SNG Daily: Prachanda Keeps Power; Australia’s Maritime Aid To ASEAN

Prachanda back in power with new partners

In Nepal, the ruling coalition comprising the Nepali Congress and Maoist Centre has collapsed. A new Left alliance takes over although Maoist Prime Minister Push Kama Dahal (Prachanda) continues in office. His new partners are the Communist Party of Nepal-UML, Rashtra Swatantra Party and the Samajbadi Party. The CPN-UML has confirmed that a new cabinet is being formed with a small number of ministers being sworn in today.

Australia to provide $41.8 million in maritime security to ASEAN nations

Australia’s Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, has announced $41.8 million towards enhancing maritime security for the countries within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

While Wong did not specify which countries would benefit from this funding, the move comes amidst heightened tensions between China and several regional nations, including Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam.
The Australian government’s initiative aims to address shared concerns and contribute to bolstering maritime security in the ASEAN region.

Haiti declares state of emergency after double jailbreak

While Haiti’s PM is away in Kenya trying to get support for a UN-backed security force… things seem to have worsened in Port-au-Prince. Haiti has declared a state of emergency with night curfew after gunmen targeted the international airport and police stations. Things escalated over the weekend when gangs stormed two prisons and let all prisoners escape. Former elite police officer turned ganglord, Jimmy Cherizier, also known as Barbecue, has claimed responsibility for the increase in violence. He said his aim is to keep the PM from returning to Haiti

South Korea to start legal action against protesting doctors

Trainee doctors who have ignored the South Korean government’s ultimatum to return to work are expected to face legal action starting today. 70% of junior and trainee doctors have walked off work since February 20, protesting against the government’s decision to increase medical seats. Hospitals have had to cancel a number of surgeries and their emergency departments are in crisis. The striking doctors could face fines and possible jail terms.

First win for Nikki Haley comes from Washington DC

It’s the first win for Nikki Haley in the Republican primaries and it has come from the nation’s capital – Washington DC. It helps her pick up 19 delegates with this win. She’s still far from the required number of 1215 delegates to win the Republican nomination where Donald Trump has been miles ahead. This is the first loss for Trump after winning eight straight primaries with huge margins.