Fears grow as migrant workers return home for Lunar New Year

Published

3 years ago

January 23, 2023

Over one billion people have been celebrating the start of the Lunar New Year, as the Year of the Rabbit begins

A number of countries across Asia are enjoying public holidays for one of the World’s biggest festivals. For many – it’s the first proper New Years celebration since the pandemic hit.

Millions of people have been on the move across the country to celebrate the festival, returning to their hometowns.

It is estimated 110 million railway trips have been made in the 15-day build-up to the New Year.

This is causing concern, as there are fears migrant workers will bring the virus to local towns.

Chinese officials have also reported almost 13,000 new COVID-related deaths.

PM Keir Starmer facing his biggest leadership crisis yet

UK PM Keir Starmer faces pressure over Epstein links and party unrest, with approval at 20% amid resignation calls.

Published

11 hours ago

February 10, 2026

Harvey Vargas

PM Keir Starmer faces pressure over Epstein links and party unrest, with approval at 20% amid resignation calls.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is under intense political pressure as he risks becoming the first UK leader linked to the Epstein scandal. His approval rating has plummeted to just 20 percent, leaving him vulnerable to criticism from within Labour and raising fresh questions about his leadership.

The party has faced further turbulence following the resignation of Peter Mandelson, who stepped down amid revelations over his ambassadorial appointment and an ongoing police investigation. This latest development has intensified scrutiny on Labour’s senior figures and added to concerns about instability at the top.

Opposition from Labour lawmakers continues to grow, with increasing calls for Starmer to resign despite support from cabinet members. Many fear that a leadership challenge could deepen divisions within the party and create wider economic uncertainty.

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News

Sydney protests intensify as police arrest dozens during Herzog visit

Protesters clashed with police in Sydney, resulting in 27 arrests amid tensions over Israeli President Herzog’s visit.

Published

11 hours ago

February 10, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Protesters clashed with police in Sydney, resulting in 27 arrests amid tensions over Israeli President Herzog’s visit.

Tensions flared in Sydney on Thursday as protesters clashed with police during a rally opposing the visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog. Authorities arrested 27 people, including 10 accused of assaulting officers, after crowds attempted to breach barricades near the city.

Hundreds of police were deployed to enforce new protest restrictions, introduced following recent violent demonstrations, and pepper spray was used as officers tried to maintain order. Protesters waved Palestinian flags and carried signs condemning the ongoing conflict in Gaza, voicing anger over the timing of Mr Herzog’s visit.

The unrest highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding international politics and local security measures, with authorities balancing the right to protest against public safety concerns.

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Liberal and Nationals reunite after political split

Australia’s major parties restore Coalition unity after three weeks, with Nationals frontbenchers rejoining shadow cabinet and ministers pledging commitment.

Published

1 day ago

February 9, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Australia’s major parties restore Coalition unity after three weeks, with Nationals frontbenchers rejoining shadow cabinet and ministers pledging commitment.

Australia’s Liberal and National parties have agreed to restore their historic Coalition partnership after a three-week split, marking their second reconciliation in under a year. The deal ensures stability ahead of upcoming political challenges.

Under the agreement, Nationals frontbenchers will return to the shadow cabinet by March 1. This move signals a return to unified leadership as both parties aim to present a stronger front in parliament.

As part of the compromise, three senators who broke party solidarity during a recent vote face a six-week suspension. All shadow ministers will also sign an agreement to uphold cabinet unity and prevent future splits.

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