Indonesia has again reduced the budget for President Prabowo Subianto's signature free school meals program to 229 trillion rupiah, with further cuts possible. The program, a key election pledge, faces efficiency drives, logistical issues, food poisoning incidents, and corruption allegations, prompting a review to improve quality over beneficiary numbers.
Malaysia's southern Johor state is set for a 14-day election campaign starting Saturday, with 172 candidates vying for 56 seats. The poll will see ruling partners Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional contest against each other, testing their federal alliance's reach and the opposition's relevance.
Keir Starmer announced his resignation as UK Prime Minister, citing pressure and the need for new leadership ahead of the next general election. Andy Burnham is the likely successor, expected to take office without a contest within weeks.
Keir Starmer has announced his resignation as British Prime Minister, citing pressure from within the Labour party. Andy Burnham is now the likely successor, expected to take office without a contest. Burnham's policy agenda, including potential economic shifts and cabinet appointments, is beginning to take shape.
Gangwon Province Superintendent of Education Shin Gyeong-ho, convicted of bribery and illegal election campaigning, has appealed his sentence of 10 months imprisonment with a 2-year suspended sentence. The court found him guilty of promising a sports special advisor position in exchange for 5 million won and resort accommodation.
Pauline Hanson delivered a combative address at the National Press Club, attacking multiculturalism, climate change, and transgender rights. Journalist Margo Kingston discusses the significance of this speech as the potential start of Hanson's federal campaign.
Up to 3,000 Labour campaigners are descending on Makerfield for Andy Burnham's by-election, raising concerns about overwhelming voters. Hotels are booked, and activists will be deployed to polling stations and public spots to avoid door-knocking fatigue.
Gangwon Education Superintendent Shin Gyeong-ho was sentenced to a suspended jail term in his appeal for illegal election campaigning and bribery, maintaining the original ruling. He was found guilty of promising public office appointments in exchange for cash and resort stays, leading to a sentence that could invalidate his election.
Victoria's Trades Hall Council head, Luke Hilakari, publicly named 23 Labor MPs and candidates for having no constituent conversations in two weeks, urging them to "work their ass off" to counter One Nation's rise. He warned of withholding union support in the upcoming election if engagement doesn't improve.
Labour's political focus has shifted to Wigan for Andy Burnham's by-election campaign, with MPs flocking to support him. Polls suggest Burnham could beat Reform UK, challenging Keir Starmer's leadership. The campaign emphasizes Burnham's return to Westminster to reform Labour.
NSW prosecutors have launched proceedings against former Labor MP Ernest Wong and restaurateur Jonathan Yee for allegedly disguising $10,000 in donations to Chris Minns' 2014 election campaign, circumventing election funding laws.
Indonesian authorities arrested Dadan Hindayana, the former head of the country's free school meals program, on Wednesday, a day after he was fired. Hindayana and two deputies are accused of crimes in the management of the program, which has been marred by mass food poisonings and corruption allegations.
Seoul mayoral candidate Oh Se-hoon shed tears during his final campaign speech, appealing for votes and vowing to restore intergenerational mobility and create a "TOP 3" city through inclusive growth. He also intensified his attacks on rival candidate Jung Bong-ju.
Kosovo's snap election campaign is dominated by the disintegration of the alliance between PM Albin Kurti and former President Vjosa Osmani, now rivals. Analysts cite political stalemate, strained foreign relations, and escalating rhetoric as key issues.
Candidates for the Hanam Gap by-election intensified their campaigns on the final day, April 2nd, visiting key public sites. Lee Kwang-jae (Democratic Party) began a 72-hour non-stop rally on March 31st. Lee Yong (People Power Party) and Kim Sung-yeol (New Reform Party) also conducted extensive local tours.
Candidates for the integrated Jeonnam-Gwangju Special City mayor and Gwangsan-gu parliamentary by-election made final appeals on June 2nd, the last day of official campaigning. They focused on visions for the integrated city, political reform, and government success.
The Democratic Party is making a final push for votes on the last day of the local election campaign, with key leaders focusing on battleground areas. Chung Sye-kyun and Han Byung-do are campaigning in Seoul, Gyeonggi, and Jeonbuk, aiming to secure crucial support.
Five candidates in the Pyeongtaek National Assembly by-election are making a final push for votes on April 2nd, the last day of official campaigning. They are visiting various locations across the constituency, including commercial areas, industrial sites, and residential neighborhoods, to engage with voters.
Busan's mayoral and by-election campaigns concluded with final rallies on May 2nd, ending a 13-day race marred by intense negative campaigning. Candidates focused on personal attacks rather than policy discussions, disappointing voters.
Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson plans to make IVF funding a central promise in his re-election campaign, aiming to boost the country's record-low birthrate by offering state-funded IVF for additional children. This move targets female voters amid concerns over declining fertility.
South Korean citizens are increasingly frustrated by the excessive noise from campaign vehicles and frequent political calls during the 6.3 local election campaign period. Despite regulations, noise levels often exceed limits, and unsolicited calls disrupt daily life, prompting calls for reform.
Andy Burnham's political allies are forming a close circle as he considers a leadership challenge. Key figures include chief of staff Kevin Lee, former MP Josh Simons, and MPs Anneliese Midgley, Louise Haigh, Lucy Powell, and Ed Miliband. Thinktank directors Neal Lawson and Mathew Lawrence are shaping his policy ideas.
The election campaign in Lecco concluded amid controversy after Lega official Debora Piazza made a social media comment alluding to a violent act against PD secretary Elly Schlein. Premier Meloni expressed solidarity with Schlein, calling Piazza's words unacceptable. The Lega suspended Piazza from her roles.
Andy Burnham officially launched his Labour campaign for the Makerfield by-election, urging a fresh approach to politics. The Green candidate withdrew hours after announcement due to past social media posts, and the Liberal Democrats selected their candidate. Defence secretary John Healey demanded transparency from Nigel Farage over a £5m gift amid Russia-linked concerns.
