Australia's parliament enters a 'settlement season' before its winter break, with the Labor government pushing contentious tax changes and facing opposition to NDIS reforms. Deals with the Greens and Coalition are complicated by party fury, leading to potential legislative roadblocks.
Colombians are voting in a presidential runoff election that could dramatically alter the country's approach to its armed conflict. The far-right candidate Abelardo de la Espriella, who favors military confrontation, is leading polls against Iván Cepeda, the architect of President Petro's "total peace" plan.
Karnataka BJP will hold a legislature party meeting at Dharmasthala to investigate alleged cross-voting by BJP MLAs in recent council elections. Party president B Y Vijayendra stated legislators may take an oath before Lord Manjunatha to reveal the truth, calling the act "betrayal".
Colombians vote Sunday in a presidential runoff that could dramatically shift the country's approach to its armed conflict. Far-right lawyer Abelardo de la Espriella, vowing military confrontation, faces leftwing senator Iván Cepeda, who supports "total peace" negotiations.
Hong Kong election authorities have ceased compiling and releasing voter turnout data broken down by age and sex, a practice maintained since at least 2008. This decision, attributed to a lack of operational need, has drawn criticism from analysts and politicians who view the data as crucial for understanding voter demographics and informing policy, and for improving governance.
One Nation, a right-wing populist party, proposes a nationalist, isolationist, and protectionist foreign policy. Key proposals include slashing foreign aid, cutting immigration, withdrawing from the UN and WHO, and potentially recognizing Taiwan, which experts warn could isolate Australia and provoke economic retaliation from China.
Cross-voting impacted Rajya Sabha elections in Jharkhand and Legislative Council polls in Karnataka. While NDA gained in Jharkhand, Congress outmaneuvered BJP in Karnataka. Both parties exhibit double standards regarding cross-voting.
Reform UK's mixed byelection results, including a disappointing second place in Makerfield and distant seconds in Gorton and Denton, raise concerns for Nigel Farage. Issues include candidate selection, vulnerability to tactical voting, and competition from the right.
Reform UK's mixed byelection results, including a disappointing second place in Makerfield, raise concerns for Nigel Farage. Issues with candidate selection, tactical voting, and a new right-wing competitor, Restore Britain, highlight challenges for the party.
A new survey reveals Gen Z pet owners spend significantly more annually ($6,103) than Boomers ($2,454), with many viewing pets as children and willing to sell organs in emergencies. Pet spending reached $158 billion in 2025, driven by rising vet bills and private equity investment.
The BJP-led NDA has won 19 of 26 Rajya Sabha seats, increasing its strength to 150. The alliance is now 13 seats short of a two-thirds majority, with potential further gains from TMC and AAP splits. Opposition INDIA bloc secured six seats.
Andy Burnham's decisive victory in the Makerfield byelection has intensified speculation about a leadership challenge to Keir Starmer. Allies hope Burnham can be installed as PM within days, citing his emphatic win as proof of his ability to unite the party and challenge Reform UK.
Polls close in Makerfield by-election, a key contest for Andy Burnham's political future. The Labour candidate faces Reform's Robert Kenyon in a seat traditionally safe for Labour but recently leaning towards Reform.
The Election Commission of India is preparing for the 2029 Lok Sabha elections by requesting over ₹500 crore to purchase new electronic voting machines. This is due to a significant increase in polling stations and the retirement of older machines, aiming for a smooth voting process.
A new study of election data suggests young men are not shifting rightwing more than other demographics, challenging claims they are a key driver of parties like Reform UK. Age is a bigger factor than gender in political opinions, and young men remain the most progressive male cohort.
NDA-backed Independent Parimal Nathwani secured one of the two Rajya Sabha seats from Jharkhand, defeating Congress candidate Pranav in a close contest. The ruling JMM candidate Baidyanath Ram won the other seat. The election saw cross-voting and invalid votes, leading to accusations of betrayal from the Congress.
UK newspapers focus on Donald Trump's Iran deal, with the Daily Mirror calling it a "sellout". Critics question its value, while The Times anticipates Republican anger. Separately, the i Paper reports BBC staff frustration over funding cuts impacting journalism.
Shoko Kawata, Japan's youngest female mayor, has ignited a national discussion by taking maternity leave, a move unprecedented for an incumbent mayor. The decision highlights Japan's struggle with gender equality and outdated work culture, prompting calls for systemic support for working parents.
Rupert Murdoch reportedly told Donald Trump that JD Vance has "potential to be great" while Marco Rubio is "brilliant," favoring Rubio during a 2028 presidential election discussion. The excerpt from "Regime Change" highlights a complex relationship between Trump and Murdoch, and internal party divisions over potential successors.
Jharkhand's Rajya Sabha elections are set for a close contest as the INDIA bloc, with 56 MLAs, faces a challenge from the BJP-backed independent candidate Parimal Nathwani, who needs just 4 cross-votes to potentially upset the ruling coalition's expected win of two seats. Both camps are employing 'hotel politics' and mock polls to ensure MLA unity and prevent cross-voting, reminiscent of recent upsets in Bihar and Odisha.
Pauline Hanson, once seen as a radical outlier, has evolved into a significant political force with her One Nation party topping polls. Her anti-establishment message, fueled by societal discontent over issues like migration and inequality, resonates strongly, positioning her as a serious contender for prime minister.
Pauline Hanson outlined One Nation's vision for Australia, advocating for a monocultural society, reduced migration, and strong support for coal and gas. She proposed shutting down public broadcasters, scaling back parental leave, and cutting workers' rights, while criticizing transgender rights and climate action. Hanson also made controversial remarks about international partners and reacted aggressively to scrutiny.
Candidates in a UK by-election are making final pitches ahead of Thursday's vote. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham hopes to win an MP seat, potentially challenging Labour leader Keir Starmer. His main rival is Reform UK's Robert Kenyon.
Speculation surrounds potential cabinet appointments if Keir Starmer were replaced by Andy Burnham as Labour leader. Key figures like Ed Miliband, Shabana Mahmood, and Louise Haigh are discussed for roles such as Chancellor and Home Secretary, with policy advisors also highlighted.
