Current Affairs - Politics

H.E António Costa, a Portuguese lawyer and politician who previously served as the 118th prime minister of Portugal, has been elected as the President of the European Council. He is set to assume this role in December 2024. The European Council plays a crucial role in defining the European Union's overall political direction and priorities, focusing on strategic decisions rather than legislative matters within the EU framework.

Rahul Gandhi is poised to assume the role of Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. The position has remained vacant since 2014, and according to the norms, it is held by the parliamentary chairperson of the largest opposition party in the Lok Sabha, which must command at least 10% of the seats in the house.

Jagat Prakash Nadda, the president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Union Minister, has been appointed as the Leader of the House in the Rajya Sabha. He takes over from Piyush Goyal, who recently transitioned to the Lok Sabha after winning the parliamentary election. As Leader of the House, Nadda will play a crucial role in organizing government proceedings and business in the Upper House of Parliament, representing the majority party in the Rajya Sabha.

Cyril Ramaphosa was reelected for a second term as President of South Africa on June 14, following a coalition agreement with a former political opponent just hours before the parliamentary vote. He secured 283 votes against Julius Malema's 44, marking his continuation in office after first assuming the presidency in 2018. This reelection underscores his political leadership and coalition-building efforts in South Africa's evolving political landscape.

Pema Khandu, representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), took the oath as the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh for the third consecutive term on June 13, 2024. His swearing-in ceremony marked a significant event attended by several prominent leaders, underlining his political prominence and support within the state.