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.

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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;

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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;

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"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).

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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.

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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.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trending-on-wion-couple-gives-birth-to-momo-twins-566290">Trending on WION: Couple gives birth to 'momo' twins</a>

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

Amid ongoing political and economical turmoil in the country, the government of Pakistan's Punjab province passed the confidence vote in a chaotic midnight session. Chief Minister Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi managed to win the trust vote after the opposition staged a walkout. Watch to know more.

Pakistan: Punjab CM Parvez Elahi wins trust vote

Seats in the Himachal Pradesh Assembly feature candidates from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Congress, and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Both the BJP and the Congress have put out candidates for each of the 68 seats. On 67 seats, the AAP ran candidates. Along with the Communist Party of India, which is vying for 11 seats, the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Himachal Jan Kranti Party are contending for the other 53 seats.

Himachal Pradesh Assembly Election Result 2022: When?&nbsp;

On December 8, the Himachal Pradesh Assembly Election 2022 results will be made public. On November 12, voting for the Assembly Elections was conducted. The voter participation was 74%, which is somewhat lower than it was for the 2017 election when it was 75.6%. People are eagerly awaiting the election outcome once the voting session has concluded. According to the exit polls, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress are anticipated to engage in a power struggle. The Aam Aadmi Party, however, is a significant additional candidate in the Himachal Assembly Elections (AAP).

Himachal Assembly Election Result 2022: Time

On December 8 at 8:00 am, the formal vote-counting process will get under way. The vote-counting procedure will take place at about 10 centres. Following the vote-counting, the Himachal Pradesh assembly election results will be declared on the same day. The BJP is campaigning for reelection, but since 1985, no ruling party has been returned to power in Himachal Pradesh. Who ultimately takes charge of the 68-member Assembly is still up in the air.

Where to watch?&nbsp;

On all Zee media websites and news stations, Himachal Pradesh Assembly Election Result live updates will be available in 2022. The ZEE5 OTT service will also live stream the election results. The results can also be monitored at results. The official website of the Election Commission of India is eci.gov.in. Additionally, you can keep track of the election results with the help of newspapers, radio, and social media.&nbsp;

Himachal Assembly Election Result 2022: Seats to look for&nbsp;&nbsp;

The prominent constituencies of Himachal Pradesh include Dalhousie, Nadaun, Seraj, rural Shimla, Dharamshala, Fatehpur, Hamirpur, Dehra, Kulla, Nalagarh, Karsog, Mandi, Una, and Barsar. The most important candidates for the Himachal Assembly Election 2022 include Rajiv Saizal (BJP)- Kasauli seat, Mukesh Agnihotri (Congress)- Haroli seat, Vikramaditya Singh (Congress)- Rural Shimla seat, Jairam Thakur (BJP)- Seraj seat, and Sarveen Chaudhary (BJP)- Shahpur seat.

Himachal Pradesh Previous Assembly Elections

In Himachal Pradesh, the Bharatiya Janata Party was running for reelection for a second straight term, while the Congress was making every attempt to unseat the incumbent party. Since 1985, the state has a history of ousting the current administration. The election struggle in Himachal Pradesh this time has been more intense due to the Aam Aadmi Party's emergence as the third major political force in the state. The BJP was able to form the government in 2017 by capturing 44 seats in the assembly, compared to just 21 for the Congress. 
&nbsp;

Seats in the Himachal Pradesh Assembly feature candidates from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Congress, and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Both the BJP and the Congress have put out candidates for each of the 68 seats.

Seats in the Himachal Pradesh Assembly feature candidates from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Congress, and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Both the BJP and the Congress have put out candidates for each of the 68 seats. On 67 seats, the AAP ran candidates. Along with the Communist Party of India, which is vying for 11 seats, the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Himachal Jan Kranti Party are contending for the other 53 seats. Himachal Pradesh Assembly Election Result 2022: When? On December 8, the Himachal Pradesh Assembly Election 2022 results will be made public. On November 12, voting for the Assembly Elections was conducted. The voter participation was 74%, which is somewhat lower than it was for the 2017 election when it was 75.6%. People are eagerly awaiting the election outcome once the voting session has concluded. According to the exit polls, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress are anticipated to engage in a power struggle. The Aam Aadmi Party, however, is a significant additional candidate in the Himachal Assembly Elections (AAP). Himachal Assembly Election Result 2022: Time On December 8 at 8:00 am, the formal vote-counting process will get under way. The vote-counting procedure will take place at about 10 centres. Following the vote-counting, the Himachal Pradesh assembly election results will be declared on the same day. The BJP is campaigning for reelection, but since 1985, no ruling party has been returned to power in Himachal Pradesh. Who ultimately takes charge of the 68-member Assembly is still up in the air. Where to watch? On all Zee media websites and news stations, Himachal Pradesh Assembly Election Result live updates will be available in 2022. The ZEE5 OTT service will also live stream the election results. The results can also be monitored at results. The official website of the Election Commission of India is eci.gov.in. Additionally, you can keep track of the election results with the help of newspapers, radio, and social media. Himachal Assembly Election Result 2022: Seats to look for The prominent constituencies of Himachal Pradesh include Dalhousie, Nadaun, Seraj, rural Shimla, Dharamshala, Fatehpur, Hamirpur, Dehra, Kulla, Nalagarh, Karsog, Mandi, Una, and Barsar. The most important candidates for the Himachal Assembly Election 2022 include Rajiv Saizal (BJP)- Kasauli seat, Mukesh Agnihotri (Congress)- Haroli seat, Vikramaditya Singh (Congress)- Rural Shimla seat, Jairam Thakur (BJP)- Seraj seat, and Sarveen Chaudhary (BJP)- Shahpur seat. Himachal Pradesh Previous Assembly Elections In Himachal Pradesh, the Bharatiya Janata Party was running for reelection for a second straight term, while the Congress was making every attempt to unseat the incumbent party. Since 1985, the state has a history of ousting the current administration. The election struggle in Himachal Pradesh this time has been more intense due to the Aam Aadmi Party's emergence as the third major political force in the state. The BJP was able to form the government in 2017 by capturing 44 seats in the assembly, compared to just 21 for the Congress.

Himachal Pradesh Election Result 2022: counting of votes Live streaming, timings: where & how to watch online

The state of Georgia in the United States has again broken its early voting record. Both candidates Warnock & Walker made the closing pitch to voters.

US: Georgia breaks early voting record again; Warnock & Walker make the closing pitch to voters

The people of the western state of Gujarat-- the home state of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi-- is all set to vote for the first phase of the assembly elections on Thursday after the intense campaigning by all the political parties.There has been a race among the political parties including Bharatiya Janata Party, Congress and Aam Aadmi Party for making poll promises as the fate of the political parties will be decided by over 2 crore voters today with 89 constituencies spread across 19 districts of Kutch, Saurashtra and South Gujarat going up for polling. According to the Election Commission of India, the voting will begin at 8 am and conclude at 5 pm.

A total of 39 political parties are contesting in the elections and have fielded 788 candidates including 718 male candidates and 70 women candidates.The ruling BJP is exuding confidence in retaining the 27-year-long rule in the state, while the Congress is desparate to save its second position in the state while Arvind Kejriwal`s AAP is making a gamble by trying to cash in on `anti-incumbency` and issues like inflation and unemployment to get to power.As the BJP looks to retain power and AAP aims to make inroads into yet another state, a fierce battle is expected on various seats that will go to poll on Thursday morning.

Jamnagar North (Jamnagar)The first on the list is Jamnagar North where the battle is between BJP`s Rivaba Jadeja, cricketer Ravindra Jadeja`s wife, Congress` Bipendrasinh Jadeja and AAP`s Karsan Karmur.The BJP dropped the sitting MLA Dharmendrasinh Merubha who won the seat by defeating Congress candidate Ahir Jivanbhai Karubhai Kumbharvadiya in the 2017 Assembly elections.The seat came to the limelight after a political tussle between two members of the same family came to the fore with Rivaba, who is making her electoral debut, contesting from the BJP and her sister-in-law and father-in-law campaigning for the Congress candidate.MorbiThe second on the list is Morbi, which became a talking point following the tragic incident recently in which a suspension bridge fell into the river claiming the lives of over 130 people.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gujarat-elections-2022-check-full-list-of-bjp-congress-and-aap-candidates-their-constituencies-538760">Gujarat Elections 2022: Check full list of BJP, Congress and AAP candidates, their constituencies</a>

The BJP has fielded Kantilal Amrutiya, who replaced sitting MLA and Cabinet Minister Brijesh Merja, and he is up against Congress` Jayantilal Jerajbhai Patel and AAP`s Pankaj Ransariya.The Opposition parties, during the campaign, raised the issue of "mismanagement" in the Morbi incident, trying to corner the government on the incident.However, historically, the BJP has won the Morbi Assembly seat in 1995, 1998, 2002, 2007 and 2012 before Amrutiya lost to Merja, who was in Congress in 2017. Merja had joined BJP later and won the by-polls from Morbi again. The BJP has Merja with Amrutiya in 2022.

Khambalia (Devbhoomi Dwarka)The seat becomes significant as the AAP`s chief ministerial candidate Isudan Gadhvi is contesting from this seat where he is confronted by BJP`s Mulu Ayar Bera and Congress` Vikram Madam.The battle is expected to be triangular with a close contest between the BJP and AAP. Congress is said to be strong as the party candidate Ahir Vikrambhai Arjanbhai Madam had won the seat in 2017. Congress has replaced its candidate in the 2022 elections.Rajkot West (Rajkot)Rajkot West is the seat where Prime Minister Narendra Modi previously contested a by-poll in 2002. Former chief minister Vijay Rupani had also contested from the seat in the 2017 Assembly elections.&nbsp;

The BJP has given a ticket to two-time Deputy Mayor Darshita Shah who is up against AAP`s Dinesh Joshi and Congress`s Mansukhbhai.The seat is considered a bastion of the BJP which the party has not lost since 1985.Rupani had won the seat by defeating Indranil Rajguru of INC with a margin of 53,755 votes in the 2017 Assembly elections.Devbhoomi DwarkaPabubha Manek, the BJP candidate who has not lost a single election in the last 32 years, is up against Congress` Malubhai Kandoria, and AAP candidate Nakum Lakhmanbhai Boghabhai.Manek had won the first three elections as an independent (1990, 95, 98), then joined the Congress and won the seat in 2002. Later, he won the Assembly elections of 2007, 2012 and 2017 on a BJP ticket.

In the 2017 Gujarat Assembly polls, Manek had won the seat by defeating Congress` Ahir Meraman Markhi with a margin of 5,739 votes.Talala (Gir Somnath)The BJP has fielded Bhagwan Barad from the seat who is contesting against AAP`s Devendra Solanki and Congress` Mansinh Dodiya.

Barad had won the seat in the 2017 Assembly polls. He had resigned as the Congress MLA from Talala Gir Somnath district and had joined the BJP following which he was given a ticket from the same seat. Barad is an influential leader of the Ahir community. He won from the Talala constituency in 2007 and 2017. Katargam (Surat)The seat is all set to witness an interesting battle this time in which AAP has fielded its state president Gopal Italia who is considered to be an influential Patidar leader, from the constituency. He had played a key role in the Patidar quota agitation in 2015.&nbsp;

He will face off against Congress candidate Kaplesh Variya, who belongs to the Prajapati community (OBC), and BJP candidate Vinodbhai Amrishbhai Mordiya.PorbandarA tough battle is expected on the Porbandar seat where the BJP has fielded its sitting MLA and four-time winner Babu Bokhiria once again.&nbsp;

He is pitted against Congress candidate Arjun Modhwadia and AAP`s Jeevan Jungi.Bokhiria had won the seat in 1995, 1998, 2012 and 2017. In 2002 and 2007, Bokhiria was defeated by his arch-rival and former Gujarat Congress president Arjun Modhwadia.&nbsp;

Both are face-to-face this time too.Kutiyana (Porbandar)Kandhalbhai Jadeja, son of late don Santokben Sarmanbhai Jadeja, is contesting on the Samajwadi Party ticket. He had won the 2017 Assembly elections on the NCP ticket, however, quit the party recently after he was denied a ticket. He is pitted against BJP`s Dheliben Odedra, AAP`s Bhimabhai Makvana, and Congress` Nathabhai Odedra.The voting in Gujarat will take place on December 1 and 5, and the counting of votes will be held on December 8.&nbsp;

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The people of the western state of Gujarat-- the home state of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi-- is all set to vote for the first phase of the assembly elections on Thursday after the intense campaigning by all the political parties.

The people of the western state of Gujarat-- the home state of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi-- is all set to vote for the first phase of the assembly elections on Thursday after the intense campaigning by all the political parties.There has been a race among the political parties including Bharatiya Janata Party, Congress and Aam Aadmi Party for making poll promises as the fate of the political parties will be decided by over 2 crore voters today with 89 constituencies spread across 19 districts of Kutch, Saurashtra and South Gujarat going up for polling. According to the Election Commission of India, the voting will begin at 8 am and conclude at 5 pm. A total of 39 political parties are contesting in the elections and have fielded 788 candidates including 718 male candidates and 70 women candidates.The ruling BJP is exuding confidence in retaining the 27-year-long rule in the state, while the Congress is desparate to save its second position in the state while Arvind Kejriwal`s AAP is making a gamble by trying to cash in on `anti-incumbency` and issues like inflation and unemployment to get to power.As the BJP looks to retain power and AAP aims to make inroads into yet another state, a fierce battle is expected on various seats that will go to poll on Thursday morning. Jamnagar North (Jamnagar)The first on the list is Jamnagar North where the battle is between BJP`s Rivaba Jadeja, cricketer Ravindra Jadeja`s wife, Congress` Bipendrasinh Jadeja and AAP`s Karsan Karmur.The BJP dropped the sitting MLA Dharmendrasinh Merubha who won the seat by defeating Congress candidate Ahir Jivanbhai Karubhai Kumbharvadiya in the 2017 Assembly elections.The seat came to the limelight after a political tussle between two members of the same family came to the fore with Rivaba, who is making her electoral debut, contesting from the BJP and her sister-in-law and father-in-law campaigning for the Congress candidate.MorbiThe second on the list is Morbi, which became a talking point following the tragic incident recently in which a suspension bridge fell into the river claiming the lives of over 130 people. Also Read | Gujarat Elections 2022: Check full list of BJP, Congress and AAP candidates, their constituencies The BJP has fielded Kantilal Amrutiya, who replaced sitting MLA and Cabinet Minister Brijesh Merja, and he is up against Congress` Jayantilal Jerajbhai Patel and AAP`s Pankaj Ransariya.The Opposition parties, during the campaign, raised the issue of "mismanagement" in the Morbi incident, trying to corner the government on the incident.However, historically, the BJP has won the Morbi Assembly seat in 1995, 1998, 2002, 2007 and 2012 before Amrutiya lost to Merja, who was in Congress in 2017. Merja had joined BJP later and won the by-polls from Morbi again. The BJP has Merja with Amrutiya in 2022. Khambalia (Devbhoomi Dwarka)The seat becomes significant as the AAP`s chief ministerial candidate Isudan Gadhvi is contesting from this seat where he is confronted by BJP`s Mulu Ayar Bera and Congress` Vikram Madam.The battle is expected to be triangular with a close contest between the BJP and AAP. Congress is said to be strong as the party candidate Ahir Vikrambhai Arjanbhai Madam had won the seat in 2017. Congress has replaced its candidate in the 2022 elections.Rajkot West (Rajkot)Rajkot West is the seat where Prime Minister Narendra Modi previously contested a by-poll in 2002. Former chief minister Vijay Rupani had also contested from the seat in the 2017 Assembly elections. The BJP has given a ticket to two-time Deputy Mayor Darshita Shah who is up against AAP`s Dinesh Joshi and Congress`s Mansukhbhai.The seat is considered a bastion of the BJP which the party has not lost since 1985.Rupani had won the seat by defeating Indranil Rajguru of INC with a margin of 53,755 votes in the 2017 Assembly elections.Devbhoomi DwarkaPabubha Manek, the BJP candidate who has not lost a single election in the last 32 years, is up against Congress` Malubhai Kandoria, and AAP candidate Nakum Lakhmanbhai Boghabhai.Manek had won the first three elections as an independent (1990, 95, 98), then joined the Congress and won the seat in 2002. Later, he won the Assembly elections of 2007, 2012 and 2017 on a BJP ticket. In the 2017 Gujarat Assembly polls, Manek had won the seat by defeating Congress` Ahir Meraman Markhi with a margin of 5,739 votes.Talala (Gir Somnath)The BJP has fielded Bhagwan Barad from the seat who is contesting against AAP`s Devendra Solanki and Congress` Mansinh Dodiya. Barad had won the seat in the 2017 Assembly polls. He had resigned as the Congress MLA from Talala Gir Somnath district and had joined the BJP following which he was given a ticket from the same seat. Barad is an influential leader of the Ahir community. He won from the Talala constituency in 2007 and 2017. Katargam (Surat)The seat is all set to witness an interesting battle this time in which AAP has fielded its state president Gopal Italia who is considered to be an influential Patidar leader, from the constituency. He had played a key role in the Patidar quota agitation in 2015. He will face off against Congress candidate Kaplesh Variya, who belongs to the Prajapati community (OBC), and BJP candidate Vinodbhai Amrishbhai Mordiya.PorbandarA tough battle is expected on the Porbandar seat where the BJP has fielded its sitting MLA and four-time winner Babu Bokhiria once again. He is pitted against Congress candidate Arjun Modhwadia and AAP`s Jeevan Jungi.Bokhiria had won the seat in 1995, 1998, 2012 and 2017. In 2002 and 2007, Bokhiria was defeated by his arch-rival and former Gujarat Congress president Arjun Modhwadia. Both are face-to-face this time too.Kutiyana (Porbandar)Kandhalbhai Jadeja, son of late don Santokben Sarmanbhai Jadeja, is contesting on the Samajwadi Party ticket. He had won the 2017 Assembly elections on the NCP ticket, however, quit the party recently after he was denied a ticket. He is pitted against BJP`s Dheliben Odedra, AAP`s Bhimabhai Makvana, and Congress` Nathabhai Odedra.The voting in Gujarat will take place on December 1 and 5, and the counting of votes will be held on December 8. 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 ×

Gujarat Assembly election Phase 1: A look at key players, constituencies in PM Modi's home turf

New Zealand's supreme court ruled that the current voting age of 18 discriminates against 16-year-olds. The verdict means New Zealand will debate lowering its voting age. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Is 16 too young to vote?

Ahead of the elections that could cost his Democrats their Congressional majority, President Joe Biden voted in the US midterm elections on Saturday.

Biden voted in his hometown of Wilmington in the eastern state of Delaware with the help of his granddaughter Natalie, who was doing so for the first time.

The president left the voting place with an "I Voted" sticker on his lapel while donning his signature aviator sunglasses and a navy blue coat.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-unhappy-about-twitter-takeover-by-musk-529453">Ukraine unhappy about Twitter takeover by Musk</a>

Biden cast his vote just a few days after House Speaker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paul-pelosi-undergoes-successful-skull-surgery-biden-calls-attack-despicable-529299">Nancy Pelosi's husband</a> was attacked at their California home.

The president criticised the heated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/newly-appointed-zulu-monarch-formally-handed-certificate-of-recognition-by-s-african-president-529492">political atmosphere</a> in the country, which he claimed was made worse by the ex-president Donald Trump's and his supporters' bogus allegations that the most recent election had been rigged.

"It's one thing to condemn the violence," Biden told reporters. "But you can't condemn the violence unless you condemn those people who continue to argue the election was not real, that it's being stolen."

If nothing majorly unexpected happens, the November vote appears to be in line with the historical trend of midterm elections being unfavourable to the ruling party.

Numerous Americans have already <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-obama-boosts-democratic-star-power-to-crucial-us-senate-election-in-georgia-529296">voted</a> early, either in-person at a polling place or by mail.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ahead of the elections that could cost his Democrats their Congressional majority, President Joe Biden voted in the US midterm elections on Saturday. Biden voted in his hometown of Wilmington in the eastern state of Delaware with the help of his granddaughter Natalie, who was doing so for the first time.

Ahead of the elections that could cost his Democrats their Congressional majority, President Joe Biden voted in the US midterm elections on Saturday. Biden voted in his hometown of Wilmington in the eastern state of Delaware with the help of his granddaughter Natalie, who was doing so for the first time. The president left the voting place with an "I Voted" sticker on his lapel while donning his signature aviator sunglasses and a navy blue coat. Also read | Ukraine unhappy about Twitter takeover by Musk Biden cast his vote just a few days after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's husband was attacked at their California home. The president criticised the heated political atmosphere in the country, which he claimed was made worse by the ex-president Donald Trump's and his supporters' bogus allegations that the most recent election had been rigged. "It's one thing to condemn the violence," Biden told reporters. "But you can't condemn the violence unless you condemn those people who continue to argue the election was not real, that it's being stolen." If nothing majorly unexpected happens, the November vote appears to be in line with the historical trend of midterm elections being unfavourable to the ruling party. Numerous Americans have already voted early, either in-person at a polling place or by mail. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Biden votes early in Delaware for US midterm elections

Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, the leftist candidate, has been losing ground to right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro in most polls as the country's contentious presidential election has become more competitive ahead of the runoff vote on Sunday.

Lula was within striking distance of a come-from-behind victory, according to surveys by pollsters Datafolha and Quaest. The surveys found that Lula had 52% of the valid votes to Bolsonaro's 48%, down from a six-point lead three days earlier.

According to a poll conducted by MDA, Lula's lead has shrunk to just two percentage points, which is also the margin of error for the poll conducted by CNT, the group for the transportation industry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-votes-early-in-delaware-for-november-midterm-elections-529517">Biden votes early in Delaware for US midterm elections</a>

In spite of his graft convictions being overturned, most surveys still place Lula as the slight favourite to win a third term, concluding a spectacular political comeback.

But Bolsonaro surpassed polls in the first round voting on Oct. 2, and many observers believe the outcome of the election is uncertain.

Lula, however, maintained a steady and slightly larger lead according to the final opinion polls conducted by the pollsters IPEC and AtlasIntel.

Excluding unsure voters and those preparing to tamper with their ballots, IPEC put the leftist&nbsp; in the lead with 54% to 46% of the valid votes. Lula's lead was still at seven percentage points, according to AtlasIntel, one of the most reliable pollsters during the first round.

In Minas Gerais, a crucial state, Bolsonaro finished his campaign with a motorcycle rally along with supporters. After addressing foreign reporters that his challenger was unqualified to serve as president, Lula went alongside thousands of supporters down a major street in Sao Paulo.

In their final televised discussion on Friday night, the sharply opposing candidates also made personal attacks against one another. In his opening statement, Bolsonaro refuted rumours that he would unpeg the minimum wage from inflation and declared that, if re-elected, he would raise it to 1,400 reais ($260) per month instead—a proposal that is not included in his government's 2023 budget.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-us-midterms-biden-makes-another-gaffe-says-there-are-54-states-529576">Ahead of US midterms, Biden makes another gaffe, says there are ‘54 states’</a>

That outcome gave Bolsonaro more momentum to start the month than most surveys had predicted, but the last two weeks of the campaign have been challenging for him.

One of Bolsonaro's allies shot at federal police officers who were about to arrest him a week ago.

Following a political altercation in the street on Sunday, Congresswoman Carla Zambelli, one of his closest allies, forced a Lula supporter into a Sao Paulo restaurant under threat of force, according to videos posted on social media. According to Zambelli, who spoke to reporters, she deliberately violated an electoral statute that forbids carrying a gun 24 hours before an election.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, the leftist candidate, has been losing ground to right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro in most polls as the country's contentious presidential election has become more competitive ahead of the runoff vote on Sunday.

Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, the leftist candidate, has been losing ground to right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro in most polls as the country's contentious presidential election has become more competitive ahead of the runoff vote on Sunday. Lula was within striking distance of a come-from-behind victory, according to surveys by pollsters Datafolha and Quaest. The surveys found that Lula had 52% of the valid votes to Bolsonaro's 48%, down from a six-point lead three days earlier. According to a poll conducted by MDA, Lula's lead has shrunk to just two percentage points, which is also the margin of error for the poll conducted by CNT, the group for the transportation industry. Also read | Biden votes early in Delaware for US midterm elections In spite of his graft convictions being overturned, most surveys still place Lula as the slight favourite to win a third term, concluding a spectacular political comeback. But Bolsonaro surpassed polls in the first round voting on Oct. 2, and many observers believe the outcome of the election is uncertain. Lula, however, maintained a steady and slightly larger lead according to the final opinion polls conducted by the pollsters IPEC and AtlasIntel. Excluding unsure voters and those preparing to tamper with their ballots, IPEC put the leftist in the lead with 54% to 46% of the valid votes. Lula's lead was still at seven percentage points, according to AtlasIntel, one of the most reliable pollsters during the first round. In Minas Gerais, a crucial state, Bolsonaro finished his campaign with a motorcycle rally along with supporters. After addressing foreign reporters that his challenger was unqualified to serve as president, Lula went alongside thousands of supporters down a major street in Sao Paulo. In their final televised discussion on Friday night, the sharply opposing candidates also made personal attacks against one another. In his opening statement, Bolsonaro refuted rumours that he would unpeg the minimum wage from inflation and declared that, if re-elected, he would raise it to 1,400 reais ($260) per month instead—a proposal that is not included in his government's 2023 budget. Also read | Ahead of US midterms, Biden makes another gaffe, says there are ‘54 states’ That outcome gave Bolsonaro more momentum to start the month than most surveys had predicted, but the last two weeks of the campaign have been challenging for him. One of Bolsonaro's allies shot at federal police officers who were about to arrest him a week ago. Following a political altercation in the street on Sunday, Congresswoman Carla Zambelli, one of his closest allies, forced a Lula supporter into a Sao Paulo restaurant under threat of force, according to videos posted on social media. According to Zambelli, who spoke to reporters, she deliberately violated an electoral statute that forbids carrying a gun 24 hours before an election. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Brazil election: Bolsonaro cuts Lula lead as high-stakes presidential runoff goes down to wire

Security has been ramped up across polling stations in the US as voters begin casting early ballots in the midterm elections. Voting will fully commence on 8 November across the country.

People cast their ballots in secured boxes as early voting for US midterm election begins

Workers at an Amazon warehouse close to Albany decisively rejected a unionisation bid, dealing a setback to a fledgling labour union that was trying to organise staff at the retail giant.&nbsp;

The union received 206 votes, while 406 votes were against it. The decision of whether or not to join the Amazon Labor Union was up for vote among 949 employees at the ALB1 warehouse, according to officials.&nbsp;

The vote process "wasn't free and fair," according to ALU President Chris Smalls, who also hinted that the union would try to have the election results overturned. The National Labor Relations Board has already received 27 unfair labour practise complaints from the ALU's legal team against the business.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-major-cement-firm-admits-paying-syrian-terror-groups-fined-780-million-526576">French cement firm Lafarge pleads guilty to supporting Syrian terror groups, fined $780 million</a>

“It was a sham election where workers were subjected to intimidation and retaliation on a daily basis and even the workers who volunteered to be election observers were faced with threats of termination,” Smalls said.

Employees at ALB1 felt the union would aid in securing higher pay. The facility's beginning compensation was increased by Amazon last month from $15.70 to $17 per hour, consistent with pay hikes for front-line employees around the nation.

The ALB1 organisers have also expressed worries about the working environment, claiming that the high injury rates and staff fatigue are results of the fast-paced work environment.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/liz-truss-approval-rating-at-record-low-10-per-cent-in-uk-claims-new-poll-526485">labour</a> movement experienced a turning point with the ALU's victory at JFK8, which led to the establishment of the nation's first unionised Amazon warehouse.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazons-leaked-documents-show-why-its-attrition-rate-is-so-high-526390">Amazon's leaked documents reveal why its attrition&nbsp;rate is so high</a>

since Amazon has argued that the results should be thrown out, the union has not yet been able to negotiate a contract at JFK8. Recently, an NLRB representative suggested that the company's objections be disregarded. Amazon reportedly plans to appeal.

Amazon is dealing with a nationwide uptick in labour mobilisation. Last Monday, employees at an Amazon fulfilment centre in Southern California submitted a union petition in an effort to unionise.

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Workers at an Amazon warehouse close to Albany decisively rejected a unionisation bid, dealing a setback to a fledgling labour union that was trying to organise staff at the retail giant.

Workers at an Amazon warehouse close to Albany decisively rejected a unionisation bid, dealing a setback to a fledgling labour union that was trying to organise staff at the retail giant. The union received 206 votes, while 406 votes were against it. The decision of whether or not to join the Amazon Labor Union was up for vote among 949 employees at the ALB1 warehouse, according to officials. The vote process "wasn't free and fair," according to ALU President Chris Smalls, who also hinted that the union would try to have the election results overturned. The National Labor Relations Board has already received 27 unfair labour practise complaints from the ALU's legal team against the business. Also read | French cement firm Lafarge pleads guilty to supporting Syrian terror groups, fined $780 million “It was a sham election where workers were subjected to intimidation and retaliation on a daily basis and even the workers who volunteered to be election observers were faced with threats of termination,” Smalls said. Employees at ALB1 felt the union would aid in securing higher pay. The facility's beginning compensation was increased by Amazon last month from $15.70 to $17 per hour, consistent with pay hikes for front-line employees around the nation. The ALB1 organisers have also expressed worries about the working environment, claiming that the high injury rates and staff fatigue are results of the fast-paced work environment. The labour movement experienced a turning point with the ALU's victory at JFK8, which led to the establishment of the nation's first unionised Amazon warehouse. Also read | Amazon's leaked documents reveal why its attrition rate is so high since Amazon has argued that the results should be thrown out, the union has not yet been able to negotiate a contract at JFK8. Recently, an NLRB representative suggested that the company's objections be disregarded. Amazon reportedly plans to appeal. Amazon is dealing with a nationwide uptick in labour mobilisation. Last Monday, employees at an Amazon fulfilment centre in Southern California submitted a union petition in an effort to unionise. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Amazon workers in Albany reject unionisation, labour leader calls it ‘sham election’

The Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has bagged six National Assembly and two Punjab Assembly seats in the by-elections.&nbsp;

The PTI contested in seven constituencies, including Peshawar, Faisalabad, and Nankana Sahib, where it won six out of eight seats.

The latest victory is a major setback for the ruling government, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Shehbaz's party also won two seats in the National Assembly and three in the Punjab Assembly.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pm-nawaz-sharif-comes-to-pakistans-defence-after-bidens-remarks-525706">Also read |&nbsp;Former PM Nawaz Sharif comes to Pakistan's defence after Biden's 'dangerous nation' remark</a>

However, Khan's party faced a major defeat in Multan, where Ali Musa Gilani defeated Mehr Bano Qureshi.

As the polling began, Khan urged people in large numbers in the constituencies where the by-election was held. Sharif, on the other hand, warned the voters to cast their votes carefully for the development and welfare of the country, as the&nbsp;future depends on it, ANI reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shocking-rotting-dead-bodies-found-on-hospital-roof-in-pakistan-probe-launched-525602">Also read |&nbsp;Shocking! Dozens of rotting bodies found on hospital roof in Pakistan, probe launched</a>

Despite PTI's nine MNAs in the lower house, four general seats and two for reserved seats, resigning for women, the party claimed its victory.

The Election Commission of Pakistan results showed that nearly 101 candidates from different parties and a few independents were voting. The Commission further claimed that the overall polling remained peaceful, though it still received 15 complaints of code violations.

As per reports, the ruling government wanted to delay the by-elections for 90 days as it stated that the security personnel and other officials were busy assisting with flood relief.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has bagged six National Assembly and two Punjab Assembly seats in the by-elections. The PTI contested in seven constituencies, including Peshawar, Faisalabad, and Nankana Sahib, where it won six out of eight seats.

The Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has bagged six National Assembly and two Punjab Assembly seats in the by-elections. The PTI contested in seven constituencies, including Peshawar, Faisalabad, and Nankana Sahib, where it won six out of eight seats. The latest victory is a major setback for the ruling government, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Shehbaz's party also won two seats in the National Assembly and three in the Punjab Assembly. Also read | Former PM Nawaz Sharif comes to Pakistan's defence after Biden's 'dangerous nation' remark However, Khan's party faced a major defeat in Multan, where Ali Musa Gilani defeated Mehr Bano Qureshi. As the polling began, Khan urged people in large numbers in the constituencies where the by-election was held. Sharif, on the other hand, warned the voters to cast their votes carefully for the development and welfare of the country, as the future depends on it, ANI reported. Also read | Shocking! Dozens of rotting bodies found on hospital roof in Pakistan, probe launched Despite PTI's nine MNAs in the lower house, four general seats and two for reserved seats, resigning for women, the party claimed its victory. The Election Commission of Pakistan results showed that nearly 101 candidates from different parties and a few independents were voting. The Commission further claimed that the overall polling remained peaceful, though it still received 15 complaints of code violations. As per reports, the ruling government wanted to delay the by-elections for 90 days as it stated that the security personnel and other officials were busy assisting with flood relief. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan by-elections: Imran Khan-led PTI wins most seats in upset for ruling coalition

In Kuwait's second election in less than two years, voters decided to shake up the assembly, electing two women, two conservative Islamists, and other candidates, according to results announced on Friday.

The outcome of the vote on Thursday, which will add 27 new members to the 50-member assembly, was viewed as a call for change in the midst of a protracted stalemate between the Cabinet, which is chosen by the royal family, and the 50-member assembly, which is democratically elected and more independent than similar bodies in the region.

Growing accusations about government <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-ex-pm-nawaz-sharifs-daughter-maryam-acquitted-in-corruption-case-521082/amp">corruption</a> appear to have influenced voters' decisions. Kuwait's Islamist opposition routinely questions ministers about their role in the improper use of public funds while accusing the government of corruption and poor management.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opec-to-meet-in-vienna-for-the-first-time-since-2020-covid-curbs-521493">OPEC+ to meet in Vienna for the first time since 2020 Covid curbs</a>

But experts say such candidates could push back on social reforms and protections of women’s rights and freedoms.

“If those candidates come forth with conservative social positions it will divide those who are pushing for reforms,” said Kristin Smith Diwan, a senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington.

She mentioned that a "values pledge" that asks for gender segregation in Kuwaiti schools and a prohibition on mixed dance parties was signed by 17 elected MPs, which has drawn considerable criticism. Candidates who were prepared to make this a sharply divisive topic fared well.

After the single female representative in the assembly lost her seat in the most recent elections in 2020, two other women were also elected.

Kuwaiti women are becoming more and more irate that the conservative society's laws protecting women from assault and so-called honour killings have not been passed by the government.

The new assembly will include 27 new members, around a dozen of whom served in previous assemblies, local media reported.

Although Kuwait boasts the most open and engaged assembly in the Persian Gulf, political power is still largely held by the Al Sabah family, who also have the authority to dissolve the assembly at any moment and pick the prime minister and Cabinet.

The sick 85-year-old emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Sabah, has been replaced by the 82-year-old crown prince Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmed Al Jaber, who called Thursday's elections earlier this year when he dissolved parliament.

The long-standing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-forces-arrest-woman-for-eating-at-restaurant-without-hijab-says-family-521414">political</a> impasse in Kuwait has gotten worse since the passing of the former emir, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, two years ago. Ministers have quit out of frustration after being grilled by lawmakers over alleged wrongdoing.

This could refer to the dissolution of the legislature by royal or constitutional order.

The threat is constant, according to Diwan. "These two branches of government must cooperate for the benefit of Kuwaitis."

Despite having enormous oil resources, the parliament has been unable to implement fundamental economic changes, such as a public debt law that would allow borrowing by the government, which has resulted in the depletion of its general reserve fund.

Kuwait is home to 13,500 American service members and has the sixth-largest known oil reserves in the world.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In Kuwait's second election in less than two years, voters decided to shake up the assembly, electing two women, two conservative Islamists, and other candidates, according to results announced on Friday.

In Kuwait's second election in less than two years, voters decided to shake up the assembly, electing two women, two conservative Islamists, and other candidates, according to results announced on Friday. The outcome of the vote on Thursday, which will add 27 new members to the 50-member assembly, was viewed as a call for change in the midst of a protracted stalemate between the Cabinet, which is chosen by the royal family, and the 50-member assembly, which is democratically elected and more independent than similar bodies in the region. Growing accusations about government corruption appear to have influenced voters' decisions. Kuwait's Islamist opposition routinely questions ministers about their role in the improper use of public funds while accusing the government of corruption and poor management. Also read | OPEC+ to meet in Vienna for the first time since 2020 Covid curbs But experts say such candidates could push back on social reforms and protections of women’s rights and freedoms. “If those candidates come forth with conservative social positions it will divide those who are pushing for reforms,” said Kristin Smith Diwan, a senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington. She mentioned that a "values pledge" that asks for gender segregation in Kuwaiti schools and a prohibition on mixed dance parties was signed by 17 elected MPs, which has drawn considerable criticism. Candidates who were prepared to make this a sharply divisive topic fared well. After the single female representative in the assembly lost her seat in the most recent elections in 2020, two other women were also elected. Kuwaiti women are becoming more and more irate that the conservative society's laws protecting women from assault and so-called honour killings have not been passed by the government. The new assembly will include 27 new members, around a dozen of whom served in previous assemblies, local media reported. Although Kuwait boasts the most open and engaged assembly in the Persian Gulf, political power is still largely held by the Al Sabah family, who also have the authority to dissolve the assembly at any moment and pick the prime minister and Cabinet. The sick 85-year-old emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Sabah, has been replaced by the 82-year-old crown prince Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmed Al Jaber, who called Thursday's elections earlier this year when he dissolved parliament. The long-standing political impasse in Kuwait has gotten worse since the passing of the former emir, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, two years ago. Ministers have quit out of frustration after being grilled by lawmakers over alleged wrongdoing. This could refer to the dissolution of the legislature by royal or constitutional order. The threat is constant, according to Diwan. "These two branches of government must cooperate for the benefit of Kuwaitis." Despite having enormous oil resources, the parliament has been unable to implement fundamental economic changes, such as a public debt law that would allow borrowing by the government, which has resulted in the depletion of its general reserve fund. Kuwait is home to 13,500 American service members and has the sixth-largest known oil reserves in the world. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kuwait vote outcome shakes up national assembly; two women, two conservative Islamists elected

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All you need to know about Kenya's presidential election

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