"I proudly cast my vote for president Kagame and made it a priority to be here today to witness this historic inauguration," said Tania Iriza, a 27-year-old trader, one of the tens of thousands who turned out for the ceremony.

"His leadership has been transformative for our nation. Under his leadership, Rwanda has risen from our tragic past and forged a path towards prosperity, unity and innovation."

Kagame has won every presidential election he has contested, each time with more than 93 per cent of the ballot.

In 2015, he oversaw controversial constitutional amendments that shortened presidential terms to five years from seven but reset the clock for the Rwandan leader, allowing him to potentially rule until 2034.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Rwanda's all-powerful President Paul Kagame was sworn in on Sunday for a fourth term after sweeping to victory in elections last month with more than 99 per cent of the vote.

Rwanda's all-powerful President Paul Kagame was sworn in on Sunday for a fourth term after sweeping to victory in elections last month with more than 99 per cent of the vote. Several dozen heads of state and other dignitaries from African nations joined the inauguration ceremony at a packed 45,000-seat stadium in Kigali, where crowds had started gathering from the early morning. Kagame took the oath of office before Chief Justice Faustin Ntezilyayo, pledging to "preserve peace and national sovereignty, consolidate national unity". The outcome of the July 15 poll was never in doubt for the iron-fisted Kagame, who has ruled the small African nation since the 1994 genocide, as de facto leader and then president. Also read | The Capitals: 'Never again', global capitals light up to mark 30 years of 1994 Rwanda genocide He won 99.18 per cent of ballots cast to secure another five years in power, according to the National Electoral Commission. Rights activists said the 66-year-old's overwhelming victory was a stark reminder of the lack of democracy in Rwanda. Only two candidates were authorised to run against him out of eight applicants, with several prominent Kagame critics barred. Democratic Green Party leader Frank Habineza scraped into second place with 0.5 per cent of the vote, against 0.32 per cent for independent Philippe Mpayimana. DRC ceasefire talks Kagame is credited with rebuilding a ruined nation after the genocide, when Hutu extremists unleashed 100 days of vicious bloodletting targeting the Tutsi minority, killing around 800,000 people, mainly Tutsis but also Hutu moderates. But rights activists and opponents say he rules in a climate of fear, crushing any dissent with intimidation, arbitrary detentions, killings and enforced disappearances. Kigali is also accused of stoking instability in the east of its much larger neighbour the Democratic Republic of Congo. Also watch | 30 years of Rwanda Genocide ceremony takes place in Delhi × Angola's President Joao Lourenco, among those attending Sunday's ceremony, was due to have private talks with Kagame on a DRC ceasefire deal, the Angolan presidency said. Luanda brokered the agreement last month after a meeting between the foreign ministers of DRC and Rwanda, which is accused of backing the M23 rebel group fighting Kinshasa's armed forces. But on August 4, the day the deal was supposed to take effect, M23 rebels -- who have seized territory in the east since launching a new offensive at the end of 2021 -- captured a town on the border with Uganda. With 65 per cent of the population aged under 30, Kagame is the only leader most Rwandans have ever known. "I proudly cast my vote for president Kagame and made it a priority to be here today to witness this historic inauguration," said Tania Iriza, a 27-year-old trader, one of the tens of thousands who turned out for the ceremony. "His leadership has been transformative for our nation. Under his leadership, Rwanda has risen from our tragic past and forged a path towards prosperity, unity and innovation." Kagame has won every presidential election he has contested, each time with more than 93 per cent of the ballot. In 2015, he oversaw controversial constitutional amendments that shortened presidential terms to five years from seven but reset the clock for the Rwandan leader, allowing him to potentially rule until 2034. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Rwanda's Paul Kagame takes oath as president for fourth term

Rwandan President Paul Kagame was gearing up Tuesday (July 16) for a fourth term in office after winning a thundering 99.15 percent of the vote in an election where only two challengers were allowed to run against him.&nbsp;

The outcome of Monday's poll was never in doubt, with Kagame ruling the small African nation with an iron fist as de facto leader then president for three decades.&nbsp;

Partial results issued by the election commission seven hours after polls closed showed that Kagame had won 99.15 percent of the vote -- even more than the 98.79 percent he got in the last poll seven years ago.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rwanda-polls-voting-comes-to-an-end-counting-underway-741134" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/rwanda-polls-voting-comes-to-an-end-counting-underway-741134&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjjhaCnm6uHAxXmXmwGHb4KBjEQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3t9r-xZM-TOLkEMjslsKzC&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rwanda-polls-voting-comes-to-an-end-counting-underway-741134" target="_blank">Rwanda Polls: Voting comes to an end, counting underway</a>

Democratic Green Party candidate Frank Habineza could only muster 0.53 percent and independent Philippe Mpayimana 0.32 percent, according to the results issued with 79 percent of ballots counted.&nbsp;

In an address from the headquarters of his ruling Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), the 66-year-old thanked Rwandans for giving him another five years in office.

"The results that have been presented indicate a very high score, these are not just figures, even if it was 100 percent, these are not just numbers," he said.&nbsp;

"These figures show the trust, and that is what is most important," he added.&nbsp;

"I am hopeful that together we can solve all problems."

- 'Safe and transparent' -

Full provisional results are due by July 20 and definitive results by July 27.

"In general, the electoral process happened in a safe and transparent atmosphere for Rwandans living abroad and at home," the National Electoral Commission said in a statement.

With 65 percent of the population aged under 30, Kagame is the only leader most Rwandans have ever known.&nbsp;

The bespectacled 66-year-old leader is credited with rebuilding a traumatised nation after the 1994 genocide -- but he is also accused of ruling in a climate of fear at home, and fomenting instability in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo.

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Over nine million Rwandans -- about two million first-time voters -- &nbsp;were registered to cast their ballot, with the presidential race being held at the same time as legislative elections for the first time.

"(Kagame) gives us everything we ask him, such as health insurance. This is why he wins by a big margin," said 34-year-old mechanic Francois Rwabakina. &nbsp;

Kagame won with more than 93 percent of the vote in 2003, 2010 and in 2017, when he again easily defeated the same two challengers.

He has overseen controversial constitutional amendments that shortened presidential terms from seven to five years and reset the clock for the Rwandan leader, allowing him to potentially rule until 2034.

- 'Severe restrictions' -

Rwandan courts had rejected appeals from prominent opposition figures Bernard Ntaganda and Victoire Ingabire to remove previous convictions that effectively disqualified them from Monday's vote.

The election commission also barred high-profile Kagame critic Diane Rwigara, citing issues with her paperwork -- the second time she was excluded from running.

Ahead of the vote, Amnesty International said Rwanda's political opposition faced "severe restrictions... as well as threats, arbitrary detention, prosecution, trumped-up charges, killings and enforced disappearances".

The imbalance between the candidates was evident during the three-week campaign, as the well-oiled PR machine of the ruling RPF swung into high gear.

The party's red, white and blue colours and its slogans "Tora Kagame Paul" ("Vote Paul Kagame") and "PK24" ("Paul Kagame 2024") were everywhere.

His rivals struggled to make their voices heard, with barely 100 people showing up to some events.&nbsp;

Kagame's RPF militia is lauded for ending the 1994 genocide when it marched on Kigali -- ousting the Hutu extremists who had unleashed 100 days of bloodletting targeting the Tutsi minority.

The perpetrators killed around 800,000 people, mainly Tutsis but also Hutu moderates.

Kagame has overseen a remarkable economic recovery, with GDP growing by an average of 7.2 percent per year between 2012 and 2022, although the World Bank says almost half the population lives on less than $2.15 a day.

But abroad, Kigali is accused of meddling in the troubled eastern DRC, where a UN report says its troops are fighting alongside M23 rebels.

In the parliamentary election, 589 candidates were chasing 80 seats, including 53 elected by universal suffrage.&nbsp;

In the outgoing assembly, the RPF held 40 seats and its allies 11, while Habineza's party had two.

Another 27 spots are reserved for women, the youth and people with disabilities.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame was gearing up Tuesday (July 16) for a fourth term in office after winning a thundering 99.15 percent of the vote in an election where only two challengers were allowed to run against him.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame was gearing up Tuesday (July 16) for a fourth term in office after winning a thundering 99.15 percent of the vote in an election where only two challengers were allowed to run against him. The outcome of Monday's poll was never in doubt, with Kagame ruling the small African nation with an iron fist as de facto leader then president for three decades. Partial results issued by the election commission seven hours after polls closed showed that Kagame had won 99.15 percent of the vote -- even more than the 98.79 percent he got in the last poll seven years ago. Also read: Rwanda Polls: Voting comes to an end, counting underway Democratic Green Party candidate Frank Habineza could only muster 0.53 percent and independent Philippe Mpayimana 0.32 percent, according to the results issued with 79 percent of ballots counted. In an address from the headquarters of his ruling Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), the 66-year-old thanked Rwandans for giving him another five years in office. "The results that have been presented indicate a very high score, these are not just figures, even if it was 100 percent, these are not just numbers," he said. "These figures show the trust, and that is what is most important," he added. "I am hopeful that together we can solve all problems." - 'Safe and transparent' - Full provisional results are due by July 20 and definitive results by July 27. "In general, the electoral process happened in a safe and transparent atmosphere for Rwandans living abroad and at home," the National Electoral Commission said in a statement. With 65 percent of the population aged under 30, Kagame is the only leader most Rwandans have ever known. The bespectacled 66-year-old leader is credited with rebuilding a traumatised nation after the 1994 genocide -- but he is also accused of ruling in a climate of fear at home, and fomenting instability in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo. × Over nine million Rwandans -- about two million first-time voters -- were registered to cast their ballot, with the presidential race being held at the same time as legislative elections for the first time. "(Kagame) gives us everything we ask him, such as health insurance. This is why he wins by a big margin," said 34-year-old mechanic Francois Rwabakina. Kagame won with more than 93 percent of the vote in 2003, 2010 and in 2017, when he again easily defeated the same two challengers. He has overseen controversial constitutional amendments that shortened presidential terms from seven to five years and reset the clock for the Rwandan leader, allowing him to potentially rule until 2034. - 'Severe restrictions' - Rwandan courts had rejected appeals from prominent opposition figures Bernard Ntaganda and Victoire Ingabire to remove previous convictions that effectively disqualified them from Monday's vote. The election commission also barred high-profile Kagame critic Diane Rwigara, citing issues with her paperwork -- the second time she was excluded from running. Ahead of the vote, Amnesty International said Rwanda's political opposition faced "severe restrictions... as well as threats, arbitrary detention, prosecution, trumped-up charges, killings and enforced disappearances". The imbalance between the candidates was evident during the three-week campaign, as the well-oiled PR machine of the ruling RPF swung into high gear. The party's red, white and blue colours and its slogans "Tora Kagame Paul" ("Vote Paul Kagame") and "PK24" ("Paul Kagame 2024") were everywhere. His rivals struggled to make their voices heard, with barely 100 people showing up to some events. Kagame's RPF militia is lauded for ending the 1994 genocide when it marched on Kigali -- ousting the Hutu extremists who had unleashed 100 days of bloodletting targeting the Tutsi minority. The perpetrators killed around 800,000 people, mainly Tutsis but also Hutu moderates. Kagame has overseen a remarkable economic recovery, with GDP growing by an average of 7.2 percent per year between 2012 and 2022, although the World Bank says almost half the population lives on less than $2.15 a day. But abroad, Kigali is accused of meddling in the troubled eastern DRC, where a UN report says its troops are fighting alongside M23 rebels. In the parliamentary election, 589 candidates were chasing 80 seats, including 53 elected by universal suffrage. In the outgoing assembly, the RPF held 40 seats and its allies 11, while Habineza's party had two. Another 27 spots are reserved for women, the youth and people with disabilities. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Kagame secures fourth term as Rwanda's president with 99% of the vote

In Rwanda where presidential elections are being held, voting began at 6:00 am local time and concluded just a short while ago as for procedures counting of the votes are already underway. Watch in for more details!

Rwanda polls: Voting comes to an end, counting underway

Rwandans voted Monday in a presidential election that is expected to extend the rule of President Paul Kagame, who has held power since the end of the country’s genocide in 1994. Watch in for more details!

Rwanda Polls: Voting comes to an end, counting underway

The UN peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo has decided to pause its withdrawal with no timeline set for the next phase.

Congo blames Rwanda for escalation in violence & clashes, UN pauses peacekeeping withdrawal

United Kingdom’s new Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Saturday (July 6) said he was not prepared to continue with the previous government's Rwanda migrant deportation plan.

"The Rwanda scheme was buried before it even started. I'm not prepared to continue with publicity stunt that don't act as a deterrent," Starmer told reporters at his first news conference after officially taking over as PM.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-did-conservatives-lose-uk-election-how-sunak-managed-to-end-14-year-tory-rule-738220">Why did Conservatives lose UK election? How Rishi Sunak's term helped end 14-year Tory rule, return of Labour</a>

The newly election PM said, "he was restless for change&nbsp;and that his party had received a "mandate to do politics differently"."

The newly elected UK PM&nbsp;began his first full day in office on Saturday&nbsp;with a cabinet meeting, following his Labour Party's decisive election victory that ended 14 years of Conservative rule.

Starmer convened the first meeting of his team, with the UK’s first woman finance minister, Rachel Reeves, and the new foreign minister, David Lammy.

The Labour leader told his ministers it had been "the honour and the privilege of my life" to be invited by King Charles III to form the government.

"We have a huge a amount of work to do, so now we get on with our work," he said.

Former PM Rishi Sunak had&nbsp;staked his political reputation on his plan to halt the boats, advocating the contentious deportation plan despite opposition from rights groups and the&nbsp;court's ruling against it.&nbsp;

Notably, immigration has become an increasingly important&nbsp;issue particularly since the UK left the European Union in 2020, mainly on an undertaking to "take back control" of the country's borders.

Starmer had previously said that Sunak's policy was neither a prevention nor value for money.

He has pledged to address the issue by dismantling the people-smuggling gangs responsible for the crossings.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-elections-2024-labour-wins-ready-to-change-our-country-for-the-better-says-starmer-738219" target="_blank">UK Elections 2024: Labour wins, Ready to change our country for the better says Starmer</a>

“Central to the policy would be a new "elite"&nbsp;Border Security Command, comprising immigration and law enforcement specialists, as well as the domestic intelligence service MI5,” he said.

According to the UK Home Office, an estimated 12,313 people have made the crossing to Britain so far this year, marking an 18 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.

In 2023, there were 29,437 arrivals, which represents a decrease of 36 per cent from the record 45,774 arrivals witnessed&nbsp;in 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Kingdom’s new Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Saturday (July 6) said he was not prepared to continue with the previous government's Rwanda migrant deportation plan.

United Kingdom’s new Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Saturday (July 6) said he was not prepared to continue with the previous government's Rwanda migrant deportation plan. "The Rwanda scheme was buried before it even started. I'm not prepared to continue with publicity stunt that don't act as a deterrent," Starmer told reporters at his first news conference after officially taking over as PM. Also read: Why did Conservatives lose UK election? How Rishi Sunak's term helped end 14-year Tory rule, return of Labour The newly election PM said, "he was restless for change and that his party had received a "mandate to do politics differently"." The newly elected UK PM began his first full day in office on Saturday with a cabinet meeting, following his Labour Party's decisive election victory that ended 14 years of Conservative rule. Starmer convened the first meeting of his team, with the UK’s first woman finance minister, Rachel Reeves, and the new foreign minister, David Lammy. The Labour leader told his ministers it had been "the honour and the privilege of my life" to be invited by King Charles III to form the government. "We have a huge a amount of work to do, so now we get on with our work," he said. Former PM Rishi Sunak had staked his political reputation on his plan to halt the boats, advocating the contentious deportation plan despite opposition from rights groups and the court's ruling against it. Notably, immigration has become an increasingly important issue particularly since the UK left the European Union in 2020, mainly on an undertaking to "take back control" of the country's borders. Starmer had previously said that Sunak's policy was neither a prevention nor value for money. He has pledged to address the issue by dismantling the people-smuggling gangs responsible for the crossings. Also read | UK Elections 2024: Labour wins, Ready to change our country for the better says Starmer “Central to the policy would be a new "elite" Border Security Command, comprising immigration and law enforcement specialists, as well as the domestic intelligence service MI5,” he said. According to the UK Home Office, an estimated 12,313 people have made the crossing to Britain so far this year, marking an 18 per cent increase compared to the same period last year. In 2023, there were 29,437 arrivals, which represents a decrease of 36 per cent from the record 45,774 arrivals witnessed in 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM Keir Starmer unwilling to proceed with Rwanda migrant deportation plan

Rwanda's President Paul Kagame defended the central African nation's democratic record as campaigning for next month's vote got underway. While Kagame has been praised for Rwanda's economic recovery after the 1994 genocide that claimed 800,000 lives, he faces criticism over rights abuses and political repression. So what's at stake in the upcoming polls?

Rwanda gears up for July 15 Presidential elections

Headlines of the hour: - Palestine soccer player, family killed - Four killed in Crimea city of Sevastopol - Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal challenges stay on bail - India: Two jawans killed in Chhattisgarh - Rwanda plan 'crap': Tory candidate - Shake up at Musk's X?

India: Two jawans killed in Chhattisgarh | Delhi CM challenges stay on bail

Headlines of the hour: - 45 rescued on stormy Lake Como - Palestine soccer player, family killed - Rwanda plan 'crap': Tory candidate - Protests in Italy over India's death - Protests amid welcome for Milei - Robots enthrall at China expo

45 rescued on stormy Lake Como | Palestine soccer player, family killed

Just a month before National polls Rwanda President Paul Kagame has made major cabinet reshuffle appointing a new Foreign Minister and Intelligence Chief. Watch in for more details!

Rwanda: President Paul Kagame appoints new Foreign Minister, Intelligence Chief

Britain intends to begin deporting asylum seekers to Rwanda on July 24, a government lawyer said on Monday, although the hotly contested scheme is dependent on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party winning the upcoming election.

Sending asylum seekers who have arrived in Britain without permission to Rwanda is one of Sunak's flagship policies, but legal and parliamentary obstacles have meant it has never got off the ground.

Sunak has said the deportation flights will not leave before the July 4 election but has promised if he wins they would begin soon after. The opposition Labour Party, leading by about 20 points in opinion polls, has pledged to scrap the plan if elected.

In documents submitted to the London High Court as part of a challenge to the policy by charity Asylum Aid, government lawyers said the intention was "to effect removals with a flight to Rwanda on 23 July 2024 (and not before)."

Watch:&nbsp;UK: Rwanda bill showdown in Parliament, calls for concessions for Afghans

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However, government lawyer Edward Brown later told the court that an "operational update" from the Home Office (interior ministry) said the first flight would in fact leave on July 24.

The scheme - first drawn up by one of Sunak's predecessors, Boris Johnson, in 2022 - aims to deter asylum seekers making the dangerous journey across the Channel in small boats from France.

Last November, the UK Supreme Court declared the policy unlawful, prompting Sunak to sign a new treaty with the East African country and to pass new legislation to override this.

Asylum Aid's lawyer Charlotte Kilroy said the date earmarked for the flight was "news to us". The judge, Martin Chamberlain, remarked: "This is all going to be subject to the outcome of the general election, but we obviously cannot make any predictions about that."

The numbers of asylum seekers crossing the Channel has risen to record numbers this year, with more than 10,000 people arriving so far, after numbers fell by a third in 2023.

Britain intends to begin deporting asylum seekers to Rwanda on July 24, a government lawyer said on Monday, although the hotly contested scheme is dependent on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party winning the upcoming election.

Britain intends to begin deporting asylum seekers to Rwanda on July 24, a government lawyer said on Monday, although the hotly contested scheme is dependent on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party winning the upcoming election. Sending asylum seekers who have arrived in Britain without permission to Rwanda is one of Sunak's flagship policies, but legal and parliamentary obstacles have meant it has never got off the ground. Sunak has said the deportation flights will not leave before the July 4 election but has promised if he wins they would begin soon after. The opposition Labour Party, leading by about 20 points in opinion polls, has pledged to scrap the plan if elected. In documents submitted to the London High Court as part of a challenge to the policy by charity Asylum Aid, government lawyers said the intention was "to effect removals with a flight to Rwanda on 23 July 2024 (and not before)." Watch: UK: Rwanda bill showdown in Parliament, calls for concessions for Afghans × However, government lawyer Edward Brown later told the court that an "operational update" from the Home Office (interior ministry) said the first flight would in fact leave on July 24. The scheme - first drawn up by one of Sunak's predecessors, Boris Johnson, in 2022 - aims to deter asylum seekers making the dangerous journey across the Channel in small boats from France. Last November, the UK Supreme Court declared the policy unlawful, prompting Sunak to sign a new treaty with the East African country and to pass new legislation to override this. Asylum Aid's lawyer Charlotte Kilroy said the date earmarked for the flight was "news to us". The judge, Martin Chamberlain, remarked: "This is all going to be subject to the outcome of the general election, but we obviously cannot make any predictions about that." The numbers of asylum seekers crossing the Channel has risen to record numbers this year, with more than 10,000 people arriving so far, after numbers fell by a third in 2023.

UK declares first Rwanda asylum seekers’ deportation flight to take off on July 24

A High Court judge in Belfast ruled that a UK law allowing asylum-seekers to be deported to Rwanda should be disapplied in Northern Ireland on human rights grounds. Watch in for more details!

Northern Ireland court blocks UK law to deport asylum-seekers to Rwanda

A High Court Judge in Belfast ruled that a UK law allowing asylum-seekers to be deported to Rwanda should be disapplied in Northern Ireland on human rights grounds. Watch in for more details!

Northern Ireland court blocks UK Rwanda law

The United Kingdom's Home Office is facing legal action amid worries that minors would be deported to Rwanda because staff incorrectly identify them as adults, according to reports. Watch in for more details!

UK Rwanda deportation plan: Big hiccups

UK Rwanda deportation plan: Big hiccups | UK Home Office faces legal action

UK Home Office faces legal action over kids being sent to Rwanda

A Labour government would scrap Rwanda migrant deportation flights “straight away”, Sir Keir Starmer said. Watch to know more.

UK: Labour vows to scrap Rwanda scheme as polls loom

UK: Starmer eyes Rwanda Plan after Tory MP defects to join Labour

UK: Starmer vows crackdown on human smugglers amid Rwanda row

The death caused by flooding and other consequences of the heavy rain battering Kenya has risen to 288. The torrential rains that have caused widespread flooding and landslides across Kenya. Watch in for more details!

Kenya Floods: Death toll from floods rise to 288, deluge destroys homes, roads & bridges

UK sent the first batch of asylum seekers to Rwanda, media reported on Tuesday, a week after adopting a controversial law allowing irregular migrants to be deported to the East African country.

UK sends back first asylum seeker to Rwanda, migrants get $3,747 to leave Britain

As UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak persists in his anti-migration stance, Britain has initiated its first transfer of an asylum seeker to Rwanda.

The move&nbsp;which falls under the voluntary scheme is distinct from an impending forced deportation initiative. This comes as the UK Parliament, in a bid to dissuade asylum seekers from undertaking perilous journeys across the English Channel to reach the European nation, in April, passed a contentious bill enabling the government to send asylum seekers to Rwanda for their cases to be assessed there.

These transfers align with Sunak's agenda to curb irregular migration, with the government planning to commence forced deportations by July, as per reports.&nbsp;

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Reports indicated&nbsp;that the individual departed the UK after agreeing to relocate to Kigali following the rejection of his asylum claim last year. In return for his agreement, he will get up to £3,000 ($3,742), reports said quoting a government source.

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While the British Home Office has not confirmed the reports, a government spokesperson stated, "We are now able to send asylum seekers to Rwanda under our migration and economic development partnership."

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"This deal allows people with no immigration status in the UK to be relocated to a safe third country where they will be supported to rebuild their lives," the spokesperson added.&nbsp;

The government is anticipating deporting 5,700 migrants to Rwanda this year as part of the scheme aimed at dissuading arrivals via small boats. Despite the government's assurances, concerns have risen as official figures suggest&nbsp;a substantial portion of identified individuals cannot be located or have stopped reporting to authorities.

A total of 2,145 out of 5,700 “continue to report to the Home Office and can be located for detention”, as per the impact assessment&nbsp;on the Home Office’s website. Notably, the controversial scheme has faced strong opposition from human rights groups and campaigners, yet Sunak remains determined to implement it by July.

(With inputs from agencies)

As UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak persists in his anti-migration stance, Britain has initiated its first transfer of an asylum seeker to Rwanda. The move which falls under the voluntary scheme is distinct from an impending forced deportation initiative.

As UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak persists in his anti-migration stance, Britain has initiated its first transfer of an asylum seeker to Rwanda. The move which falls under the voluntary scheme is distinct from an impending forced deportation initiative. This comes as the UK Parliament, in a bid to dissuade asylum seekers from undertaking perilous journeys across the English Channel to reach the European nation, in April, passed a contentious bill enabling the government to send asylum seekers to Rwanda for their cases to be assessed there. These transfers align with Sunak's agenda to curb irregular migration, with the government planning to commence forced deportations by July, as per reports. Also Read | Biden administration mulls over reclassifying marijuana as a low-risk drug Reports indicated that the individual departed the UK after agreeing to relocate to Kigali following the rejection of his asylum claim last year. In return for his agreement, he will get up to £3,000 ($3,742), reports said quoting a government source. Also Read | Trump says ‘can’t rule out’ building detention camps in US for illegal migrants While the British Home Office has not confirmed the reports, a government spokesperson stated, "We are now able to send asylum seekers to Rwanda under our migration and economic development partnership." Watch | China-Russia trade deal paves way for BRICS De-Dollarization × "This deal allows people with no immigration status in the UK to be relocated to a safe third country where they will be supported to rebuild their lives," the spokesperson added. The government is anticipating deporting 5,700 migrants to Rwanda this year as part of the scheme aimed at dissuading arrivals via small boats. Despite the government's assurances, concerns have risen as official figures suggest a substantial portion of identified individuals cannot be located or have stopped reporting to authorities. A total of 2,145 out of 5,700 “continue to report to the Home Office and can be located for detention”, as per the impact assessment on the Home Office’s website. Notably, the controversial scheme has faced strong opposition from human rights groups and campaigners, yet Sunak remains determined to implement it by July. (With inputs from agencies)

UK sends first voluntary asylum seeker to Rwanda amid anti-migration agenda

UK sends back first asylum seeker to Rwanda, asylum seeker deported under voluntary scheme

UK: Asylum seeker deported under voluntary scheme, gets $3,747 to leave Britain

Rwanda says it's ready to receive migrants from the United Kingdom after British parliament this week approved a long-stalled and controversial bill seeking to stem the tide of people crossing the English Channel in small boats by deporting some of them to the East African country. But not everyone has welcomed this move.

Rwanda & UK hurdle over migrants quest to Kigali

The British Parliament has finally passed legislation to send some migrants to Rwanda, opening the runway for flights this summer.

What's the plan next: UK plans to send asylum seekers to Rwanda?

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