A roundup of today's other world news in brief
Karzai says Afghan poll was largely clean
WASHINGTON – President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan says he believes August’s election was largely “clean” despite broad claims of fraud. Mr Karzai says he agreed to a November 7th run-off solely for his country’s stability.
In an interview with CNN to be broadcast tomorrow, the president also promised to have an inclusive government but did not offer specific details on how he might do that if he wins the second round, as expected.
Mr Karzai had refused to agree to a second round but came under strong pressure from the US. – (Reuters)
British first World war sub found
STOCKHOLM – The wreck of a British submarine, which sank in the Baltic Sea during the first World War with 33 crew on board, has been discovered, a Swedish marine survey company said yesterday.
Marin Matteknik said the HMS E18 was found last week near the Estonian island of Hiiumaa, 90 miles (140km) west of Tallinn, after a 10- year search. The submarine never returned from a routine patrol in May 1916 during an operation authorised by Winston Churchill. – (PA)
Three held under terrorism act
WALES – Three men are being held under the Terrorism Act this evening following a raid at a house. Two 24-year-olds and a 41-year-old were initially arrested on suspicion of drug offences by Gwent Police at a house in Blackwood, South Wales, on Wednesday.
Following further inquiries, the Metropolitan Police Service Counter Terrorism Command was called in the following day and arrested the trio on suspicion of the preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism under the Terrorism Act 2000. – (PA)
African leaders urged to repent
VATICAN CITY – Roman Catholic bishops called on corrupt Catholic leaders in Africa on Friday to repent or resign for giving the continent and the Church a bad name.
About 200 African bishops, with dozens of other bishops and Africa experts, also accused multinational companies in Africa of “crimes against humanity” and urged Africans to beware of “surreptitious” attempts by international organisations to destroy African values.
Their three-week synod ends tomorrow with a Mass by Pope Benedict. – (Reuters)
‘Curbs on press’ at Tunisia election
PARIS – Tunisian authorities are preventing journalists and foreign correspondents from doing their work during the presidential election period, press watchdog Reporters Without Borders said on Friday.
Tomorrow’s election is almost certain to hand a new term to Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali (73), president for the past 22 years, and a staunch ally in the West’s fight against Islamist militants.
Three men are being held under the Terrorism Act this evening following a raid at a house. – (Reuters)