January 8, Monday, 2024

1. NHK has learned from informed sources that data storage devices related to Japanese Lower House member Ikeda Yoshitaka were destroyed before Tokyo prosecutors searched his office and other places last month. He was arrested on Sunday on suspicion of violating the political funds control law.
2. Three candidates in Taiwan’s presidential election appealed for support during large rallies on the last Sunday before the January 13 vote. Key points of contention include ties with China.
3. Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina secured a fifth term in office in a controversial general election on Sunday. The voting took place in a tense atmosphere with the military and police heavily guarding each polling station.