Parliament
Intense debates begin on France's 2026 budget in parliament
Jean Martin Image generated by AI
Debates on France's 2026 budget project promise to be fierce in the National Assembly, with over 1,700 amendments filed for the revenues section. Budget rapporteur Philippe Juvin sharply criticizes the planned tax increases and calls for cuts in public spending. The finance committee review begins on Monday, October 20, in a tight schedule.
European Parliament Plenary Session Begins
The European Parliament commenced its plenary session in Strasbourg from September 8 to 11, 2025. The session addresses key issues including the State of the European Union and international trade.
Dispute in KU over Landerholm affair investigation
A dispute has erupted in Sweden's parliamentary constitutional committee (KU) over resuming the probe into the Landerholm affair. Social Democrats accuse the Tidö parties of shielding Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, while government representatives dismiss it as political maneuvering. The issue concerns former security advisor Henrik Landerholm and an ongoing legal case.
Parliamentary aides uneasy over dissolution risk
Aides to deputies in the French National Assembly, private sector employees, face instant unemployment in case of dissolution. Many are preparing to soften the blow compared to June 2024, as a study reveals worsening mental health. This political instability impacts these discreet yet essential figures in democratic life.
Swedish parliament's leader debate moved to evening
Reported by AI
The election year's first party leader debate in the Swedish parliament is set for January 14, 2026, at 18:00, rather than the usual morning slot. Speaker Andreas Norlén welcomes the shift to allow more voters to watch the broadcast. The debate will air live on SVT.
Mchunu uses Matlala's affidavit to deny ties in parliament
Sidelined Police Minister Senzo Mchunu referenced an affidavit from organised crime accused Vusimuzi Matlala to assert they have never met, during a parliamentary hearing on 21 October 2025. The move drew criticism from EFF leader Julius Malema, who questioned Mchunu's association with the detainee. The testimony is part of an inquiry into alleged criminal infiltration in South African law enforcement and politics.
Parliament probes Cele and Mchunu's ties to questionable figures
South Africa's sidelined police minister Senzo Mchunu and his predecessor Bheki Cele faced scrutiny in Parliament last week over their associations with figures linked to crime and politics. The ad hoc committee investigating alleged drug cartel infiltration heard testimonies revealing meetings and communications that raised questions about safeguards in law enforcement leadership. Details emerged connecting them to jailed businessman Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala, ANC-aligned mogul Brown Mogotsi, and a murdered convict.