Meet the Caerphilly by-election candidates

Japan's governing Liberal Democratic Party is set to select its next leader this Saturday, a decision that will have significant implications for the country's political landscape. As candidates vie for the position of prime minister, the outcome will shape Japan's policies and direction in the coming years, making it a crucial moment for both the party and the nation.

The Victorian Liberal party is making a strategic shift to attract stronger candidates for crucial electoral seats, aiming to avoid a potential disaster in the upcoming elections. This change reflects the party's recognition of the need for fresh talent and effective leadership as they prepare for high-stakes contests. By adapting their approach, they hope to enhance their chances of success and better represent their constituents.

The Reform party is facing a legal challenge after social media posts suggested that their Caerphilly candidate has connections to Vladimir Putin. This controversy raises serious questions about the candidate's credibility and could impact the party's reputation as they prepare for upcoming elections. The implications of such allegations can be significant, potentially swaying public opinion and voter trust.

The upcoming Czech election this Friday and Saturday is drawing attention due to its potential implications for the country's stance on Ukraine. As voters head to the polls, the outcome could influence how the Czech Republic supports Ukraine amidst ongoing tensions. This election matters not just for Czechs but also for international relations, particularly in Eastern Europe.

In response to the recent attack in Manchester, Prime Minister Starmer has pledged to protect Jewish communities across Britain. He emphasized the need to combat antisemitic hate, a sentiment echoed by the King and various religious leaders and politicians. This commitment is crucial as it highlights the importance of unity and support for marginalized communities during challenging times.

A recent report from the Calgary Inner City Builders Association reveals that typical infill townhouses in Calgary incur an additional $147,000 in regulatory costs. This significant financial burden highlights the challenges faced by builders and potential homeowners in the city. As the upcoming election approaches, the CICBA is urging candidates to collaborate on solutions to alleviate these costs, which could ultimately impact housing availability and affordability in Calgary.

Severe 85mph winds have left hundreds without power in Wales, causing significant disruptions. A ferry attempting to reach Holyhead was forced to circle offshore for hours, unable to dock. This situation highlights the impact of extreme weather on transportation and local infrastructure, raising concerns about safety and emergency preparedness.

The recent failure of the government funding vote in the US Senate has dashed hopes for a swift resolution to the ongoing government shutdown. With Democrats standing firm in their position, President Donald Trump is preparing to implement layoffs and budget cuts across federal agencies. This situation is critical as it not only affects government operations but also impacts countless employees and services that rely on federal funding.

The Bledisloe Cup match between Australia and New Zealand is set to take place in Perth, with kick-off scheduled for 5:45 PM local time. Fans can expect a challenging game due to damp conditions, as rain has been intermittent throughout the day, making the field slick. This match is significant as it continues the long-standing rivalry between the Wallabies and the All Blacks, drawing attention from rugby enthusiasts and impacting the Rugby Championship standings.

Tensions continue to escalate in the Israel-Gaza conflict as airstrikes are reported in Gaza, despite former President Donald Trump's call for an immediate halt to the bombings. Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu has indicated that the country is ready to implement the first stage of Trump's Gaza plan, which aims to address the ongoing crisis. This situation is critical as it not only affects the lives of those in Gaza but also has broader implications for regional stability and international relations.

Australia's second match in the Women's Cricket World Cup against Sri Lanka faced interruptions due to lightning in Colombo. Groundstaff had just begun to remove the covers when the weather turned, highlighting the challenges of playing in unpredictable conditions. The match requires at least 20 overs per side to be counted, and an extra hour is allocated for delays. This situation underscores the importance of weather management in sports, especially in tournaments where every match counts.

As the Premier League season heats up, David Moyes has expressed that a top 10 finish would be a satisfactory outcome for Everton. Meanwhile, Bournemouth's recent performance has propelled them to second place in the league, showcasing the competitive nature of this season. This news is significant as it highlights the shifting dynamics in the league and the varying aspirations of different clubs, making every matchday crucial for teams aiming for better standings.