Over 1,000 people have been arrested during fresh protests over the disputed presidential election in Belarus over the weekend. Protesters took to the streets of the capital Minsk on Sunday after a protester was allegedly beaten to death by security forces. The disputed election result, in which Alexander Lukashenko declared himself President, has led to a months-long political crisis in Belarus. 

US President Donald Trump has taken to Twitter to seemingly acknowledge Joe Biden’s election win, only to repeat unfounded claims of widespread voter fraud. Meanwhile, the law firm leading the President’s legal effort to challenge the election results in the state of Pennsylvania has withdrawn from his campaign. The Trump-led General Services Administration has not yet recognised Joe Biden as the President-elect and has prevented his team from gaining access to government funding and intelligence needed to ensure a smooth presidential transition.

The findings of the report into allegations of serious misconduct and potential war crimes by Australian Special Forces in Afghanistan are due to be released on Thursday. Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced last week a special investigator would deal with the findings and prepare evidence for possible prosecutions. The Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force has spent more than four years investigating accusations of war crimes committed by Australian troops. 

Following the COVID-19 cluster outbreak in South Australia, the Northern Territory Chief Minister has declared the State a hotspot. The Territory joins Tasmania and Western Australia in reintroducing mandatory quarantine for travelers from South Australia. Queensland is expected to make an announcement concerning travel restrictions later today.

Queensland is set to further ease COVID-19 restrictions from 4pm tomorrow. Capacities in pubs, restaurants, and places of worship will increase, as well as ticketed seated venues. Up to 200 people will be able to attend weddings and funerals, and outdoor events with a COVID safe plan will be able to host 1500 people.

Newly appointed Queensland Opposition Leader David Crisafulli has revealed the LNP’s new shadow cabinet after its election defeat last month. Outgoing party leader Deb Frecklington and Deputy Tim Mander will both remain cabinet ministers. Crisafulli said his cabinet is heavily focused on the economy which he believes will be a major election issue in four years’ time.