From Tokyo to Taipei to Manila, people across Asia marked May Day with marches and protests that spotlighted growing unease over United States President Donald Trump’s policies, amid fears of global economic instability.
The holiday, also known as International Workers ‘ Day or Labour Day, honours the struggles and achievements of workers and the labour movement. Rallies are expected across the US, as well, including in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York and Philadelphia.
Across multiple countries, Trump’s agenda was cited as a source of concern. In the US, organisers said their message this year will be focused on fighting Trump’s approach against immigrants, federal workers and diversity initiatives.
In Taiwan, President William Lai Ching-te referenced new US tariffs under Trump as he promoted a proposed spending bill aimed at stabilising the job market and supporting livelihoods. In the Philippines, protest leader Mong Palatino warned that “tariff wars and policies of Trump” threatened local industries.
In Japan, some said his policies hung over the day like a shadow, with one truck in the Tokyo march featuring a doll that resembled Trump. There, participant demands ranged from higher wages and gender equality to healthcare, disaster relief, a ceasefire in Gaza and an end to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
“For our children to be able to live with hope, the rights of workers must be recognised”, said Junko Kuramochi, a member of a mothers ‘ group in Tokyo.
Tadashi Ito, a union construction worker, said he worried about rising prices for imported raw materials.
“Everybody is fighting over work and so the contracts tend to go where the wages are cheapest”, he said. “We think peace comes first. And we hope Trump will eradicate conflict and inequalities”.
Los Angeles is expected to host one of the world’s largest May Day events this year, and a banner there summarised the day’s theme: “One Struggle, One Fight – Workers Unite”!
Sam Thompson, the star of Made in Chelsea, has revealed that he is dating a woman for the first time since splitting from his ex-girlfriend Zara McDermott.
Sam Thompson details first date with ‘beautiful’ woman after Zara split(Image: Instagram)
Four months after his high-profile breakup from Zara McDermott, Made in Chelsea star Sam Thompson is stepping back into the dating world – and he’s doing it with newfound self-confidence and some help from his best friend Pete Wicks.
Sam, 32, revealed that despite feeling “absolutely terrified,” he is slowly finding his groove again after appearing on the popular podcast Staying Relevant. He revealed that he had recently enjoyed his first date since splitting from Zara, 28, and that he had recently enjoyed his first date since then.
Sam acknowledged the emotional strain of his breakup, “I feel like I’m ready to get out there.” “I’ve gone through a lot of it, but I finally feel good, really good, and comfortable in my own skin,” he said.
Sam spoke about his first date on his podcast with best friend Pete Wicks(Image: Staying Relevant/Youtube)
A hilarious play-by-play of the pre-date panic was provided for podcast listeners of the duo’s podcast. He began, “I went on a date recently.” I actually messaged Pete because I was so anxious. He gave me this sweet piece of advice.
Pete was Sam’s unofficial dating coach from where to stand. I called him and inquired, “Do I need to wait outside or inside?” and he says, “You’re overthinking it, mate,”
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“Go in, order a drink, chill, and don’t be the weirdo loitering on the sidewalk.” “Pete even suggested texting the mysterious woman to ask what beverage she wanted so that it would be waiting when she arrived.
Pete helped Sam through his first date nerves(Image: Getty Images for the NTA’s)
Sam grinned and said, “That’s such a good idea! ” When she enters, Petere responded, “Show her how stunning she is.” A happy date is possible. Eye contact, but not as a serial killer. “
Pete received a brief call after the date. He proudly said, “I could tell you nailed it,” before gushing to Sam about his nervousness about starting a relationship. Sam politely responded, “Yesterday. However, once you pass that initial hurdle, when you realize she hasn’t recoiled in horror, things actually get fun.
He also admitted to having a few stress-related thoughts, such as whether to wait outside or open her taxi door. I was planning to give her a hug right away. He laughed, “I had no idea what I was doing.” However, Pete provided a solid strategy for me.
Sam and Zara split in January after five years together(Image: Instagram)
I was on the phone to our producer right before she entered, and I was there when I unintentionally blurted that out while she was on the call and she recognized me.
Pete once said, “F***ing hell,” in a humorous way. I still think she enjoyed it. Sam is currently dating someone. Why has he been dressing so well lately?
Sam also addressed the self-esteem dip he experienced following a breakup in an interview about his appearance. He said, “I’m aware that I looked like s**t,” to put it simply. I’ve watched the videos. You’ve really let yourself go, Mate, I tell myself. The situation has changed, though. I’m now feeling genuinely happy and confident once more.
Sam was spotted out and about with Love Island star Samie(Image: samieelishi/Instagram)
That newfound confidence may have something to do with Love Island alum Samie Elishi. Over the Easter weekend, Sam was spotted enjoying the sunshine and some quality time with Samie at the King’s Road Fine Food Market. According to sources, sparks are flying between the pair and it’s likely that Sam’s first date was with the brunette beauty who appeared on Love Island All Stars earlier this year.
The pair reportedly started chatting via Instagram after Sam’s split from Zara, and their connection deepened quickly. “They really like each other,” a source close to the couple shared. “Sam wasn’t trying to hide it and introduced Samie to Chelsea – that says a lot.”
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Their romantic outing comes as Zara continues to make headlines for moving on with former One Direction member Louis Tomlinson.
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Amanda Holden stunned as her other stars were out celebrating the 100th anniversary of McVitie’s Chocolate Digestives at a special pop-up event in the centre of London’s Piccadilly Circus
Amanda Holden looked sensational as she graced an event celebrating the 100th anniversary of McVitie’s Chocolate Digestives. She turned heads in a figure-hugging, chocolate-coloured dress, joining Roman Kemp, Denise van Outen, and other celebrities at the glamorous ‘blue carpet’ event in Piccadilly Circus.
Also in attendance were TV personalities Jess Wright, Tasha Ghouri, Dani Dyer and Scarlett Moffatt as well as journalist Sir Trevor McDonald, all gathered for the unveiling of an immersive pop-up store dedicated to biscuit enthusiasts. The pop-up experience features exciting giveaways, specially crafted treats, and a personalised biscuit station, creating a delightful celebration to honour the milestone.
Amanda looked incredible in her chocolate-coloured dress(Image: WILL_IRELAND)
Talking about the event she said: “As a lifelong fan of eating and dunking Chocolate Digestives, it’s an honour to celebrate the 100th birthday at this pop-up experience.”
She described it as a must-visit for any fans of the beloved Chocolate Biscuit. She continued: “I remember when I first introduced them to my children as a little treat. They are still enjoyed by me and my girls.” She also shared she has been eating the biscuits incorrectly this whole time. “Turns out, it’s meant to be enjoyed choc side down – who knew?”
Amanda attended an exclusive preview event for The McVitie’s Chocolate Digestives Experience(Image: WILL_IRELAND)
Article continues below
Last week, McVitie’s dazzled Londoners with a spectacular light show projecting images of the beloved biscuits onto the city’s iconic landmarks, all in honour of it’s 100th anniversary celebrations.
This weekend the centenary celebrations continue with the exclusive pop-up event right in the heart of London at Piccadilly Circus. It’s open to the public for free but for one weekend only, so if you want to visit you’ll need to clear your calendar.
At the centre of this unique experience is the Biscuit Bar, where visitors can indulge in never-before-seen treats crafted from a variety of Digestives.
The menu is a treasure trove of bold and surprising flavour pairings, masterminded by Robert Craggs, the Michelin-trained head development chef at McVitie’s.
The pop-up promises to be a chocolate digestives-lover’s paradise(Image: WILL_IRELAND)
Among the innovative offerings are the ‘Hot Pink’ biscuit, blending White Chocolate Digestives with wasabi, raspberry, and white chocolate, and the ‘Loaded Gold’ biscuit, adorned with hazelnut praline and salted caramel.
For those looking to add a personal touch, there’s also a station where Digestive devotees can create their own customised chocolatey delights with a selection of toppings.
Speaking about the milestone, Benazir Barlet-Bartada from McVitie’s shared: “This 100th anniversary is not just about a biscuit. t’s a national celebration of every biscuit break, every conversation, and every cherished moment we’ve all shared with Chocolate Digestives over the last century.”
To celebrate the iconic 100th birthday of the nation’s cherished biscuit, McVitie’s Chocolate Digestives has also created a selection of limited-edition merch, from snazzy tees to cosy socks and stylish caps.
All of these are available to win as part of the ‘spin and win’ taking place as part of the event.
But if that wasn’t enough, there is also a collection of art pieces inspired by – and even made from – the tea-break staple.
Commissioned mosaic maestro Ed Chapman spent over 180 painstaking hours, using more than 1,000 McVitie’s Digestives – Milk, Dark, Gold, and White varieties – to meticulously piece together portraits of British legends including David Bowie, Sir Trevor McDonald, and Dame Judi Dench.
There’s also a unique work showing 25 of the greatest moments from the last 100 years, each depicted on individual Chocolate Digestives, brought to life on a biscuit using a delicate airbrushing technique.
Benazir Barlet-Bartada expressed excitement saying: “We’re thrilled to offer our loyal fans this incredible experience as a way to say thank you for the unwavering support over the last century – here’s to the next 100.”
Biscuit buffs can hit up the McVitie’s Chocolate Digestives Experience without spending a penny.
At a special pop-up event held in the heart of London’s Piccadilly Circus, Amanda Holden was stunned as her other stars celebrated the 100th anniversary of McVitie’s Chocolate Digestives.
Amanda Holden looked sensational as she graced an event celebrating the 100th anniversary of McVitie’s Chocolate Digestives. She turned heads in a figure-hugging, chocolate-coloured dress, joining Roman Kemp, Denise van Outen, and other celebrities at the glamorous ‘blue carpet’ event in Piccadilly Circus.
Also in attendance were TV personalities Jess Wright, Tasha Ghouri, Dani Dyer and Scarlett Moffatt as well as journalist Sir Trevor McDonald, all gathered for the unveiling of an immersive pop-up store dedicated to biscuit enthusiasts. The pop-up experience features exciting giveaways, specially crafted treats, and a personalised biscuit station, creating a delightful celebration to honour the milestone.
Amanda looked incredible in her chocolate-coloured dress(Image: WILL_IRELAND)
It’s an honor to celebrate the 100th birthday of this pop-up experience, said the woman who spoke about the event, “As a lifelong fan of eating and dunking Chocolate Digestives.”
She referred to it as a “must-see” for chocolate lovers. She continued, “I can’t recall when I first gave them to my kids as a small treat.” Both of my girls and I still enjoy them. She also mentioned that she has been consuming the biscuits incorrectly all along. Who knew, it’s meant to be enjoyed upside down, as it turns out?
Amanda attended an exclusive preview event for The McVitie’s Chocolate Digestives Experience(Image: WILL_IRELAND)
Continue reading the article.
In honor of the city’s 100th anniversary celebrations, McVitie’s spectacular light show projected images of the beloved biscuits onto the city’s iconic landmarks last week dazzled Londoners.
The exclusive pop-up event located at Piccadilly Circus in the heart of London will continue the centenary celebrations this weekend. You must mark your calendar if you want to visit because it is free but only for one weekend.
The Biscuit Bar, where visitors can find never-before-seen treats made from a variety of Digestives, serves as the heart of this unique experience.
Robert Craggs, the Michelin-trained head development chef at McVitie’s, is the mastermind behind the menu’s dazzling array of bold and unexpected flavor pairings.
The pop-up promises to be a chocolate digestives-lover’s paradise(Image: WILL_IRELAND)
The “Hot Pink” biscuit, which combines white chocolate treats with wasabi, raspberry, and white chocolate, and the “Loaded Gold” biscuit, which is decorated with hazelnut praline and salted caramel, are two examples of the creative offerings.
There is also a station where Digestive fans can make their own customised chocolatey treats with a choice of toppings for those who want to give them a personal touch.
This milestone is not just about a biscuit, according to McVitie’s spokesperson Benazir Barlet-Bartada. Every biscuit break, every conversation, and every special moment we’ve all enjoyed over the past century are celebrated nationally.
McVitie’s Chocolate Digestives has also produced a selection of limited-edition merch to honor the nation’s cherished biscuit’s 100th birthday, including snazzy tees, cozy socks, and fashionable caps.
All of these are open for winning as part of the event’s “spin and win” process.
As if that weren’t enough, there are also a number of works of art that were created from the tea-break adage.
Using more than 1, 000 McVitie’s Digestives, including Milk, Dark, Gold, and White varieties, commissioned mosaic artist Ed Chapman meticulously pieced together portraits of British legends like David Bowie, Sir Trevor McDonald, and Dame Judi Dench, for more than 180 hours.
A special work also features 25 of the most memorable moments from the past 100 years, each depicted on a different Chocolate Digestives, brought to life on a biscuit by a deft airbrushing method.
Benazir Barlet-Bartada expressed excitement saying: “We’re thrilled to offer our loyal fans this incredible experience as a way to say thank you for the unwavering support over the last century – here’s to the next 100.”
The McVitie’s Chocolate Digestives Experience is available for purchase for biscuit enthusiasts without a fee.
Chelsea won their sixth consecutive Women’s Super League title on Wednesday, continuing their dominance over English women’s football.
In Sonia Bompastor’s first year in charge, Chelsea showed they still excel in a league above the rest with the help of some of the best players in the world.
Who has gone under the radar in yet another memorable WSL campaign despite the superstar players’ dominance in their title victory?
Baltimore, Sandy
Summer signing Baltimore, Sandy arrived in London from Paris St-Germain with bags of experience in the French league and in Europe.
Few could have predicted the 25-year-old’s impressive debut season at Chelsea.
Bompastor, who played as a left-winger for PSG, raised questions when she played Baltimore.
Baltimore, who made 14 starts in her final four games in the WSL, and scored four goals in those four starts, was unfazed by that.
In January, she told BBC Sport, “I have more responsibility defensively. I’m happy to play anywhere because I enjoy football.
I have a reputation for attacking. I enjoy making runs and dribbling in the direction of their goal. But because it’s football, I’m having fun.
England left-back Niamh Charles was kept out of the team thanks to Baltimore’s impressive form and consistency.
She can defend well and also contribute to the team’s expansion of opportunities in the box. It’s really nice to have someone like her, Bompastor said.
She’s really performing and assisting the team, even though I know there are other players competing for that left-back position.
Nathalie Bjorn
Naomi Girma’s signing by Chelsea broke the transfer fee record in January.
Nathalie Bjorn must have known that her position in the team was in danger, but that only seemed to be motivated by that.
With only Manchester United conceding fewer goals overall than Millie Bright, Bjorn has provided stability to Chelsea’s defense.
When asked if she had undergone any changes this season, Bright responded, “Yes, definitely. She has made a huge difference in our changing room and has been incredibly supportive.
She maintains unity throughout, and occasionally that is overlooked. She is so simple to play alongside and has a fantastic season.
Wieke Kaptein
Images courtesy of Getty
Wieke Kaptein, who left FC Twente in 2023 and spent the rest of the season on loan, is one of Chelsea’s brightest youngsters.
The 19-year-old has excelled under Bompastor, who frequently praised her off-the-ball performance and game comprehension.
She has been trusted throughout significant matches and given responsibility in crucial games against Barcelona, Manchester City, and Manchester United.
Bompastor stated in an October interview that he is “so happy to have her in my squad.” Both as a player and as a person, she is very energetic.
She always wants to hear from the coaches and staff. She is speaking to us.
Hannah Hampton
A consistent number one has been one of the biggest changes to the Chelsea side under Bompastor.
Hannah Hampton, the team’s goalkeeper, excelled in their title-winning encounter with Manchester United, earning the Player of the Match award when it matters.
Hampton’s distribution has proven to be crucial in that regard because Bompastor has encouraged her side to play from the back and take a less direct approach.
With the ball at her feet, Hampton is probably the best keeper. She technically begins much of Chelsea’s attacking play, according to Natasha Dowie, a former England international.
Jen Beattie, an ex-Scotland defender, continued: “She’s been incredible. Chelsea has a long history of victories, but this is Hannah Hampton’s first successful season.
Erin Cuthbert
Scotland midfielder Erin Cuthbert, who is a constant fixture in Chelsea’s success, is a key member of the squad even though she isn’t always in the spotlight.
The 26-year-old has made almost 150 appearances for Chelsea and has participated in all six of the club’s successive title victories.
She frequently appears in the big games, scoring in their Women’s FA Cup victory over Liverpool and providing the stoppage-time winner that gave Manchester City the 2-1 lead in March.
She was soaking up her success after Wednesday’s most recent title win, and her leadership and experience have been present once more this year.
What distinguishes her from others?
She mentality is it. I remember seeing Cuthbert crying on the pitch last season when they lost to Liverpool, and they believed they had won the league title.
More than just censorship was the topic when the Kenyan government blocked a BBC documentary’s public viewing of the investigation into the military’s involvement in the killing of protesters. The army stays out of obvious politics, and no one looks too closely at what it’s doing, as it was about protecting a decades-old pact between the military, the state, the media, and the general public.
The backlash has been severe, and that pact is now in danger.
MPs opposed to the BBC’s operations in Kenya have filed complaints that it incites instability. Journalism has been framed as sabotage by hashtags like #BBCforChaos, which have been used in social media campaigns. However, Kenya’s military has been subject to scrutiny because of its manicured silence, which is not what is actually being defended.
Since independence, this decades-long silence has been carefully maintained. A persistent fear of soldiers as political actors was engrained by two failed military coups in 1971 and 1982 and by the terrible records of military dictatorships throughout the continent. Successive governments kept the army well-fed, well-maintained, and out of the news to prevent future uprisings. The media, in turn, turned their backs on the general public.
No coup, no see.
However, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) were gaining ground in the background. They expanded their capabilities, bought new hardware, and spread a false sense of professionalism throughout the 1990s and 2000s.
The KDF emerged from the shadows after the 2011 invasion of Somalia. The military is now a force in the spotlight as it fights terrorism and instills discipline in the notoriously corrupt civilian public service. The then-defence forces chief was one of the ten appointed members of President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration to a variety of civilian leadership positions. However, the public’s oversight and scrutiny declined as the military’s authority and visibility increased.
Despite the widespread failures that resulted from the poorly planned invasion, which destroyed the notion of integrity and competence, this is true. Soon after the invasion, which was greeted with great media support, came to an end. Kenyan troops were almost immediately implicated in a smuggling racket, trafficking charcoal and sugar in concert with al-Shabab, the very enemy they were ordered to fight after a yearlong journey to the Somali port of Kismayo. In El Adde, Kenya’s most fatal battlefield loss, at least 140 soldiers were killed in a single al-Shabab attack on the KDF base in 2016.
Things weren’t going very well back home. A wave of terrorism was sparked by the invasion. The Westgate mall attack in downtown Nairobi, which the KDF bungled and carried out in 2013, was badly exposed by the KDF. Soldiers purposefully robbed the mall while posing as terrorists. Less than two years later, the military was once again mentioned in the media after the Garissa University College attack, which claimed the lives of 147 people.
The military responded with silence and spin throughout all of this. No inquiry into the public was conducted. No calculation. No justification. Similar to the KDF’s use of Lenana Road, a significant thoroughfare in Nairobi, to expand its headquarters, or when its top brass were linked to attempts to influence the 2022 presidential election, there were few calls for accountability. None of these incidents sparked a heated debate about the military’s role in the media.
The pact’s terms have largely been internalized by Kenya’s mainstream media. Defense reporters publish little to no criticism of the army. Many serve more as independent journalists than as a conduit for press releases from the military. In reality, the KDF has a veto over how it is presented.
The BBC documentary is dangerous because it actually threatens stability, not because it disrupts the silence performance. It challenges the notion that the military cannot be manipulated and that the military’s actions must be censored in order to advance society.
However, fear cannot be the foundation of a viable democracy. One of its most powerful institutions must be kept under the watchful eye of the public, so Kenya cannot prosper. The line between military impunity and civilian rule is already dangerously thin if journalists are deceived into telling the truth and if media outlets censor themselves to support generals.
Not the BBC, which poses a real threat to national security. It is the unwillingness to face the army’s failures and abuses, as well as the willingness of so many to remain silent about them.
The pact must be broken by Kenya. The military must hold the people accountable, not just its commanders. And even when it uneasys the people who use guns, journalism must be free to expose the truth.
