Current Affairs - Politics

The Sudanese army took full control of the Presidential Palace in Khartoum after months of intense conflict with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The situation escalated with search operations around the palace amidst ongoing gunfire. This ongoing conflict has led to a severe humanitarian crisis in Sudan, with widespread famine and disease affecting many people across the country. The military action marks a critical point in the country’s political turmoil.

The Jammu and Kashmir government has made the decision to allocate Rs 3 crore annually for each Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) scheme. This fund allows MLAs to recommend and oversee the implementation of key development projects in their respective constituencies, ensuring that essential projects are funded and managed at the regional level. By empowering the MLAs with this fund, the government aims to enhance local development in the Jammu and Kashmir region.

Mark Carney has been appointed as the new leader of Canada’s Liberal Party and the country’s next Prime Minister, succeeding Justin Trudeau. Carney, a former central banker with extensive experience in both the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, won 85.9% of the votes in the leadership race. His victory marks a significant shift for the Liberal Party following Trudeau’s resignation due to rising internal opposition. Carney now faces the challenge of leading the party through the upcoming general elections and responding to the political climate.

Eyal Zamir has been appointed as Israel's new Chief of Staff at a critical moment in the country's military history. He succeeds Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, who resigned following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack. Zamir, a former tank commander with extensive experience in military leadership, is expected to lead Israel's military efforts against Hamas and Iran. His previous roles include serving as the head of Southern Command and as Deputy Chief of Staff. Zamir is known for his tough, mission-oriented leadership style and his focus on ensuring Israel's security.

Christian Stocker was sworn in as Austria’s new Chancellor, leading a 3-party coalition government. This coalition ended a 5-month political deadlock. The coalition comprises Stocker’s Austrian People’s Party, the Social Democrats, and the liberal Neos, following unsuccessful attempts to include the far-right Freedom Party. Stocker’s government faces several pressing issues, including rising unemployment, a looming recession, and a strained budget, which will require careful management and cooperation between the coalition parties.