#frontrunner prime minister

[geekeryisafoot]

I'm taking a break from Persona 5 by playing Persona 5 Tactica and I love Toshiro. He's just. so pathetic 💜

And then you learn he's a successful politician and a frontrunner for prime minister and it's even funnier like dude how the fuck did you manage that while being *gestures at his everything* you? And THEN you learn he's a middle aged man who needs to learn from a bunch of teenage criminals how to have the guts to say no to his dad. Which is just so pathetic, funny, delightful, and endearing. Like fuck yeah Toshiro, it's never too late to learn how to tell the expectations placed upon you to fuck off!!!

[mariacallous]

Back in 2020, Slovakia’s then-Prime Minister Peter Pellegrini asked Viktor Orbán to act as a middleman between him and the Kremlin. He aimed for an invitation to Moscow just before Slovakia’s parliamentary election – hoping that it would appeal to the Slovak electorate. A piece of intelligence detailing the Slovak–Hungarian–Russian scheme was obtained by VSquare. Pellegrini eventually got his visit to Russia and still lost the election. However, he is currently the frontrunner in the race to become Slovakia’s next president.

Newly emerged evidence shows how Hungary and Russia worked together during the 2020 Slovak elections to help the Slovak government stay in power, all at the request of Slovakia’s then-prime minister, Peter Pellegrini. Today, the same man is the front-runner to become Slovakia’s next president (the first and second rounds of the country’s presidential election will be held on March 23 and April 6, respectively).

Pellegrini’s candidacy is supported by current Prime Minister Robert Fico, who is heavily criticized for his pro-Russian attitudes as well as for cracking down on NGOs, free media, and the country’s anti-corruption bodies. Were Pellegrini to be elected, he is expected to rubber-stamp Fico’s controversial initiatives as opposed to outgoing president Zuzana Čaputová or Pellegrini’s opposition-backed contender, former foreign minister Ivan Korčok.

According to sensitive, detailed intelligence material obtained by VSquare, Peter Pellegrini, his power slipping away, turned to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán in February 2020 for last-minute help. Due to widespread anti-government sentiment after the 2018 murder of investigative journalist Ján Kuciak and his fiancee Martina Kušnírová, Pellegrini’s government was heading for defeat in the February 29, 2020 Slovak parliamentary elections. Pellegrini secretly asked Orbán to help arrange an official invitation to Moscow, arguing that such a visit would appeal to the Slovak electorate and boost his election chances. He used Orbán as a middleman because of the Hungarian government’s close, well-known ties to the Kremlin.

The intelligence material specifically says that Pellegrini told Orbán that an invitation to Moscow would help him to win the Slovak elections. It also clearly indicates that the Russian and Hungarian governments had high-level discussions on helping Pellegrini stay in power.

[beardedmrbean]

Aug. 14 (UPI) -- Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin was removed from office on Wednesday on cronyism charges, less than a year after he was installed, by the country's powerful consitutional court.

In a 5-4 vote, the judges ruled Srettha's appointment to his cabinet of a close associate of his main backer, telecoms billionaire and former populist prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, breached the moral and ethical standards set out in the constitution.

The court has removed two other prime ministers since 2008.

Srettha's downfall came three months after about 40 unelected senators petitioned the court to dismiss him for selecting as the head of his cabinet office former Thaksin lawyer Pichit Chuenban over a 2008 conviction for attempted bribery.

His removal will be seen as a strong signal to Thaksin -- long viewed as a threat by the country's royal-military duopoly -- that his bid to reclaim his seat at the top table of power in South East Asia's second-largest economy is going to be anything but plain sailing.

Srettha, a 62-year-old billionaire real-estate developer, told reporters that he accepted the decision but insisted he had not acted with dishonesty.

"This chapter has ended as the constitutional court has decided," said Srettha whose interim replacement will be Phumtham Wechayachai, one of his deputies, pending the election of a new prime minister by parliament.

Strettha was installed in place of the real winner of last year's election, Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat, who was blocked from becoming prime minister by the military-appointed senate. The court's decision to now remove Strettha may further alienate ordinary Thais, reinforcing a growing belief all political power ultimately lies with the establishment, regardless of who people vote for.

The constitutional court finalized the effective coup against Pita's reformist party, by dissolving it on Aug. 7 and imposing decade-long political ban on 11 of its leaders for manifesto pledges to reform tough royal defamation laws that the court ruled breached the constitution.

The frontrunners to replace Srettha are Anutin Charnvirakul, a deputy prime minister, and Thaksin's youngest daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

[southeastasianists]

“I am ready for my next assignment,” a beaming Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong had declared at a People’s Action Party (PAP) convention last November.

“I am all in, heart and soul,” he said, adding that he has been working hard to get ready for what would be the “biggest responsibility” of his career – to take over the baton from Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong as Singapore’s next leader.

Now, the assignment has come as Mr Lee announced his retirement on Monday (Apr 15).

Mr Wong will officially take over the leadership reins on May 15, when he becomes Singapore's fourth Prime Minister.

RISE THROUGH THE RANKS

The 51-year-old entered politics in 2011 after being elected as a Member of Parliament in West Coast GRC. He was given his first political office two weeks after the election – as Minister of State for education and defence.

In the 2015 General Election, Mr Wong moved to contest in the new Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC, where he has been anchor minister ever since.

By then, he had risen steadily through the ranks with positions in various ministries, including the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth where he was appointed acting minister in 2012 and made full minister two years later.

After the elections in 2015, he moved to head the Ministry of National Development where he stayed on until July 2020.

In 2020, Mr Wong was tasked to co-chair Singapore’s multi-ministry COVID-19 task force with then-Health Minister Gan Kim Yong.   Together with Mr Gan, and later, new Health Minister Ong Ye Kung, he helmed the country’s pandemic response and fronted key announcements at frequently held press conferences.

Political observers later said that it was Mr Wong’s steady leadership style during COVID-19, clear explanation of policies and grasp of details that put him in pole position to take over as the country’s next leader when Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat took himself out of the running for the top job in April 2021.

Mr Heng, then 60, had cited his age as the reason and that he would have “too short a runway” should he become Prime Minister after the pandemic.

Mr Wong, who was then Education Minister, took over the Finance Ministry from Mr Heng in the ensuing Cabinet reshuffle, providing the first hint of his frontrunner position given how the high-profile finance portfolio has traditionally been helmed by PAP heavyweights.

Questions about political succession were finally laid to rest in April 2022 when Mr Wong was named as the leader of the PAP’s fourth-generation, or 4G, team.   Two months later, he was promoted to Deputy Prime Minister in another Cabinet reshuffle, while holding on to his finance portfolio.

Since cementing his standing as Singapore’s next Prime Minister, Mr Wong has fronted major speeches, such as delivering the keynote speech at the May Day Rally last year in place of Mr Lee.

He has also launched the Forward Singapore exercise, which provided a glimpse of how he and the 4G team intends to take the country forward.

A CIVIL SERVANT AND GUITAR LOVER

Prior to entering politics, Mr Wong was a civil servant for 14 years.

He began his career at the Ministry of Trade and Industry in 1997 before moving on to other roles in the finance and health ministries.

Mr Wong became principal private secretary to the Prime Minister in 2005.

In 2008, he joined the Energy Market Authority as deputy chief executive and was promoted to chief executive in 2009.

Two years later, he stepped down from the post to enter politics as the youngest of five candidates tipped to form the core of the PAP’s 4G leadership.

The Straits Times reported previously that Mr Wong had resigned from the public sector to enter politics, a year short before reaching 15 years of service. Administrative Service officers were eligible for pension after 15 years of service.

“It was a loss, but it was not something that factored into my consideration at the time,” he had said.

On the personal front, Mr Wong grew up in what he described as an “ordinary family” in the Marine Parade HDB estate.

His late father was born in China’s Hainan Island, went to Malaysia as a young boy before moving to Singapore to work in a sales job.

His mother was a teacher. Describing her as a disciplinarian both in school and at home, Mr Wong has spoken highly of his mother in several interviews and public speeches for managing to teach while caring for him and his brother.

Mr Wong is an alumnus of Haig Boys’ Primary where his mother taught. In his teens, he attended Tanjong Katong Secondary School, which he chose because it was near his home, and later on, Victoria Junior College.

He obtained his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in economics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. He also holds a master’s in public administration from the Harvard Kennedy School.

Outside of work, Mr Wong, who is married to Ms Loo Tze Lui, is known to be an avid music lover and skilled guitar player.

His love for the guitar goes back to when his father gave him his first guitar at the age of eight. He spent his weekends borrowing guitar books from the old Marine Parade library and when he got a government scholarship to study in the United States, he made sure to bring his guitar along.

Mr Wong has said that playing the guitar helps him to destress and unwind.

The incoming Prime Minister has posted several videos of him strumming his six string, including an acoustic rendition of American pop star Taylor Swift’s hit song Love Story as a tribute to educators on Teachers’ Day last year.

[nando161mando]

Third, former British Prime Minister and far-right actor Liz Truss has endorsed far-right ex-US President Donald Trump as the next far-right Republican candidate for the US 2024 presidential election.

[progressglobenews]

In These Times:

Seven in 10 likely voters want to see a ceasefire in Gaza, which will require forcing the hand of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, including by conditioning arms in line with international and U.S. law. Polling from AAI suggests that backing these restrictions would make 56% of Arab American voters more likely to support Harris. Netanyahu has proven time and again he is unwilling to reach peace; Harris can promise to use U.S. leverage to make him. This move, backed by a majority of Americans, would help make inroads among a vast stratum of voters — including those in Michigan, Wisconsin and other swing states — eager to support the Democratic nominee if the party would simply stop underwriting a genocide. It’s also the morally correct position — tens of thousands of Palestinian women and children have already been slaughtered by American weapons, and the Netanyahu government appears dead set on not just continuing but expanding its onslaught. On the economy, Harris could depart from her recent approach of cozying-up with crypto financiers and wealthy business interests by instead leaning into the populist, class-war rhetoric and policy planks Democratic voters have responded to in the post-Obama era. Harris has embraced good policies like reviving the expanded child tax credit, building millions of new housing units, continuing to invest in green manufacturing and going after price-gouging companies. But with a majority of the population living paycheck to paycheck, working-class Americans are in desperate need of a bold redistributive agenda that would materially improve their lives right now. Targeting the elites and billionaires is an effective strategy to win over lower income voters, and while Harris has adopted appeals in this direction to acknowledge economic grievances, there’s more runway left to address them.

[head-post]

Who will replace Kishida to become Japan’s new PM?

Japan’s ruling political party, the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), votes for its next leader on Friday, it will effectively be choosing the country’s next prime minister, Time reports.

During the tenure of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who announced in August that he would step down after taking power in 2021, there have been a string of scandals. From his son throwing a party at his official residence to alleged irregularities in fundraising by party members, the scandals, in addition to failed economic reforms, have eroded the LDP’s popularity and forced a reset.

A record nine lawmakers are running in the intra-party election, vying for majority support among 368 members of parliament and 368 representatives of the party’s more than one million dues-paying rank-and-file members. Most candidates, according to AP, have vowed to demand a general election, not due until October 2025, shortly after they are elevated in the party to try to capitalise on their new image.

The key issue at stake for the LDP is regaining public confidence. Many observers note that this change could come about through the LDP’s first female president in its history. Two of the nine candidates, including one of the three main contenders, are women. Japan is the only G7 country other than the US that has never had a woman head of government, and some party members say such a move could greatly improve its image.

But experts tell TIME that despite the momentum and opportunity, the party is unlikely to choose a female leader, citing its patriarchal history, domestic politics and lack of political competition.

Women among Japan’s ministerial candidates

Among the women nominated for the Sept. 27 LDP chairwoman election is Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi, 63, a veteran LDP politician who has been compared to Margaret Thatcher in Britain. Takaichi ran in 2021 with the support of the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and came in third. According to a Kyodo News poll, LDP supporters favor her as Japan’s next prime minister.

There is also incumbent Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, 71, whom party vice president and former Prime Minister Taro Aso, a self-proclaimed “kingmaker,” called a “rising star.”

A Pew Research Center poll earlier this year found that Japan has a high proportion of citizens who “believe that men and women are generally equally good as leaders.” But the LDP cares little about public opinion, at least in the context of women’s representation. “For the LDP, domestic politics is the most important issue,” Mikiko Eto, professor emeritus of gender and politics at Hosei University in Tokyo, told TIME, adding that for the LDP, women are used mainly as tokens. In 2021, the LDP leadership called for female party members to attend key meetings in the wake of sexist remarks by the former prime minister, but it turned out that women were only allowed to observe but not speak.

Hiroko Takeda, a political science lecturer at Nagoya University Graduate School of Law, said the LDP has become a “separate universe” in Japan. LDP members treat parliamentary office as a household or family business that is “inherited,” Takeda says, so it is difficult for newcomers to politics, especially women, to get into key positions.

The current ministers are in the race too

Although opposition parties are putting women in leadership positions, Emma Dalton, a senior lecturer in Japanese studies at La Trobe University in Australia, says they are too weak to increase pressure on the LDP to demand greater inclusiveness. “The LDP has a bit of a problem, and I think they realise that. But at the same time, the Japanese public, I think, is just looking around and saying, ‘Well, where is the realistic opposition?’”

Other frontrunners in the LDP presidential election include former defense minister and LDP veteran Shigeru Ishiba, 67, who is running for the fifth time. Another favorite is Shinjiro Koizumi, the 43-year-old son of former Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi. Shinjiro Koizumi, who is more than a decade younger than the average Japanese lawmaker, will also offer striking changes for the LDP, which has struggled to woo young voters. Also running is Taro Kono, the current minister of digital technology, who previously ran for party chief in 2021 and lost to Kishida in the second round.

Nevertheless, it is possible that one of the female candidates will win Friday’s election, which is expected to move to a runoff. But while a victory by either would be a feat for Japan on the international stage, it would not necessarily signal a change in the LDP’s attitude toward women. This from Hosei University predicts that while Kamikawa may steer the LDP in a more women-friendly direction, “she will not act on her campaign promises because of political conventions and customs within the party.” As for the more conservative Takaichi, “she behaves like a man,” Eto says, “often hostile to feminist issues or gender concerns.”

Read more HERE

[outlookindiacom71]

“World’s largest” casino resort should it be so fortunate as to land one of the three forthcoming gaming licenses.

At a recent conference at Encore Boston Harbor in Massachusetts, Chris Gordon, who’s leading Wynn Resorts’ efforts in Japan, talked about the company’s vision for what’s expected to become the third- richest gaming market in the world behind Macau and Nevada.

“The government has set goals for the next 20 years to raise tourism to a very high level. We like that,” Gordon told The Japan Times. “It’s also a society that has had an interest in gaming. They certainly have gaming now, with pachinko, horses, and motorboats.”

Japanese lawmakers are finalizing the regulations that will govern the licensing process. The largest casino operators on the planet are expected to bid, including Las Vegas Sands, MGM Resorts, Wynn, Melco Resorts, and Galaxy Entertainment.

Massive Complex Gordon refused to put a price tag on the company’s potential Japan casino resort, but said it would likely feature a large amount of MICE space (meeting, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions).

“In Osaka, it would be between two million and three million square feet. That’s probably eight times the size of Encore Boston Harbor,” the executive revealed, adding that the goal is to build the “world’s largest” casino property.

Encore Boston Harbor cost $2.6 billion to construct. Wynn opened its integrated resort (IR) on the Macau Cotai Strip in 2016 at a cost of $4.2 billion.

This would be much larger than the investment in Cotai. But the reason we didn’t put an exact number on it is it’s very early, we still have a lot of design to do, a lot to learn,” Gordon added.

Wynn Resorts has previously told investors that it would likely be looking at an investment in the $8- to $9 billion range in Japan should it win the bidding war.

Osaka Preferred Japan’s decision to legalize commercial gaming – spearheaded by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and his ruling Liberal Democratic Party – is to diversify the world’s third-largest economy into more of a tourism-focused nation.

However, gambling remains largely unpopular among the general public. As a result, only two major cities have expressed public support for the properties: Osaka and Yokohama.

MGM and Sands – considered the frontrunners for two of the licenses – are respectively focused on Osaka and Yokohama. Wynn is open to either city and the Tokyo capital, should it enter the pool.

“Osaka is the most active city,” Gordon said of the integrated resort jockeying. The second-largest metro area in Japan wants to have a casino resort open in time for its hosting of the 2025 World Expo.

Yokohama only threw in its candidacy recently, Mayor Fumiko Hayashi telling her citizens that it’s an opportunity the city can’t afford to miss.바카라사이트

“I’ve decided upon an IR bid due to my sense of crisis about Yokohama’s future,” she said this week. “It’s a big national project which could become a driving force for tourism and the regional economy in Yokohama.”

[sa7abnews]

Daughter of Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra Will be Nominated as New Leader

New Post has been published on https://sa7ab.info/2024/08/16/daughter-of-former-thai-prime-minister-thaksin-shinawatra-will-be-nominated-as-new-leader/

Daughter of Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra Will be Nominated as New Leader

BANGKOK — Thailand’s populist Pheu Thai party on Thursday said it will nominate its party leader, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, in a Parliament vote for the country’s new leader after former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin was removed by a court order over an ethical violation.

Paetongtarn is the youngest daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who is seen as force behind Pheu Thai. He was the first Thai politician ever to win an overall majority of seats. The residual popularity of Thaksin is a factor in the support for Paetongtarn.

If Paetongtarn is approved by Parliament’s vote, which is scheduled for Friday, she will become Thailand’s second female prime minister, and the country’s third leader from the Shinwatra family after her father and her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra.

Sorawong Thienthong, secretary-general of Pheu Thai, told reporters at Parliament on Thursday that the party executives would be meeting later in the day to decide on its prime ministerial nomination in Parliament, with a vote scheduled for Friday.

Pheu Thai’s Srettha was ousted on Wednesday after less than a year in office. The Constitutional Court found him guilty of a serious ethical breach regarding his appointment of a Cabinet member who was jailed in connection with an alleged bribery attempt.

It was the second major ruling in a week to shake Thai politics. The same court last week dissolved the progressive and main opposition Move Forward party, which won last year’s general election but was blocked from power, saying it violated the Constitution by proposing an amendment to a law against defaming the country’s royal family. The party has already regrouped as the People’s Party.

Pheu Thai’s ruling coalition partners have already given their endorsement for the party’s candidate, including the Bhumjaithai party, which came third in the election, and the pro-military Phalang Pracharath and United Thai Nation parties.

Anutin Charnvirakul, the Bhumjaithai party’s candidate and leader is seen as another frontrunner, though he said he would not contest Friday’s vote against a candidate from Pheu Thai.Read More: Why Thailand’s Political Crisis Feels Familiar—and What’s Needed to Break the Cycle

Pheu Thai has two eligible candidates that were put up for the general election in 2023. One is Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra who is seen as a real patriarch behind Pheu Thai. Another is Chaikasem Nitisiri, 75, a former Minister of Justice who served in the Pheu Thai government led by Thaksin’s sister Yingluck Shinawatra and was removed by a coup in 2014.

Pheu Thai finished second in last year’s election but was given a chance to form a government after the winners, reformist Move Forward party, was blocked from taking power by the previous Senate, a military-appointed body.

Move Forward was then excluded from the coalition by Pheu Thai, who went on to join hands with parties affiliated with the previous military-backed government that ousted it in a coup. The move drew criticism from some of its supporters but party officials say that it was necessary to break the deadlock and start reconciliation after decades of deep political divisions.

The former senators were given special power to veto a prime ministerial candidate by the constitution adopted in 2017 under a military government. That power expired when their term ended in May, however. New members of the Senate, selected in a convoluted process last month, do not retain the veto.

A candidate now needs just a majority from the lower house, or at least 247 votes. The House of Representatives now has 493 sitting members after six were banned from politics as a result of Move Forward’s dissolution. Another lawmaker of the Bhumjaithai party is suspended awaiting a court ruling.

While Pheu Thai’s key coalition partners endorsed its candidate, all of them reiterated that they would not support a proposal to amend the royal defamation law which became a key issue during last year’s election. Pheu Thai discussed the issue during the election campaign but has toned down significantly after becoming the government.

The law, also known as Article 112 in Thailand’s criminal codes, protects the monarchy from criticism with penalties of up to 15 years in jail per offense. Critics say the law is often wielded as a tool to quash political dissent.

The People’s Party, new home for lawmakers of the dissolved Move Forward, said Thursday that it will not vote to approve a candidate from Pheu Thai on Friday. Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut said the party will continue its duty as an opposition.

[thoughtlessarse]

While the far-right and centrist camps have clear frontmen leading the charge, multiple faces make up France’s left-wing coalition. The last time left-wing parties joined forces to form a coalition, there was a clear leader in the figure of Jean-Luc Mélenchon. But the far-left founder of France Unbowed (LFI) has been heavily criticised over his early comments on Israel and Gaza and recent statements seen as downplaying antisemitism. This led to the dissolution of the New Ecological and Social People’s Union (Nupes) late last year, with left-wing parties running separate party lists during the June European elections. That was until President Emmanuel Macron called a snap election, prompting the parties to try to join together yet again as the New Popular Front (NFP). But the coalition has not had a clear frontrunner - with different party leaders joining debates and televised specials against the far-right National Rally (RN)’s Jordan Bardella and Prime Minister Gabriel Attal. Here’s a look at some of the coalition’s leaders.

continue reading

[mariacallous]

CASTING FOR NEXT EU COMMISSIONERS WELL UNDERWAY

The European Parliament election is drawing near and there’s growing speculation in all Visegrád countries about the identity of their next EU commissioners. Here’s the current state of play: In the Czech Republic, according to a coalition agreement, the Pirates/STAN sub-coalition has the right to nominate someone. However, the relationship between the Pirates and STAN (the Mayors’ and Independents’ Party, a liberal party) has soured, and many in Prime Minister Petr Fiala’s conservative ODS party would also like to flex their muscles by putting forward their own candidate. Currently, STAN’s Danuše Nerudová looks like the frontrunner, and Deputy Minister of Finance Marek Mora is among the names some in ODS are floating. “If there is a fight and the coalition can’t agree, they could settle with a compromise candidate such as Edita Hrdá, the Czech permanent EU representative,” a Central European foreign policy expert told me. In neighboring Slovakia, the frontrunner, an obvious pick for Prime Minister Robert Fico, is perennial EU Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, nicknamed Mr. Fix it because he tends to be handed tough jobs nobody else wants to do. However, it’s unclear if Šefčovič will be able to secure a decent portfolio, or if he will want to associate himself with Fico’s increasingly pro-Russian government at all. An alternative candidate could be another former Fico foreign minister, Miroslav Lajčák, the current EU Special Representative for the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue and other Western Balkan regional issues. According to Swiss press reports, Lajčák already secured himself an EU ambassadorship to Switzerland, but my well-connected Central European foreign policy expert source tells me that Lajčák is actually lobbying for the EU commissioner job. In Hungary, my government-connected sources still mention MEP Enikő Győri as a likely pick (as I reported back in February), while current Minister of Justice János Bóka – who is in charge of EU negotiations and would be the most obvious pick – is also in the mix. Hungary will take over the rotating EU presidency for the second half of 2024 and Bóka is tasked with handling all related issues, which could be either an obstacle for his candidacy or an opportunity to elevate his profile. Still, I hear rumors that Bóka is considered a “temporary” figure in the Orbán government, whatever that means. Meanwhile, according to multiple Central European experts and diplomats with whom I’ve spoken, Poland's rumored frontrunner for an EU top job is still Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski — but it’s unclear for what exact job he’s being considered. Were Ursula von der Leyen to continue as the European People’s Party (EPP) nominee for President of the EU Commission, the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy position could be filled by the liberal Renew Europe/ALDE group’s candidate – likely meaning Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas. This would leave the EPP-affiliated Sikorski, if he’s interested in such a gig, with the EU’s defense commissioner portfolio, which would be created for the very first time. Alternatively, as we previously reported, Donald Tusk is also considering health expert MEP Bartosz Arłukowicz.

[beardedmrbean]

Bulgarian President Rumen Radev has initiated discussions with potential candidates for acting prime minister, marking a pivotal moment in the country's political landscape. With the resignation of Deputy Ombudsman Elena Cherneva Markova, the list of possibilities has narrowed to nine, prompting intense deliberations at the highest levels of government.

The Chairman of the National Assembly, Rosen Zhelyazkov, emerged as a frontrunner for the role, meeting with President Radev at the "Dondukov" 2 presidential residence. Zhelyazkov's presence underscores the gravity of the situation as Bulgaria navigates the complexities of forming an interim government.

In addition to Zhelyazkov, two other prominent figures are slated to meet with President Radev today: Dimitar Radev, the governor of the Bulgarian National Bank, and Dimitar Glavchev, the chairman of the Audit Chamber. Each candidate brings unique perspectives and experiences to the table, reflecting the diverse array of challenges facing the nation.

The consultations come against the backdrop of Bulgaria's looming early parliamentary election, triggered by the return of an unfulfilled third mandate to form a government by the parliamentary group of "There Is Such a People." The decision underscores the deep-seated political gridlock gripping the country and the urgency of finding a viable path forward.

Amidst the political maneuvering, leaders from various parties have weighed in on the unfolding situation. Boyko Borissov, leader of GERB, urged President Radev to avoid selecting Zhelyazkov or Glavchev as acting prime minister, citing concerns over their affiliations. Meanwhile, BSP Chairwoman Kornelia Ninova anticipates the likelihood of "elections 2 in 1," acknowledging the potential for constitutional tensions but expressing confidence in a resolution.

Constitutional expert Plamen Kirov offered insights into potential scenarios, suggesting that Gorica Kozhareva, deputy chairman of the Audit Chamber, could emerge as a caretaker prime minister. However, Kirov cautioned against constitutional crises, emphasizing the need for stability and adherence to constitutional principles.

With the mandate to organize fair and free elections, the caretaker government faces immense pressure to uphold democratic norms and steer the country towards a brighter future.

[featurenews]

Labour says it will not withdraw its no-confidence motion in the Scottish government – UK politics live

Scottish Labour also launches withering attack on John Swinney, the frontrunner to be the next first minister The Conservative MP who is in charge of leadership contests in the party has said that it’s “crazy” to allow members to choose who wins when the party is in government. As the Daily Telegraph reveals, Sir Graham Brady, chair of the backbench 1922 Committee, made the comment in a speech at Durham University last week. I’m the first chairman of the ‘22 who has had to operate it while we’ve been in government … And so my view is that that was a mistake to introduce that rule. I think it’s fine to have the party members voting on the leader when you’re in opposition. But in a parliamentary system where essentially you could only remain prime minister if you enjoyed the confidence of your party in parliament, it seems to me crazy that we now have different mechanisms … The Conservative members of parliament can get rid of the leader by voting no confidence, but then the leader is supplied by the party members. Continue reading... https://www.theguardian.com/politics/live/2024/apr/30/rishi-sunak-local-elections-mayor-tories-labour-latest-politics-news-updates?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=tumblr

[the-intellectual-journal]

President Biden Must Increase Efforts on Gaza Crisis

Amid global turmoil and an uncertain political landscape, the upcoming US presidential election looms large with Joe Biden as a frontrunner for the presidency. Yet, as Americans grapple with the news of Israel's war in Gaza, there is a pressing need for Biden to take decisive action and demonstrate strong leadership in addressing this humanitarian crisis. Biden demanded an immediate ceasefire to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza in a recent phone call with Prime Minister Netanyahu, a gesture that is too late.

We are past the point of a ceasefire taking into account the death of 30,000 civilians, many of whom were children, and the widespread destruction of Gaza’s infrastructure. Israel has made it clear to the world that they have no intention of halting their bloodthirsty rampage. Instead, we must demand sanctions and arms embargoes against Israel and reinstate funding for the UNRWA. 

Despite the widespread protests in cities and over 500,000 Americans who have cast their Democratic primary votes for "Uncommitted," sending a message to President Biden regarding his approach to the Gaza conflict. It seems as if the Biden administration still has not acknowledged the gravity of the situation. President Biden’s response falls short of the leadership the situation demands and might even cost him the election. Is an unwavering allegiance to Israel worth the potential cost of losing an election?

The reality is that mere calls for ceasefires are insufficient when it is evident that Israel simply has no consideration for human life and international law. Sanctions and arms embargo against Israel are not only justified but necessary to compel a policy change and to signal that the United States is firmly against violations of international law. Additionally, reinstating funding for the UNRWA is crucial to providing essential humanitarian aid to Gaza’s inhabitants considering Israel coerced agency employees to admit associations with Hamas falsely. 

Some might argue the United States already does enough by sending in millions of dollars in humanitarian aid to Palestine. However, what sense does it make to provide aid while simultaneously providing military support — perpetuating the very conflict causing the need for aid in the first place?

The Biden administration must reassess its approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The current policy of unwavering support for Israel without holding it accountable for its actions only exacerbates the suffering of Palestinians. It undermines the United States’ credibility as an advocate of international law. If President Biden truly seeks to lead with integrity, he must listen to the voices of the American people and take meaningful action to address the root causes of the conflict. Anything less would be a failure of leadership and a betrayal of the principles upon which this nation stands.

Sanctions against Israel will serve as a powerful tool to hold the nation accountable for its actions and compel a much-needed shift toward change. They can also exert significant economic pressure to compel Israel to reconsider its policies and actions in Gaza. 

President Biden has the opportunity to fundamentally rethink the United States’ approach to military aid to Israel by considering conditionality measures. By tying future assistance to Israel’s compliance with international law and human rights standards, President Biden can send a clear message that unwavering support does not equate to unconditional approval of actions that violate basic human rights. Suspending or re-evaluating arms sales and military support until concrete steps are taken to address the root causes of Gaza would demonstrate a commitment to justice and accountability. 

On another note, the recognition of a Palestinian state by the United States would not only affirm the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination but also mark a significant shift in the global political order towards greater justice. The recognition would carry significant diplomatic weight and establish an improved relationship between the United States and Palestine.

Ultimately, President Biden is morally obligated to act in the face of the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. The world is watching and history will judge our response. It is time for the Biden administration to listen to the demands of the American people and the international community to end the suffering in Gaza. Anything less would be a betrayal of our values and a failure of our moral responsibility as a nation. 

[shrutim12]

Abhay Bhutada’s Vision: Leading India’s Digital Renaissance through PM Modi's Viksit Bharat 2047 Initiative

In the vast landscape of India's journey towards technological prowess and economic ascendancy, Abhay Bhutada, MD of Poonawalla Fincorp emerges as a passionate advocate for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's transformative initiatives. His perspective on the Viksit Bharat 2047 Initiative reflects not just admiration for leadership but a profound belief in India's capacity to ascend as a global powerhouse under PM Modi's dynamic stewardship.

Bhutada's narrative journey into the heart of India's digital awakening transcends geographical boundaries. Originating from Latur, Maharashtra, he embodies the spirit of empowerment permeating rural India. His personal story intertwines with the nation's digital aspirations, symbolizing the ethos of 'Sankalp Se Siddhi' – aspirations finding wings in the digital realm crafted by PM Modi's vision.

Digital Advancements In India

At the forefront of Bhutada's discourse lies an unwavering optimism, a beacon of hope that resonates deeply with millions who envision India's potential to soar under Prime Minister Modi's visionary leadership. His endorsement of transformative initiatives like Digital India and the Atal Innovation Mission reverberates throughout the nation, amplifying the broader optimism surrounding India's digital future. Bhutada's remarks transcend mere support; they serve as a clarion call for continued dedication towards advancing India's digital agenda, inspiring individuals from all walks of life to contribute towards the nation's technological evolution.

The cornerstone of Bhutada's perspective rests upon a steadfast belief in India's inherent capacity to realize the ambitious vision encapsulated by 'Viksit Bharat 2047'. With fervent conviction, he articulates India's journey into the digital realm, foreseeing a landscape characterized by innovation, inclusivity, and robust human capital development. Bhutada envisions India poised to carve a distinguished place on the global stage, propelled by a collective commitment to progress and prosperity.

His impassioned rhetoric not only ignites hope but also instills unwavering confidence in India’s ability to chart a course towards unprecedented heights by 2047. Bhutada's vision extends beyond mere aspirations; it encompasses a tangible roadmap for India's digital transformation. With innovation as its compass and inclusivity as its guiding principle, Bhutada believes that India is well-positioned to navigate the complexities of the digital age and emerge as a global leader in innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.

In Bhutada's narrative, the year 2047 represents more than just a milestone; it symbolizes the culmination of decades of dedication, determination, and collective effort. As India marches forward into this new era, Bhutada stands as a staunch advocate for progress, urging his fellow citizens to embrace change and seize the boundless opportunities that lie ahead. With his unwavering faith in India's potential, Bhutada inspires a nation to embrace its destiny and forge a future where prosperity knows no bounds.

Also Read: RBI Maintains Repo Rate Amidst Economic Shifts

Can India Contribute Globally?

Bhutada perceives PM Modi's 'Viksit Bharat 2047 Initiative' as far more than just a mere policy directive; rather, it stands as a definitive pathway for India to emerge as a global frontrunner, embodying principles of innovation, inclusivity, and progress at its core. His sentiments encapsulate the resolute spirit of a nation that stands poised to chart its destiny amidst the rapidly evolving global landscape.

Also Read: How Does Abhay Bhutada Ensure Compliance Resilience at Poonawalla Fincorp?

With an unwavering belief in the transformative potential of the initiative, Bhutada envisions a future where India's contributions are not just acknowledged but celebrated on the world stage. He recognizes that the success of Viksit Bharat 2047 hinges upon the collective determination of every citizen to embrace change and drive progress forward. In Bhutada's eyes, this initiative represents not merely a governmental agenda but a national ethos—a call to action for every Indian to actively participate in shaping the country's future.

Bhutada's remarks resonate deeply with a collective determination to propel the nation towards unprecedented heights of success. He underscores the significance of concerted efforts, emphasizing that realizing India's aspirations requires a unified approach wherein every individual plays a vital role. By championing innovation, inclusivity, and progress, Bhutada believes that India can position itself as a global leader, setting new standards of excellence and becoming a beacon of inspiration for nations around the world.

In essence, Bhutada's perspective illuminates the transformative power of visionary leadership and collective action. Through initiatives like Viksit Bharat 2047, he sees India not only realizing its full potential but also leaving an indelible mark on the global stage—a testament to the nation's unwavering spirit and boundless potential.

Also Read: How Digitalization Has Empowered Citizens From Small Towns?

Conclusion

Abhay Bhutada's perspective on PM Modi's Viksit Bharat 2047 Initiative exemplifies not just admiration but an unwavering belief in India's potential to lead in the digital age. His narrative, woven with personal experiences and national aspirations, paints a vivid picture of India's trajectory towards technological prowess and economic ascendancy. As Bhutada stands as a beacon of optimism, he beckons India towards a brighter tomorrow, where innovation, inclusivity, and progress reign supreme on the global stage.

[cooladddy]

Joly calls NATO ‘united’ as Trump says he’d encourage Russian attacks on members

Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly says NATO’s military alliance is more “united than ever before” but stopped short of joining other allies in their criticism of U.S. Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump, after he threatened to abandon members who miss their spending targets.

Canada has for years fallen short of hitting the agreed upon target to spend two per cent of GDP on defence, as have other members. “NATO has kept us safe as a country and has kept all those part of the alliance safe,” Joly told reporters Monday. “We’ve done a lot, but we need to do more.” Her remarks come two days after the former U.S. president said he would “encourage” Russia to “do whatever the hell they want” to NATO allies who don’t pay their bills. “Well sir, if we don’t pay, and we’re attacked by Russia — will you protect us?” Trump quoted an unnamed leader as saying. “I said: ‘You didn’t pay? You’re delinquent?’ He said: ‘Yes, let’s say that happened.’ No, I would not protect you. In fact, I would encourage them (Russia) to do whatever the hell they want. You gotta pay,” Trump said. Joly would not answer when asked whether Trump’s comments put allied troops at risk, but insists NATO has grown stronger with the inclusion of Finland and upcoming addition of Sweden. “The minister of defence, , is heading to NATO in Brussels later this week. And, we will continue to have a strong voice at the table,” said Joly. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was more blunt, blasting Trump for comments he called “irresponsible and dangerous,” as fears deepen that Trump’s possible return to the White House could allow Russia to expand its aggression beyond Ukraine. “No one can play, or ‘deal,’ with Europe’s security,” added Scholz. Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden called Trump’s NATO comments “appalling.” One of NATO’s foundational principles is Article 5, which commits to collective defence and the vow that an attack against one member is an attack against all, and will result in allied action. But Trump has often lamented other members are not pulling their weight. A leaked Pentagon assessment obtained by the Washington Post last April said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told NATO officials Canada would never meet the alliance’s target. While Trudeau and Trump had a frosty relationship the last time he was in office, Joly insists Canada will be prepared if Trump is re-elected. “You’ll always hear me saying the same thing, which is essentially the American people will decide. Meanwhile, we’ll be ready for their choice. We’ve been able to manage two types of administration in the White House.” Sebastian Skamski, a spokesperson for Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s office, said Canada has failed to be a strong NATO partner under the Liberal government. “Justin Trudeau has left us to depend on Joe Biden or Donald Trump to secure Canada for us,” Skamski said in a statement to Global News. “We will restore Canada as a reliable partner to our NATO allies.” Joly’s cautious tone comes as Canadian diplomats speak with advisers and congressional allies of Trump, as they prepare for the possibility of a second Trump presidency. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg warned Trump’s recent remarks endanger members of the Western military alliance. “Any suggestion that allies will not defend each other undermines all of our security, including that of the U.S., and puts American and European soldiers at increased risk,” Stoltenberg said in a statement Sunday. He added that “regardless of who wins the presidential election the U.S. will remain a strong and committed NATO ally.” Read the full article