Monday, March 4, 2013

World News Briefs -- March 4, 2013



Queues As Kenyans Go To The Polls In Crucial Election -- BBC

Long queues are reported nationwide as Kenyans vote in an election that observers describe as the most important in the country's history.

Polls were due to close at 17:00 (14:00 GMT) but officials said those in queues at that time would be allowed to vote.

There has been violence around the port town of Mombasa, with at least five police officers killed in one attack.

Authorities have urged Kenyans to avoid the widespread bloodshed that followed the disputed 2007 election.

More than 1,000 people died in ethnic and political violence following claims the poll had been rigged.

Read more ....

MIDDLE EAST

Fighting intensifies in northern Syria.

Syrian rebels capture most of northern city.

Hezbollah, Syrian opposition clashes intensify, raise fears in Lebanon.

Wounded Syria soldiers treated in Iraq: spokesman.

U.N. nuclear chief presses Iran on military base access.

UAE coup plot trial begins in Abu Dhabi.

Iraqis' death certificates recorded signs of severe mutilation, inquiry hears.

US, Saudi present united front on Syria, Iran.

"Arab spring" brings new buyers for bulletproof cars.

ASIA

Suicide bombing in Karachi kills 45 and injures 149 in attack that targeted Shi’ite Muslims as they left evening prayers.

Pakistan bomb: Karachi standstill after Shias attacked.

Fatal violence in strike-hit Bangladesh.

Tensions escalating on Borneo as Malaysia doubles military forces.

Analysis: China's next inner circle.

China to surpass US as top luxury car market: study.

AFRICA

At least 15 killed on Kenya coast on election day.

Nigeria military base attack kills at least 20.

Libyan military seizes energy complex.

Benin authorities thwart coup attempt, arrest 2 trying to institute a military regime.

U.S. releases $250 million in aid to Egypt.

Algeria defends raid that ended hostage standoff.

EUROPE

Northern Ireland foils mortar attack on police station.

Cardinals in Rome begin talks about choosing next Pope.

Spain's jobless hits record 5 million in February.

Czech President Vaclav Klaus faces treason charge.

Women emerge as crisis leaders in macho Balkans.

Queen Elizabeth leaves hospital after stomach complaint.

AMERICAS

White House retreats from doomsday spending cuts predictions, but keeps blame on Republicans.

Protesters hit Caracas streets to demand 'truth' over Chávez's health.

Insight: Brazil's leftist president fights to win back business.

Brazil troops move into Rio airport shanty towns.

Luxury villas, designer labels: jailed Mexico union boss' U.S. oasis.

Florida sinkhole: Jeffrey Bush home partially demolished.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

France sceptical over Mali rebel-leader death.

U.N. investigator urges U.S. to pursue Bush-era abuses.

Head Pakistani cleric backpedals on suicide attacks.


ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

FACTBOX: Record number of billionaires make Forbes 2013 list.

Bill Gates still world's second richest person.

Apple and Samsung smartphone patent row set for new jury trial.

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