Former NSW Liberal premier Nick Greiner warned executive of internal backlash over burying of election defeat review
Release of review delayed after former leader Peter Dutton raised concerns about some findings against him and his chief-of-staffGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe former New South Wales premier Nick Greiner warned the Liberal federal executive that burying a review of the 2025 election defeat risked backlash from party members and in the media, exposing further internal splits over the move.As details of the report start to leak – despite the decision to keep them secret – Guardian Australia can reveal Greiner raised concerns about suppressing the report during Friday’s meeting of the party’s top... [Continue Reading]
Monday briefing: What does the escalation in the Middle East mean for global stability?
In today’s newsletter: A region already strained by years of proxy conflict is now confronting its most volatile moment in decades, as the death of Iran’s supreme leader could drag us into a rapidly widening crisis, with no clear path to de‑escalationGood morning. Over the weekend the US and Israel launched a series of attacks on Iran that resulted in the assassination of Tehran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei – a move that dramatically raised the stakes in their long-running conflict.The assassination of a serving supreme leader is an extraordinary act – one that signals not containment, but confrontation. Retaliatory... [Continue Reading]
Iran ties after Khamenei, China’s Myanmar dilemma: 5 weekend reads you missed
We have put together stories from our coverage last weekend to help you stay informed about news across Asia and beyond. If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing. 1. Why China’s ties with Iran will endure despite death of Khamenei 2. Why China’s Myanmar dilemma still persists, 5 years and 1 election later 3. Cathay Pacific suspends all Middle East operations after US-Israeli attack on Iran 4. Indonesia is getting an aircraft carrier. The Philippines isn’t.... [Continue Reading]
Sir John Curtice: Which issues will decide the elections in Scotland and Wales?
A poll carried out for the BBC examines the issues which will influence how people plan to vote on 7 May. [Continue Reading]
Maria Corina Machado to Return to Venezuela After Three-Month Exile Ahead of Upcoming Elections
Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has declared her intention to return to Venezuela in the coming weeks after a three-month exile. In a recent social media message, she emphasized her goal of preparing for "a new and gigantic electoral victory," highlighting the forthcoming elections that are critical in the ongoing struggle against the Nicolás Maduro administration. Machado's statement marks a significant moment in Venezuelan politics, particularly following her success in the recent primaries aimed at uniting the opposition under a single candidate. Machado, who has been living outside the country since her departure earlier in the year, did not... [Continue Reading]
UK Home Secretary announces 30-month temporary protection for asylum seekers granted refugee status in policy overhaul
In a significant overhaul of the United Kingdom's asylum framework, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced that all asylum seekers granted refugee status will only receive temporary protection lasting 30 months. This announcement is set to come into effect from Monday and marks one of the most substantial changes to the UK’s asylum policies in many years. The decision, which will not require parliamentary approval, is already stirring controversy within the Labour party, particularly among its left-wing members who are advocating for more progressive immigration policies. Under the new regulations, asylum seekers will have their cases reviewed every 30 months.... [Continue Reading]
Venezuela’s opposition leader Machado ‘will return to the country in the coming weeks’
Venezuelan opposition leader and winner of the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize Maria Corina Machado said on Sunday that she will return to Venezuela in the coming weeks and that elections will be held in the South American country. Machado did not set a date for her return but said one of the objectives will be to prepare “for a new and gigantic electoral victory”. In a message shared on social media, the politician called on her supporters to “strengthen the unity of Venezuelans that began with the... [Continue Reading]
Supporters of ex-president Bolsonaro rally across Brazil against Lula
Thousands of supporters of Brazil’s former president Jair Bolsonaro demonstrated in cities across the South American nation on Sunday, as organisers hoped to build momentum for a right-wing victory in the coming presidential elections. Protesters draped in yellow and green – the colours of the national flag – took to the streets in Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and the capital Brasilia to voice their opposition to current President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva who faces a tough re-election bid in... [Continue Reading]
The Nightcliff by-election is this weekend. Here is what you need to know
Residents living in Darwin's northern suburbs of Nightcliff, Rapid Creek and parts of Coconut Grove will be heading to the polls this Saturday to vote in a by-election. It comes after the former member for Nightcliff resigned in February. [Continue Reading]
OBR a backseat driver with out-of-date maps, thinktanks tell Rachel Reeves
Chancellor urged to reform Office for Budget Responsibility to open way to more public investmentRachel Reeves must reform the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) to open the way to more public investment, an alliance of thinktanks has argued ahead of the chancellor’s spring forecast on Tuesday.With Keir Starmer’s government under intense pressure after Labour’s defeat by the Greens in Thursday’s Gorton and Denton byelection, the thinktanks called on Reeves to review the watchdog’s remit. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Going once, going twice, sold! What's on offer this election from Labor and Liberal to fix the housing crisis
South Australia's housing market is running hot. When it comes to securing votes, the major parties want those caught up in the crisis to buy what they're selling. [Continue Reading]
Trump appears to link Iran attack to his 2020 election loss
President says in social media post that Iran tried to ‘stop Trump’ and now ‘faces renewed war with United States’US-Israel war on Iran – latest updatesDonald Trump on Saturday appeared to link the massive attack he ordered against Iran to his persistent claims about his 2020 election loss to former president Joe Biden, in a social media post about allegations that Tehran’s government interfered in the US president elections.“Iran tried to interfere in 2020, 2024 elections to stop Trump,” his Truth Social post said, “and now faces renewed war with United States”. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Green party membership in UK passes 200,000 after byelection victory
Party leader Zack Polanski says surge in numbers ‘proves that the future of progressive politics belongs to the Greens’The Green party said its membership has passed 200,000 this weekend in the wake of its victory in the Gorton and Denton byelection overturning a huge Labour majority.The party’s membership has tripled since September last year, when it was about 68,000, after the announcement of Zack Polanski as its new leader. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Populist crusade and anti-Maga outrage as Texas Democrats do battle in Senate primary
James Talarico and Jasmine Crockett adopt contrasting strategies as party hopes to tap into Trump backlash in reliably red stateAt a packed town hall meeting last month in Laredo for James Talarico, the 36-year-old Democrat vying for a US Senate seat in Texas, Cristina Rodriguez took the microphone. Rodriguez, a 16-year Marine Corps veteran, said she had never cast a ballot. She didn’t identify as either a Democrat nor a Republican, and to her it didn’t matter. Regardless of what party the president belonged to, she had to obey orders.Her attitude changed after the re-election of Donald Trump, whom she... [Continue Reading]
Keir Starmer abandoned net zero to court Reform voters. He failed
After byelection defeat and with right-leaning advisers gone, will PM return to his instincts and embrace Labour ‘DNA’ on climate?Less than a year ago, Keir Starmer stood in front of an audience of senior officials and business leaders from 60 countries in London to declare climate action was “in the DNA of my government”.Vowing to go “all out” for net zero and to “accelerate” while others were slowing down, the Lancaster House speech was his strongest intervention yet on the issue. “We’re paying the price for our overexposure to the rollercoaster of international fossil fuel markets,” he said. “Homegrown clean... [Continue Reading]
Orbán raises terror alert and eyes election gains as Iran war disrupts energy markets
Hungary raises its terror threat level and renews pressure on Ukraine to restore Russian oil flows, as the Israel-US strikes on Iran roil global energy markets , handing Orbán a campaign boost. [Continue Reading]
Nigel Farage says he would only allow British citizens to vote in UK elections
Reform UK has unveiled plans for electoral reform. [Continue Reading]
Ex-minister adds to UK calls for ban on political donations in cryptocurrency
Exclusive: Labour’s Rushanara Ali plans to intervene in elections bill amid warnings of foreign interferenceA former Labour minister has added her voice to those of a growing list of experts and senior MPs calling for a ban on political donations in cryptocurrency as concerns grow over foreign interference in British elections.Rushanara Ali, the Labour MP who helped draft the elections bill when she was a minister in the communities department, called for the government to strengthen the legislation with an outright ban on donations in digital currencies. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Shabana Mahmood’s double down on immigration ‘disappointing’, says Alf Dubs
Labour peer, who was a child refugee, criticises home secretary’s response to Gorton and Denton byelection defeatThe home secretary’s decision to double down on hardline immigration reforms in light of Labour’s byelection defeat to the Green party is “disappointing”, according to the Labour peer Alf Dubs.Lord Dubs, a child refugee who fled Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia on the Kindertransport in 1939, had previously accused Shabana Mahmood of “pulling up the drawbridge” on child migrants. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Labour must cease taking progressive voters for granted, says Sadiq Khan
London mayor criticises PM for calling Greens ‘extreme’ after Gorton and Denton loss, saying it is a ‘flawed strategy’Sadiq Khan: ‘Labour must stop channelling Reform and unite with progressives. That’s the byelection’s lesson’The mayor of London has said the Gorton and Denton byelection has exposed a “far-reaching change and fracturing” in UK politics and Labour must ditch its “flawed strategy” of taking liberal progressives for granted.In what appears to be an attack on Keir Starmer, Sadiq Khan challenged the prime minister’s branding of the Green party and its policies as “extreme”, saying many of its supporters shared Labour’s values but... [Continue Reading]
Iran Faces Political Uncertainty Following Death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
The recent death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, has plunged the country into a state of political uncertainty. His demise marks a pivotal moment in a regime historically built to endure beyond individual leadership. Analysts suggest that Khamenei's absence could catalyze a dangerous power struggle, potentially leading to a military takeover. This poses grave implications not only for Iran but also for its regional adversaries, particularly Israel and the United States, which have long viewed Khamenei as a key figure in Iran's defiance against Western influences. Official reports confirmed that Khamenei passed away in a Tehran hospital following... [Continue Reading]
US and Israel conduct military strikes; reports suggest death of Iranian leader Khamenei, claims remain unconfirmed
Recent coordinated military strikes by the United States and Israel have reportedly resulted in the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, although this claim remains unconfirmed by Iranian authorities. US President Donald Trump proclaimed the strikes a success, asserting that they were aimed at eliminating significant threats posed by Iran's missile capabilities and naval forces. Following the attacks, which Mr Trump announced while at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, he expressed a commitment to continuing military efforts against Iran if it proceeds with its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. However, Iranian news outlets maintain that Khamenei remains in... [Continue Reading]
‘This is round two’: Attacks on Iran have broad support among unsurprised Israelis
Air strikes halt bitter political feuding ahead of elections as prominent Israelis call for a broad open-ended warUS-Israeli attack on Iran – live updatesUS and Israel strikes on Iran – what we know so farAir raid sirens emptied Israel’s streets on Saturday and filled its bomb shelters, as the country braced for waves of Iranian attacks.But individual fear and resignation did not temper broad political and popular support for the country’s second regional war in less than a year. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
US hails progress on Haiti's anti-gang force, but elections face steep hurdles
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Wednesday that progress had been made in assembling an international anti-gang force for Haiti, raising hopes that improved security could allow long-delayed elections to go ahead this year. Yet with armed groups controlling much of the capital, the prospect of a credible vote remains uncertain. [Continue Reading]
Burnham would probably have won by-election, Labour deputy leader says
Lucy Powell tells the BBC that Labour needs to make more use of the Greater Manchester mayor. [Continue Reading]
Burnham would ‘probably’ have won byelection, says Labour deputy leader
Lucy Powell calls for party to make more use of Greater Manchester mayor after Gorton and Denton defeatAndy Burnham would have won the Gorton and Denton byelection, Labour’s deputy leader said as she called for the party to make more use of the Greater Manchester mayor.Labour fell to third in the previously rock-solid seat on Thursday, with the Greens winning a fifth seat in parliament and Reform UK coming second. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Donald Trump indicted on 34 felony counts in New York state court during arraignment
Donald Trump, the former President of the United States, has been indicted on 34 felony counts, marking a significant moment in U.S. legal history. This unprecedented indictment was announced in a New York state court, where Trump appeared for his arraignment. The case stems from allegations concerning hush money payments made during the 2016 presidential election campaign. Trump has publicly proclaimed his innocence and pleaded not guilty to all charges. The indictment details charges related to efforts to silence allegations about personal conduct during the election. Trump's legal representatives have argued that the charges are politically motivated, part of a... [Continue Reading]
Rhun ap Iorwerth: Plaid Cymru is ready to ‘lead the charge’ in Wales
Leader launches ‘roadmap’ of first 100 days in power to show party is ready to govern if it wins Senedd electionsThe leader of Plaid Cymru has described the prospect of leading the next government in Wales as “a heck of a task” but that he senses voters are increasingly driven by their Welsh identity and may be ready for Britain to be “redesigned”.Speaking to the Guardian as he published a glossy 60-page “roadmap” for his party’s first 100 days in government, if it takes power in May, Rhun ap Iorwerth said he was ready to lead the devolved administration in... [Continue Reading]
Joe Biden warns that Donald Trump will try to ‘steal’ midterm elections
In a rare public address, former president said US is experiencing ‘dark days’ and urged Americans to voteSign up for This week in Trumpland, a free newsletter on the latest from the Trump administrationJoe Biden has warned that his presidential successor, Donald Trump, will attempt to “steal” the midterm elections, in what for him is a rare public address.Speaking in South Carolina, where he was being honored for his lifetime achievement in politics, Biden also asserted that the US is experiencing “dark days”, in a speech made hours before the Trump administration launched attacks on Iran. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Public don't expect a difference to NHS waiting lists in 100 days - Plaid leader
Plaid launches its plan for what it would do in the first 100 days if it wins May's Senedd election. [Continue Reading]
Ahmed plays down hope of semi-final place - can he fit in England XI?
England all-rounder Rehan Ahmed plays down his hopes of selection for the T20 World Cup semi-finals despite his crucial role in Friday's win over New Zealand. [Continue Reading]
Mahmood to press on with immigration reforms despite by-election defeat
The home secretary is to double down on plans for Danish-style restrictions on asylum seekers. [Continue Reading]
Labour anxiety and accusations after big shift in Muslim vote to Greens
PM criticises ‘sectarian politics’ in byelection but party may fear Greens’ nascent leftwing political machineThe Green party’s success at winning Muslim votes in Gorton and Denton has sent tremors through Westminster, prompting recriminations and accusations from opposition parties, who sense another major realignment in British politics.Experts say Hannah Spencer’s unexpectedly wide margin of victory was delivered in part by a significant shift of Muslim voters from Labour to the Greens. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
SA Liberal and Labor to preference David Speirs last at state election
Both major parties in South Australia say they will preference former opposition leader David Speirs last at the state election, as he rules out returning to the Liberal Party. [Continue Reading]
Russia may interfere in Danish election, exploiting chaos sewn by US, spies warn
US threats to seize Greenland have created ‘new international fault lines’ that can be used to spread disinformation, Danish intelligence agencies sayDenmark’s intelligence services have warned that a foreign power may try to sway the general election on 24 March, saying the main threat was from Russia over support for Ukraine but also citing the chaos caused by US efforts to seize Greenland.The PET police intelligence service and FE military intelligence said in a joint statement the election campaign could be marked by disinformation and cyberattacks “to sow division, influence the public debate or to target candidates, parties or specific... [Continue Reading]
‘I could see myself stepping into that void’: Gavin Newsom on fighting Trump and running in 2028 – podcast
The governor of California, Gavin Newsom, is widely regarded as one of the Democratic party’s leading contenders for the 2028 presidential election. He has also published a new book, Young Man in a Hurry, reflecting on his childhood and his path to the governor’s mansion.This week, Jonathan Freedland speaks to Newsom about why he believes the Democrats suffered such heavy losses in 2024, why the party needs to be less judgmental, and whether he intends to run for president in 2028 Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Concerns Grow Over Launceston Public-Private Hospital Project Amid State Government Conditions
Concerns are mounting about the future of a significant healthcare project in Tasmania, as recent conditions imposed by the state government could halt plans for a new public-private hospital in Launceston. The Liberals had pledged a $35 million investment for a 50 percent ownership stake during the ongoing election campaign, but the Launceston Health Hub, intended to partner in the initiative, now claims it is unable to secure necessary financing due to these unexpected requirements. Dr Jerome Muir Wilson, a prominent local healthcare professional, voiced his alarm over the conditions, which he believes may jeopardize the overall project. He pointed... [Continue Reading]
Green Party wins first Westminster by-election in Gorton and Denton, unseating Labour with over 4,000 vote majority
In a stunning turn of events, the Green Party has achieved its first-ever Westminster by-election victory in Gorton and Denton, a Greater Manchester constituency. On the back of widespread dissatisfaction with Labour's policies, local plumber Hannah Spencer secured the seat, unseating Labour and propelling her party into a significant political position. This outcome marks a watershed moment for the Greens, as they emerged with a majority exceeding 4,000 votes, demonstrating a shift in voter allegiance among the progressive left. Spencer's win is attributed to Labour's miscalculation in addressing the needs and sentiments of its core base. Previously, the Labour Party... [Continue Reading]
Hillary Clinton Denies Allegations of Ties to Jeffrey Epstein During House Oversight Committee Testimony
In a recent appearance before the House of Representatives' oversight committee, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton vehemently refuted claims regarding her alleged connections to Jeffrey Epstein, labeling the proceedings a "fishing expedition." Clinton's testimony, which took place on Thursday, was framed by her as an attempt by Republican members to draw attention away from former President Donald Trump, who is also under scrutiny for ties to Epstein, a convicted sex offender who died in 2019. During her opening statement, Clinton characterized the inquiry as “partisan political theatre” and an “insult to the American people,” insisting she never met Epstein.... [Continue Reading]
Green Party wins Gorton and Denton parliamentary by-election, marking its first victory in party history
The UK's Green Party has marked a significant milestone by winning the Gorton and Denton parliamentary by-election, becoming the first party in its history to achieve this feat. The victory, led by candidate Hannah Spencer, not only highlights the shifting political landscape but also poses critical challenges for Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Labour Party, which suffered a disappointing third-place finish in a constituency it previously dominated. In the by-election results, Spencer garnered a total of 14,980 votes, establishing a commanding majority of 4,402 votes over her nearest competitor, Matt Goodwin of Reform UK, who received 10,578 votes. Labour’s... [Continue Reading]
Green Party wins first parliamentary by-election, signaling discontent among left-leaning voters with Labour leadership
In a stunning development for British politics, the Green Party has secured its first victory in a parliamentary by-election, indicating significant discontent among left-leaning voters with the leadership of Prime Minister Keir Starmer. This unprecedented win, occurring in a district that had traditionally voted for Labour, has sparked discussions around the shifting political landscape in the United Kingdom, particularly among progressive constituencies. Confirming the result, the Green Party's candidate achieved a notable margin over Labour, reflecting growing frustrations with Starmer's direction. Many analysts suggest this outcome demonstrates discontent within the Labour base, particularly in how the party under Starmer has... [Continue Reading]
AEC proposes significant changes to federal voting boundaries in Tasmania affecting a quarter of the population
The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) has recently unveiled proposals that would significantly alter federal voting boundaries in Tasmania. Approximately a quarter of the Tasmanian population will be affected as these new boundaries seek to reshape electoral representation within the state. The proposed changes will adjust four out of the five current electorates in Tasmania, with the most notable modification being Sorell’s shift from the Lyons electorate to the Franklin electorate. The AEC's draft changes, announced today, highlight the dynamic nature of electoral boundaries in response to population distributions and demographics. The Lyons area will see a reduction in its geographical... [Continue Reading]
Danish Prime Minister announces snap election for March 24 amid rising concerns over Greenland and upcoming constitutional deadline
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen recently announced a snap election set for March 24, aiming to capitalize on rising domestic concerns over the Arctic territory of Greenland. This move comes just seven months before a constitutional deadline, reflecting both political urgency and strategic calculation as Frederiksen seeks to secure a third term in office. In her recent address to parliament, Frederiksen characterized the upcoming election as "decisive" for Denmark's future, emphasizing the need for the nation to "define our relationship with the United States" and to "stand on our own feet" as both Danes and Europeans. Her statements underline the... [Continue Reading]
Denmark to hold parliamentary election on March 24, announced by Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen's office
Denmark is set to hold a parliamentary election on March 24, according to an announcement from Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen’s office. This significant political development comes as Frederiksen aims to capitalize on increasing support for her robust stance against United States interests concerning Greenland. The U.S. administration, particularly under former President Donald Trump, expressed ambitions to acquire Greenland, citing "national security" reasons, fueling controversy and criticism in Denmark. The upcoming election will decide the composition of the Folketing, Denmark’s unicameral parliament, which consists of 179 seats. Among these, 175 are allotted to representatives from Denmark, while two seats each are... [Continue Reading]
Deliveroo to cease operations in Singapore due to market challenges and competition from rivals
In a significant development in the food delivery sector, Deliveroo announced its decision to wind up operations in Singapore. The UK-founded food delivery platform's announcement comes after a comprehensive review of the local market conditions, underscoring the challenges of profitability in a highly competitive environment. Analysts noted that the increasing pressure from rival platforms, such as Grab and Foodpanda, significantly influenced this strategic decision. The closure of Deliveroo's services was officially announced on Wednesday, following an evaluation of country-specific conditions and a determination to focus resources on markets where sustainable growth could be more readily achieved. The firm stated that... [Continue Reading]
Myanmar military air strikes in Rakhine state kill at least 17 and injure 14, targeting village market in Ponnagyun township
Recent military air strikes conducted by the Myanmar military in Rakhine state have resulted in the deaths of at least 17 people, with 14 more wounded, according to local media reports. The attack targeted a village market in Yoengu, located in Ponnagyun township, around 33 kilometers northeast of Sittwe, the regional capital of Rakhine. The ensuing devastation has drawn significant international attention, marking a grim escalation in the ongoing civil conflict that has gripped the nation. The air strikes occurred on a Tuesday, amidst a backdrop of intensified conflict in Myanmar following the controversial election victory of a military-backed party,... [Continue Reading]
Tasmanian public sector workers resume strikes over unmet pay deal commitments by state government
Public sector workers in Tasmania have resumed industrial action in response to claims that the state government has not upheld its commitments regarding a pay deal. The Health and Community Services Union (HACSU), representing workers in the sector, expressed that the current situation leaves them without alternatives except to strike. The action signifies growing discontent among public workers who seek to hold the government accountable for earlier negotiations. The unions allege that the Tasmanian government reneged on a previously agreed-upon pay proposal, prompting the industrial action. This represents a significant escalation in tensions between the government and public sector unions,... [Continue Reading]
