José Antonio Kast, a former congressman and ultra-conservative candidate, has been elected as Chile's next president, securing 58.17% of the vote against leftist candidate Jeannette Jara, who garnered 41.83%. The election took place with over 99% of polling stations counted, and Kast's victory was anticipated due to his strong support among right-wing voters. His campaign focused on expelling undocumented migrants, particularly those from Venezuela, as a response to rising violence in the country. Kast, who has been criticized for his admiration of the authoritarian regime of Augusto Pinochet, will take office on March 11, following a transition meeting with current President Gabriel Boric.
Jimmy Lai's National Security Trial in Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, a verdict is expected today in the high-profile national security trial of pro-democracy media mogul Jimmy Lai. The 78-year-old founder of Apple Daily has been charged with conspiracy to publish seditious publications and conspiracy to foreign collusion, facing a potential life sentence if found guilty. Lai has been in jail since December 2020 and has consistently denied the charges, asserting that he never sought to influence foreign policies regarding Hong Kong. A large police presence has been reported outside the West Kowloon district court, where supporters of Lai have gathered, despite a smaller turnout compared to previous court dates. The trial has drawn significant international attention, highlighting tensions between Beijing and Western nations.
Tragic Terror Attack at Bondi Beach
A tragic terrorist attack occurred at a Hanukah celebration on Bondi beach in Sydney, Australia, where at least 11 people were killed and nearly 30 injured when two gunmen opened fire on the crowd. Among the deceased is London-born Rabbi Eli Schlanger, who was an assistant rabbi at Chabad of Bondi. The attack, described as the worst mass shooting in Australia since the Port Arthur massacre in 1996, has prompted heightened security measures within Jewish communities in the UK. Eyewitnesses reported the gunfire lasting several minutes, with the assailants firing indiscriminately into the crowd gathered for the festive event. Authorities are investigating the presence of suspicious devices found at the scene.
Wrap-up
The recent events in Chile, Hong Kong, and Australia illustrate a period of significant political and social upheaval across the globe. The election of an ultra-conservative leader in Chile, the impending verdict for a prominent pro-democracy figure in Hong Kong, and the tragic loss of life in a terrorist attack in Australia reflect the complex challenges facing nations today.
Sources: theguardian.com
@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team
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