LIVE German 2025 Election Results as they come in and analysi on who will be the next German Chancellor.

When are the German Elections?

The Elections are on Sunday the 23rd of Feb 2025

Why are they having a snap election?

The German coalition government failed a no confidence vote

Do Germans vote?

Germans vote in big numbers, usually as high 70+ percent voter turnout

Spain’s immigration staff cancel strike after government deal on pay hike

Spain’s immigration staff cancel strike after government deal on pay hike

Strike Cancelled
Staff at immigration offices across Spain cancelled planned strikes after securing a 10-18% pay rise and a commitment to fill 700 vacant positions.
Workforce Expansion
Spain’s agreement with immigration officers includes plans to fill 700 vacant positions, addressing workload concerns linked to a projected influx of 500,000 applicants.
Official Response
“We recognise rights, but we also demand obligations,” said Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, emphasising the need for equal conditions for all who live and work in Spain.

Key developments

Staff at immigration offices across Spain have cancelled plans to strike following a deal with the government, addressing concerns over increased workloads linked to a recent amnesty programme.

Union representatives secured a 10-18% pay rise and a commitment to fill 700 vacancies, alleviating pressure on an already strained system ahead of a significant volume of new applications.

Spain immigration officers cancel strike after deal to ease workload from mass migrant amnesty

Spain’s immigration staff cancel strike after government deal on pay hike

Staff at immigration offices across Spain cancelled plans to strike after a deal was reached with the government that took into account their concerns about an uptick in workload following an amnesty programme for undocumented migrants, the union group CCOO said on Thursday.

Unions representing immigration officers cancelled the walkout that was due to start next week after securing a 10-18% pay rise and a pledge to fill 700 vacant positions, union leader César Pérez said.

Union leaders had warned that an already stretched system would struggle to cope with the increased volume of applications after Spain’s government finalised a migrant amnesty measure on Tuesday, paving the way for around 500,000 immigrants living and working without authorisation in the country to apply for legal status.

The approach sharply differs from much of Europe’s prevailing attitudes on immigration in which governments are trying to reduce the number of arrivals and step up deportations.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez hailed the measure as “an act of justice and a necessity.”

He reiterated his government’s position that people who already live and work in the country of 49 million people should “do so under equal conditions” and pay taxes.

“We recognise rights, but we also demand obligations,” Sánchez wrote on social media.

An estimated 500,000 people living in Spain without authorisation could be eligible to apply, the government said.

Some analysts estimate up to 800,000 people live off the grid in Spanish society.

Many immigrants from Latin America or African countries work in key sectors including agriculture, tourism and the service sector.

Those who meet certain conditions can now apply for a one-year residency and work permit, Migration Minister Elma Saiz said, adding that migrants could begin applying in person on 20 April and online on Thursday.

Saiz lauded the measure as a way that Spain, which has been among the fastest-growing European Union economies for two years, can continue to expand.

“Our prosperity is demonstrably linked to our management of migration and the contributions of foreign workers,” she said. “Their contribution allows us to grow economically, generate employment and wealth and maintain our welfare system.”

Immigrants must have arrived in Spain before 1 January and must prove that they have been living in the country for at least five months. That can be done by presenting “public or private” documents, Saiz said.

Applicants must also show that they have no criminal record, the government said.

Spain has granted amnesty to immigrants who are in the country illegally before, doing so six times between 1986 and 2005.

Additional sources • AP

Sharon Osbourne to join Tommy Robinson’s anti-immigration march in London

Get you up to speed: Sharon Osbourne to join Tommy Robinson’s anti-immigration march in London

Sharon Osbourne has announced her intention to attend an anti-immigration march organised by Tommy Robinson, stating, “See you at the march.” Robinson was permanently banned from Facebook and Instagram in 2019 for repeatedly breaching hate-speech policies.

Sharon Osbourne announced her intention to attend an anti-immigration march organised by Tommy Robinson, saying, “See you at the march.” According to reports, Robinson has been permanently banned from Facebook and Instagram since 2019 for repeatedly violating hate-speech policies.

Sharon Osbourne plans to attend an anti-immigration march organised by Tommy Robinson, with her participation being seen as a controversial alignment. The event is set to take place in London, where Osbourne and others intend to rally against perceived societal adversaries.

Sharon Osbourne attending aTommy Robinson march proves Kneecap were right | News World

Sharon Osbourne to join Tommy Robinson’s anti-immigration march in London
Robinson posted a video in which he referred to the May 16 protest as being a moment when ‘Britain rises and reunites’ (Picture: Getty / AP)

In what is just the most recent instance of a reality tv ‘personality’ appearing to nail their hard-right colours to the wall, Sharon Osbourne has declared she will be attending an anti-immigration march organised by Tommy Robinson.

Osbourne, who splits her time between England and California, after immigrating to the US with husband Ozzy Osbourne over 20 years ago, commented on the post, ‘See you at the march’.

CUBA-US-AID-MUSIC
Kneecap were right about her all along (Picture: YAMIL LAGE / AFP via Getty Images)

The response has been just as polarised as you’d expect – but there was one reaction that I would have loved to be able to witness firsthand that of Belfast rappers Kneecap, who must feel vindicated after their spat with Osbourne last year. 

Because Osbourne’s attendance at Robinson’s march will prove that she’s despicable, and that Kneecap were right about her all along. 

Sign up for all of the latest stories

In the wake of their 2025 Coachella appearance, which ended with images including ‘F*** Israel’ and ‘Free Palestine’, Osbourne publicly called for the Belfast rap-group’s visas to be revoked, claiming their performance included ‘projections of anti-Israel messages and hate speech’. 

Sharon Osbourne winner of the Visionary Award at Billboard Power 100 presented by VENU at Zouk Los Angeles on January 28, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Gilbert Flores/Billboard via Getty Images)
Exactly the kind of reference you’d expect from someone who’s not had an original thought since the 80s (Picture: Gilbert Flores/Billboard via Getty Images)

No strangers to controversy, Kneecap did not feel pressure to capitulate, replying: ‘[Osbourne’s] rant has so many holes in it that it hardly warrants a reply but she should listen to War Pigs that was written by Black Sabbath (the band made famous by her husband).’

Osbourne then went on Piers Morgan Uncensored, a YouTube show that feels like it’s created for people who think Britain lives under Sharia Law, and called the band ‘these little people’ and said in reference to their manager, ‘there’s not much [in his head]’. 

She said Kneecap shouldn’t ‘incite violence’ in front of ‘young people’. 

Osbourne went on also called them ‘uneducated’, saying ‘their whole attitude is one of anger,’ and suggested that the band should emulate U2’s Bono in the peaceful spreading of a political message – which is exactly the kind of reference you’d expect from someone who’s not had an original thought since the 80s. 

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 15: British right-wing activist Tommy Robinson delivers a speech to the American Freedom Alliance at Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel on April 15, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. Robinson is currently on a multi-month visit to the United States which included a tour of the U.S. State Department in February. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)
(Picture: Mario Tama/Getty Images)

With such high standards for the intellect of others and an apparent commitment to rampant optimism and peace, I fear Osbourne may be disappointed by the crowd she will be surrounded with at this upcoming march in London.

Given the horror at hate-speech she so vehemently expressed on Morgan’s show, it’s somewhat confounding that she’s chosen to align herself with Tommy Robinson. 

Robinson, lest any of us forget, was permanently banned from Facebook and Instagram in 2019 for repeatedly breaking their hate-speech policies.

Los Angeles Premiere Of Focus Features
Sharon Osbourne is a hypocrite (Picture: Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images)

Meta cited breaches including a post calling on people to terrorise and behead those who follow the Qur’an, another calling on people to ‘make war’ on Muslims, participating in events with recognised hate figures or groups like the US-based Proud Boys, and publicly praising them. 

Similarly, despite her supposed opposition to inciting violence, Osbourne stands proudly with Robinson who has multiple convictions for offences including assault, using a fake passport, mortgage fraud and contempt of court. 

All this to say that Sharon Osbourne is a hypocrite.

And I don’t think her issue with Kneecap was about violence and the apparent aggression of the way they choose to spread a political statement. 

I don’t think she genuinely believes that chanting ‘Free Palestine’ would lead to the immediate radicalisation of any young person in earshot. 

Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, arrives at Westminster Magistrates' Court, central London, after he was charged with failing to provide the Pin to his phone following an incident in Folkestone on Sunday July 28 2024 when Kent Police officers stopped him under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000. Picture date: Tuesday October 14, 2025. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: Ben Whitley/PA Wire
You’d sooner have a civilised, constructive debate with a brick wall (Picture: Ben Whitley/PA Wire)

It was never about how the message was being conveyed. It was that they were conveying it at all in the first place. 

Sharon Osbourne simply did not like what Kneecap had to say.

Osbourne isn’t willing to consider anything that might challenge her beliefs, and has used her social media platform to minimise reports of starvation in Gaza.

You’d sooner have a civilised, constructive debate with a brick wall.

So Sharon Osbourne will attend Tommy Robinson’s march. She and a band of merry idiots will apparently ‘bring London to a standstill’ in a march that rallies against the fabricated antagonists that the hard-right so loves to demonise. 

It doesn’t seem like Osbourne is that preoccupied with reality, so we can only assume she will have no qualms about that. 

But if she thinks we’re falling for her act, she’s mistaken. 

Kneecap have been at the hard edge of Osbourne’s rants, and her ignorance has only been further exposed.

And she wasn’t the only person pursuing the group, it seemed like the British state was mobilised against them. 

CPS Appeals Decision To Drop Terrorism Charges Against Kneecap Rapper
With experience comes patience, and it only took a year for Kneecap to be unequivocally  proved right (Picture: Guy Smallman/Getty Images)

One member of the band Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, known as Mo Chara, was accused and taken to court for alleged support for proscribed organisation, when it was thrown out of court, the British government wasted more taxpayers money trying to appeal. They lost that too.

With experience comes patience, and it only took a year for Kneecap to be unequivocally  proved right about Sharon Osbourne and the British state.

People who bully others for their beliefs are deeply insecure, and are usually hiding something else. Osbourne has shown the world who she is.

And when she turns up to Tommy Robinson’s march, she’ll find out the real face of the hard right in Britain. 

She might not like it.

Share your views in the comments below.

Comment now

Comments

Add WTX as a Preferred Source on Google

Add as preferred source

UN maritime chief warns against shipping becoming collateral in conflicts

UN maritime chief warns against shipping becoming collateral in conflicts

Shipping Concerns
The Secretary-General of the UN’s International Maritime Organisation (IMO) stated that shipping should not become “collateral” in conflicts.
Strategic Maritime Concerns
Shipping stability is critical, as the Secretary-General of the UN’s International Maritime Organisation emphasises the need to protect it from the impacts of ongoing conflicts.
Shipping Concerns
The Secretary-General of the UN’s International Maritime Organisation stated, “Shipping shouldn’t become collateral in conflicts,” emphasising the need for maritime safety.

Key developments

The Secretary-General of the UN’s International Maritime Organisation (IMO) stated that shipping must not be treated as “collateral” in conflicts, highlighting the need for its protection in global disputes.

This statement comes amid rising concerns over maritime security and the implication of conflicts on international shipping routes, which are vital for global trade.

No country can legally restrict navigation in Strait of Hormuz, UN maritime chief says

UN maritime chief warns against shipping becoming collateral in conflicts
The Secretary-General of the UN’s International Maritime Organisation (IMO) told EU News that shipping shouldn’t become “collateral” in conflicts.

Former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax kills wife and himself, police confirm

Media Lens: Former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax kills wife and himself, police confirm


Justin Fairfax kills wife and himself, police confirm.

Former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax reportedly shot and killed his wife before taking his own life. This incident has garnered significant media attention, according to the latest US news and coverage in US and global politics.


What happened

Virginia’s former Lieutenant Governor, Justin Fairfax, is reported to have killed his wife before taking his own life, according to police statements. This tragic incident occurred in Annandale, Virginia, and the police have confirmed the events.

The reports surfaced in multiple news outlets, including The New York Times and USA Today, with updates on the situation emerging in real-time. Fairfax’s death, along with that of his wife, has brought significant media attention and reactions across various platforms.

Key facts

  • Former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax reportedly shot and killed his wife and himself.
  • The incident occurred in Annandale, Virginia.
  • The police confirmed the deaths and described the incident as a murder-suicide.
  • This event took place on April 16, 2026.
  • Justin Fairfax served as the Lieutenant Governor of Virginia from 2014 to 2022.

Where coverage differs

  • The New York Times emphasizes the personal tragedy of Justin Fairfax and his family situation, while USA Today emphasizes investigative details of the case and broader implications.
  • WUSA9 foregrounds local reactions and police confirmation of the incident rather than the individual backgrounds of the victims.
  • The Guardian prioritizes the narrative surrounding Fairfax’s political career and public perception over the immediate details of the incident.
  • Outlet C highlights the circumstances leading to the event rather than the aftermath or potential consequences.

One story, four angles


The New York TimesVirginia Ex-Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax Kills Wife and Self, Police Say

Publication: The New York Times | Primary framing pattern: Consequence | Tone: Somber | Intensity: 7/10 | Sentiment: Negative | Legal precision: High

Expand

Espresso Shot: This article focuses on the tragic outcome involving former Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax, emphasizing the shocking details of the incident and its implications. It underscores a broader conversation about mental health and violence in society.

Publication emphasis: The tragedy of Fairfax’s actions and their impact.

Framing analysis: The article foregrounds the dramatic consequences of the incident, while providing background on Fairfax’s political career as secondary information.

Bias: Selection: Focus on the personal tragedy over political implications. Language: Grave language emphasizing despair. Omission: Limited discussion on broader systemic issues like mental health.

Assessment: The article provides a clear and sensitive portrayal of the tragic event, prompting reflection on mental health issues.


USA TodayWho was Justin Fairfax? Former Virginia Lt. Gov found dead with wife

Publication: USA Today | Primary framing pattern: Moral | Tone: Serious | Intensity: 6/10 | Sentiment: Negative | Legal precision: Medium

Expand

Espresso Shot: This report provides a closer examination of Justin Fairfax’s background and the morality surrounding his tragic actions, invoking discussions on ethics and responsibility in mental health crises.

Publication emphasis: The moral implications of Fairfax’s actions.

Framing analysis: Highlights the ethical dimensions of the incident, while the personal history of Fairfax offers necessary context but is less emphasized.

Bias: Selection: Concentration on moralistic interpretations of the event. Language: Serious and contemplative tone. Omission: Limited exploration of societal factors contributing to the incident.

Assessment: The article effectively engages readers in a moral discussion regarding personal accountability and societal responsibility.


The GuardianJustin Fairfax, former Virginia lieutenant governor, kills wife and himself

Publication: The Guardian | Primary framing pattern: Political | Tone: Analytical | Intensity: 8/10 | Sentiment: Negative | Legal precision: High

Expand

Espresso Shot: This article analyzes the political ramifications of Justin Fairfax’s tragic actions, exploring implications for Virginia politics and discussing how such events impact public perception of political figures.

Publication emphasis: The political fallout resulting from Fairfax’s actions.

Framing analysis: The article foregrounds the political consequences, while emotional implications are addressed but remain secondary.

Bias: Selection: Emphasis on political implications over personal details. Language: Analytical and insightful. Omission: Few personal dimensions discussed, focusing on broader political context instead.

Assessment: The article provides a compelling analysis of the political effects of the tragedy and prompts reflection on the responsibilities of public figures.


WUSA9Former Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax shot and killed his wife, himself in Annandale, police confirm

Publication: WUSA9 | Primary framing pattern: Legal | Tone: Factual | Intensity: 6/10 | Sentiment: Neutral | Legal precision: High

Expand

Espresso Shot: This article reports the facts surrounding Justin Fairfax’s tragic actions, focusing on the police confirmation and legal aspects of the incident, while minimizing interpretative commentary on the situation.

Publication emphasis: The legal ramifications and factual details of the incident.

Framing analysis: The piece foregrounds factual reporting and legal implications, while emotional responses are secondary.

Bias: Selection: Prioritizes legal context. Language: Neutral and straightforward. Omission: Minimal discussion on personal or ethical implications of the incidents.

Assessment: The article provides a clear and factual account of the event, effectively addressing the legal dimensions.


Food for thought

The New York Times employs the strongest legal framing by reporting that Justin Fairfax’s actions involved the confirmed tragic killing of his wife and himself on police authority. In contrast, USA Today adopts a more escalatory tone, focusing on personal tragedy with an emotional lens that amplifies the gravity of the events surrounding Fairfax’s death. The Guardian similarly emphasizes the dramatic nature of the incident but incorporates political context, suggesting broader implications for statements of mental health and leadership. WUSA9 underscores the police confirmation, situating the narrative in a factual but stark frame. The facts do not change. What changes is where scrutiny lands.

Prolific Up-Skirting Offender Filmed Young Women in Nightclub Queues | News UK

Get you up to speed: Prolific Up-Skirting Offender Filmed Young Women in Nightclub Queues | News UK

SEXUAL OFFENCE
James Manchand, the prolific upskirter with an active Sexual Harm Prevention Order, has been sentenced to 20 months in prison following multiple voyeurism offences in Soho.
LEGAL ACTION
James Manchand has been sentenced to 20 months in prison for multiple voyeurism offences, as confirmed by Detective Constable Sam Pearson of the WTXpolitan Police.
LEGAL ACTION
James Manchand was sentenced to 20 months in prison by the court for multiple voyeurism offences committed in Soho.

What we know so far

A man who filmed more than 20 women in a single evening in Soho has been sentenced to 20 months in prison. James Manchand, 62, was arrested by plain-clothed officers on January 16 after they observed him pacing around queues outside various venues, prompting suspicion about his behaviour.

The police discovered 29 videos on Manchand’s phone, all taken that evening, which contravened an existing Sexual Harm Prevention Order he had for a previous voyeurism offence. His arrest followed the officers’ quick actions to monitor and intervene when he continued to hover around groups of women.

Detective Constable Sam Pearson stated, “Manchand’s predatory behaviour was calculated, persistent and showed a complete disregard for the women he targeted.” The police emphasised the importance of public vigilance, urging bystanders to report suspicious behaviour to prevent further offences.

Commander Clair Kelland of the Met Police underscored the invasive nature of voyeurism, stating, “There is absolutely no excuse for this behaviour.” The authorities are committed to addressing such crimes and enhancing safety for women and girls across London.

Read in full

Prolific upskirter caught filming girls in nightclub queues | News UK

A prolific upskirter who targeted more than 20 women in just one evening has been jailed.

James Manchand was spotted hovering around groups of women around Soho on January 16.

Plain-clothed officers noticed the 62-year-old was deliberately pacing along queues outside of venues.

He was arrested at the scene and on Friday was sentenced to 20 months imprisonment.

Manchand already had a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for a previous voyeurism offence.

A sex offender who filmed upskirting videos of more than 20 victims during one evening in Soho has been jailed. James Manchand was spotted by officers on Friday, 16 January repeatedly pacing along queues outside busy West End venues. The plain-clothed officers initially suspected he was scouting for potential thefts and began to monitor him more closely. Uniformed officers stepped in to conduct a search when Manchand continued to hover around groups of young women. After providing his details, police checks revealed that Manchand was a known offender with an active Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) for a previous voyeurism offence. Under the order, he was required to hand over his phone and unlock it for inspection. On opening the device, officers immediately discovered 29 videos involving more than 20 victims - all filmed that same evening in Soho. He was arrested at the scene.
James Manchand was spotted by officers on Friday, 16 January (Picture: Met Police)

Detective Constable Sam Pearson, who led the investigation, said: ‘Manchand’s predatory behaviour was calculated, persistent and showed a complete disregard for the women he targeted.

‘Thanks to the vigilance and quick instincts of officers on patrol, we were able to intervene before he could continue offending and recover clear evidence that he had committed multiple voyeurism offences in a single evening.

‘No one should have to worry about being violated in this way while simply enjoying a night out. We will continue to act swiftly and decisively against anyone who poses a threat to women and girls.’

Commander Clair Kelland, the Met’s public protection lead, said: ‘Voyeurism can take many forms, but at its core it is a blatant intrusion into someone’s privacy, often carried out in crowded or busy places where victims may not immediately realise what has happened.

This Is Not Right

This is Not Right 7 1 b167

On November 25, 2024 WTX launched This Is Not Right, a campaign to address the relentless epidemic of violence against women.

With the help of our partners at Women’s Aid, This Is Not Right aims to shine a light on the sheer scale of this national emergency.

You can find more articles here, and if you want to share your story with us, you can send us an email at vaw@metro.co.uk.

Read more:

‘There is absolutely no excuse for this behaviour. Whether motivated by sexual gratification or a desire to cause humiliation, distress or alarm, voyeurism is always deeply unsettling for those targeted.

‘We also want to encourage bystanders to look out for one another. If you see someone behaving in a way that feels predatory or attempting to film under clothing, please report it to officers or venue staff straight away. Your quick action could prevent someone from being targeted.’

Government faces scrutiny as report reveals abuse claims by migrants

Government faces scrutiny as report reveals abuse claims by migrants.

Migrants have been accused of making false domestic abuse claims to remain in the UK, according to a recent investigation by the BBC. The probe suggests that these allegations have exploited the system, revealing significant flaws in the asylum process managed by the Home Office.

The far right, Nigel Farage and Kemi Badonech are demanding immediate governmental action to address these vulnerabilities, calling for urgent reforms on immigration policies, which in relaity would be similar to what they are now, except would be worded differently.

In parallel, the fallout from this investigation could influence public perception of immigration policies ahead of the upcoming parliamentary session. As discussions intensify, the focus will be on potential legal changes and the implications for future asylum applications.

Key developments across the UK Today

Migrants making false domestic abuse claims to stay in UK, BBC investigation finds

UK POLITICS — An investigation reveals that some migrants are allegedly making false abuse claims to remain in the UK.

The BBC has discovered that numerous migrants, especially from Albania, are using this method to bypass immigration controls. This troubling trend has raised concerns about the integrity of the asylum process and may prompt calls for reform in immigration policy.

Darlington train derailment prompts enhanced track monitoring

UK SECURITY — A train derailment in Darlington has led to the implementation of increased monitoring measures across the rail network.

The incident, which involved a passenger train, triggered an immediate response from the rail authorities to assess safety and operational protocols. Enhanced monitoring aims to prevent similar incidents and ensure public safety during rail travel.

Plan for 10,000 home development in Leicestershire shelved

UK SOCIETY — A major housing development plan for 10,000 homes in Leicestershire has been put on hold.

The decision follows significant public opposition and concerns about the environmental impact of the proposed development. This move reflects ongoing tensions between housing needs and community preservation in the region.

What to watch — Further developments in immigration policy reform may arise from these investigations into false claims.

Further reading from UK news sources

BBC News
Migrants making false domestic abuse claims to stay in UK, BBC investigation finds

BBC News
Darlington train derailment prompts enhanced track monitoring

BBC News
Plan for 10,000 home development in Leicestershire shelved

LIVE German 2025 Election