Tunisians are voting Monday in a referendum on a new constitution that would give President Kais Saied more power. With major parties boycotting the vote, analysts are expecting a low turnout.

Poll turnout expected to be low as Tunisians vote in constitutional referendum

The race for the next UK PM has narrowed down. Out of the initial 11 contenders, we now have five hopefuls who are in the race to become the next PM of the country.

UK PM Race: 5 contenders qualify for Tory leadership, Rishi Sunak tops second round of voting

Japan’s ruling party, the Liberal Democratic Party, and its coalition partner, Komeito, won a significant victory in a parliamentary vote on Sunday, after the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, uncertain about the potential impact of his death on party cohesion. In elections for half of the seats in the upper house, both parties increased their combined share to 146 in the 248-seat chamber, far over the majority. This will allow Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to continue his tenure in office until the next scheduled election in 2025. Given the loss of Abe and the challenge of unifying his party without him, Kishida appreciated the victory but wasn’t grinning. He reiterated, "Party unity is more important than anything else," as reported by AP.

At the party election headquarters, Kishida and top party MPs spent a moment of silence for Abe, 67, who was shot while campaigning and died after severe blood loss, before attaching victory ribbons and names of candidates who won their seats on&nbsp; whiteboard.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shinzo-abes-loss-shadows-polls-but-japan-says-it-not-halt-the-democratic-process-496055">Shinzo Abe assassination shadows polls, but Japan will 'not halt the democratic process'</a>

Shinzo Abe’s death might have resulted in sympathy votes. Sunday’s election turnout was 52 per cent, up almost 3 points from the previous year’s 48.8 per cent.

Watch |&nbsp;Polling for the upper house ends in Japan; The Ruling LDP set for a strong show

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Kishida will focus on long-term initiatives like national security, his nebulous "new capitalism" economic programme and his party’s ardent desire to change the post war pacifist constitution. He also stated that Covid, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and rising prices will be his top priorities. Kishida stated that, in addition to constitutional reform, he will continue to advocate for strengthening Japan’s national security.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-cracks-down-on-cyberbullying-the-crime-can-now-get-you-a-year-in-jail-496033">Japan cracks down on cyberbullying, makes it a punishable offence, but experts aren't too happy. Here's why</a>

However, Shinzo Abe’s death has already caused a significant change, making it doubtful that Japan’s existing security and diplomatic stance will shift. His death has caused a great deal of controversy because of his pragmatic policies and ultra-nationalist views, especially in China and the Republic of Korea.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japan’s ruling party, the Liberal Democratic Party, and its coalition partner, Komeito, won a significant victory in a parliamentary vote on Sunday, after the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, uncertain about the potential impact of his death on party cohesion.

Japan’s ruling party, the Liberal Democratic Party, and its coalition partner, Komeito, won a significant victory in a parliamentary vote on Sunday, after the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, uncertain about the potential impact of his death on party cohesion. In elections for half of the seats in the upper house, both parties increased their combined share to 146 in the 248-seat chamber, far over the majority. This will allow Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to continue his tenure in office until the next scheduled election in 2025. Given the loss of Abe and the challenge of unifying his party without him, Kishida appreciated the victory but wasn’t grinning. He reiterated, "Party unity is more important than anything else," as reported by AP. At the party election headquarters, Kishida and top party MPs spent a moment of silence for Abe, 67, who was shot while campaigning and died after severe blood loss, before attaching victory ribbons and names of candidates who won their seats on whiteboard. Also read | Shinzo Abe assassination shadows polls, but Japan will 'not halt the democratic process' Shinzo Abe’s death might have resulted in sympathy votes. Sunday’s election turnout was 52 per cent, up almost 3 points from the previous year’s 48.8 per cent. Watch | Polling for the upper house ends in Japan; The Ruling LDP set for a strong show Kishida will focus on long-term initiatives like national security, his nebulous "new capitalism" economic programme and his party’s ardent desire to change the post war pacifist constitution. He also stated that Covid, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and rising prices will be his top priorities. Kishida stated that, in addition to constitutional reform, he will continue to advocate for strengthening Japan’s national security. Also read | Japan cracks down on cyberbullying, makes it a punishable offence, but experts aren't too happy. Here's why However, Shinzo Abe’s death has already caused a significant change, making it doubtful that Japan’s existing security and diplomatic stance will shift. His death has caused a great deal of controversy because of his pragmatic policies and ultra-nationalist views, especially in China and the Republic of Korea. (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.

Following Shinzo Abe’s death, Japan's ruling coalition party achieves significant victory

Voters head to the polls on Thursday in two closely watched&nbsp;UK&nbsp;by-elections&nbsp;that risk renewing pressure on beleaguered Prime Minister&nbsp;Boris&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;following months of scandals and setbacks.

His ruling Conservatives are tipped to lose both contests, for the parliamentary seats of Tiverton and Honiton in southwest England and Wakefield in the north, after both Tory MPs resigned in disgrace.

Tiverton and Honiton's MP Neil Parish quit after admitting watching pornography on his phone in the House of Commons, while Wakefield's Imran Ahmad Khan was jailed for sexually assaulting a teenage boy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-sees-biggest-rail-strike-in-30-years-boris-johnson-call-for-sensible-compromise-490199">As biggest rail strike in 30 years starts, UK PM Boris Johnson seeks 'sensible compromise'</a>

The votes come just weeks after&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;narrowly survived an attempt by his own lawmakers to oust him as party leader and prime minister.

The June 6 vote among Conservative MPs saw more than 40 per cent of the parliamentary party desert him, leaving him severely weakened and struggling to reset his turbulent tenure in power.

Johnson&nbsp;has spent months fighting for his survival after a series of controversies including the "Partygate" saga led many Tories to question whether he should remain as leader.

Various opinion polls have shown the public think he lied about Covid lockdown-breaking events at Downing Street and should resign.

Even before the controversy erupted last December, the 58-year-old Brexit architect saw the loss of two once-safe seats in&nbsp;by-elections&nbsp;last year.&nbsp;

He then scored dismally in May's local elections.

Defeat in the true blue Tory heartland of Tiverton and Honiton, and in Wakefield, which&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;snatched in 2019 from the main opposition Labour party for the first time since the 1930s, could see his position challenged again.

Madness

Parish, who described his actions as an indefensible moment of "total madness", won a more than 24,000 majority in Tiverton and Honiton in 2019.

There, the small opposition Liberal Democrats are hopeful of picking up the seat in rural Devon after overturning similarly large majorities in two other historically safe Tory seats in 2021.

Watch |&nbsp;Despite backlash, UK PM Boris Johnson defends British migration policy

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Wakefield, near Leeds, was one of dozens of so-called Labour "red wall" seats that&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;took in 2019 on a promise to "get Brexit done" and address glaring regional economic inequalities.

But it could now flip back due in part to&nbsp;Johnson's waning popularity.

"Anything is better than the Tory Party, as far as I'm concerned -- especially&nbsp;Boris&nbsp;Johnson," long-time Labour voter Stephen, a 61-year-old hospitality worker, told AFP this week.

Partygate&nbsp;and prices

The polls come with Britain gripped by 40-year highs in inflation and a cost-of-living crisis that has seen prices soar for everyday essential such as energy, petrol and food.

Strikes this week by railway workers -- some of the biggest seen in Britain in decades -- have added to the sense of crisis.

Some in Wakefield said they expected that to weigh as heavily on voters' minds as the Downing Street parties saga.

"I think people will be affected by 'Partygate'," said David, a retired medical consultant.&nbsp;

"But I think the main thing we're going to be affected by is being hit by the inflation and the rising cost of living from the point of view of heating, energy and the knock-on effect on food prices and transport."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-is-good-to-be-in-kyiv-again-uk-pm-boris-johnson-meets-zelensky-amid-ukraine-war-489246">'It is good to be in Kyiv again': UK PM Boris Johnson meets Zelensky amid Ukraine war</a>

The contest there also comes with risks for Labour, which needs to secure seats like Wakefield if it is to win the next general election due by 2024.

Labour leader Keir Starmer, a sober-minded former lawyer who has been trying to rebuild the centre-left party after the shattering 2019 defeat, has been criticised for failing to connect with voters, particularly in its former heartlands.

Anything less than a convincing win in Wakefield is likely to be seized upon by his critics as further evidence of his inability to complete the rebuild and return the party to power after 12 years in opposition.

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Voters head to the polls on Thursday in two closely watched UK by-elections that risk renewing pressure on beleaguered Prime Minister Boris Johnson following months of scandals and setbacks.

Voters head to the polls on Thursday in two closely watched UK by-elections that risk renewing pressure on beleaguered Prime Minister Boris Johnson following months of scandals and setbacks. His ruling Conservatives are tipped to lose both contests, for the parliamentary seats of Tiverton and Honiton in southwest England and Wakefield in the north, after both Tory MPs resigned in disgrace. Tiverton and Honiton's MP Neil Parish quit after admitting watching pornography on his phone in the House of Commons, while Wakefield's Imran Ahmad Khan was jailed for sexually assaulting a teenage boy. Also read | As biggest rail strike in 30 years starts, UK PM Boris Johnson seeks 'sensible compromise' The votes come just weeks after Johnson narrowly survived an attempt by his own lawmakers to oust him as party leader and prime minister. The June 6 vote among Conservative MPs saw more than 40 per cent of the parliamentary party desert him, leaving him severely weakened and struggling to reset his turbulent tenure in power. Johnson has spent months fighting for his survival after a series of controversies including the "Partygate" saga led many Tories to question whether he should remain as leader. Various opinion polls have shown the public think he lied about Covid lockdown-breaking events at Downing Street and should resign. Even before the controversy erupted last December, the 58-year-old Brexit architect saw the loss of two once-safe seats in by-elections last year. He then scored dismally in May's local elections. Defeat in the true blue Tory heartland of Tiverton and Honiton, and in Wakefield, which Johnson snatched in 2019 from the main opposition Labour party for the first time since the 1930s, could see his position challenged again. Madness Parish, who described his actions as an indefensible moment of "total madness", won a more than 24,000 majority in Tiverton and Honiton in 2019. There, the small opposition Liberal Democrats are hopeful of picking up the seat in rural Devon after overturning similarly large majorities in two other historically safe Tory seats in 2021. Watch | Despite backlash, UK PM Boris Johnson defends British migration policy Wakefield, near Leeds, was one of dozens of so-called Labour "red wall" seats that Johnson took in 2019 on a promise to "get Brexit done" and address glaring regional economic inequalities. But it could now flip back due in part to Johnson's waning popularity. "Anything is better than the Tory Party, as far as I'm concerned -- especially Boris Johnson," long-time Labour voter Stephen, a 61-year-old hospitality worker, told AFP this week. Partygate and prices The polls come with Britain gripped by 40-year highs in inflation and a cost-of-living crisis that has seen prices soar for everyday essential such as energy, petrol and food. Strikes this week by railway workers -- some of the biggest seen in Britain in decades -- have added to the sense of crisis. Some in Wakefield said they expected that to weigh as heavily on voters' minds as the Downing Street parties saga. "I think people will be affected by 'Partygate'," said David, a retired medical consultant. "But I think the main thing we're going to be affected by is being hit by the inflation and the rising cost of living from the point of view of heating, energy and the knock-on effect on food prices and transport." Also read | 'It is good to be in Kyiv again': UK PM Boris Johnson meets Zelensky amid Ukraine war The contest there also comes with risks for Labour, which needs to secure seats like Wakefield if it is to win the next general election due by 2024. Labour leader Keir Starmer, a sober-minded former lawyer who has been trying to rebuild the centre-left party after the shattering 2019 defeat, has been criticised for failing to connect with voters, particularly in its former heartlands. Anything less than a convincing win in Wakefield is likely to be seized upon by his critics as further evidence of his inability to complete the rebuild and return the party to power after 12 years in opposition. 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.

UK by-elections pose fresh threat to Boris Johnson

A group of employees called AppleCORE (Coalition of Organized Retail Employees) campaigned for unionisation, resulting in a majority of employees at a US Apple store having voted to form a union, a first for Apple, which has so far tried to discourage unionizing attempts.&nbsp;

Of the 110 employees at the Towson, Maryland shop, 65 voted in favour and 33 against, according to a live count broadcast Saturday by the federal agency overseeing the vote.

"We did it, Towson! We won our union vote! Thanks to all who worked so hard and all who supported us! Now we celebrate... Tomorrow we keep organizing," AppleCORE tweeted.

They are demanding a say in deciding on wages, hours and safety measures.&nbsp;

Saturday's result means that the shop's employees, who have been voting since Wednesday, should form their own branch of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) union, once the agency has certified the results.&nbsp;

IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr said he applauded the workers' "courage."

"They made a huge sacrifice for thousands of Apple employees across the nation who had all eyes on this election. I ask Apple CEO Tim Cook to respect the election results and fast-track a first contract for the dedicated IAM CORE Apple employees in Towson," he said in a statement.

"This victory shows the growing demand for unions at Apple stores and different industries across our nation." 
It was not the first time employees at an Apple store have tried to unionize, but it was the first attempt that resulted in a vote.&nbsp;

Apple's director of distribution and human resources, Deirdre O'Brien, visited the shop in May to address employees, and said, "I want to start out by saying it's your right to join a union, but it's equally your right not to join a union.”

"If you’re faced with that decision, I want to encourage you to consult a wide range of people and sources to understand what it could be like to work at Apple under a collective bargaining agreement," &nbsp;he added.

She said that the presence of an intermediary would complicate relations between Apple and its employees.&nbsp; 
Unions, on the decline for decades, have won several symbolic victories in the United States in recent months, with President Joe Biden voicing his support. &nbsp;

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/wion-insights/what-did-wto-ministerial-agree-on-and-why-are-these-agreements-historic-489400">&nbsp;What did WTO ministerial agree on? And why are these agreements historic?</a>

After a union was formed at two Starbucks coffee shops in December in the northern city of Buffalo, employees at more than 160 of the chain's locations have filed for similar votes.&nbsp;

At Amazon, employees at a New York warehouse surprised everyone in early April by voting overwhelmingly to form a union, a first for the online retail colossus in the United States.

But the company has asked for the result to be cancelled and a second vote to be held.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

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A group of employees called AppleCORE (Coalition of Organized Retail Employees) campaigned for unionisation, resulting in a majority of employees at a US Apple store having voted to form a union, a first for Apple, which has so far tried to discourage unionizing attempts.

A group of employees called AppleCORE (Coalition of Organized Retail Employees) campaigned for unionisation, resulting in a majority of employees at a US Apple store having voted to form a union, a first for Apple, which has so far tried to discourage unionizing attempts. Of the 110 employees at the Towson, Maryland shop, 65 voted in favour and 33 against, according to a live count broadcast Saturday by the federal agency overseeing the vote. "We did it, Towson! We won our union vote! Thanks to all who worked so hard and all who supported us! Now we celebrate... Tomorrow we keep organizing," AppleCORE tweeted. They are demanding a say in deciding on wages, hours and safety measures. Saturday's result means that the shop's employees, who have been voting since Wednesday, should form their own branch of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) union, once the agency has certified the results. IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr said he applauded the workers' "courage." "They made a huge sacrifice for thousands of Apple employees across the nation who had all eyes on this election. I ask Apple CEO Tim Cook to respect the election results and fast-track a first contract for the dedicated IAM CORE Apple employees in Towson," he said in a statement. "This victory shows the growing demand for unions at Apple stores and different industries across our nation." It was not the first time employees at an Apple store have tried to unionize, but it was the first attempt that resulted in a vote. Apple's director of distribution and human resources, Deirdre O'Brien, visited the shop in May to address employees, and said, "I want to start out by saying it's your right to join a union, but it's equally your right not to join a union.” "If you’re faced with that decision, I want to encourage you to consult a wide range of people and sources to understand what it could be like to work at Apple under a collective bargaining agreement," he added. She said that the presence of an intermediary would complicate relations between Apple and its employees. Unions, on the decline for decades, have won several symbolic victories in the United States in recent months, with President Joe Biden voicing his support. Also Read: What did WTO ministerial agree on? And why are these agreements historic? After a union was formed at two Starbucks coffee shops in December in the northern city of Buffalo, employees at more than 160 of the chain's locations have filed for similar votes. At Amazon, employees at a New York warehouse surprised everyone in early April by voting overwhelmingly to form a union, a first for the online retail colossus in the United States. But the company has asked for the result to be cancelled and a second vote to be held. (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.

United States: Apple store workers vote to form union

In pics: Former prime minister’s daughter takes Shinawatra brand to influence new Thai generation

At least 145 British lawmakers from Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Conservative Party had publicly indicated support for him ahead of a confidence vote over his leadership on Monday, a Reuters tally showed.

A total of 180 votes would be enough to ensure he survives the leadership challenge. The ballot will be secret and there is no guarantee lawmakers will vote in line with their public statements.

The vote is due to commence at 6 p.m. (1700 GMT), with a result expected at 9 p.m.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-updates-british-pm-boris-johnson-faces-no-confidence-vote-today-485627">Check out the LIVE updates here</a>

Johnson, who scored a sweeping election victory in 2019, has been under increasing pressure after he and staff held alcohol-fuelled parties in his Downing Street office and residence when Britain was under strict lockdowns due to COVID-19.

Should he lose the vote, a leadership contest would follow to decide his replacement, which could take several weeks.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-boris-johnson-suffered-a-stunning-political-reversal-485707">How Boris Johnson suffered a stunning political reversal</a>

In what might concern Johnson's team, he said he was not aware of "any orchestrated campaign" to oust the prime minister, which suggests a more spontaneous rebellion than ones that have felled leaders in the past.

A spokesperson for Johnson's Downing Street office said the vote would "allow the government to draw a line and move on" and that the prime minister welcomed the opportunity to make his case to lawmakers.

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least 145 British lawmakers from Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Conservative Party had publicly indicated support for him ahead of a confidence vote over his leadership on Monday, a Reuters tally showed.

At least 145 British lawmakers from Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Conservative Party had publicly indicated support for him ahead of a confidence vote over his leadership on Monday, a Reuters tally showed. A total of 180 votes would be enough to ensure he survives the leadership challenge. The ballot will be secret and there is no guarantee lawmakers will vote in line with their public statements. The vote is due to commence at 6 p.m. (1700 GMT), with a result expected at 9 p.m. Check out the LIVE updates here Johnson, who scored a sweeping election victory in 2019, has been under increasing pressure after he and staff held alcohol-fuelled parties in his Downing Street office and residence when Britain was under strict lockdowns due to COVID-19. Should he lose the vote, a leadership contest would follow to decide his replacement, which could take several weeks. Also Read | How Boris Johnson suffered a stunning political reversal In what might concern Johnson's team, he said he was not aware of "any orchestrated campaign" to oust the prime minister, which suggests a more spontaneous rebellion than ones that have felled leaders in the past. A spokesperson for Johnson's Downing Street office said the vote would "allow the government to draw a line and move on" and that the prime minister welcomed the opportunity to make his case to lawmakers. (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 ×

UK PM Boris Johnson enjoys support from at least 145 lawmakers: Report

On Thursday, Pakistan's National Assembly passed a law repealing former Prime Minister Imran Khan's election reforms, which gave foreigners the ability to vote via I-Voting and the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs) in the country.

The Parliamentary Affairs Minister Murtaza Javed Abbasi's Elections (Amendment) Bill 2022 was passed by a majority vote in the lower house, with only members of the Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) voting against it.

Before submitting the measure, Abbasi proposed a move that would allow the law to be brought to the Senate for approval without going through the relevant standing committee.

According to Pakistan's Dawn newspaper, the bill will be forwarded to the Senate on Friday.

Azam Nazeer Tarar, a minister in the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), described the bill as "extremely significant," recalling that the ousted Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government had made numerous amendments to the Election Act, 2017, including those that allowed the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs) and gave overseas Pakistanis the right to vote in general elections.

The revisions were enacted by the PTI administration through the Elections (Second Amendment) Bill, 2021, which it rammed through the National Assembly with 32 other bills on November 17, last year, according to Tarar.

The minister also stated that Thursday's measure aimed to restore the Elections Act of 2017 to its original form, assuring free, fair, and transparent elections.

Two adjustments to Sections 94 and 103 of the statute are being made under the new bill, according to Tarar, both of which deal with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) undertaking pilot projects for overseas voting and the use of EVMs.

He said the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had also expressed its inability to hold elections through I-Voting and EVMs in a short span of time and without proper homework.

The amendment under Section 94 of the Election Act, 2017, suggests the ECP may conduct pilot projects for voting by overseas Pakistanis in by-elections to ascertain the technical efficacy, secrecy, security, and financial feasibility of such voting and shall share the results with the government.

It said the report would be laid before both houses of Parliament within 15 days from the commencement of a session of each house.

According to the law minister, the Election Commission of Pakistan had also raised objections to the use of EVMs.

He, however, clarified that the government was not against the use of the technology, and that holding polls using EVMs on a single day was "impossible".

"We only have concerns about the misuse of technology as the results transmission system has failed in the last general elections to favour a particular political party," he said.

He also dispelled the impression that the amendments were aimed at depriving overseas Pakistanis of their right to vote.

"Overseas Pakistanis are a precious asset to the country and the government does not believe in snatching their right to vote," he said.

Meanwhile, the PTI has strongly criticised the move and termed it a "regressive and condemnable act" by the government led by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Prime Minister Shehbaz Sherif.

PTI vice-chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi tweeted: "PTI gave over nine million overseas Pakistanis the right to vote." Today, this band of thieves and thugs removed it, disenfranchising a staggering number of Pakistanis and barring the use of electronic voting machines. "

GDA lawmaker Ghous Bakhsh Mehr, on the other hand, said that EVMs were being used across the world and Pakistan should at least try using them.

"If not the whole country, then use them in some areas," he said.

During the National Assembly session, details of the expenses for the next general elections were shared.

According to the electoral watchdog's estimates, fresh polls will cost about Rs 47.41 billion, of which around Rs 15 billion will be for ensuring security.

The election commission had estimated the cost of conducting electronic voting at Rs 5.6 billion, while printing ballot papers would cost Rs 4.83 billion.

Further, Rs 1.79 billion would be spent on training polling staff. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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On Thursday, Pakistan's National Assembly passed a law repealing former Prime Minister Imran Khan's election reforms, which gave foreigners the ability to vote via I-Voting and the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs) in the country.

On Thursday, Pakistan's National Assembly passed a law repealing former Prime Minister Imran Khan's election reforms, which gave foreigners the ability to vote via I-Voting and the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs) in the country. The Parliamentary Affairs Minister Murtaza Javed Abbasi's Elections (Amendment) Bill 2022 was passed by a majority vote in the lower house, with only members of the Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) voting against it. Before submitting the measure, Abbasi proposed a move that would allow the law to be brought to the Senate for approval without going through the relevant standing committee. According to Pakistan's Dawn newspaper, the bill will be forwarded to the Senate on Friday. Azam Nazeer Tarar, a minister in the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), described the bill as "extremely significant," recalling that the ousted Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government had made numerous amendments to the Election Act, 2017, including those that allowed the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs) and gave overseas Pakistanis the right to vote in general elections. The revisions were enacted by the PTI administration through the Elections (Second Amendment) Bill, 2021, which it rammed through the National Assembly with 32 other bills on November 17, last year, according to Tarar. The minister also stated that Thursday's measure aimed to restore the Elections Act of 2017 to its original form, assuring free, fair, and transparent elections. Two adjustments to Sections 94 and 103 of the statute are being made under the new bill, according to Tarar, both of which deal with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) undertaking pilot projects for overseas voting and the use of EVMs. He said the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had also expressed its inability to hold elections through I-Voting and EVMs in a short span of time and without proper homework. The amendment under Section 94 of the Election Act, 2017, suggests the ECP may conduct pilot projects for voting by overseas Pakistanis in by-elections to ascertain the technical efficacy, secrecy, security, and financial feasibility of such voting and shall share the results with the government. It said the report would be laid before both houses of Parliament within 15 days from the commencement of a session of each house. According to the law minister, the Election Commission of Pakistan had also raised objections to the use of EVMs. He, however, clarified that the government was not against the use of the technology, and that holding polls using EVMs on a single day was "impossible". "We only have concerns about the misuse of technology as the results transmission system has failed in the last general elections to favour a particular political party," he said. He also dispelled the impression that the amendments were aimed at depriving overseas Pakistanis of their right to vote. "Overseas Pakistanis are a precious asset to the country and the government does not believe in snatching their right to vote," he said. Meanwhile, the PTI has strongly criticised the move and termed it a "regressive and condemnable act" by the government led by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Prime Minister Shehbaz Sherif. PTI vice-chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi tweeted: "PTI gave over nine million overseas Pakistanis the right to vote." Today, this band of thieves and thugs removed it, disenfranchising a staggering number of Pakistanis and barring the use of electronic voting machines. " GDA lawmaker Ghous Bakhsh Mehr, on the other hand, said that EVMs were being used across the world and Pakistan should at least try using them. "If not the whole country, then use them in some areas," he said. During the National Assembly session, details of the expenses for the next general elections were shared. According to the electoral watchdog's estimates, fresh polls will cost about Rs 47.41 billion, of which around Rs 15 billion will be for ensuring security. The election commission had estimated the cost of conducting electronic voting at Rs 5.6 billion, while printing ballot papers would cost Rs 4.83 billion. Further, Rs 1.79 billion would be spent on training polling staff. (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.

Pakistan's national assembly approves bill to bar overseas citizens from voting, stop use of EVMs

Australia elections 2022: Candidates campaigning on different areas to seek victory

Polling started for Australian general elections on Saturday (May 21). Opinion polls are showing that opposition Labour Party is narrowly ahead of the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Centre-left Labour has been in the opposition for nine years. Though it showed decent lead going into the campaign, Prime Minister Scott Morrison's Liberal-National government narrowed the gap in the final stretch of a tough, six-week campaign.

If climate-focused independents performed well, it may result in a hung parliament.

In-person voting at polling booths in suburban schools, beachside pavilions and outback halls opened at 8 a.m. (2200 GMT on Friday) and will close at 6 p.m. (0800 GMT).

Initial results should be known by Saturday evening. &nbsp;although the Australian Electoral Commission has flagged a clear winner may not immediately emerge if it is a close contest due to the time required to count about 3 million postal votes.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-reports-48-year-low-jobless-rate-before-election-480324">Australia reports 48-year-low jobless rate before election</a>

Labor Party leader Anthony Albanese (57) has called PM Scott Morrison "divisive" and has urged people to turn away from him. He has promised to end Australia's foot dragging on climate change, help people struggling with soaring prices, and to hold a referendum on giving indigenous people an institutional voice in national policy making.&nbsp;

"I feel a sense of momentum," Albanese said as he visited a polling station in Melbourne, posing for selfies with locals and their dogs.

"Give Labor a crack. We have plans for this country," Albanese said as election day began, describing the prime minister as "the most divisive I've ever seen".

"We have plans to embrace the opportunities that are there from acting on climate change," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Polling started for Australian general elections on Saturday (May 21). Opinion polls are showing that opposition Labour Party is narrowly ahead of the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

Polling started for Australian general elections on Saturday (May 21). Opinion polls are showing that opposition Labour Party is narrowly ahead of the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Centre-left Labour has been in the opposition for nine years. Though it showed decent lead going into the campaign, Prime Minister Scott Morrison's Liberal-National government narrowed the gap in the final stretch of a tough, six-week campaign. If climate-focused independents performed well, it may result in a hung parliament. In-person voting at polling booths in suburban schools, beachside pavilions and outback halls opened at 8 a.m. (2200 GMT on Friday) and will close at 6 p.m. (0800 GMT). Initial results should be known by Saturday evening. although the Australian Electoral Commission has flagged a clear winner may not immediately emerge if it is a close contest due to the time required to count about 3 million postal votes. Also Read | Australia reports 48-year-low jobless rate before election Labor Party leader Anthony Albanese (57) has called PM Scott Morrison "divisive" and has urged people to turn away from him. He has promised to end Australia's foot dragging on climate change, help people struggling with soaring prices, and to hold a referendum on giving indigenous people an institutional voice in national policy making. "I feel a sense of momentum," Albanese said as he visited a polling station in Melbourne, posing for selfies with locals and their dogs. "Give Labor a crack. We have plans for this country," Albanese said as election day began, describing the prime minister as "the most divisive I've ever seen". "We have plans to embrace the opportunities that are there from acting on climate change," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Voting begins in Australian general election

Australians on Saturday (May 21) voted in the general elections. The mandate of the voter is sealed in the boxes across the country. Will current Prime Minister Scott Morrison be able to retain his post or will the Labor Party leave the opposition benches after years? Everything hangs in balance. While the officials count votes, let's take a look at the election process and Australian democratic institutions.

How many seats are up for grabs in the Australian general election?

Voting is on to elect members of the lower house of Australian parliament (The House of Representatives). It has 151 seats. 40 seats from upper chamber of the parliament are up for grabs as well. Representatives stay in office for three years while members of the Senate assume office for six years.

Voting is compulsory for Australians. If a registered voter does not vote, he/ she has to pay A$20 as fine.

How many seats are needed to win elections in Australia?

76 out of 151 seats are required for a majority to form a government.

How was the tally last time?

In the last parliament, coalition of conservatives had 76 seats. The Labour had 68 with seven minor party and independent members.&nbsp;

There are 76 senate seats; 12 for each of the six states and two each for two territories. In the last parliament, the coalition held 36 seats and Labor 26, with a crossbench of 14.

There are 40 seats up for election: six from each state and the four territory seats.

Who becomes the prime minister?

The party which gains most seats, decides who would be the prime minister from its ranks

What are the issues and factors affecting the current election?

Economy

Challenges are ahead for the winner include inflation, which at two-decade highs and picking up pace, interest rates that have just started rising for the first time in more than 11 years, while pandemic spending portends massive budget deficits in the years ahead. Fortunately, unemployment is its lowest in almost 50 years

Climate

A cohort of climate-conscious independent candidates threatens some safe government seats, agitating for greater action after three years of fire, floods and pandemic. It is possible they could unseat some prominent government members and even hold the balance of power.

Pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/australia-election-2022-from-top-candidates-to-how-it-works-all-you-need-to-know-480926#top-candidates-480911">Australia election 2022: From top candidates to how it works, all you need to know</a>

Foreign policy

Foreign policy became an unlikely election issue after Prime Minister Scott Morrison sought to trumpet his national security credentials and claim Labor was not up to the job, only to be undercut by the Solomon Islands signing a security pact with China.

Character

Morrison has promised a change in his style of governing, conceding he had been a "bit of a bulldozer", after his personality became an electoral liability.

Labor leader Anthony Albanese has offered an alternative based on his working-class roots and pragmatic style.

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Australians on Saturday (May 21) voted in the general elections. The mandate of the voter is sealed in the boxes across the country. Will current Prime Minister Scott Morrison be able to retain his post or will the Labor Party leave the opposition benches after years?

Australians on Saturday (May 21) voted in the general elections. The mandate of the voter is sealed in the boxes across the country. Will current Prime Minister Scott Morrison be able to retain his post or will the Labor Party leave the opposition benches after years? Everything hangs in balance. While the officials count votes, let's take a look at the election process and Australian democratic institutions. How many seats are up for grabs in the Australian general election? Voting is on to elect members of the lower house of Australian parliament (The House of Representatives). It has 151 seats. 40 seats from upper chamber of the parliament are up for grabs as well. Representatives stay in office for three years while members of the Senate assume office for six years. Voting is compulsory for Australians. If a registered voter does not vote, he/ she has to pay A$20 as fine. How many seats are needed to win elections in Australia? 76 out of 151 seats are required for a majority to form a government. How was the tally last time? In the last parliament, coalition of conservatives had 76 seats. The Labour had 68 with seven minor party and independent members. There are 76 senate seats; 12 for each of the six states and two each for two territories. In the last parliament, the coalition held 36 seats and Labor 26, with a crossbench of 14. There are 40 seats up for election: six from each state and the four territory seats. Who becomes the prime minister? The party which gains most seats, decides who would be the prime minister from its ranks What are the issues and factors affecting the current election? Economy Challenges are ahead for the winner include inflation, which at two-decade highs and picking up pace, interest rates that have just started rising for the first time in more than 11 years, while pandemic spending portends massive budget deficits in the years ahead. Fortunately, unemployment is its lowest in almost 50 years Climate A cohort of climate-conscious independent candidates threatens some safe government seats, agitating for greater action after three years of fire, floods and pandemic. It is possible they could unseat some prominent government members and even hold the balance of power. Pics | Australia election 2022: From top candidates to how it works, all you need to know Foreign policy Foreign policy became an unlikely election issue after Prime Minister Scott Morrison sought to trumpet his national security credentials and claim Labor was not up to the job, only to be undercut by the Solomon Islands signing a security pact with China. Character Morrison has promised a change in his style of governing, conceding he had been a "bit of a bulldozer", after his personality became an electoral liability. Labor leader Anthony Albanese has offered an alternative based on his working-class roots and pragmatic style. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Australian general election 2022: What you need to know

In pics: Curry-gate and other Australian election moments to remember

Philippines Election 2022: After Marcos Jr’s win, hundreds of people stage protest against him

Explainer-A guide to the Philippines election this year

It is a crucial day for Sri Lanka, the island nation reconvened its parliament yesterday and today voting will be held to elect a new deputy speaker.

Sri Lanka: Voting in parliament to elect a deputy speaker

In Pics: Brazil’s Bolsonaro, Lula stage campaigns for upcoming presidential elections

People across&nbsp;East&nbsp;Timor&nbsp;went to the polls on Tuesday to choose either a Nobel laureate or a former guerrilla fighter -- the incumbent&nbsp;president&nbsp;-- as their&nbsp;next&nbsp;leader.

Frontrunner Jose Ramos-Horta has pledged to break a longstanding deadlock between the two main political parties in Southeast Asia's youngest country should he win the run-off election against&nbsp;President&nbsp;Francisco "Lu-Olo" Guterres.

"If I win ... I will hold a dialogue with political parties, including (Guterres') Fretilin, so they can work together to maintain stability and peace in&nbsp;Timor-Leste," the Nobel peace prize winner told journalists Tuesday, holding aloft a finger stained purple after casting his vote.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stung-by-the-poison-pill-elon-musk-takes-a-dig-at-twitter-boards-salaries-472114">Stung by the 'poison' pill, Elon Musk takes a dig at Twitter board's salaries</a>

Former guerilla leader Guterres, meanwhile, promised "to ensure national stability, and to adhere to the mission as&nbsp;president&nbsp;of the republic, which is inseparable from the constitution", at a polling station in the capital Dili.

Both candidates have pledged to respect the election results regardless of the outcome.

The poll is a rematch of a 2007 election won handily by Ramos-Horta, a former revolutionary hero.&nbsp;

Nearly 860,000 of&nbsp;East&nbsp;Timor's 1.3 million citizens are eligible to vote, and ballot counting could take several days.

Ramos-Horta was dominant in the election's first round on March 19, winning 46 percent of&nbsp;votes&nbsp;versus&nbsp;President&nbsp;Francisco "Lu-Olo" Guterres' 22 percent, but failed to secure the needed majority.

Participation across the nation reached 77 percent as voters chose between 16 candidates.&nbsp;

The winner will take office for five years from May 20 -- the 20th anniversary of&nbsp;East&nbsp;Timor's independence from Indonesia, which occupied the former Portuguese colony for 24 years.

The election is seen as a chance to reset a political deadlock between the National Congress of the Reconstruction of&nbsp;Timor-Leste&nbsp;(CNRT) and Guterres' Revolutionary Front for an Independent&nbsp;East&nbsp;Timor&nbsp;(Fretilin).&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Global Headlines: Egypt approves India as wheat supplier

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Guterres, 67, was elected as the country's leader in 2017 with the support of former rebel Xanana Gusmao, the country's first&nbsp;president&nbsp;and current CNRT leader.

But Gusmao has this time thrown his party's weight behind Ramos-Horta, who won the Nobel peace prize in 1996 for his efforts towards ending the conflict in&nbsp;East&nbsp;Timor&nbsp;and was the main spokesperson of the independence movement.

The 72-year-old, who survived an assassination attempt in 2008, served as the country's first prime minister before his presidential term from 2007 to 2012. He came out of retirement to challenge Guterres after accusing him of violating the constitution.

The&nbsp;president&nbsp;has refused to endorse CNRT ministers since 2018, plunging the country into political paralysis.

Ramos-Horta indicated he could dissolve the parliament if elected to end the deadlock.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/one-of-the-most-mysterious-buildings-in-us-to-open-for-public-after-almost-half-a-century-472112">One of the most mysterious buildings in US to open for public after almost half a century</a>

In the 2007 presidential election, Ramos-Horta won by 69 percent while Guterres gained 31 percent of the&nbsp;votes.

The tiny nation is still grappling with the Covid-19 pandemic's impact on its economy.

Speaking to AFP outside a polling station, university student Lizia Bahkita de Araujo, 27, said she hoped whoever won would focus on education.

"During the Covid-19 pandemic, students faced a difficult situation because their classes were moved online, and it did not go well because of the bad internet," de Araujo said, adding jobs for the country's young were also a pressing concern.

According to the World Bank, 42 percent of the population lives in poverty.

People across East Timor went to the polls on Tuesday to choose either a Nobel laureate or a former guerrilla fighter -- the incumbent president -- as their next leader.

People across East Timor went to the polls on Tuesday to choose either a Nobel laureate or a former guerrilla fighter -- the incumbent president -- as their next leader. Frontrunner Jose Ramos-Horta has pledged to break a longstanding deadlock between the two main political parties in Southeast Asia's youngest country should he win the run-off election against President Francisco "Lu-Olo" Guterres. "If I win ... I will hold a dialogue with political parties, including (Guterres') Fretilin, so they can work together to maintain stability and peace in Timor-Leste," the Nobel peace prize winner told journalists Tuesday, holding aloft a finger stained purple after casting his vote. Also read | Stung by the 'poison' pill, Elon Musk takes a dig at Twitter board's salaries Former guerilla leader Guterres, meanwhile, promised "to ensure national stability, and to adhere to the mission as president of the republic, which is inseparable from the constitution", at a polling station in the capital Dili. Both candidates have pledged to respect the election results regardless of the outcome. The poll is a rematch of a 2007 election won handily by Ramos-Horta, a former revolutionary hero. Nearly 860,000 of East Timor's 1.3 million citizens are eligible to vote, and ballot counting could take several days. Ramos-Horta was dominant in the election's first round on March 19, winning 46 percent of votes versus President Francisco "Lu-Olo" Guterres' 22 percent, but failed to secure the needed majority. Participation across the nation reached 77 percent as voters chose between 16 candidates. The winner will take office for five years from May 20 -- the 20th anniversary of East Timor's independence from Indonesia, which occupied the former Portuguese colony for 24 years. The election is seen as a chance to reset a political deadlock between the National Congress of the Reconstruction of Timor-Leste (CNRT) and Guterres' Revolutionary Front for an Independent East Timor (Fretilin). Watch | Gravitas Global Headlines: Egypt approves India as wheat supplier Guterres, 67, was elected as the country's leader in 2017 with the support of former rebel Xanana Gusmao, the country's first president and current CNRT leader. But Gusmao has this time thrown his party's weight behind Ramos-Horta, who won the Nobel peace prize in 1996 for his efforts towards ending the conflict in East Timor and was the main spokesperson of the independence movement. The 72-year-old, who survived an assassination attempt in 2008, served as the country's first prime minister before his presidential term from 2007 to 2012. He came out of retirement to challenge Guterres after accusing him of violating the constitution. The president has refused to endorse CNRT ministers since 2018, plunging the country into political paralysis. Ramos-Horta indicated he could dissolve the parliament if elected to end the deadlock. Also read | One of the most mysterious buildings in US to open for public after almost half a century In the 2007 presidential election, Ramos-Horta won by 69 percent while Guterres gained 31 percent of the votes. The tiny nation is still grappling with the Covid-19 pandemic's impact on its economy. Speaking to AFP outside a polling station, university student Lizia Bahkita de Araujo, 27, said she hoped whoever won would focus on education. "During the Covid-19 pandemic, students faced a difficult situation because their classes were moved online, and it did not go well because of the bad internet," de Araujo said, adding jobs for the country's young were also a pressing concern. According to the World Bank, 42 percent of the population lives in poverty.

East Timor votes to pick next president

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Sunday easily survived a divisive referendum on whether he should step down or complete his term -- a vote marked by low turnout, initial results showed.

With an approval rating of nearly 60 per cent, Lopez Obrador's presidency had never appeared seriously at risk, and the left-wing populist was himself one of the vote's biggest cheerleaders.

The 68-year-old president, elected in 2018 for a six-year term, won a majority of around 90.3-91.9 per cent in favor of his staying in office until 2024, according to a preliminary vote count by the National Electoral Institute.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-unusual-step-mexico-president-asks-voters-if-he-should-go-469282">In an unusual step, Mexico president asks voters if he should go</a>

The turnout rate was between 17 and 18.2 per cent, meaning that even if Lopez Obrador had lost, the result would not have been legally binding.

Supporters of the referendum -- the first of its kind in Mexico -- said it was a way of increasing democratic accountability, giving voters the opportunity to remove the president due to loss of confidence.

"Now we have the chance to change what's not right. There have been presidents who, after being elected by the people, ended up serving other interests," Benigno Gasca, a 57-year-old mathematician and musician, told AFP.

Useless exercise

But critics saw it as expensive propaganda and an unnecessary distraction from the many challenges facing the country, including drug-related violence, poverty and the rising cost of living.

"It's a useless exercise -- money thrown away," said Laura Gonzalez, a 62-year-old retired teacher.

Lopez Obrador cast his vote early Sunday with his wife at a polling station near the presidential palace.

"Let no one forget that the people are in charge," he declared afterwards.

Mexico's constitution limits presidents to one term, and Lopez Obrador has vowed to retire in 2024, following accusations by opponents that the referendum was a step towards trying to stay in power beyond then.

Watch |&nbsp;India is an important partner in Trade, Space says Mexico Foreign minister Ebrard

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Mario Delgado, leader of the ruling party Morena, said voters had recognized Lopez Obrador's "dedication to the most needy and the enormous moral authority with which he governs."

"Only an indomitable, unwavering democrat like him can subject himself to a recall process," he added.

But Marko Cortes, of the conservative opposition party PAN, said the vote was marked "by illegality, lies, manipulation and the diversion of public resources."

Alejandro Moreno of the PRI, which ruled Mexico for seven decades until 2000, tweeted that Morena had turned the referendum into a "mockery" to "satisfy its own ego and continue deceiving Mexicans."

Sustenance of democracy

Some 93 million voters were eligible to participate in the midterm referendum, which was incorporated into Mexico's constitution in 2019 at Lopez Obrador's initiative.

Most of the signatures that were collected in order for the vote to happen came from his supporters.

Experts had predicted that a win could give impetus to Lopez Obrador's policy agenda, such as controversial energy reforms.

The president also has his eye on the 2024 elections and the prospects for his party and possible successors, including Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum.

Lopez Obrador enjoyed an approval rating of 58 per cent in March, although that was far below a peak of 81 per cent seen in February 2019, according to a poll of polls by the Oraculus&nbsp;firm.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/space-and-pharma-to-be-key-focus-of-mexico-fms-india-visit-tomorrow-466726">Space and pharma to be key focus of Mexico FM’s India visit on Wednesday</a>

Carmen Sobrino, a 64-year-old housewife, said she heeded the call to vote because she was happy with Lopez Obrador.

"I hope he continues," she said after casting her ballot in the capital.

Another voter, 59-year-old economist Flor Mercedes Rodriguez, saw the referendum as a chance to "resume the culture of citizen participation... It's the sustenance of democracy."

The president accused the National Electoral Institute before the vote of sabotaging the exercise in collusion with his political opponents by failing to do enough to promote it.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Sunday easily survived a divisive referendum on whether he should step down or complete his term -- a vote marked by low turnout, initial results showed.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Sunday easily survived a divisive referendum on whether he should step down or complete his term -- a vote marked by low turnout, initial results showed. With an approval rating of nearly 60 per cent, Lopez Obrador's presidency had never appeared seriously at risk, and the left-wing populist was himself one of the vote's biggest cheerleaders. The 68-year-old president, elected in 2018 for a six-year term, won a majority of around 90.3-91.9 per cent in favor of his staying in office until 2024, according to a preliminary vote count by the National Electoral Institute. Also read | In an unusual step, Mexico president asks voters if he should go The turnout rate was between 17 and 18.2 per cent, meaning that even if Lopez Obrador had lost, the result would not have been legally binding. Supporters of the referendum -- the first of its kind in Mexico -- said it was a way of increasing democratic accountability, giving voters the opportunity to remove the president due to loss of confidence. "Now we have the chance to change what's not right. There have been presidents who, after being elected by the people, ended up serving other interests," Benigno Gasca, a 57-year-old mathematician and musician, told AFP. Useless exercise But critics saw it as expensive propaganda and an unnecessary distraction from the many challenges facing the country, including drug-related violence, poverty and the rising cost of living. "It's a useless exercise -- money thrown away," said Laura Gonzalez, a 62-year-old retired teacher. Lopez Obrador cast his vote early Sunday with his wife at a polling station near the presidential palace. "Let no one forget that the people are in charge," he declared afterwards. Mexico's constitution limits presidents to one term, and Lopez Obrador has vowed to retire in 2024, following accusations by opponents that the referendum was a step towards trying to stay in power beyond then. Watch | India is an important partner in Trade, Space says Mexico Foreign minister Ebrard Mario Delgado, leader of the ruling party Morena, said voters had recognized Lopez Obrador's "dedication to the most needy and the enormous moral authority with which he governs." "Only an indomitable, unwavering democrat like him can subject himself to a recall process," he added. But Marko Cortes, of the conservative opposition party PAN, said the vote was marked "by illegality, lies, manipulation and the diversion of public resources." Alejandro Moreno of the PRI, which ruled Mexico for seven decades until 2000, tweeted that Morena had turned the referendum into a "mockery" to "satisfy its own ego and continue deceiving Mexicans." Sustenance of democracy Some 93 million voters were eligible to participate in the midterm referendum, which was incorporated into Mexico's constitution in 2019 at Lopez Obrador's initiative. Most of the signatures that were collected in order for the vote to happen came from his supporters. Experts had predicted that a win could give impetus to Lopez Obrador's policy agenda, such as controversial energy reforms. The president also has his eye on the 2024 elections and the prospects for his party and possible successors, including Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum. Lopez Obrador enjoyed an approval rating of 58 per cent in March, although that was far below a peak of 81 per cent seen in February 2019, according to a poll of polls by the Oraculus firm. Also read | Space and pharma to be key focus of Mexico FM’s India visit on Wednesday Carmen Sobrino, a 64-year-old housewife, said she heeded the call to vote because she was happy with Lopez Obrador. "I hope he continues," she said after casting her ballot in the capital. Another voter, 59-year-old economist Flor Mercedes Rodriguez, saw the referendum as a chance to "resume the culture of citizen participation... It's the sustenance of democracy." The president accused the National Electoral Institute before the vote of sabotaging the exercise in collusion with his political opponents by failing to do enough to promote it.

Mexico President survives recall vote marked by low turnout, doesn't have to step down

Australia's&nbsp;opposition&nbsp;Labor Party&nbsp;leader, Anthony Albanese, said Monday he was only "human" after being unable to remember the country's unemployment&nbsp;rate&nbsp;on the first full day of campaigning for May 21 elections.

Albanese's party is ahead in the polls as he seeks to oust Prime Minister Scott Morrison's conservative coalition government.

The economy is a key issue for many of the country's 17 million voters.

&nbsp;Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-prime-minister-scott-morrison-announces-general-elections-on-may-21-469899">Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announces general elections on May 21</a>

Asked to give the national&nbsp;jobless&nbsp;rate&nbsp;by a reporter, Albanese stumbled, replying: "The national unemployment&nbsp;rate&nbsp;at the moment is, I think it is 5 point...4, sorry, I am not sure what it is."

Australia's unemployment&nbsp;rate&nbsp;is at a 13-year low of 4.0 per cent, a level that Morrison has been touting as he warns voters not to trust Labour with the economy.

Albanese also skirted questions on the key interest that banks charge each other for overnight loans. Known as the bank&nbsp;rate, or the cash&nbsp;rate, it stands at 0.1 per cent.

"Earlier today I made a mistake. I'm human," Albanese said shortly afterwards.

Watch |&nbsp;Australian PM Scott Morrison calls federal election for May 21

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"But when I make a mistake I will fess up to it and I will set about correcting that mistake. I won't blame someone else. I will accept responsibility. That's what leaders do."

On a two-party basis, Labor leads the Liberal-National Party coalition by 53 per cent to 47 per cent, according to the latest Newspoll released this weekend.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-sentences-australian-for-hurling-wine-bottle-killing-man-469294">Singapore sentences Australian for hurling bottle, killing man in 'act of religious hostility toward Muslims'</a>

Asked similar questions later, Morrison gave the correct figures, adding his own government's prediction that the unemployment&nbsp;rate&nbsp;"is falling to a 50-year low".

Multiple surveys show the cost of living, with gasoline prices soaring since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, is a key concern ahead of the election.

Australia's opposition Labor Party leader, Anthony Albanese, said Monday he was only "human" after being unable to remember the country's unemployment rate on the first full day of campaigning for May 21 elections.

Australia's opposition Labor Party leader, Anthony Albanese, said Monday he was only "human" after being unable to remember the country's unemployment rate on the first full day of campaigning for May 21 elections. Albanese's party is ahead in the polls as he seeks to oust Prime Minister Scott Morrison's conservative coalition government. The economy is a key issue for many of the country's 17 million voters. Also read | Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announces general elections on May 21 Asked to give the national jobless rate by a reporter, Albanese stumbled, replying: "The national unemployment rate at the moment is, I think it is 5 point...4, sorry, I am not sure what it is." Australia's unemployment rate is at a 13-year low of 4.0 per cent, a level that Morrison has been touting as he warns voters not to trust Labour with the economy. Albanese also skirted questions on the key interest that banks charge each other for overnight loans. Known as the bank rate, or the cash rate, it stands at 0.1 per cent. "Earlier today I made a mistake. I'm human," Albanese said shortly afterwards. Watch | Australian PM Scott Morrison calls federal election for May 21 "But when I make a mistake I will fess up to it and I will set about correcting that mistake. I won't blame someone else. I will accept responsibility. That's what leaders do." On a two-party basis, Labor leads the Liberal-National Party coalition by 53 per cent to 47 per cent, according to the latest Newspoll released this weekend. Also read | Singapore sentences Australian for hurling bottle, killing man in 'act of religious hostility toward Muslims' Asked similar questions later, Morrison gave the correct figures, adding his own government's prediction that the unemployment rate "is falling to a 50-year low". Multiple surveys show the cost of living, with gasoline prices soaring since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, is a key concern ahead of the election.

Australia's opposition leader forgets jobless rate, says 'I made a mistake. I'm human'

Mexicans&nbsp;will&nbsp;vote&nbsp;Sunday in a divisive national referendum championed by&nbsp;President&nbsp;Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on&nbsp;whether&nbsp;he&nbsp;should&nbsp;step down or complete his six-year term.

While recall&nbsp;elections&nbsp;in other countries tend to be initiated by political opponents, Mexico's&nbsp;vote&nbsp;is the brainchild of Lopez Obrador, who enjoys an approval rating of nearly 60 per cent.

The 68-year-old&nbsp;president, who was elected in 2018, and other supporters of the referendum -- the first of its kind in Mexico -- say it is a way of increasing democratic accountability.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-unusual-step-mexico-president-asks-voters-if-he-should-go-469282">In an unusual step, Mexico president asks voters if he should go</a>

"Now we have the chance to change what's not right. There have been presidents who, after being elected by the people, ended up serving other interests," Benigno Gasca, a 57-year-old mathematician and musician, told AFP.

But critics see it as an expensive propaganda exercise and an unnecessary distraction from the many challenges facing the country, including drug-related violence, poverty and the rising cost of living.

"It's a useless exercise,&nbsp;money thrown away," said Laura Gonzalez, a 62-year-old retired teacher.

Experts say turnout is likely to be well below the 40-percent level needed for the&nbsp;vote&nbsp;to be legally binding.

Opposition parties have urged&nbsp;Mexicans&nbsp;to abstain from&nbsp;voting&nbsp;in what they call a "populist exercise."

Eyes on turnout&nbsp;

Some 93 million voters will be able to participate in the midterm referendum, which was incorporated into Mexico's constitution in 2019 at Lopez Obrador's initiative.

Most of the signatures that were collected in order for the&nbsp;vote&nbsp;to happen came from his supporters.

Given the popularity of the anti-corruption austerity advocate, his presidency is not at risk "at all," said political analyst Martha Anaya.

On the contrary, the referendum could give impetus to his policy agenda, such as controversial energy reforms, she said.

Watch |&nbsp;India is an important partner in Trade, Space says Mexico Foreign minister Ebrard

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The&nbsp;president&nbsp;also has his eye on the 2024&nbsp;elections&nbsp;and the prospects for his party and possible successors, including Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum.

The Mexican constitution limits presidents to one term, and Lopez Obrador has vowed to retire in 2024, following accusations by opponents that the referendum is a step towards trying to&nbsp;stay&nbsp;in power.

Lopez Obrador enjoyed an approval rating of 58 percent in March, although that was far below a peak of 81 percent seen in February 2019, according to a poll of polls by the Oraculus&nbsp;firm.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-an-important-partner-in-trade-space-says-mexico-foreign-minister-ebrard-467045">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/space-and-pharma-to-be-key-focus-of-mexico-fms-india-visit-tomorrow-466726">Space and pharma to be key focus of Mexico FM’s India visit on Wednesday</a>

The&nbsp;president&nbsp;accuses the National Electoral Institute of sabotaging the referendum in collusion with his political opponents.

The body, which unsuccessfully sought a larger budget, will set up around 57,500 polling stations, compared with 161,000 in a normal national&nbsp;election.

Voting&nbsp;will start at 1300 GMT and end at 2300 GMT in most of the country, with the result expected to be announced late Sunday.

Lopez Obrador has overseen a series of referendums since taking office on controversial issues including his "Maya Train" railroad project, and canceling a partially finished airport for Mexico City.

A public consultation held in August on&nbsp;whether&nbsp;to prosecute his predecessors for alleged corruption drew only a small fraction of voters to the polls.

Mexicans will vote Sunday in a divisive national referendum championed by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on whether he should step down or complete his six-year term.

Mexicans will vote Sunday in a divisive national referendum championed by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on whether he should step down or complete his six-year term. While recall elections in other countries tend to be initiated by political opponents, Mexico's vote is the brainchild of Lopez Obrador, who enjoys an approval rating of nearly 60 per cent. The 68-year-old president, who was elected in 2018, and other supporters of the referendum -- the first of its kind in Mexico -- say it is a way of increasing democratic accountability. Also read | In an unusual step, Mexico president asks voters if he should go "Now we have the chance to change what's not right. There have been presidents who, after being elected by the people, ended up serving other interests," Benigno Gasca, a 57-year-old mathematician and musician, told AFP. But critics see it as an expensive propaganda exercise and an unnecessary distraction from the many challenges facing the country, including drug-related violence, poverty and the rising cost of living. "It's a useless exercise, money thrown away," said Laura Gonzalez, a 62-year-old retired teacher. Experts say turnout is likely to be well below the 40-percent level needed for the vote to be legally binding. Opposition parties have urged Mexicans to abstain from voting in what they call a "populist exercise." Eyes on turnout Some 93 million voters will be able to participate in the midterm referendum, which was incorporated into Mexico's constitution in 2019 at Lopez Obrador's initiative. Most of the signatures that were collected in order for the vote to happen came from his supporters. Given the popularity of the anti-corruption austerity advocate, his presidency is not at risk "at all," said political analyst Martha Anaya. On the contrary, the referendum could give impetus to his policy agenda, such as controversial energy reforms, she said. Watch | India is an important partner in Trade, Space says Mexico Foreign minister Ebrard The president also has his eye on the 2024 elections and the prospects for his party and possible successors, including Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum. The Mexican constitution limits presidents to one term, and Lopez Obrador has vowed to retire in 2024, following accusations by opponents that the referendum is a step towards trying to stay in power. Lopez Obrador enjoyed an approval rating of 58 percent in March, although that was far below a peak of 81 percent seen in February 2019, according to a poll of polls by the Oraculus firm. Also read | Space and pharma to be key focus of Mexico FM’s India visit on Wednesday The president accuses the National Electoral Institute of sabotaging the referendum in collusion with his political opponents. The body, which unsuccessfully sought a larger budget, will set up around 57,500 polling stations, compared with 161,000 in a normal national election. Voting will start at 1300 GMT and end at 2300 GMT in most of the country, with the result expected to be announced late Sunday. Lopez Obrador has overseen a series of referendums since taking office on controversial issues including his "Maya Train" railroad project, and canceling a partially finished airport for Mexico City. A public consultation held in August on whether to prosecute his predecessors for alleged corruption drew only a small fraction of voters to the polls.

Mexicans vote whether president should stay or go

&nbsp;Hong Kong's former No. 2 official John Lee, who has announced he will run in a&nbsp;leadership&nbsp;election in May, said on Saturday he plans a new chapter for the global financial hub that has been wracked by unprecedented upheaval with protests and COVID-19.

Lee, 64, resigned on Wednesday to run to replace Chief Executive Carrie Lam, whose five-year term ends on June 30. Lam oversaw one of the most tumultuous periods in Hong Kong history with pro-democracy demonstrations and coronavirus.

"This will be&nbsp;a new symphony and I am the conductor," Lee, who was the city's security chief during anti-government protests in 2019, told a press conference.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-deputy-chief-says-he-plans-to-run-for-citys-top-job-468986">Hong Kong deputy chief says he plans to run for city's top job</a>

"Together, we will play a more splendid new piece for Hong Kong."

Fleshing out his policy platform, Lee said loyalty to the central government was a priority for any chief executive and part of his platform included accelerating plans to resolve the city's chronic housing shortage.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Hong Kong separates 2,000 Covid-positive children from parents

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Hong Kong media reports said this week that Beijing officials want Lee to be the only candidate, and will not give the green light to others to stand against him.

Lee said he welcomed any other&nbsp;leadership&nbsp;contenders.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-activists-fade-from-view-as-national-security-case-drags-469025">Hong Kong activists fade from view as national security case drags</a>

The city's four biggest property tycoons, including CK Asset's Victor Li, son of billionaire Li Ka-shing, said in separate statements this week that Lee was a suitable candidate to lead Hong Kong to stability.

The show of support, from some of the city's most powerful property tycoons, came before Lee officially announced his bid to run for leader, signalling the move had already been approved and received tacit approval from some Hong Kong business people.

Hong Kong's former No. 2 official John Lee, who has announced he will run in a leadership election in May, said on Saturday he plans a new chapter for the global financial hub that has been wracked by unprecedented upheaval with protests and COVID-19.

Hong Kong's former No. 2 official John Lee, who has announced he will run in a leadership election in May, said on Saturday he plans a new chapter for the global financial hub that has been wracked by unprecedented upheaval with protests and COVID-19. Lee, 64, resigned on Wednesday to run to replace Chief Executive Carrie Lam, whose five-year term ends on June 30. Lam oversaw one of the most tumultuous periods in Hong Kong history with pro-democracy demonstrations and coronavirus. "This will be a new symphony and I am the conductor," Lee, who was the city's security chief during anti-government protests in 2019, told a press conference. Also read | Hong Kong deputy chief says he plans to run for city's top job "Together, we will play a more splendid new piece for Hong Kong." Fleshing out his policy platform, Lee said loyalty to the central government was a priority for any chief executive and part of his platform included accelerating plans to resolve the city's chronic housing shortage. Watch | Gravitas: Hong Kong separates 2,000 Covid-positive children from parents Hong Kong media reports said this week that Beijing officials want Lee to be the only candidate, and will not give the green light to others to stand against him. Lee said he welcomed any other leadership contenders. Also read | Hong Kong activists fade from view as national security case drags The city's four biggest property tycoons, including CK Asset's Victor Li, son of billionaire Li Ka-shing, said in separate statements this week that Lee was a suitable candidate to lead Hong Kong to stability. The show of support, from some of the city's most powerful property tycoons, came before Lee officially announced his bid to run for leader, signalling the move had already been approved and received tacit approval from some Hong Kong business people.

Hong Kong leadership contender John Lee says he plans a new chapter for the global financial hub

Mexico&nbsp;will hold its first presidential recall referendum on Sunday, promoted by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, on whether he should complete his six-year term -- an exercise that has split public opinion.

With an approval rating of nearly 60 per cent, the midterm popularity test appears unlikely to result in Lopez Obrador's early departure.

The president argues that submitting himself to the recall referendum is important for democracy, but critics see it as little more than an expensive propaganda exercise.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-an-important-partner-in-trade-space-says-mexico-foreign-minister-ebrard-467045">India is an important partner in trade, space says Mexico Foreign Minister Ebrard</a>

The 68-year-old self-styled anti-corruption, the pro-austerity crusader was elected in 2018 vowing to overhaul&nbsp;Mexico's "neoliberal" economic model.

Lopez Obrador has promised not to seek reelection in 2024, following accusations by opponents that the referendum is a step towards changing the rules to enable him to stay in power beyond then.

The Mexican constitution limits presidents to one term.

Lopez Obrador "seeks, like any populist politician, to maintain the climate of polarization and encourage the narrative that the people are on his side," said political consultant Luis Carlos Ugalde, a former head of&nbsp;Mexico's electoral institute.

But Ugalde is sceptical that the vote will smooth the way for Lopez Obrador to stay in office beyond 2024.

"Perhaps there will be voices in his party that say he should stay, but the power of that voice will be minimal," Ugalde said.

A successful result on Sunday could inject momentum into Lopez Obrador's policy agenda, including controversial energy reforms.

Lopez Obrador's Morena party lost its absolute majority in the lower house of Congress in legislative elections last year.

The president also has his eye on the 2024 elections and the prospects for his party and possible successors including&nbsp;Mexico City&nbsp;Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Why hundreds of birds fell to death in Mexico

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Populist exercise

Lopez Obrador has overseen a series of referendums since taking office on controversial issues including his "Maya Train" railroad project and cancelling a partially finished airport for&nbsp;Mexico City.

A public consultation held in August on whether to prosecute his predecessors for alleged corruption drew only a small fraction of voters to the polls.

The midterm recall referendum was incorporated into&nbsp;Mexico's constitution in 2019 at Lopez Obrador's initiative.

Some 93 million voters will be able to participate, but many are expected to stay home.

The outcome will be overwhelmingly in favour of Lopez Obrador completing his term, although in any case turnout is likely to be below the 40-per cent level needed for the vote to be legally binding, predicted Ugalde.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/space-and-pharma-to-be-key-focus-of-mexico-fms-india-visit-tomorrow-466726">Space and pharma to be key focus of Mexico FM’s India visit on Wednesday</a>

The opposition parties PAN, PRI and PRD have urged Mexicans to abstain from voting in what they call a "populist exercise."

Lopez Obrador enjoyed an approval rating of 58 per cent in March, although that was far below a peak of 81 per cent seen in February 2019, according to a poll of polls by the Oraculus&nbsp;firm.

"It's kind of an oxymoron to have a recall process when you have a popular president," said Jorge Buendia, director of public opinion firm Buendia &amp; Marquez.

"The strongest supporters of the president are those that are going to go to the polls," he told a panel discussion.

Lopez Obrador owes much of his popularity to his social welfare programs aimed at helping the poor and dominates&nbsp;Mexico's news agenda with press conferences lasting up to three hours every weekday.

Lopez Obrador's critics say he is damaging democratic checks and balances with his attacks on bodies including the National Electoral Institute, which the president accuses of undermining the referendum.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/high-level-visits-from-colombia-mexico-to-india-in-few-weeks-461993">High level visits from Colombia, Mexico to India in few weeks</a>

"We will defend the National Electoral Institute, which is under attack by the presidency," said Amado Vazquez, a lawyer attending a protest against Sunday's vote in the western city of Guadalajara.

The referendum is biased in favour of the government and "in no way a citizen's vote," he added.

Mexico will hold its first presidential recall referendum on Sunday, promoted by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, on whether he should complete his six-year term -- an exercise that has split public opinion.

Mexico will hold its first presidential recall referendum on Sunday, promoted by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, on whether he should complete his six-year term -- an exercise that has split public opinion. With an approval rating of nearly 60 per cent, the midterm popularity test appears unlikely to result in Lopez Obrador's early departure. The president argues that submitting himself to the recall referendum is important for democracy, but critics see it as little more than an expensive propaganda exercise. Also read | India is an important partner in trade, space says Mexico Foreign Minister Ebrard The 68-year-old self-styled anti-corruption, the pro-austerity crusader was elected in 2018 vowing to overhaul Mexico's "neoliberal" economic model. Lopez Obrador has promised not to seek reelection in 2024, following accusations by opponents that the referendum is a step towards changing the rules to enable him to stay in power beyond then. The Mexican constitution limits presidents to one term. Lopez Obrador "seeks, like any populist politician, to maintain the climate of polarization and encourage the narrative that the people are on his side," said political consultant Luis Carlos Ugalde, a former head of Mexico's electoral institute. But Ugalde is sceptical that the vote will smooth the way for Lopez Obrador to stay in office beyond 2024. "Perhaps there will be voices in his party that say he should stay, but the power of that voice will be minimal," Ugalde said. A successful result on Sunday could inject momentum into Lopez Obrador's policy agenda, including controversial energy reforms. Lopez Obrador's Morena party lost its absolute majority in the lower house of Congress in legislative elections last year. The president also has his eye on the 2024 elections and the prospects for his party and possible successors including Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum. Watch | Gravitas: Why hundreds of birds fell to death in Mexico Populist exercise Lopez Obrador has overseen a series of referendums since taking office on controversial issues including his "Maya Train" railroad project and cancelling a partially finished airport for Mexico City. A public consultation held in August on whether to prosecute his predecessors for alleged corruption drew only a small fraction of voters to the polls. The midterm recall referendum was incorporated into Mexico's constitution in 2019 at Lopez Obrador's initiative. Some 93 million voters will be able to participate, but many are expected to stay home. The outcome will be overwhelmingly in favour of Lopez Obrador completing his term, although in any case turnout is likely to be below the 40-per cent level needed for the vote to be legally binding, predicted Ugalde. Also read | Space and pharma to be key focus of Mexico FM’s India visit on Wednesday The opposition parties PAN, PRI and PRD have urged Mexicans to abstain from voting in what they call a "populist exercise." Lopez Obrador enjoyed an approval rating of 58 per cent in March, although that was far below a peak of 81 per cent seen in February 2019, according to a poll of polls by the Oraculus firm. "It's kind of an oxymoron to have a recall process when you have a popular president," said Jorge Buendia, director of public opinion firm Buendia & Marquez. "The strongest supporters of the president are those that are going to go to the polls," he told a panel discussion. Lopez Obrador owes much of his popularity to his social welfare programs aimed at helping the poor and dominates Mexico's news agenda with press conferences lasting up to three hours every weekday. Lopez Obrador's critics say he is damaging democratic checks and balances with his attacks on bodies including the National Electoral Institute, which the president accuses of undermining the referendum. Also read | High level visits from Colombia, Mexico to India in few weeks "We will defend the National Electoral Institute, which is under attack by the presidency," said Amado Vazquez, a lawyer attending a protest against Sunday's vote in the western city of Guadalajara. The referendum is biased in favour of the government and "in no way a citizen's vote," he added.

In an unusual step, Mexico president asks voters if he should go

Official results from Hungary's general election on Sunday showed nationalist Hungarian Prime Minister&nbsp;Viktor&nbsp;Orban's Fidesz party had won a fourth term in office by a much greater margin than pre-election polls had suggested, after a campaign overshadowed by the war in neighbouring Ukraine.

Addressing a jubilant crowd chanting his name, many of them wearing Fidesz's orange party colour,&nbsp;Orban&nbsp;said: "We have won a great victory -- a victory so great you can perhaps see it from the moon and certainly from Brussels".

Orban's administration has presided over repeated confrontations with the European Union, including over the neutering of the press and judiciary, and measures targeting the LGBTQ community -- also the subject of a vote on Sunday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungarians-vote-on-orbans-12-year-rule-in-tight-ballot-overshadowed-by-ukraine-war-467895">Hungarians vote on Orban's 12-year rule in tight ballot overshadowed by Ukraine war</a>

The 58-year-old, already the longest-serving head of government in the EU, was challenged by six united opposition parties seeking to roll back the "illiberal" revolution&nbsp;Orban's Fidesz party has pursued during 12 consecutive years in office.

But with 94 percent of votes counted, Fidesz was on 53 percent compared to 35 percent for the opposition coalition, according to results from the national election office -- a result which means the party will retain its two-thirds majority in parliament.

Peter Marki-Zay, 49, the conservative leading the opposition list, addressed supporters and conceded defeat late on Sunday evening.

"I will not hide my sadness and my disappointment," he told them, combatively accusing Fidesz of running a campaign of "hate and lies".

He added that the opposition had done "everything humanly possible" but that the campaign had been "an unequal fight" given the way in which he and other anti-Fidesz politicians had been all but banished from state media.

MEP Marton Gyongyosi from the right-wing Jobbik party which is part of the opposition coalition, told AFP that "abuses" had taken place on Sunday and added: "This will have to be considered when talking about how the results of the elections can be respected".

Orban&nbsp;has dismissed such complaints and insisted the vote was fair.

For the first time more than 200 international observers monitored the election in Hungary, an EU member, along with thousands of domestic volunteers from both camps.

Turnout reached 68.69 percent, almost matching the record participation seen at the last national elections in 2018.

The far-right Mi Hazank party also surpassed expectations and will make its debut in parliament after crossing the five-percent minimum threshold.

Watch |&nbsp;Hungary: Viktor Orban scores fourth consecutive win in general elections

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Ruined the country

Budapest resident Agnes Kunyik, 56, told AFP she had backed the opposition.

"They have ruined our country, destroyed it," she said of Fidesz, becoming visibly emotional.

But one of those who had turned out for&nbsp;Orban's victory celebration, 55-year-old Ildiko Horvath, said that under Fidesz "Hungary is really going forwards," adding: "On the really important questions like the (Ukraine) war and migrants he always decides in line with what the majority wants."

Russia's February 24 invasion of Ukraine cast a long shadow over the campaign.

Diplomatically,&nbsp;Orban&nbsp;fell into line with EU support for Kyiv despite his long-standing closeness to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

But at home,&nbsp;Orban&nbsp;has struck a neutral and even anti-Ukrainian tone at times, refusing to let weapons for Ukraine cross Hungarian territory.

He cast himself as the protector of stability and accused the opposition of "warmongering".

In his victory speech&nbsp;Orban&nbsp;said: "We never had so many opponents," reeling off a list that comprised "Brussels bureaucrats... the international mainstream media, and finally the Ukrainian president".

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has singled&nbsp;Orban&nbsp;out for criticism over his reticence to take a tougher stance against Russia.

French and Italian far-right leaders Marine Le Pen and Matteo Salvini were quick to offer their congratulations on Sunday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-crisishungary-pm-orban-calls-sanctions-double-edged-weapon-458898">Russia-Ukraine Crisis:Hungary PM Orban calls sanctions 'double-edged weapon'</a>

Le Pen, herself gathering momentum in polls before the first round of presidential elections in France next week, posted a picture of herself shaking hands with&nbsp;Orban&nbsp;and the caption: "When the people vote, the people win!"

As well as electing MPs, Hungarians were voting in a referendum designed to elicit support for what Fidesz calls a "child protection" law&nbsp;banning the portrayal of LGBTQ people to under-18s.

Budapest resident Regina, 25 -- who refused to give her surname -- told AFP she had spoiled her ballot in the "twisted" referendum which she said had portrayed LGBTQ Hungarians as an "enemy".&nbsp;

Partial results showed the referendum had failed as not enough valid votes had been cast.&nbsp;

Official results from Hungary's general election on Sunday showed nationalist Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's Fidesz party had won a fourth term in office by a much greater margin than pre-election polls had suggested, after a campaign overshadowed by the war in neighbouring Ukraine.

Official results from Hungary's general election on Sunday showed nationalist Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's Fidesz party had won a fourth term in office by a much greater margin than pre-election polls had suggested, after a campaign overshadowed by the war in neighbouring Ukraine. Addressing a jubilant crowd chanting his name, many of them wearing Fidesz's orange party colour, Orban said: "We have won a great victory -- a victory so great you can perhaps see it from the moon and certainly from Brussels". Orban's administration has presided over repeated confrontations with the European Union, including over the neutering of the press and judiciary, and measures targeting the LGBTQ community -- also the subject of a vote on Sunday. Also read | Hungarians vote on Orban's 12-year rule in tight ballot overshadowed by Ukraine war The 58-year-old, already the longest-serving head of government in the EU, was challenged by six united opposition parties seeking to roll back the "illiberal" revolution Orban's Fidesz party has pursued during 12 consecutive years in office. But with 94 percent of votes counted, Fidesz was on 53 percent compared to 35 percent for the opposition coalition, according to results from the national election office -- a result which means the party will retain its two-thirds majority in parliament. Peter Marki-Zay, 49, the conservative leading the opposition list, addressed supporters and conceded defeat late on Sunday evening. "I will not hide my sadness and my disappointment," he told them, combatively accusing Fidesz of running a campaign of "hate and lies". He added that the opposition had done "everything humanly possible" but that the campaign had been "an unequal fight" given the way in which he and other anti-Fidesz politicians had been all but banished from state media. MEP Marton Gyongyosi from the right-wing Jobbik party which is part of the opposition coalition, told AFP that "abuses" had taken place on Sunday and added: "This will have to be considered when talking about how the results of the elections can be respected". Orban has dismissed such complaints and insisted the vote was fair. For the first time more than 200 international observers monitored the election in Hungary, an EU member, along with thousands of domestic volunteers from both camps. Turnout reached 68.69 percent, almost matching the record participation seen at the last national elections in 2018. The far-right Mi Hazank party also surpassed expectations and will make its debut in parliament after crossing the five-percent minimum threshold. Watch | Hungary: Viktor Orban scores fourth consecutive win in general elections Ruined the country Budapest resident Agnes Kunyik, 56, told AFP she had backed the opposition. "They have ruined our country, destroyed it," she said of Fidesz, becoming visibly emotional. But one of those who had turned out for Orban's victory celebration, 55-year-old Ildiko Horvath, said that under Fidesz "Hungary is really going forwards," adding: "On the really important questions like the (Ukraine) war and migrants he always decides in line with what the majority wants." Russia's February 24 invasion of Ukraine cast a long shadow over the campaign. Diplomatically, Orban fell into line with EU support for Kyiv despite his long-standing closeness to Russian President Vladimir Putin. But at home, Orban has struck a neutral and even anti-Ukrainian tone at times, refusing to let weapons for Ukraine cross Hungarian territory. He cast himself as the protector of stability and accused the opposition of "warmongering". In his victory speech Orban said: "We never had so many opponents," reeling off a list that comprised "Brussels bureaucrats... the international mainstream media, and finally the Ukrainian president". Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has singled Orban out for criticism over his reticence to take a tougher stance against Russia. French and Italian far-right leaders Marine Le Pen and Matteo Salvini were quick to offer their congratulations on Sunday. Also read | Russia-Ukraine Crisis:Hungary PM Orban calls sanctions 'double-edged weapon' Le Pen, herself gathering momentum in polls before the first round of presidential elections in France next week, posted a picture of herself shaking hands with Orban and the caption: "When the people vote, the people win!" As well as electing MPs, Hungarians were voting in a referendum designed to elicit support for what Fidesz calls a "child protection" law banning the portrayal of LGBTQ people to under-18s. Budapest resident Regina, 25 -- who refused to give her surname -- told AFP she had spoiled her ballot in the "twisted" referendum which she said had portrayed LGBTQ Hungarians as an "enemy". Partial results showed the referendum had failed as not enough valid votes had been cast.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban wins fourth term with comfortable margin

Costa Ricans began voting on Sunday to elect one of two scandal-tainted presidential candidates in a country grappling with sky-high poverty and unemployment.

Former president Jose Maria Figueres was once investigated for corruption while ex-finance minister Rodrigo Chaves was previously demoted for sexual harassment.

But with 23 percent of the population living in poverty and unemployment soaring to 14 percent alongside a series of corruption scandals, Costa Ricans seem more focused on the economy as they elect a successor to Carlos Alvarado.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/costa-rica-issues-covid-19-vaccine-requirement-for-children-427338">Costa Rica issues COVID-19 vaccine requirement for children</a>

Polls opened at 6.00 am (1200 GMT) and will close at 6.00 pm (0000 GMT). "Go to your center and vote," the electoral tribunal said on Twitter as voting began.

Costa Rica has been described as the "happiest" country in Latin America and praised for its environmental policies and eco-tourism, but the vital tourism industry was hard hit by the coronavirus pandemic.

Alongside Peru, it suffered the largest fall in employment figures in the region between 2019 and 2020.

We're very poor

"The next president has to change everything because we're very poor. There is no work here, there is nothing," said Ana Briceno, 64, a travel agent in the capital San Jose.

"In the last years with Carlos Alvarado the situation has been very difficult ... so I think the future president must focus on the economy," said Cristina Aguilar, 32.

Given their previous troubles, the two candidates have sought to keep the debate swirling around the economy.

Watch |&nbsp;Costa Rica: Hydroelectric power plant gets new lease of life from crypto mining

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/costa-rica-hydroelectric-power-plant-gets-new-lease-of-life-from-crypto-mining-444237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The urgent themes to address are the ones causing discomfort and suffering to the people," said Chaves, 60, a surprise qualifier for Sunday's run-off, having polled fourth ahead of February's first round.

"The first is the lack of jobs. Secondly, the cost of living."

Chaves, from the newly formed right-wing Social Democratic Progress Party, led the most recent opinion polls, with more than 41 percent support, compared to 38 percent for Figueres.

Figueres, 67, who was president from 1994 to 1998, is equally focused on the economy.

"In the economic agenda, unemployment is the most important, the creation of employment opportunities is the priority," he said.

Figueres, whose father Jose abolished the army in 1948 when he was president, topped the first round of voting among a crowded field of 25 contenders with 27.3 percent, ahead of Chaves who had 16.8 percent.

But they were a long way from the 40 percent needed to win outright.

&nbsp;'Misinterpreted' jokes&nbsp;

Both men have reached this final stage of the election despite the specter of past scandals.

Chaves, who spent six months as finance minister in the outgoing government, was investigated over sexual harassment&nbsp;complaints brought by multiple women while he was a senior official at the World Bank, where he worked for 30 years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/costa-rican-police-seize-4-tonnes-of-colombian-cocaine-399028">Costa Rican police seize 4 tonnes of Colombian cocaine</a>

He was demoted, though not fired, and has dismissed his behavior as jokes that were "misinterpreted due to cultural differences."

Figueres, who represents the centrist National Liberation Party (PLN), was investigated for allegedly taking $900,000 from French engineering firm Alcatel, which has admitted to bribing officials.

The ex-president, who worked abroad at the time as executive director of the World Economic Forum (WEF), refused to give evidence in the case in 2004 and returned to Costa Rica only in 2011 when the investigation expired.

"Right now, I don't know who I will vote for ... because Chaves contradicts himself in everything and given what Figueres did last time, it leaves us undecided," said Jairo Montero, 37.

In the unlikely event the election ends in a draw, Costa Rican law says the elder candidate would win, in this case Figueres.&nbsp;

The first results are expected at around 8:30 pm.&nbsp;

The winner will begin a four-year term on May 8.

Costa Ricans began voting on Sunday to elect one of two scandal-tainted presidential candidates in a country grappling with sky-high poverty and unemployment. Former president Jose Maria Figueres was once investigated for corruption while ex-finance minister Rodrigo Chaves was previously demoted for sexual harassment.

Costa Ricans began voting on Sunday to elect one of two scandal-tainted presidential candidates in a country grappling with sky-high poverty and unemployment. Former president Jose Maria Figueres was once investigated for corruption while ex-finance minister Rodrigo Chaves was previously demoted for sexual harassment. But with 23 percent of the population living in poverty and unemployment soaring to 14 percent alongside a series of corruption scandals, Costa Ricans seem more focused on the economy as they elect a successor to Carlos Alvarado. Also read | Costa Rica issues COVID-19 vaccine requirement for children Polls opened at 6.00 am (1200 GMT) and will close at 6.00 pm (0000 GMT). "Go to your center and vote," the electoral tribunal said on Twitter as voting began. Costa Rica has been described as the "happiest" country in Latin America and praised for its environmental policies and eco-tourism, but the vital tourism industry was hard hit by the coronavirus pandemic. Alongside Peru, it suffered the largest fall in employment figures in the region between 2019 and 2020. We're very poor "The next president has to change everything because we're very poor. There is no work here, there is nothing," said Ana Briceno, 64, a travel agent in the capital San Jose. "In the last years with Carlos Alvarado the situation has been very difficult ... so I think the future president must focus on the economy," said Cristina Aguilar, 32. Given their previous troubles, the two candidates have sought to keep the debate swirling around the economy. Watch | Costa Rica: Hydroelectric power plant gets new lease of life from crypto mining "The urgent themes to address are the ones causing discomfort and suffering to the people," said Chaves, 60, a surprise qualifier for Sunday's run-off, having polled fourth ahead of February's first round. "The first is the lack of jobs. Secondly, the cost of living." Chaves, from the newly formed right-wing Social Democratic Progress Party, led the most recent opinion polls, with more than 41 percent support, compared to 38 percent for Figueres. Figueres, 67, who was president from 1994 to 1998, is equally focused on the economy. "In the economic agenda, unemployment is the most important, the creation of employment opportunities is the priority," he said. Figueres, whose father Jose abolished the army in 1948 when he was president, topped the first round of voting among a crowded field of 25 contenders with 27.3 percent, ahead of Chaves who had 16.8 percent. But they were a long way from the 40 percent needed to win outright. 'Misinterpreted' jokes Both men have reached this final stage of the election despite the specter of past scandals. Chaves, who spent six months as finance minister in the outgoing government, was investigated over sexual harassment complaints brought by multiple women while he was a senior official at the World Bank, where he worked for 30 years. Also read | Costa Rican police seize 4 tonnes of Colombian cocaine He was demoted, though not fired, and has dismissed his behavior as jokes that were "misinterpreted due to cultural differences." Figueres, who represents the centrist National Liberation Party (PLN), was investigated for allegedly taking $900,000 from French engineering firm Alcatel, which has admitted to bribing officials. The ex-president, who worked abroad at the time as executive director of the World Economic Forum (WEF), refused to give evidence in the case in 2004 and returned to Costa Rica only in 2011 when the investigation expired. "Right now, I don't know who I will vote for ... because Chaves contradicts himself in everything and given what Figueres did last time, it leaves us undecided," said Jairo Montero, 37. In the unlikely event the election ends in a draw, Costa Rican law says the elder candidate would win, in this case Figueres. The first results are expected at around 8:30 pm. The winner will begin a four-year term on May 8.

Costa Rica presidential candidates vow to tackle unemployment

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