Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has secured a record fifth term term as her Awami League party registered a landslide victory in the general elections, which was boycotted by the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its allies.

Bangladesh General Elections: Sheikh Hasina wins election for a fifth term

In Bangladesh, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is poised to secure another term amid criticism of authoritarian tendencies.

Bangladesh's success story under Sheikh Hasina

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia has boycotted the ongoing 12th parliamentary elections, after PM Sheikh Hasina denied its demand to resign and let a caretaker government run the election.

Bangladesh General Elections: Nationalist parties boycotts parliamentary elections

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is expected to secure a fourth straight term in a one-sided general election, said on Sunday that she does not care about foreign media's approval of the polls as for her acceptance to people of the country is the only important issue.

Bangladesh General Elections: People's acceptance of polls most important: PM

The voting in Bangladesh's 12th parliament elections ended at 4:00 p.m. local time on Sunday, media reports said.

Bangladesh General Elections: Voting ends, counting begins

Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said the main party boycotting Sunday's national elections was a "terrorist organisation", adding that she was trying to ensure her country remained democratic.

Bangladesh General Elections:"Terrorist organisation": Bangladesh PM attacks opposition over boycott

Voting in Bangladesh's 12th parliamentary elections saw a voter turnout of 40 percent. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is set to secure a fourth straight term in office following a boycott led by the country's key opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

Bangladesh General Elections: 40% voter turnout recorded: EC

Bangladesh on Sunday began voting in the 12th general elections. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is expected to win a fourth straight term and the fifth overall for her Awami League-led alliance in this general election which is boycotted by the main opposition party BNP and marred by violence ahead of the vote.

Bangladesh General Elections: PM Sheikh Hasina's Awami league set for fourth consecutive term

Voting in Bangladesh's 12th parliamentary elections saw a voter turnout of 27.5 percent till 3PM. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is set to secure a fourth straight term in office following a boycott led by the country's key opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

Bangladesh General Elections: 27.5% voter turnout recorded till 3 PM: EC

Bangladesh General Elections: Opposition BNP and allies parties boycott polls

Voting in Bangladesh's 12th parliamentary elections saw a voter turnout of 27.5 percent till 3 PM. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is set to secure a fourth straight term in office following a boycott led by the country's key opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

Bangladesh General Elections: 27.5% voter turnout recorded till 3PM: EC

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia has boycotted the ongoing 12th parliamentary elections, after PM Sheikh Hasina denied its demand to resign and let a caretaker government run the election. Meanwhile, multiple reports of violence emerge. Watch to know more!

Bangladesh General Elections: PM Sheikh Hasina expected to get another term

The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has refused opposition calls for a rerun of disputed elections this comes as the Congo's powerful Catholic church and its Protestant churches Observer Mission reported numerous irregularities that could undermine some results.

DRC: Opposition alleges 'irregularities' in polls

DRC: Election commission denies election fraud

The Ram temple Trust is set to vote to choose the idol of 'Ram Lalla', the depiction of Lord Ram as a child, which is to be installed inside the grand Ram temple's sanctum sanctorum next month in the Indian city of Ayodhya. The voting is set to take place on Friday (Dec 29), as per reports. 
 
According to the sources mentioned in the reports, the voting will be held at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra's meeting. The three sculptors in race are -&nbsp;Ganesh Bhatt, Arun Yogiraj and Satyanarayan Pandey.

This is the trust which will oversee the management and construction of the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya. 
 
"All three designs, made by separate sculptors, would be put on the table. The one idol that will get the most votes will be installed at the consecration of the shrine on January 22," as per the officials, Indian news agency ANI reported. 
 
Trust secretary Champat Rai on Wednesday (Dec 27) said that Lord Ram's 51-inch-tall idol – which will depict his five-year-old form – will be selected among three designs. 
 
"The one that has the best divineness and has a childlike look about it will be selected," he said. 
 
Shri Ram Mandir Construction Committee Chairman Nripendra Misra, meanwhile, took stock of the Ram Janmabhoomi Path and the complex's ongoing construction along with the district's top officials on Thursday (Dec 28). 
 
The inspection took place ahead of the consecration ceremony, which is scheduled to be held next month, and only two days ahead of the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the temple city.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heres-how-hyderabadi-workers-are-constructing-opulent-doors-of-ayodhya-ram-temple-674291">Here's how century-old firm is constructing opulent doors of Ayodhya Ram temple</a>

"The work is not being done hastily, rather it is being done qualitatively by investing enough time into it," said Misra, while speaking to ANI. 
 
"The construction work has been categorised into three phases. The first phase will be completed by December 2023, the second phase, when the construction of the temple will be completed, will be carried out in January and the third phase includes the construction work in the complex," he stated. 
 
The officials were further instructed by Misra to complete the instalment of security equipment along with the 'welcome gate' and canopy on Janmabhoomi Path by December.

<h2>Ram temple's grand consecration ceremony</h2>

According to the temple officials, the consecration ceremony will be held over a period of seven days starting on January 16. On January 16, 2024, the atonement ceremony will be conducted by the host appointed by the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra. 
 
The worship of Lord Vishnu, 'Dashvidh' bath, and offering to cows will be carried out on the banks of the Saryu River. After that, on January 17 a procession – which will Lord Ram's idol in child-like form – will reach Ayodhya. After this, the devotees will reach the Ram Janmabhoomi temple with Mangal Kalash carrying Saryu water.

Watch:&nbsp;What facilities will the 70-acre Ram temple complex have?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-facilities-will-the-70-acre-ram-temple-complex-have-674139/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The formal rituals will kick off on January 18 with the Ganesh Ambika puja, Varun puja, Matrika puja, Brahmin Varan, and Vastu Puja. The holy fire will be lit on January 19 after the establishment of 'Navagraha' and a 'havan' (holy ritual surrounding the fire).

 
The Ram Janmabhoomi temple's sanctum sanctorum will be washed with Saryu water on January 20 after which the 'Annadhivas' and Vaastu Shanti rituals will take place. 
 
The idol of Lord Ram will be bathed in 125 urns on January 21 and will be finally placed inside the sanctum sanctorum. On January 22, the morning puja will be held and the idol will be consecrated in 'Mrigashira Nakshatra' in the afternoon.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Ram temple Trust is set to vote to choose the idol of 'Ram Lalla', the depiction of Lord Ram as a child, which is to be installed inside the grand Ram temple's sanctum sanctorum next month in the Indian city of Ayodhya.

The Ram temple Trust is set to vote to choose the idol of 'Ram Lalla', the depiction of Lord Ram as a child, which is to be installed inside the grand Ram temple's sanctum sanctorum next month in the Indian city of Ayodhya. The voting is set to take place on Friday (Dec 29), as per reports. According to the sources mentioned in the reports, the voting will be held at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra's meeting. The three sculptors in race are - Ganesh Bhatt, Arun Yogiraj and Satyanarayan Pandey. This is the trust which will oversee the management and construction of the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya. "All three designs, made by separate sculptors, would be put on the table. The one idol that will get the most votes will be installed at the consecration of the shrine on January 22," as per the officials, Indian news agency ANI reported. Trust secretary Champat Rai on Wednesday (Dec 27) said that Lord Ram's 51-inch-tall idol – which will depict his five-year-old form – will be selected among three designs. "The one that has the best divineness and has a childlike look about it will be selected," he said. Shri Ram Mandir Construction Committee Chairman Nripendra Misra, meanwhile, took stock of the Ram Janmabhoomi Path and the complex's ongoing construction along with the district's top officials on Thursday (Dec 28). The inspection took place ahead of the consecration ceremony, which is scheduled to be held next month, and only two days ahead of the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the temple city. Also read: Here's how century-old firm is constructing opulent doors of Ayodhya Ram temple "The work is not being done hastily, rather it is being done qualitatively by investing enough time into it," said Misra, while speaking to ANI. "The construction work has been categorised into three phases. The first phase will be completed by December 2023, the second phase, when the construction of the temple will be completed, will be carried out in January and the third phase includes the construction work in the complex," he stated. The officials were further instructed by Misra to complete the instalment of security equipment along with the 'welcome gate' and canopy on Janmabhoomi Path by December. Ram temple's grand consecration ceremony According to the temple officials, the consecration ceremony will be held over a period of seven days starting on January 16. On January 16, 2024, the atonement ceremony will be conducted by the host appointed by the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra. The worship of Lord Vishnu, 'Dashvidh' bath, and offering to cows will be carried out on the banks of the Saryu River. After that, on January 17 a procession – which will Lord Ram's idol in child-like form – will reach Ayodhya. After this, the devotees will reach the Ram Janmabhoomi temple with Mangal Kalash carrying Saryu water. Watch: What facilities will the 70-acre Ram temple complex have? The formal rituals will kick off on January 18 with the Ganesh Ambika puja, Varun puja, Matrika puja, Brahmin Varan, and Vastu Puja. The holy fire will be lit on January 19 after the establishment of 'Navagraha' and a 'havan' (holy ritual surrounding the fire). The Ram Janmabhoomi temple's sanctum sanctorum will be washed with Saryu water on January 20 after which the 'Annadhivas' and Vaastu Shanti rituals will take place. The idol of Lord Ram will be bathed in 125 urns on January 21 and will be finally placed inside the sanctum sanctorum. On January 22, the morning puja will be held and the idol will be consecrated in 'Mrigashira Nakshatra' in the afternoon. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Ayodhya Temple Trust to vote on Lord Ram idol, choose best among three designs

Democratic Republic of Congo was holding presidential and legislative elections on Wednesday after a chaotic campaign marred by opposition allegations of fraud, electoral violence, and logistical setbacks that could prevent many from voting.

Congo votes in presidential and legislative elections

US lawmakers held a historic voting on Friday (Dec 1) and expelled scandal-plagued George Santos from the House of Representatives.

Santos, who is known to have lied his way into Congress, was indicted on charges of using stolen donor cash to lead a lavish lifestyle. 
 
The New York Republican, who was expelled in an overwhelming vote which saw more than 100 of his fellow party members extend their support to his ousting, is only the third person to have joined the gallery of Washington's ejected lawmakers since the Civil War. 
 
A two-thirds majority was required in voting to expel Santos and the final tally was 311-114 on Friday (Dec 1). Just before the voting, House Speaker Mike Johnson said that he would vote against the expulsion of Santos. 
 
The 35-year-old politician has been surrounded by controversies since his November 2022 election. He has accepted that he has fabricated his biography, and he has been accused by federal prosecutors of laundering campaign funds as well as defrauding donors. Santos had earlier pleaded not guilty to 23 federal fraud charges, however, he was not tried.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/who-is-george-santos-why-did-he-flee-pro-trump-protests-know-about-his-myriad-controversies-579426">Who is George Santos? Know about his myriad controversies</a>

A previous expulsion attempt was survived by Santos in early November, when 182 Republicans as well as 31 Democrats gave votes against his removal citing that his criminal case needs to be resolved first. 
 
The expulsion of Santos has reduced the slim majority of Republicans to 221-213. His district, which covers parts of Long Island and New York City and Long Island, is considered as competitive.

<h2>Santos' streak of lies and scandals</h2>

Last month, in a bipartisan congressional investigation it was discovered that Santos paid nearly $4,000 for spa treatments, which included Botox, using his congressional campaign account. It was also reported that more than $4,000 of campaign money was spent by Santos at the luxury retail store Hermes.

He also made "smaller purchases" from OnlyFans, which is an online platform famous for sexual content. 
 
This led several Republicans, who had supported him November elections, to say that they would support his expulsion. Santos had also said he may get expelled.

Watch:&nbsp;US: George Santos legal woes deepens, defies calls to resign ahead of third expulsion vote

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-george-santos-legal-woes-deepens-defies-calls-to-resign-ahead-of-third-expulsion-vote-665187/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Santos spurned appeals to resign but claimed that he won't run for reelection next year. 
 
Speaking on the House floor on Thursday (Nov 30), Santos said, "I have been convicted of no crimes. The people of the Third (Congressional) District of New York sent me here."If they want me out, they're going to have to go silence those people and take the hard vote." 
 
The troubles started brewing for Santos just after his November 2022 election when media outlets claimed that he had not attended New York University or been employed at Goldman Sachs and Citigroup, which he had claimed in the campaign. 
 
His claims of Jewish heritage and that his grandparents had fled the Nazis in World War II were also reported to be false.

(With inputs from agencies)

US lawmakers held a historic voting on Friday (Dec 1) and expelled scandal-plagued George Santos from the House of Representatives. Santos, who is known to have lied his way into Congress, was indicted on charges of using stolen donor cash to lead a lavish lifestyle.

US lawmakers held a historic voting on Friday (Dec 1) and expelled scandal-plagued George Santos from the House of Representatives. Santos, who is known to have lied his way into Congress, was indicted on charges of using stolen donor cash to lead a lavish lifestyle. The New York Republican, who was expelled in an overwhelming vote which saw more than 100 of his fellow party members extend their support to his ousting, is only the third person to have joined the gallery of Washington's ejected lawmakers since the Civil War. A two-thirds majority was required in voting to expel Santos and the final tally was 311-114 on Friday (Dec 1). Just before the voting, House Speaker Mike Johnson said that he would vote against the expulsion of Santos. The 35-year-old politician has been surrounded by controversies since his November 2022 election. He has accepted that he has fabricated his biography, and he has been accused by federal prosecutors of laundering campaign funds as well as defrauding donors. Santos had earlier pleaded not guilty to 23 federal fraud charges, however, he was not tried. Also read: Who is George Santos? Know about his myriad controversies A previous expulsion attempt was survived by Santos in early November, when 182 Republicans as well as 31 Democrats gave votes against his removal citing that his criminal case needs to be resolved first. The expulsion of Santos has reduced the slim majority of Republicans to 221-213. His district, which covers parts of Long Island and New York City and Long Island, is considered as competitive. Santos' streak of lies and scandals Last month, in a bipartisan congressional investigation it was discovered that Santos paid nearly $4,000 for spa treatments, which included Botox, using his congressional campaign account. It was also reported that more than $4,000 of campaign money was spent by Santos at the luxury retail store Hermes. He also made "smaller purchases" from OnlyFans, which is an online platform famous for sexual content. This led several Republicans, who had supported him November elections, to say that they would support his expulsion. Santos had also said he may get expelled. Watch: US: George Santos legal woes deepens, defies calls to resign ahead of third expulsion vote Santos spurned appeals to resign but claimed that he won't run for reelection next year. Speaking on the House floor on Thursday (Nov 30), Santos said, "I have been convicted of no crimes. The people of the Third (Congressional) District of New York sent me here."If they want me out, they're going to have to go silence those people and take the hard vote." The troubles started brewing for Santos just after his November 2022 election when media outlets claimed that he had not attended New York University or been employed at Goldman Sachs and Citigroup, which he had claimed in the campaign. His claims of Jewish heritage and that his grandparents had fled the Nazis in World War II were also reported to be false. (With inputs from agencies)

In a historic vote, US lawmakers expel scandal-plagued Congressman George Santos

Dutch voters cast their ballots on Wednesday in a nail-biting election in which opinion polls show at least three parties - including the far right - could hope for the top spot.

A weighted poll published on the eve of the vote showed anti-Islam firebrand Geert Wilders' Freedom Party (PVV) tied for the lead with the conservative People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) of outgoing Prime Minister Mark Rutte.

"I hope I don't wake up tomorrow and we have Wilders as a prime minister. That's a nightmare," said Amsterdam resident Arie van der Neut, an architect, after he cast his ballot for the pro-European, center-left Volt party.

Only one thing is certain: the Netherlands will get its first new prime minister in over a decade, after Rutte resigned in July as his fourth coalition government collapsed,&nbsp;ending a 13-year tenure.

No party&nbsp;is on track to take more than 20% of the vote and with late polls showing Labour leader Frans Timmermans and&nbsp;Wilders&nbsp;making gains, and a large number of Dutch still undecided ahead of the vote,&nbsp;many scenarios are possible.

Although it is the tradition, there is also no guarantee that the party that wins the most seats would end up delivering the prime minister, in a country where the vote is split among many parties and coalition talks can take months.

Restricting immigration - the issue that triggered the collapse of Rutte's last cabinet - has been a key issue in the campaign, alongside climate change.

"It's been enough now. The Netherlands can't take it anymore. We have to think about our own people first now. Borders closed. Zero asylum seekers," Wilders said in a television debate late on Tuesday.

Justice Minister Dilan Yesilgoz, a Turkish immigrant tough on immigration and Rutte's successor at the helm of the VVD, who is hoping to become the country's first woman prime minister, responded:

"I don't think anyone believes Wilders would be a prime minister for all. He's all about closing borders, excluding groups who he feels don't belong in the Netherlands."

<h2 data-testid="Heading">Immigration, climate change&nbsp;</h2>

Lawmaker Pieter Omtzigt, a centrist who founded his own party after breaking with the Christian Democrats, is trailing slightly behind the first three in the latest polls, but will still likely play an important role.

At stake in the election is&nbsp;also whether voters in one of Europe's most prosperous countries are willing to continue funding climate policies, such as an expensive rollout of offshore wind farms amid a cost-of-living shock across the continent.

With the Netherlands a founding member of the EU, and Rutte a key operator in EU summits, fellow leaders will also be scrutinising the outcome as parties on the right have suggested seeking exemptions from the bloc's rules on agriculture and immigration.

Voting booths will close at 9 p.m. (2000 GMT), when national broadcaster NOS publishes its first exit poll.

A first-place finish for Wilders could lead the Netherlands to a hard-right coalition with a strong anti-immigration line, even though he has been seeking to soften his image in the hope of entering government.

A hard-right coalition could also soften plans to reduce livestock and fertilizer use, which are strongly opposed by farmers.

If Timmermans is better placed, this could&nbsp;swing the next&nbsp;government toward the centre and more spending on climate policies and increase social spending, including raising the minimum wage.

Rutte will remain in a caretaker role until a new government is installed, likely in the first half of 2024.

Dutch voters cast their ballots on Wednesday in a nail-biting election in which opinion polls show at least three parties - including the far right - could hope for the top spot.

Dutch voters cast their ballots on Wednesday in a nail-biting election in which opinion polls show at least three parties - including the far right - could hope for the top spot. A weighted poll published on the eve of the vote showed anti-Islam firebrand Geert Wilders' Freedom Party (PVV) tied for the lead with the conservative People's Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) of outgoing Prime Minister Mark Rutte. "I hope I don't wake up tomorrow and we have Wilders as a prime minister. That's a nightmare," said Amsterdam resident Arie van der Neut, an architect, after he cast his ballot for the pro-European, center-left Volt party. Only one thing is certain: the Netherlands will get its first new prime minister in over a decade, after Rutte resigned in July as his fourth coalition government collapsed, ending a 13-year tenure. No party is on track to take more than 20% of the vote and with late polls showing Labour leader Frans Timmermans and Wilders making gains, and a large number of Dutch still undecided ahead of the vote, many scenarios are possible. Although it is the tradition, there is also no guarantee that the party that wins the most seats would end up delivering the prime minister, in a country where the vote is split among many parties and coalition talks can take months. Restricting immigration - the issue that triggered the collapse of Rutte's last cabinet - has been a key issue in the campaign, alongside climate change. "It's been enough now. The Netherlands can't take it anymore. We have to think about our own people first now. Borders closed. Zero asylum seekers," Wilders said in a television debate late on Tuesday. Justice Minister Dilan Yesilgoz, a Turkish immigrant tough on immigration and Rutte's successor at the helm of the VVD, who is hoping to become the country's first woman prime minister, responded: "I don't think anyone believes Wilders would be a prime minister for all. He's all about closing borders, excluding groups who he feels don't belong in the Netherlands." Immigration, climate change Lawmaker Pieter Omtzigt, a centrist who founded his own party after breaking with the Christian Democrats, is trailing slightly behind the first three in the latest polls, but will still likely play an important role. At stake in the election is also whether voters in one of Europe's most prosperous countries are willing to continue funding climate policies, such as an expensive rollout of offshore wind farms amid a cost-of-living shock across the continent. With the Netherlands a founding member of the EU, and Rutte a key operator in EU summits, fellow leaders will also be scrutinising the outcome as parties on the right have suggested seeking exemptions from the bloc's rules on agriculture and immigration. Voting booths will close at 9 p.m. (2000 GMT), when national broadcaster NOS publishes its first exit poll. A first-place finish for Wilders could lead the Netherlands to a hard-right coalition with a strong anti-immigration line, even though he has been seeking to soften his image in the hope of entering government. A hard-right coalition could also soften plans to reduce livestock and fertilizer use, which are strongly opposed by farmers. If Timmermans is better placed, this could swing the next government toward the centre and more spending on climate policies and increase social spending, including raising the minimum wage. Rutte will remain in a caretaker role until a new government is installed, likely in the first half of 2024.

Dutch election: Voters cast ballots to choose new prime minister in tight race

Voting has ended in Madagascar’s presidential election after a turbulent campaign period marred by boycotts and allegations of election irregularities.

Madagascar Polls: Round 1 voting concludes

Liberal candidate Maria Corina Machado was well ahead in Sunday's primary in Venezuela to choose a candidate to face President Nicolas Maduro in the 2024 election, according to preliminary results.

Machado, however, has been disqualified from running by Maduro's government over alleged irregularities when she was a lawmaker from 2011 to 2014.

A member of the most radical wing of the opposition, Machado had won around 92 per cent of the votes in the primary with 26 per cent of ballots counted so far, according to the commission which organised the vote.

Her closest rival, Carlos Prosperi, who had criticised alleged irregularities in the process, took five per cent with the other candidates garnering less than one per cent of the vote.&nbsp;

"We are part of a citizen story and what we saw today is a citizen avalanche inside and outside Venezuela," Machado said before the results were announced, referring to voters in the country and abroad.

The 56-year-old engineer and former lawmaker was banned in June from holding any public office for 15 years.

The United States, which this week eased sanctions on Venezuela following the resumption of dialogue between the government and the opposition, is pushing to have her disqualification lifted.

Machado is accused of corruption and of supporting international sanctions against Venezuela.

She is a fervent opponent of Chavism, the brand of populist leftist ideology left behind by former president Hugo Chavez and championed by Maduro.

Machado has said she wants to liberalise the economy, including the privatisation of public companies.

&nbsp;

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Liberal candidate Maria Corina Machado was well ahead in Sunday's primary in Venezuela to choose a candidate to face President Nicolas Maduro in the 2024 election, according to preliminary results.

Liberal candidate Maria Corina Machado was well ahead in Sunday's primary in Venezuela to choose a candidate to face President Nicolas Maduro in the 2024 election, according to preliminary results. Machado, however, has been disqualified from running by Maduro's government over alleged irregularities when she was a lawmaker from 2011 to 2014. A member of the most radical wing of the opposition, Machado had won around 92 per cent of the votes in the primary with 26 per cent of ballots counted so far, according to the commission which organised the vote. Her closest rival, Carlos Prosperi, who had criticised alleged irregularities in the process, took five per cent with the other candidates garnering less than one per cent of the vote. "We are part of a citizen story and what we saw today is a citizen avalanche inside and outside Venezuela," Machado said before the results were announced, referring to voters in the country and abroad. The 56-year-old engineer and former lawmaker was banned in June from holding any public office for 15 years. The United States, which this week eased sanctions on Venezuela following the resumption of dialogue between the government and the opposition, is pushing to have her disqualification lifted. Machado is accused of corruption and of supporting international sanctions against Venezuela. She is a fervent opponent of Chavism, the brand of populist leftist ideology left behind by former president Hugo Chavez and championed by Maduro. Machado has said she wants to liberalise the economy, including the privatisation of public companies. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Liberal Machado well ahead in Venezuela opposition primary

Argentines head to the polls on Sunday (Oct 22) in a presidential election dominated by fury over decades of economic decline and record inflation that has propelled political outsider Javier Milei to the front of the race.

Once one of the richest countries in the world, Argentina has stagnated in recent decades, unable to escape cycles of fiscal crises marked by debt, financial mismanagement, and inflation which now stands at 140 percent year-on-year.

With 40 per cent of the population living in poverty and a middle-class brought to its knees, many voters are keen to see the back of the traditional parties they see as the architects of their misery.

"It's total uncertainty -- you never know if your rent will go up, (or) prices in the supermarket. It's madness," said university student Valentin Figarra, 20. "One wants to grow... but this generation is falling behind, it's sad."

Milei, a libertarian economist who formed his party Libertad Avanza (Freedom Advances) only in 2021, blindsided most experts and pollsters when he surged to the front of the election race, winning a primary with 30 percent of votes.

The self-described "anarcho-capitalist" with disheveled hair and a rock-star persona has lured voters with his diatribes on television and social media -- where he vows to "dynamite" the central bank and ditch the peso for the US dollar.

He has run his campaign on TikTok and YouTube and showed up at live rallies with an actual powered-up chainsaw vowing to slash public spending by 15 percent.

<h2>'Already broken'&nbsp;</h2>

Political science student Agustin Baletti, 22, said he will be voting for Milei because past governments have "left young people without hope."

"Everything is already broken. Milei isn't going to break anything."

While Milei has topped opinion polls, these have not proved reliable in the past, and analysts say anything can happen between the three frontrunners out of five total candidates.&nbsp;

Charismatic Economy Minister Sergio Massa represents the ruling center-left Peronist coalition, a populist movement heavy on state intervention and welfare programs that has dominated Argentine politics for decades but has grown deeply unpopular.

Having overseen the country's recent economic pains, he has been an easy punching bag for his rivals.

To woo voters, Massa has gone on a pre-election spending spree, slashing income tax for much of the population in a move analysts say will only make the country's fragile financial situation worse.

To counter Milei, his government has taken pains to explain to voters what a loss of key subsidies that keep public transport and electricity, among others, dirt cheap, will mean.

<h2>'Highly incompetent'&nbsp;</h2>

The other frontrunner is the stern and tough-talking Patricia Bullrich, a former security minister who has also vowed radical change from the overspending, money-printing Peronists and their strict currency controls.

Bullrich served in the government of former president Mauricio Macri (2015-2019), a pro-market, non-Peronist who failed in his promise to contain spending and took out a record $44 billion loan with the International Monetary Fund, which has bailed Argentina out 22 times despite several massive defaults.

Irene Landa, 70, a psychoanalyst said she believes Bullrich is the "most coherent" of the lot.

"Milei, to me, it would be like giving a revolver to a monkey," Landa said. "But I think people are so fed up, so tired, that they believe in what he says."

Voters are fed up with "politicians who have been highly corrupt, highly incompetent, who have never paid attention to something we learn in high school, that you shouldn't spend more than you earn," said Buenos Aires-based economist Andres Borenstein.

Argentina's 35,8 million registered voters will be able to cast their ballots from 8am local time (1100 GMT) to 6pm (2100 GMT).

Preliminary results are expected on Sunday evening.

To avoid a runoff election on November 19, a candidate needs to win 45 percent of the vote Sunday, or 40 percent with a difference of 10 points or more over the nearest rival.

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Argentines head to the polls on Sunday (Oct 22) in a presidential election dominated by fury over decades of economic decline and record inflation that has propelled political outsider Javier Milei to the front of the race.

Argentines head to the polls on Sunday (Oct 22) in a presidential election dominated by fury over decades of economic decline and record inflation that has propelled political outsider Javier Milei to the front of the race. Once one of the richest countries in the world, Argentina has stagnated in recent decades, unable to escape cycles of fiscal crises marked by debt, financial mismanagement, and inflation which now stands at 140 percent year-on-year. With 40 per cent of the population living in poverty and a middle-class brought to its knees, many voters are keen to see the back of the traditional parties they see as the architects of their misery. "It's total uncertainty -- you never know if your rent will go up, (or) prices in the supermarket. It's madness," said university student Valentin Figarra, 20. "One wants to grow... but this generation is falling behind, it's sad." Milei, a libertarian economist who formed his party Libertad Avanza (Freedom Advances) only in 2021, blindsided most experts and pollsters when he surged to the front of the election race, winning a primary with 30 percent of votes. The self-described "anarcho-capitalist" with disheveled hair and a rock-star persona has lured voters with his diatribes on television and social media -- where he vows to "dynamite" the central bank and ditch the peso for the US dollar. He has run his campaign on TikTok and YouTube and showed up at live rallies with an actual powered-up chainsaw vowing to slash public spending by 15 percent. 'Already broken' Political science student Agustin Baletti, 22, said he will be voting for Milei because past governments have "left young people without hope." "Everything is already broken. Milei isn't going to break anything." While Milei has topped opinion polls, these have not proved reliable in the past, and analysts say anything can happen between the three frontrunners out of five total candidates. Charismatic Economy Minister Sergio Massa represents the ruling center-left Peronist coalition, a populist movement heavy on state intervention and welfare programs that has dominated Argentine politics for decades but has grown deeply unpopular. Having overseen the country's recent economic pains, he has been an easy punching bag for his rivals. To woo voters, Massa has gone on a pre-election spending spree, slashing income tax for much of the population in a move analysts say will only make the country's fragile financial situation worse. To counter Milei, his government has taken pains to explain to voters what a loss of key subsidies that keep public transport and electricity, among others, dirt cheap, will mean. 'Highly incompetent' The other frontrunner is the stern and tough-talking Patricia Bullrich, a former security minister who has also vowed radical change from the overspending, money-printing Peronists and their strict currency controls. Bullrich served in the government of former president Mauricio Macri (2015-2019), a pro-market, non-Peronist who failed in his promise to contain spending and took out a record $44 billion loan with the International Monetary Fund, which has bailed Argentina out 22 times despite several massive defaults. Irene Landa, 70, a psychoanalyst said she believes Bullrich is the "most coherent" of the lot. "Milei, to me, it would be like giving a revolver to a monkey," Landa said. "But I think people are so fed up, so tired, that they believe in what he says." Voters are fed up with "politicians who have been highly corrupt, highly incompetent, who have never paid attention to something we learn in high school, that you shouldn't spend more than you earn," said Buenos Aires-based economist Andres Borenstein. Argentina's 35,8 million registered voters will be able to cast their ballots from 8am local time (1100 GMT) to 6pm (2100 GMT). Preliminary results are expected on Sunday evening. To avoid a runoff election on November 19, a candidate needs to win 45 percent of the vote Sunday, or 40 percent with a difference of 10 points or more over the nearest rival. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Argentines head to polls in search of economic recovery

Zimbabwe has extended voting in selected wards by a day after the late distribution of ballot papers delayed polling, according to a presidential decree issued late Wednesday.

Voters in the southern African country waited for hours to vote on Wednesday, saying they were hungry for change from economic chaos, but analysts were sceptical that the ruling ZANU-PF party would allow a credible election or any loosening of its stranglehold on power.

According to Zimbabwean law, voting is supposed to take place within one day.

The presidential notice listed 40 wards it said were affected by the delays. Although the named areas make up less than 1% of the country's 12,374 wards, they include 11 wards in the capital Harare, which has the highest number of registered voters.

According a notice from President Emmerson Mnangagwa announcing the extra day, the affected wards are in three of Zimbabwe’s 10 provinces - opposition stronghold Harare, Mashonaland Central, where the ruling party is traditionally dominant, and Manicaland, which is a key battleground.

Mnangagwa is seeking re-election after a first term during which runaway inflation, currency shortages and sky-high unemployment left many Zimbabweans reliant on dollar remittances from relatives abroad to make ends meet.

Mnangagwa, 80, took over when longtime strongman Robert Mugabe was toppled in a 2017 military coup. He faces 10 other candidates, including his main challenger, lawyer and pastor Nelson Chamisa, 45, of the Citizens Coalition for Change.

"I am expecting change. We are struggling and hungry," said Mabel Fambi, 67, who cares for five of her grandchildren because their parents cannot find jobs. She was waiting to cast her ballot in the Kuwadzana constituency in the capital Harare.

In Harare and the country's second biggest city Bulawayo, both opposition strongholds, a significant number of polling stations opened hours late, forcing voters to wait for most of the day.

"I see this delay as a deliberate attempt to disenfranchise me," said Fortune Sikireta, who had been waiting to vote since dawn at Maranatha Christian High School in the middle-income Harare suburb of Tynwald. By late afternoon he had yet to vote but was determined to see it through.

The electoral commission blamed the delays on late printing of ballot papers caused by court challenges, saying in a morning statement that only 23% of Harare's polling stations had opened on time.

Few or no delays were reported in other parts of the country.

Analysts said that, as in previous Zimbabwean elections, ZANU-PF, which has been in power for 43 years, had been using state institutions to ensure it would stay in power.

"The electoral playing field is heavily skewed in favour of the ruling party," said private firm Africa Risk Consulting.

<h2>LITTLE CHANGE SINCE MUGABE ERA</h2>

Zimbabwe's chances of resolving a debt crisis and obtaining World Bank and International Monetary Fund loans are at stake, as foreign lenders have said a free and fair election is a pre-condition for any meaningful talks.

"We want change. We want a younger president," said shoe mender Jonathan Darare, 47, who came out early to vote in Kuwadzana.

Polls had been scheduled to open at 7 a.m. (0500 GMT) and close at 7 p.m., with some 6.6 million people registered to vote in the nation of about 15 million. Parliamentary results are expected to trickle in on Thursday morning. The presidential result is expected later, though well ahead of a five-day deadline.

Chamisa was mobbed by supporters chanting his name as he arrived to vote in Kuwadzana. He predicted he would win but said the ruling party and the electoral commission would seek to deny him his victory.

"Funny games or no funny games, our victory is certain. We are going to continue to insist on a credible election and making sure we have a legitimate result out of this election," he said.

The government and the electoral commission have said the election would be free and fair.

Mnangagwa voted at Sherwood Primary School in the city of Kwekwe.

The Zimbabwe dollar has fallen by about 85% since the start of 2023 and inflation has reached triple digits, pushing people deeper into poverty in a nation where only 30% hold formal jobs.

"Five years into Mnangagwa's rule, conditions have not changed much from the Mugabe era," said Africa Risk Consulting.

The Economist Intelligence Unit predicted Mnangagwa and ZANU-PF would win by a narrower margin and not by fair means, raising the risk of disputes over the results and public protests.

To win the presidency, a candidate must get more than 50% of the vote. If there is no outright winner, a run-off between the top two candidates will be held on Oct. 2.

Parliamentary and local council candidates only need a simple majority of votes cast.

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Zimbabwe has extended voting in selected wards by a day after the late distribution of ballot papers delayed polling, according to a presidential decree issued late Wednesday.

Zimbabwe has extended voting in selected wards by a day after the late distribution of ballot papers delayed polling, according to a presidential decree issued late Wednesday. Voters in the southern African country waited for hours to vote on Wednesday, saying they were hungry for change from economic chaos, but analysts were sceptical that the ruling ZANU-PF party would allow a credible election or any loosening of its stranglehold on power. According to Zimbabwean law, voting is supposed to take place within one day. The presidential notice listed 40 wards it said were affected by the delays. Although the named areas make up less than 1% of the country's 12,374 wards, they include 11 wards in the capital Harare, which has the highest number of registered voters. According a notice from President Emmerson Mnangagwa announcing the extra day, the affected wards are in three of Zimbabwe’s 10 provinces - opposition stronghold Harare, Mashonaland Central, where the ruling party is traditionally dominant, and Manicaland, which is a key battleground. Mnangagwa is seeking re-election after a first term during which runaway inflation, currency shortages and sky-high unemployment left many Zimbabweans reliant on dollar remittances from relatives abroad to make ends meet. Mnangagwa, 80, took over when longtime strongman Robert Mugabe was toppled in a 2017 military coup. He faces 10 other candidates, including his main challenger, lawyer and pastor Nelson Chamisa, 45, of the Citizens Coalition for Change. "I am expecting change. We are struggling and hungry," said Mabel Fambi, 67, who cares for five of her grandchildren because their parents cannot find jobs. She was waiting to cast her ballot in the Kuwadzana constituency in the capital Harare. In Harare and the country's second biggest city Bulawayo, both opposition strongholds, a significant number of polling stations opened hours late, forcing voters to wait for most of the day. "I see this delay as a deliberate attempt to disenfranchise me," said Fortune Sikireta, who had been waiting to vote since dawn at Maranatha Christian High School in the middle-income Harare suburb of Tynwald. By late afternoon he had yet to vote but was determined to see it through. The electoral commission blamed the delays on late printing of ballot papers caused by court challenges, saying in a morning statement that only 23% of Harare's polling stations had opened on time. Few or no delays were reported in other parts of the country. Analysts said that, as in previous Zimbabwean elections, ZANU-PF, which has been in power for 43 years, had been using state institutions to ensure it would stay in power. "The electoral playing field is heavily skewed in favour of the ruling party," said private firm Africa Risk Consulting. LITTLE CHANGE SINCE MUGABE ERA Zimbabwe's chances of resolving a debt crisis and obtaining World Bank and International Monetary Fund loans are at stake, as foreign lenders have said a free and fair election is a pre-condition for any meaningful talks. "We want change. We want a younger president," said shoe mender Jonathan Darare, 47, who came out early to vote in Kuwadzana. Polls had been scheduled to open at 7 a.m. (0500 GMT) and close at 7 p.m., with some 6.6 million people registered to vote in the nation of about 15 million. Parliamentary results are expected to trickle in on Thursday morning. The presidential result is expected later, though well ahead of a five-day deadline. Chamisa was mobbed by supporters chanting his name as he arrived to vote in Kuwadzana. He predicted he would win but said the ruling party and the electoral commission would seek to deny him his victory. "Funny games or no funny games, our victory is certain. We are going to continue to insist on a credible election and making sure we have a legitimate result out of this election," he said. The government and the electoral commission have said the election would be free and fair. Mnangagwa voted at Sherwood Primary School in the city of Kwekwe. The Zimbabwe dollar has fallen by about 85% since the start of 2023 and inflation has reached triple digits, pushing people deeper into poverty in a nation where only 30% hold formal jobs. "Five years into Mnangagwa's rule, conditions have not changed much from the Mugabe era," said Africa Risk Consulting. The Economist Intelligence Unit predicted Mnangagwa and ZANU-PF would win by a narrower margin and not by fair means, raising the risk of disputes over the results and public protests. To win the presidency, a candidate must get more than 50% of the vote. If there is no outright winner, a run-off between the top two candidates will be held on Oct. 2. Parliamentary and local council candidates only need a simple majority of votes cast. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Zimbabwe sets extra day of voting in selected wards after delays

The Central African Republic began voting on Sunday in a referendum on a new constitution that would allow President Faustin-Archange Touadera to seek a third term in a country which has endured several coups.

In 2020 Touadera won a second term through to 2025, after a vote interrupted by several incursions by armed rebel groups, while he also had to overcome allegations of fraud.

His rivals now charge that he wants to remain "president for life" -- under the increasingly visible protection of the private Russian mercenary group Wagner, which first deployed to the CAR in 2018.

The country of 5.5 million people is one of the world's poorest. Voting was scheduled to begin at 6:00 am (0500 GMT) but polling stations opened around one hour late.&nbsp; The polls are due to close at 4:00 pm, with some 1.9 million people called on to cast their ballots.

Provisional results are not expected for eight days, while the constitutional court is scheduled to publish the definitive outcome on August 27, according to the national electoral authority.&nbsp;

<h2>Boycott&nbsp;</h2>

The proposed new constitution would extend the presidential mandate from five to seven years and abolish the two-term limit.

Opinion polls suggest the "yes" camp is likely to triumph.

"We know that the 'yes' camp is going to win - but we shall put the emphasis on participation," national assembly vice-president and presidential majority spokesman Evariste Ngamana told AFP.

The main opposition parties, civil groups and armed rebels have all called on voters to boycott the exercise.

The opposition has notably complained about the lack of an up-to-date electoral register and says institutions tasked with guaranteeing a free and fair vote are not independent.

In the capital Bangui, between 2,000 and 3,000 "yes" supporters turned out Friday for a final meeting to drum up further backing for the proposal.

But observers said the vote might not inspire much interest among the general populace.

"The majority of the CAR population, who are struggling to survive in a difficult economic and security context, doubtless have other priorities aside from this referendum which mobilises few beyond those close to those in power," said Charles Bouessel, analyst with the International Crisis Group.&nbsp;

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The Central African Republic began voting on Sunday in a referendum on a new constitution that would allow President Faustin-Archange Touadera to seek a third term in a country which has endured several coups.

The Central African Republic began voting on Sunday in a referendum on a new constitution that would allow President Faustin-Archange Touadera to seek a third term in a country which has endured several coups. In 2020 Touadera won a second term through to 2025, after a vote interrupted by several incursions by armed rebel groups, while he also had to overcome allegations of fraud. His rivals now charge that he wants to remain "president for life" -- under the increasingly visible protection of the private Russian mercenary group Wagner, which first deployed to the CAR in 2018. The country of 5.5 million people is one of the world's poorest. Voting was scheduled to begin at 6:00 am (0500 GMT) but polling stations opened around one hour late. The polls are due to close at 4:00 pm, with some 1.9 million people called on to cast their ballots. Provisional results are not expected for eight days, while the constitutional court is scheduled to publish the definitive outcome on August 27, according to the national electoral authority. Boycott The proposed new constitution would extend the presidential mandate from five to seven years and abolish the two-term limit. Opinion polls suggest the "yes" camp is likely to triumph. "We know that the 'yes' camp is going to win - but we shall put the emphasis on participation," national assembly vice-president and presidential majority spokesman Evariste Ngamana told AFP. The main opposition parties, civil groups and armed rebels have all called on voters to boycott the exercise. The opposition has notably complained about the lack of an up-to-date electoral register and says institutions tasked with guaranteeing a free and fair vote are not independent. In the capital Bangui, between 2,000 and 3,000 "yes" supporters turned out Friday for a final meeting to drum up further backing for the proposal. But observers said the vote might not inspire much interest among the general populace. "The majority of the CAR population, who are struggling to survive in a difficult economic and security context, doubtless have other priorities aside from this referendum which mobilises few beyond those close to those in power," said Charles Bouessel, analyst with the International Crisis Group. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Central African Republic votes in referendum on new constitution

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been reported to be in a good state of health after undergoing an overnight&nbsp;pacemaker implantation surgery, said the Sheba Medical Centre on&nbsp;Sunday (July 23). "He will remain under medical supervision in the cardiology department," the hospital,&nbsp;in a statement, said.&nbsp;

Netanyahu had earlier announced that he will be undergoing surgery for the implant of a pacemaker,&nbsp;hours before lawmakers are scheduled to debate over the controversial judicial reform bill which has been strongly protested by tens of thousands of protesters. 
 
The judicial revamp which has been proposed by the hard-right government of Netanyahu has left the nation divided and ignited one of the biggest protest movements in the history of Israel, which started in January.

<h2>Netanyahu to get discharged in time for a crucial vote on judicial reforms</h2>

Netanyahu announced his surgery and said that he will be discharged in time by the hospital for a key vote on the judicial reforms. 
 
“A week ago I was fitted with a monitoring device. That device beeped this evening and said I must receive a pacemaker and that I must do this already tonight,” said Netanyahu, in a video statement which was released late on Saturday (July 22) by his office. “I feel great, but I need to listen to my doctors,” he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-tel-aviv-to-jerusalem-thousands-of-israelis-march-against-judicial-overhaul-ahead-of-vote-618476">From Tel Aviv to Jerusalem: Thousands of Israelis march against judicial overhaul ahead of vote</a>

In the video, 73-year-old Netanyahu was seen standing and smiling. He stated that the doctors have assured him that the hospital would discharge him “tomorrow afternoon”. 
 
"The doctors tell me that I will be free and I will be released from the hospital tomorrow afternoon and will be able to go to the Knesset to vote," the prime minister stated. Netanyahu’s office said that he will be placed by Justice Minister Yariv Levin during the procedure.

<h2>Netanyahu's underlying health issues</h2>

The prime minister was hospitalised a week ago after he complained of dizziness and was discharged after one night from the same medical centre.

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel: Police use water cannons to disperse protesters flocking the streets

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The latest health scare for Netanyahu comes at a time when debate over reforms bill is due in the parliament, which will be followed by voting on Monday (July 24). The final voting will take place on the key "reasonability" clause through which government decisions can be struck down by the judges. 
 
The government of Netanyahu plans to curb the powers of the Supreme Court granted under this clause, adding that the changes are important for ensuring a better balance of power.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been reported to be in a good state of health after undergoing an overnight pacemaker implantation surgery, said the Sheba Medical Centre on Sunday (July 23).

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been reported to be in a good state of health after undergoing an overnight pacemaker implantation surgery, said the Sheba Medical Centre on Sunday (July 23). "He will remain under medical supervision in the cardiology department," the hospital, in a statement, said. Netanyahu had earlier announced that he will be undergoing surgery for the implant of a pacemaker, hours before lawmakers are scheduled to debate over the controversial judicial reform bill which has been strongly protested by tens of thousands of protesters. The judicial revamp which has been proposed by the hard-right government of Netanyahu has left the nation divided and ignited one of the biggest protest movements in the history of Israel, which started in January. Netanyahu to get discharged in time for a crucial vote on judicial reforms Netanyahu announced his surgery and said that he will be discharged in time by the hospital for a key vote on the judicial reforms. “A week ago I was fitted with a monitoring device. That device beeped this evening and said I must receive a pacemaker and that I must do this already tonight,” said Netanyahu, in a video statement which was released late on Saturday (July 22) by his office. “I feel great, but I need to listen to my doctors,” he added. ALSO READ | From Tel Aviv to Jerusalem: Thousands of Israelis march against judicial overhaul ahead of vote In the video, 73-year-old Netanyahu was seen standing and smiling. He stated that the doctors have assured him that the hospital would discharge him “tomorrow afternoon”. "The doctors tell me that I will be free and I will be released from the hospital tomorrow afternoon and will be able to go to the Knesset to vote," the prime minister stated. Netanyahu’s office said that he will be placed by Justice Minister Yariv Levin during the procedure. Netanyahu's underlying health issues The prime minister was hospitalised a week ago after he complained of dizziness and was discharged after one night from the same medical centre. WATCH | Israel: Police use water cannons to disperse protesters flocking the streets The latest health scare for Netanyahu comes at a time when debate over reforms bill is due in the parliament, which will be followed by voting on Monday (July 24). The final voting will take place on the key "reasonability" clause through which government decisions can be struck down by the judges. The government of Netanyahu plans to curb the powers of the Supreme Court granted under this clause, adding that the changes are important for ensuring a better balance of power. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Netanyahu undergoes pacemaker surgery ahead of crucial voting on judicial reforms

Voters in Greece head to a repeat election on Sunday (June 25) where former prime minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is seeking a second term to form the government. Polling stations would open at 7 am (0400 GMT) across Greece and close 12 hours later, according to a report by the news agency Reuters.

Voters in Greece head to a repeat election on Sunday (June 25) where former prime minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is seeking a second term to form the government. Polling stations would open at 7 am (0400 GMT) across Greece and close 12 hours later, according to a report by the news agency Reuters. The results are expected by 1700 GMT. Mitsotakis is projected to win comfortably, but his rival Alexis Tsipras is hoping to deprive him of an absolute majority. Mitsotakis' New Democratic party won the election on May 21, twenty points clear of Tsipras' Syriza party. However, it fell short of the majority needed to rule without forming a coalition. As election rules this time would accord up to 50 bonus seats to the winner of the vote, the New Democracy party is widely projected to emerge victorious. A report by the news agency AFP said that Mitsotakis urged supporters to turn up at the election and warned of a possibility of a third election if he failed to get a majority. "I hope we don't have to meet again in early August," he told a TV channel, adding, "All the gains we have made must be consolidated and continued." Mitsotakis, who had been serving as Greece's PM since 2019, stepped down in favour of a caretaker premier after the inconclusive vote last month, as required by the constitution. What do the opinion polls say? Opinion polls in the run-up to the election suggest that Mitsotakis would win with 40-45 per cent. If accurate, that would give him up to 50 bonus seats for the winner, facilitating the formation of a single-party government. Give Greece a stable govt: Mitsotakis On Friday, Kyriakos Mitsotakis urged voters to give Greece a stable government. “In uncertain times the country needs certain handling, it needs a government which will not be dependent on fragile majorities, which will not be dependent on lobbies, which will not be dependent on the balance of powers,” the former PM said during his final campaign rally in Athens. Mitsotakis also said he would increase the minimum wage and pensions, provide tax breaks, and improve the country’s health and education systems. Migrant shipwreck sidelines other issues in run-up to poll Sunday's election is happening in the shadow of the June 14 migrant shipwreck which killed at least 82 people, with hundreds more feared missing and unlikely to be found. Reuters reported that the disaster sidelined other issues in the run-up to the election, including a cost of living crisis, and a deadly rail crash in February. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Greece votes in repeat poll with former PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis seeking second term

The study by the Election Commission of UK says that atleast 14,000 people did not get access to the voting rights in recent local elections because they lacked right ID.

About 14,000 people in UK denied vote due to ID rule

Voting for the Thailand elections has begun Sunday (May 14) and will determine the fate of the current government led by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, which has faced criticism for its handling of political dissent and human rights issues.&nbsp;

Election officials anticipated a strong turnout when polls opened at 8 am Bangkok time (9 pm ET Saturday). In Thailand's bicameral system, 500 members of the House of Representatives will be chosen by the country's 52 million eligible voters in this year's election. Each voter casts two ballots: one for a local constituency representative and the other for their choice of party-list MPs, who represent the national party.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-hambantota-port-with-china-cant-be-used-for-war-sri-lankas-minister-nimal-siripala-de-silva-592152">Exclusive: Hambantota port with China can't be used for war, Sri Lanka's minister Nimal Siripala de Silva</a>

Due to the junta-era constitution's major influence over who can ultimately form a government, opposition parties must win by a sizeable margin.

<h2>Potential key players&nbsp;</h2>

The opposition Pheu Thai party, which has three candidates running for prime minister and is calling for raising the minimum wage, providing welfare cash handouts and keeping the military out of politics, is currently leading surveys.

It is a divisive political dynasty led by former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra of the rich Shinawatra family. Paetongtarn, the 36-year-old youngest daughter of Thaksin, is running for prime minister. Srettha Thavisin, a 59-year-old real estate magnate who wants to concentrate on addressing economic disparity, supporting LGBTQ+ rights including same-sex marriage while bolstering the sluggish economy, is also a contender for Pheu Thai.

However, Move Forward, a party that is extremely well-liked among young Thais for its radical reform agenda, is another opposing force at work. Pita Limcharoenrat, 42, a Harvard alumnus with a background in business, is&nbsp; leading the party.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-scorching-may-heat-to-affect-tens-of-millions-592150">India's scorching temperatures to turn the heat for tens of millions</a>

Thailand is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government. The country's elections are held every four years, with the last general election taking place in 2019.

The 2019 general election was the first held since the coup in 2014, which saw the military junta take control of the government. The election was seen as an opportunity for the country to return to civilian rule, but the results were controversial.

The pro-military Palang Pracharat Party won most seats in parliament after gathering enough support from coalition parties to form a government. But the opposition claimed that the election was rigged in favour of the military-backed party. There were also allegations of irregularities and voter intimidation.

Despite the controversy, the new government was formed with Prayut Chan-o-cha, the former military general who led the 2014 coup, as the prime minister. His government has faced criticism for its handling of political dissent and human rights issues, with several opposition leaders facing legal charges.

This time with the United Thai Nation, a new political party, Prayut is vying to reclaim the top post. It has been nine years that he has been in power.&nbsp;

<h2>Thailand 2020 protests&nbsp;</h2>

In 2020, Thailand saw a wave of pro-democracy protests that began in July and continued throughout the year. The protests were led by young people and student activists who were calling for political reforms and greater democracy.

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The main demands of the protesters included the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, who came to power in a 2014 military coup and was appointed as prime minister after the 2019 election, as well as a new constitution, an end to the harassment of activists and journalists, and reforms to the monarchy.

The protests gained momentum and drew large crowds, particularly in Bangkok and other major cities. They were peaceful at first, but tensions escalated as the government cracked down on the demonstrators, using water cannons, tear gas, and arrests to disperse them.

The protests were also met with counter-protests by pro-monarchy groups, which led to clashes and violence in some cases. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Voting for the Thailand elections has begun Sunday (May 14) and will determine the fate of the current government led by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, which has faced criticism for its handling of political dissent and human rights issues.

Voting for the Thailand elections has begun Sunday (May 14) and will determine the fate of the current government led by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, which has faced criticism for its handling of political dissent and human rights issues. Election officials anticipated a strong turnout when polls opened at 8 am Bangkok time (9 pm ET Saturday). In Thailand's bicameral system, 500 members of the House of Representatives will be chosen by the country's 52 million eligible voters in this year's election. Each voter casts two ballots: one for a local constituency representative and the other for their choice of party-list MPs, who represent the national party. Also Read | Exclusive: Hambantota port with China can't be used for war, Sri Lanka's minister Nimal Siripala de Silva Due to the junta-era constitution's major influence over who can ultimately form a government, opposition parties must win by a sizeable margin. Potential key players The opposition Pheu Thai party, which has three candidates running for prime minister and is calling for raising the minimum wage, providing welfare cash handouts and keeping the military out of politics, is currently leading surveys. It is a divisive political dynasty led by former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra of the rich Shinawatra family. Paetongtarn, the 36-year-old youngest daughter of Thaksin, is running for prime minister. Srettha Thavisin, a 59-year-old real estate magnate who wants to concentrate on addressing economic disparity, supporting LGBTQ+ rights including same-sex marriage while bolstering the sluggish economy, is also a contender for Pheu Thai. However, Move Forward, a party that is extremely well-liked among young Thais for its radical reform agenda, is another opposing force at work. Pita Limcharoenrat, 42, a Harvard alumnus with a background in business, is leading the party. Also Read | India's scorching temperatures to turn the heat for tens of millions Thailand is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government. The country's elections are held every four years, with the last general election taking place in 2019. The 2019 general election was the first held since the coup in 2014, which saw the military junta take control of the government. The election was seen as an opportunity for the country to return to civilian rule, but the results were controversial. The pro-military Palang Pracharat Party won most seats in parliament after gathering enough support from coalition parties to form a government. But the opposition claimed that the election was rigged in favour of the military-backed party. There were also allegations of irregularities and voter intimidation. Despite the controversy, the new government was formed with Prayut Chan-o-cha, the former military general who led the 2014 coup, as the prime minister. His government has faced criticism for its handling of political dissent and human rights issues, with several opposition leaders facing legal charges. This time with the United Thai Nation, a new political party, Prayut is vying to reclaim the top post. It has been nine years that he has been in power. Thailand 2020 protests In 2020, Thailand saw a wave of pro-democracy protests that began in July and continued throughout the year. The protests were led by young people and student activists who were calling for political reforms and greater democracy. Watch | Mother's Day Special: Sarah Todd shares easy cooking tips for busy parents × The main demands of the protesters included the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, who came to power in a 2014 military coup and was appointed as prime minister after the 2019 election, as well as a new constitution, an end to the harassment of activists and journalists, and reforms to the monarchy. The protests gained momentum and drew large crowds, particularly in Bangkok and other major cities. They were peaceful at first, but tensions escalated as the government cracked down on the demonstrators, using water cannons, tear gas, and arrests to disperse them. The protests were also met with counter-protests by pro-monarchy groups, which led to clashes and violence in some cases. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Thailand voting begins. Will conservative military-backed PM maintain power?

Over 300,000 advance voting ballots are at risk of being problematic and not included in the vote count on Sunday, said Thailand Post, the state enterprise providing postal services in the country adding the envelopes containing these ballots are "unreadable" due to poor handwriting.&nbsp;

The issue of the unreadable ballots was brought to light at first by a journalist at the Thai PBS station, Phatthraporn Tan-ngam. Tan-ngam shared a video clip of her interview with the deputy managing director of Thailand Post Pongsatorn Wisetsuwan.&nbsp;

Acknowledging that the handwriting on some 300,000 envelopes containing cast ballots from advance voting is "unreadable", Pongsatorn during the interview said the issue must be investigated by the country's election body so that it can be ascertained whether the ballots can be included in the vote count or not.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-jaishankar-flags-need-for-adherence-respect-for-constitution-of-the-oceans-unclos-591885">EXCLUSIVE: Jaishankar flags need for adherence, respect for 'constitution of the oceans' UNCLOS</a>

"These envelopes may be incomplete ... missing the province, district or election code. Sorting officials aren't sure where to send them. It doesn't necessarily mean they aren't readable," Pongsatorn said.

<h2>What is unreadable on the envelopes?&nbsp;</h2>

The envelopes consist of details of provinces, districts and constituencies. Along with it, it also comprises of five-digit election codes used for sorting and delivery of the ballots.

<h2>Who writes the details on the envelopes?</h2>

The details are written by the election officials at the voting stations during the early voting. The unreadability of the details on the envelopes is attributed to human error by committee members, as per Thailand Post.&nbsp;However, it is pertinent to note that this has nothing to do with Thailand Post as this process comes under the ambit of the Election Commission of Thailand (ECT).

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/portuguese-parliament-legalises-euthanasia-for-people-over-18-591849">Portuguese parliament legalises euthanasia for people over 18</a>

After the sorting process is done, the ballots are sent to about 400 districts. But the illegible handwriting made the sorting process challenging. Thailand Post had 1,000 of its staff members working round the clock to accelerate the sorting process.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Picharn Chaopattanawong, deputy leader of the Move Forward Party, on Friday condemned the Election Commission for not clarifying on the issue of these problematic&nbsp;votes.&nbsp;He urged the election body to take action to resolve the issue.&nbsp;

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"The EC always says the problems can be fixed, but it should ask Thailand Post if they can sort these envelopes. The EC must address this issue now," he said.

Picharn pointed out that EC must take accountability of the issue if the votes are not counted for. A total of 2,235,830 voters were registered to cast advance votes.&nbsp;

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Over 300,000 advance voting ballots are at risk of being problematic and not included in the vote count on Sunday, said Thailand Post, the state enterprise providing postal services in the country adding the envelopes containing these ballots are "unreadable" due to poor handwriting.

Over 300,000 advance voting ballots are at risk of being problematic and not included in the vote count on Sunday, said Thailand Post, the state enterprise providing postal services in the country adding the envelopes containing these ballots are "unreadable" due to poor handwriting. The issue of the unreadable ballots was brought to light at first by a journalist at the Thai PBS station, Phatthraporn Tan-ngam. Tan-ngam shared a video clip of her interview with the deputy managing director of Thailand Post Pongsatorn Wisetsuwan. Acknowledging that the handwriting on some 300,000 envelopes containing cast ballots from advance voting is "unreadable", Pongsatorn during the interview said the issue must be investigated by the country's election body so that it can be ascertained whether the ballots can be included in the vote count or not. Also Read | EXCLUSIVE: Jaishankar flags need for adherence, respect for 'constitution of the oceans' UNCLOS "These envelopes may be incomplete ... missing the province, district or election code. Sorting officials aren't sure where to send them. It doesn't necessarily mean they aren't readable," Pongsatorn said. What is unreadable on the envelopes? The envelopes consist of details of provinces, districts and constituencies. Along with it, it also comprises of five-digit election codes used for sorting and delivery of the ballots. Who writes the details on the envelopes? The details are written by the election officials at the voting stations during the early voting. The unreadability of the details on the envelopes is attributed to human error by committee members, as per Thailand Post. However, it is pertinent to note that this has nothing to do with Thailand Post as this process comes under the ambit of the Election Commission of Thailand (ECT). Also Read | Portuguese parliament legalises euthanasia for people over 18 After the sorting process is done, the ballots are sent to about 400 districts. But the illegible handwriting made the sorting process challenging. Thailand Post had 1,000 of its staff members working round the clock to accelerate the sorting process. Meanwhile, Picharn Chaopattanawong, deputy leader of the Move Forward Party, on Friday condemned the Election Commission for not clarifying on the issue of these problematic votes. He urged the election body to take action to resolve the issue. Watch | Exclusive: Talking Tennis with Stefanos Tsitsipas | Sports News × "The EC always says the problems can be fixed, but it should ask Thailand Post if they can sort these envelopes. The EC must address this issue now," he said. Picharn pointed out that EC must take accountability of the issue if the votes are not counted for. A total of 2,235,830 voters were registered to cast advance votes. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Thai election: Over 300,000 advance ballots at risk of not being counted, 'unreadable' due to handwriting

Two men employed by the legal team of former US president Donald Trump discussed via text message whether to use a compromised voting machine in a remote Georgia county in 2021 to decertify the state's upcoming Senate runoff results.

Two persons entered an election office in Coffee County, Georgia on January 7, 2021, the day after rioters seized the US Capitol. Coffee County is a rural area of the state that largely supported Trump in the presidential election of 2020. They transferred sensitive voting data onto a portable hard disc with the aid of a local election official.

The texts, which were sent two weeks after operatives broke into a voting machine in Coffee County, Georgia, reveal for the first time that Trump supporters thought about using voting data in an effort to maintain a Republican majority in the US Senate as well as to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election.

The two men are former NSA official Jim Penrose and CEO of Cyber Ninjas&nbsp;Doug Logan.&nbsp;

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While Penrose was working with Trump lawyer Sidney Powell to access voting machines in Georgia, Logan's firm purports to run audits of voting systems. Penrose in a text on 19 January wrote to Logan,&nbsp;“Here’s the plan. Let’s keep this close hold."&nbsp;

In the text, Penrose references to the upcoming certification of Democrat Jon Ossoff’s win over Republican David Perdue. “We only have until Saturday to decide if we are going to use this report to try to decertify the Senate run-off election or if we hold it for a bigger moment,” Penrose wrote.

The attempt to hack voting machines in Coffee County, which was coordinated by Rudy Giuliani and Sidney Powell of Trump's legal team, is part of a larger criminal investigation into intervention in the 2020 election being conducted by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis.

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Sources told CNN that Willis' office is considering whether to file charges in a potential racketeering case involving several defendants. The two persons who committed the Coffee County breach and were in contact with Penrose and Logan are among the people Willis has subpoenaed.

As part of her investigation, Willis has also subpoenaed Giuliani and Powell. According to the jury foreperson, the special grand jury assembled for the case recommended issuing several indictments in its final report, which was finished in February.

Penrose and Powell also agreed to pay a cyber forensics company before it deployed a team to Coffee County on 7 January, 2021, according to emails acquired by CNN.

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The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is also looking into the Coffee County breach.

As part of his federal investigation into attempts to rig the 2020 election and the attack on the US Capitol on January 6, Special Counsel Jack Smith also appears to be looking into the larger effort to hack or seize polling equipment. It is unknown if he is in possession of any evidence pertaining to the Coffee County breach.

According to access records examined by CNN and evidence made public on January 6 by the committee, the breached data was subsequently uploaded to an encrypted server and shared with a number of Trump supporters.&nbsp;

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Two men employed by the legal team of former US president Donald Trump discussed via text message whether to use a compromised voting machine in a remote Georgia county in 2021 to decertify the state's upcoming Senate runoff results.

Two men employed by the legal team of former US president Donald Trump discussed via text message whether to use a compromised voting machine in a remote Georgia county in 2021 to decertify the state's upcoming Senate runoff results. Two persons entered an election office in Coffee County, Georgia on January 7, 2021, the day after rioters seized the US Capitol. Coffee County is a rural area of the state that largely supported Trump in the presidential election of 2020. They transferred sensitive voting data onto a portable hard disc with the aid of a local election official. The texts, which were sent two weeks after operatives broke into a voting machine in Coffee County, Georgia, reveal for the first time that Trump supporters thought about using voting data in an effort to maintain a Republican majority in the US Senate as well as to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. The two men are former NSA official Jim Penrose and CEO of Cyber Ninjas Doug Logan. Also Read | Jack Dorsey's Twitter alternative Bluesky makes debut on Android While Penrose was working with Trump lawyer Sidney Powell to access voting machines in Georgia, Logan's firm purports to run audits of voting systems. Penrose in a text on 19 January wrote to Logan, “Here’s the plan. Let’s keep this close hold." In the text, Penrose references to the upcoming certification of Democrat Jon Ossoff’s win over Republican David Perdue. “We only have until Saturday to decide if we are going to use this report to try to decertify the Senate run-off election or if we hold it for a bigger moment,” Penrose wrote. The attempt to hack voting machines in Coffee County, which was coordinated by Rudy Giuliani and Sidney Powell of Trump's legal team, is part of a larger criminal investigation into intervention in the 2020 election being conducted by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis. Also Read | Tesla secures big win in crash case, court says autopilot feature did not fail Sources told CNN that Willis' office is considering whether to file charges in a potential racketeering case involving several defendants. The two persons who committed the Coffee County breach and were in contact with Penrose and Logan are among the people Willis has subpoenaed. As part of her investigation, Willis has also subpoenaed Giuliani and Powell. According to the jury foreperson, the special grand jury assembled for the case recommended issuing several indictments in its final report, which was finished in February. Penrose and Powell also agreed to pay a cyber forensics company before it deployed a team to Coffee County on 7 January, 2021, according to emails acquired by CNN. Watch | Oliver Dowden named UK deputy pm after Dominic Raab's resignation × The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is also looking into the Coffee County breach. As part of his federal investigation into attempts to rig the 2020 election and the attack on the US Capitol on January 6, Special Counsel Jack Smith also appears to be looking into the larger effort to hack or seize polling equipment. It is unknown if he is in possession of any evidence pertaining to the Coffee County breach. According to access records examined by CNN and evidence made public on January 6 by the committee, the breached data was subsequently uploaded to an encrypted server and shared with a number of Trump supporters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Trump’s team considered overturning Georgia Senate race using breached voting data

The citizens of Paris overwhelmingly voted on Sunday to ban for-hire electric scooters from the French capital's streets, in a huge blow to the operators. The voting ended with a victory for campaigners for road safety.&nbsp;

The referendum will now turn Paris, which was once a pioneer in embracing services of e-scooter, will now become the only major capital of Europe to outlaw the widespread devices which are booked on applications like Lime.&nbsp;

The residents of the city were asked to vote for or against them in a public consultation which was organised by mayor Anne Hidalgo in which around 90 per cent of the votes were cast against the scooters, showed official results.&nbsp;

"We're happy. It's what we've been fighting for over four years," stated Arnaud Kielbasa, the Apacauvi charity's co-founder, which is representing the victims of e-scooter accidents.

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"All Parisians say they are nervous on the pavements, nervous when they cross the roads. You need to look everywhere," Kielbasa, whose infant daughter and wife were hit by an e-scooter driver, said. "That's why they've voted against them," he added.&nbsp;

Operators have alleged that they are being singled out unfairly and being held solely responsible for the chaotic nature of streets in Paris, where mayor Hidalgo has championed bikes and different forms of non-emitting transport since he came to power in 2014.&nbsp;

Last week, while speaking to AFP, Hidalgo said that “self-service scooters are the source of tension and worry” for Parisians and that a ban would “reduce nuisance” in public spaces.

WATCH | Paris to vote on banning electric scooters as 'they are involved in accidents' | WION Fineprint

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In 2018, the mayor's administration welcomed e-scooter operators with open arms, but since then, it has tightened regulations progressively, creating designated parking zones, restricting the number of operators and limiting the top speed.

However, the measures adopted have not been able to convince residents who have been complaining about drunken and reckless driving, as well as, clutter on pavements.&nbsp;

A number of fatal accidents also highlighted the dangers of electric scooters which are currently being hired by children who are 12 years old or above.

"I'm committed to respecting the choice of voters, purely and simply," &nbsp;said Hidalgo as she voted on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The citizens of Paris overwhelmingly voted on Sunday to ban for-hire electric scooters from the French capital's streets, in a huge blow to the operators. The voting ended with a victory for campaigners for road safety.

The citizens of Paris overwhelmingly voted on Sunday to ban for-hire electric scooters from the French capital's streets, in a huge blow to the operators. The voting ended with a victory for campaigners for road safety. The referendum will now turn Paris, which was once a pioneer in embracing services of e-scooter, will now become the only major capital of Europe to outlaw the widespread devices which are booked on applications like Lime. The residents of the city were asked to vote for or against them in a public consultation which was organised by mayor Anne Hidalgo in which around 90 per cent of the votes were cast against the scooters, showed official results. "We're happy. It's what we've been fighting for over four years," stated Arnaud Kielbasa, the Apacauvi charity's co-founder, which is representing the victims of e-scooter accidents. ALSO READ | Garbage strike raises stink: Paris trash collectors to suspend work boycott this week "All Parisians say they are nervous on the pavements, nervous when they cross the roads. You need to look everywhere," Kielbasa, whose infant daughter and wife were hit by an e-scooter driver, said. "That's why they've voted against them," he added. Operators have alleged that they are being singled out unfairly and being held solely responsible for the chaotic nature of streets in Paris, where mayor Hidalgo has championed bikes and different forms of non-emitting transport since he came to power in 2014. Last week, while speaking to AFP, Hidalgo said that “self-service scooters are the source of tension and worry” for Parisians and that a ban would “reduce nuisance” in public spaces. WATCH | Paris to vote on banning electric scooters as 'they are involved in accidents' | WION Fineprint In 2018, the mayor's administration welcomed e-scooter operators with open arms, but since then, it has tightened regulations progressively, creating designated parking zones, restricting the number of operators and limiting the top speed. However, the measures adopted have not been able to convince residents who have been complaining about drunken and reckless driving, as well as, clutter on pavements. A number of fatal accidents also highlighted the dangers of electric scooters which are currently being hired by children who are 12 years old or above. "I'm committed to respecting the choice of voters, purely and simply," said Hidalgo as she voted on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Parisians massively vote to ban for-hire electric scooters

The vote counting in Nigeria's presidential polls is underway&nbsp;after people cast their votes in huge numbers. However, provisional results have started to trickle in. As per reports, Nigerian presidential candidate Peter Obi received the maximum number of votes in the key state of Lagos, Africa’s biggest city. Nearly 90 million people were eligible to cast their votes for appointing the successor of President Muhammadu Buhari.&nbsp;

Labour Party's Obi got 582,454 votes while All Progressives Congress (APC) party's Bola Tinubu received 572,606 votes, as per electoral commission data on Monday. Lagos was earlier a bastion for Tinubu as he was a former governor of the city.&nbsp;

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The first results from Ekiti state showed a majority of votes for president cast in favour of Tinubu. Nigeria is marred by an economic crisis and the elections are a hope for the people to choose Buhari's successor, who can effectively take back the country on track.&nbsp;

Two parties, the ruling All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party, have run Africa’s most populous nation for a quarter of a century. Obi left Nigeria's main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) days ahead of the presidential primary in May.&nbsp;Following this, the PDP chose 75-year-old former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar as its presidential candidate.&nbsp;

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Votes are being counted by hand at local polling stations in Nigeria. Results are uploaded online to Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) central database IReV, in a bid to improve transparency.

Officials from the INEC in several states said they had been delayed due to the late arrival of vehicles to transport them.

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Buhari, a retired army general, is stepping down after serving the maximum eight years allowed by the constitution but failing to deliver on his pledge to bring back order and security across Nigeria, Africa's top oil-producing nation. &nbsp;

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The vote counting in Nigeria's presidential polls is underway after people cast their votes in huge numbers. However, provisional results have started to trickle in.

The vote counting in Nigeria's presidential polls is underway after people cast their votes in huge numbers. However, provisional results have started to trickle in. As per reports, Nigerian presidential candidate Peter Obi received the maximum number of votes in the key state of Lagos, Africa’s biggest city. Nearly 90 million people were eligible to cast their votes for appointing the successor of President Muhammadu Buhari. Labour Party's Obi got 582,454 votes while All Progressives Congress (APC) party's Bola Tinubu received 572,606 votes, as per electoral commission data on Monday. Lagos was earlier a bastion for Tinubu as he was a former governor of the city. Also Read | Stargazers awestruck as captivating Northern Lights gleam across Scotland, Ireland and England The first results from Ekiti state showed a majority of votes for president cast in favour of Tinubu. Nigeria is marred by an economic crisis and the elections are a hope for the people to choose Buhari's successor, who can effectively take back the country on track. Two parties, the ruling All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party, have run Africa’s most populous nation for a quarter of a century. Obi left Nigeria's main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) days ahead of the presidential primary in May. Following this, the PDP chose 75-year-old former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar as its presidential candidate. Also Read | Thai drug lord gets plastic surgery to look like 'handsome' Korean man, police bust narcotics racket Votes are being counted by hand at local polling stations in Nigeria. Results are uploaded online to Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) central database IReV, in a bid to improve transparency. Officials from the INEC in several states said they had been delayed due to the late arrival of vehicles to transport them. Watch | Trending on WION: Couple gives birth to 'momo' twins Buhari, a retired army general, is stepping down after serving the maximum eight years allowed by the constitution but failing to deliver on his pledge to bring back order and security across Nigeria, Africa's top oil-producing nation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Nigeria presidential elections: Peter Obi wins key Lagos state as vote-counting continues

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