Japan PM hangs on after election debacle

13 Sept 10:36 Key points summarised by AI

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's coalition lost its majority in the upper house election, falling short by three seats amidst voter anger over inflation and an LDP funding scandal.
Despite the significant electoral setback and calls for his resignation, Ishiba affirmed his intention to remain in office, citing a grave responsibility to prevent political stagnation.
The election saw the rise of anti-globalist parties like Sanseito, which made strong gains by appealing to voters dissatisfied with the ruling LDP's performance.
Ishiba now faces a fragmented political landscape, likely requiring case-by-case opposition support to pass legislation, alongside the looming threat of new US tariffs.

Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests

Today 12:56 Key points summarised by AI

President Macron condemned widespread rioting and looting during nationwide protests, blaming far-left activists and criminals for the "unrestrained violence" and vowing accountability for those who "sought to bring down the Republic."
Over 2,400 arrests were made as protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions escalated, causing extensive damage to public buildings and businesses in cities like Paris, Limoges (where City Hall burned), Marseille, and Lyon.
The unrest, which organizers hoped would revive the "yellow vest" movement, saw political leaders trade blame, with Macron instructing prefects to protect public buildings and potentially ban future protests to prevent further disorder.