Northern Cyprus’s president-elect won over 62 per cent of the vote, beating incumbent President Ersin Tatar, who was backed by Erdoğan. Turkey’s far right is calling for the vote to be invalidated, pushing for reunification. For his part, Turkey’s president is more cautious, adopting a conciliatory tone. At issue are the island's future and its ties with Europe and the Middle East. Meanwhile, Erdoğan is set to travel to the Persian Gulf on a three-day visit.
In Uttar Pradesh, opposition is mounting after Hindu nationalist Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has 2.6 million oil lamps lit for the Festival of Lights. For some it was a waste of resources taken from the poor, a view seen as anti-Indian by the ruling BJP. For Father Anand Mathew, while inequalities are growing, and many, especially Muslims, are suffering, Diwali remains a “joyous celebration” for all.
A new report by the Asia Centre highlights how fake news and phoney arguments have turned Thai public opinion against Indigenous groups (most of whom are not officially recognised by the Thai government), leading to the belief that their traditional practices are an obstacle to forest protection. In fact, the evidence shows exactly the opposite, with the responsibility squarely on business groups, despite their greenwashing attempts.
The leader of the Liberal Democratic Party becomes the first woman to head the Tokyo government. The coalition does not have an absolute majority in parliament, but prevailed due to divisions in the opposition. Ishin will not have its own ministers. The government agreement includes a commitment to reduce the number of parliamentarians by 10% and suspend the food consumption tax for two years.
From 20 to 24 October, the 18th edition of the Mspc is taking place in Iligan City, under the theme ‘pilgrims of hope’. An opportunity for prayer and reflection on the challenges of a region with a large Muslim and tribal population. Among the unresolved problems are poverty, unemployment and terrorism.
Today's headlines: Sanae Takaichi is Japan's new prime minister; Burmese junta raids KK Park scam centre, seizes 30 Starlink receivers;. Israeli raids in southern Lebanon against Hezbollah “terrorist sites”; Vance is in Israel today; Two terrorists with RPGs arrested in Indian Punjab, police: contacts with Pakistani intelligence.
