News in English

8. April 2017, 21:58

Social Democrats seek new leadership

Austria’s Social Democratic party has said it expects to designate a new leader and eventual chancellor within a week after the surprise resignation yesterday of Werner Faymann. Vice chancellor Reinhold Mitterlehner of the People’s party, who has taken over as interim chancellor, has said he is not interested in early elections but said discussions must be held with the Social Democrats on crucial areas of policy. The People’s party executive board meets this afternoon to discuss its position. Vienna mayor Michael Häupl who has been appointed interim leader of the Social Democrats has said he does not expect a snap election.

Deadly knife attack in Bavaria

Bavarian authorities say one person has died and three others have been injured after a man launched a knife attack at a train station in Grafing near Munich. Police say the suspect was arrested at the station. Authorities are reportedly investigating a possible Islamist connection and said the suspect is a German national.

Philippines: Duterte claims victory

In the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte has claimed victory in the presidential election after the withdrawal of his rivals. His spokesman has said Duterte plans a radical overhaul of the political system, to rewrite the constitution. A former mayor of Davao, Duterte has previously been accused of links to extrajudicial killings. Human rights activist Harry Roque says Filipinos voted for change: “This election is really a message from the people that they want decisive action from a president in dealing with crime, in dealing with poverty, so it’s a clear message that the people don’t want business as usual.”

HRW accuses Turkish border guards

The advocacy group Human Rights Watch has said Turkish border guards are continuing to shoot and beat Syrian refugees trying to cross into Turkey. The human rights group said five refugees have been killed in recent weeks when border guards used excessive force. The group also urged Turkey to reopen its border to Syrians.

Roussef impeachment to proceed

In Brazil, the impeachment process against President Dilma Rousseff is expected to proceed after the acting speaker of the lower house revoked his surprise decision to annul last month’s vote to impeach her. The Senate had said it would press ahead with impeachment proceedings against Rousseff.

Panama Papers date online

A group of investigative journalists has published online the names of thousands of offshore companies mentioned in the Panama Papers, covering offshore tax activities. The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists said it was putting the information online in the public interest.

The weather

Warm with occasional sunny spells. Scattered showers in mountain areas and the south. Mainly dry in the north and east. Top temperatures 15 to 27 degrees.

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