bbc--2020-08-18--Pandit Jasraj: A ‘huge pillar of Indian music has fallen’

Tributes are pouring in for Indian classical music legend Pandit Jasraj , who has died at the age of 90 .
The singer died at his home in the US on Monday after suffering a cardiac arrest .
He enthralled audiences across the world with his soulful performances for more than seven decades .
The maestro also wrote music for some Bollywood films but he will mostly be remembered for making Indian classical music popular across the world .
He was in the US when India went into a lockdown in March to halt the spread of coronavirus .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were lifted , his family said .
His sudden death has shocked many , including PM Narendra Modi who led the tributes .
Legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar , who worked with Pandit Jasraj , said she was `` extremely saddened '' by the news .
Many singers , lyricist , musicians , including Adnan Sami , Shankar Mahadevan and Javed Akhtar , paid their tributes .
Pandit Jasraj was born into a family of musicians .
His father was a vocalist in a royal court and his two brothers were also musicians .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ performing on stage with his brothers at the age of 11 .
He soon became known for his unique style - some describe his music as `` spiritual and divine '' .
His fame grew steady over the years and he became a permanent fixture in many classical music festivals in India and around the world .
His also collaborated with directors on some Bollywood projects but stage performances remained his top priority .
He will also be remembered for teaching and nurturing many celebrated music directors and singers .

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bbc--2020-08-18--Ligue 1 opener off after Marseille Covid-19 cases

The opening match of the 2020-21 French top-flight season has been postponed after four positive coronavirus tests at Marseille .
Marseille were due to host Saint-Etienne on Friday in the first of eight weekend fixtures in Ligue 1 .
The 2019-20 campaign was curtailed in April because of the Covid-19 pandemic , with Paris St-Germain , 12 points clear at the top , awarded the title .
Marseille v Saint-Etienne will now be played on either 16 or 17 September .
The French league told clubs last week its protocol for dealing with coronavirus meant more than three positive cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a postponement .
Marseille 's former Aston Villa defender Jordan Amavi tested positive last week , with another three players following in the latest round .
They cancelled a friendly against German side Stuttgart in the wake of Amavi 's positive test .
Marseille , who are managed by former Chelsea and Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas , finished runners-up to PSG in last season 's shortened campaign .
On Friday , France was added to a list of countries from which those arriving in the UK are required to quarantine for two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jean Castex , acknowledged infection numbers were going `` the wrong way '' in the country .
• DEVS : Mystery drama that will get you hooked • Watch the Small Axe trailer : New and powerful series from Steve McQueen

Last updated on .From the section European Football
Marseille warmed up for the new campaign with a friendly against Nimes last week
The opening match of the 2020-21 French top-flight season has been postponed after four positive coronavirus tests at Marseille.
Marseille were due to host Saint-Etienne on Friday in the first of eight weekend fixtures in Ligue 1.
The 2019-20 campaign was curtailed in April because of the Covid-19 pandemic, with Paris St-Germain, 12 points clear at the top, awarded the title.
Marseille v Saint-Etienne will now be played on either 16 or 17 September.
The French league told clubs last week its protocol for dealing with coronavirus meant more than three positive cases at a club was likely to lead to a postponement.
Marseille's former Aston Villa defender Jordan Amavi tested positive last week, with another three players following in the latest round.
They cancelled a friendly against German side Stuttgart in the wake of Amavi's positive test.
Marseille, who are managed by former Chelsea and Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas, finished runners-up to PSG in last season's shortened campaign.
On Friday, France was added to a list of countries from which those arriving in the UK are required to quarantine for two weeks.
France's prime minister, Jean Castex, acknowledged infection numbers were going "the wrong way" in the country.


bbc--2020-08-18--Can Neymar finally lead Paris St-Germain to European glory?

We have been here before but there is a feeling this could finally be Paris St-Germain 's year in the Champions League .
So will it be ?
The perennial French champions face RB Leipzig in the last four on Tuesday as they try to reach the final for the first time .
They were seconds away from going out to Atalanta on Wednesday but Marquinhos equalised in the 90th minute and former Stoke striker Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting scored the winner 149 seconds later .
The Champions League has been the missing piece of the puzzle since PSG 's big-money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In eight full seasons under Qatari ownership , they have won 18 of the 24 domestic trophies - including seven Ligue 1 titles .
But this is the first time they have been to the Champions League semi-finals since 1994-95 , long before the takeover .
They reached the quarter-finals in the first four years of Qatari ownership but seemed to regress by going out in the last 16 for the next three seasons .
Capitulations against Barcelona in 2017 and Manchester United last year will live long in the mind .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's cameo - the joy of a one-off Champions League tie What has changed this time ?
Have PSG found a team spirit ?
This year , instead of bottling the big moments , PSG have managed to show resilience .
They topped a group containing Real Madrid with five wins and a draw .
They then overcame a first-leg defeat to beat Borussia Dortmund in the last 16 pre-coronavirus break , before their comeback against Atalanta in the quarter-finals .
So what has changed ?
`` The team spirit we saw against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Borussia Dortmund was not really there in previous years , '' says French football journalist Julien Laurens .
`` Boss Thomas Tuchel and his staff created a pact between them that this could be their year - you have to believe until the end and not feel that stress or pressure that you did before .
The game against Atalanta showed that really well . ''
PSG made Brazil forward Neymar the world 's most expensive signing when they paid Barcelona 222m euros ( £200m ) for him in 2017 , a record @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a bid to challenge for the Champions League , a competition Neymar won with Barca in 2014-15 .
They also brought in France striker Kylian Mbappe for 180m euros ( £165.7m ) , the second most costly signing of all time .
Neymar has been unfortunate in the Champions League and missed the game in which they were eliminated in his first two seasons with a foot injury .
However , he has managed to stay injury free at the right moments during 2019-20 - even though he has had three spells @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an issue after Ligue 1 was curtailed .
The 28-year-old was impressive in their victory over Atalanta , taking the lead in driving the team during the first half and then having a hand in both their goals .
`` Neymar showed why he is one of the best in the world , '' adds Laurens .
`` He wasted chances but the way he played and the way he took the game on and owned the game was incredible . ''
One more hurdle to overcome PSG could probably not have hoped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( on paper anyway ) than RB Leipzig .
The German team were only formed 11 years ago and had only won two matches in Europe 's elite club competition before this season .
They have also lost their all-time top scorer , Timo Werner , to Chelsea .
However , they did see off Atletico Madrid - conquerors of holders Liverpool and twice finalists under manager Diego Simeone - in the quarter-finals .
Laurens says : `` In Paris they are very cautious of this Leipzig team and they know PSG can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have the same type of performance they had against Atalanta . ''
Bayern Munich or Lyon await the winner in the final .
Will PSG be there ?
We shall find out soon enough .
• A superstar young coach & a keeper from Hereford - the men behind Leipzig 's dream • Leipzig : Why is this German club dividing football so much ?
• DEVS : Mystery drama that will get you hooked • Watch the Small Axe trailer : New and powerful series from Steve McQueen

Last updated on .From the section European Football
Neymar and Kylian Mbappe both played a part in PSG's winner against Atalanta
We have been here before but there is a feeling this could finally be Paris St-Germain's year in the Champions League. So will it be?
The perennial French champions face RB Leipzig in the last four on Tuesday as they try to reach the final for the first time.
They were seconds away from going out to Atalanta on Wednesday but Marquinhos equalised in the 90th minute and former Stoke striker Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting scored the winner 149 seconds later.
The Champions League has been the missing piece of the puzzle since PSG's big-money takeover by Qatar Sports Investments in 2011.
In eight full seasons under Qatari ownership, they have won 18 of the 24 domestic trophies - including seven Ligue 1 titles.
But this is the first time they have been to the Champions League semi-finals since 1994-95, long before the takeover.
They reached the quarter-finals in the first four years of Qatari ownership but seemed to regress by going out in the last 16 for the next three seasons.
Capitulations against Barcelona in 2017 and Manchester United last year will live long in the mind.
What has changed this time? Have PSG found a team spirit?
Former Mainz and Borussia Dortmund boss Thomas Tuchel has never been this far in the Champions League
This year, instead of bottling the big moments, PSG have managed to show resilience.
They topped a group containing Real Madrid with five wins and a draw.
They then overcame a first-leg defeat to beat Borussia Dortmund in the last 16 pre-coronavirus break, before their comeback against Atalanta in the quarter-finals.
So what has changed?
"The team spirit we saw against Atalanta and in the second leg against Borussia Dortmund was not really there in previous years," says French football journalist Julien Laurens.
"Boss Thomas Tuchel and his staff created a pact between them that this could be their year - you have to believe until the end and not feel that stress or pressure that you did before. The game against Atalanta showed that really well."
Is this Neymar's time?
Neymar has scored 70 goals in 83 games for PSG, including 14 in 18 in the Champions League
PSG made Brazil forward Neymar the world's most expensive signing when they paid Barcelona 222m euros (£200m) for him in 2017, a record that still stands.
That was largely in a bid to challenge for the Champions League, a competition Neymar won with Barca in 2014-15.
They also brought in France striker Kylian Mbappe for 180m euros (£165.7m), the second most costly signing of all time.
Neymar has been unfortunate in the Champions League and missed the game in which they were eliminated in his first two seasons with a foot injury.
However, he has managed to stay injury free at the right moments during 2019-20 - even though he has had three spells out - and fitness should not be an issue after Ligue 1 was curtailed.
The 28-year-old was impressive in their victory over Atalanta, taking the lead in driving the team during the first half and then having a hand in both their goals.
"Neymar showed why he is one of the best in the world," adds Laurens. "He wasted chances but the way he played and the way he took the game on and owned the game was incredible."
One more hurdle to overcome
PSG could probably not have hoped for a more favourable Champions League semi-final (on paper anyway) than RB Leipzig.
The German team were only formed 11 years ago and had only won two matches in Europe's elite club competition before this season.
They have also lost their all-time top scorer, Timo Werner, to Chelsea.
However, they did see off Atletico Madrid - conquerors of holders Liverpool and twice finalists under manager Diego Simeone - in the quarter-finals.
Laurens says: "In Paris they are very cautious of this Leipzig team and they know PSG can only go through if Neymar and Mbappe have the same type of performance they had against Atalanta."
Bayern Munich or Lyon await the winner in the final. Will PSG be there? We shall find out soon enough.


bbc--2020-08-18--Kansas City Chiefs will host fans at reduced capacity for NFL opener

Last updated on .From the section American Football The Kansas City Chiefs plan to allow fans inside Arrowhead Stadium at @ @ @ @ @ 2020 NFL season begins .
Supporters will be required to wear face masks and will @ @ @ @ @ pods inside the stadium .
The Chicago Bears , however , announced that Soldier Field @ @ @ @ @ when play kicks off .
In a statement the Bears said : `` After discussing @ @ @ @ @ health officials , the Bears and the City of Chicago agreed the health metrics show @ @ @ @ @ right time to welcome fans back to Soldier Field . ''
The Kansas City Chiefs @ @ @ @ @ fans during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic were made in conjunction with the NFL as well @ @ @ @ @ Lucas .
In July , Chiefs offensive lineman Laurent Duvernay-Tardif became the first player to @ @ @ @ @ NFL season because of coronavirus fears .

Last updated on .From the section American Football
The Kansas City Chiefs plan to allow fans inside Arrowhead Stadium at 22% capacity when the 2020 NFL season begins.
The Chiefs, who won their first Super Bowl in 50 years in February, play the Houston Texans on 10 September.
Supporters will be required to wear face masks and will also be separated into grouped pods inside the stadium.
The Chicago Bears, however, announced that Soldier Field will be closed to fans when play kicks off.
In a statement the Bears said: "After discussing a draft plan with City health officials, the Bears and the City of Chicago agreed the health metrics show that it is not the right time to welcome fans back to Soldier Field."
The Kansas City Chiefs said the plans to accommodate fans during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic were made in conjunction with the NFL as well as Kansas City mayor Quinton Lucas.
In July, Chiefs offensive lineman Laurent Duvernay-Tardif became the first player to opt out of the upcoming NFL season because of coronavirus fears.


bbc--2020-08-18--England v Pakistan: How do you solve a problem like bad light?

Last updated on .From the section Cricket The second Test between England and Pakistan at the Ageas Bowl will be remembered for one thing : the weather .
The issue of bad light forcing the players off the field - and an apparent lack of urgency from officials to get them back on it - was a major talking point throughout .
`` Disgraceful '' and `` appalling '' were two words used to describe the situation .
After all , there has been more effort to get cricket played in this coronavirus summer than ever before - and at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bad look for the game .
So what can be done about it ?
• None Tuffers & Vaughan podcast : 'More cricket played on the concourse than on the field' • None TMS podcast : What we learned from England-Pakistan draw Bad light is one of cricket 's oldest problems .
In recent years , floodlights have been used to help play continue for longer but , bizarrely to outsiders , play is still halted when artificial light overpowers natural light .
BBC cricket correspondent Jonathan Agnew thinks improving floodlights is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while England captain Joe Root says a minimum standard of floodlight should be introduced worldwide .
`` When these lights [ at the Ageas Bowl ] were put in , they will have been state of the art , but these things do get quickly taken over by new technology , '' Agnew said .
`` Test grounds need the latest high-intensity floodlights and they have to get on there and play to the close using them . ''
Hampshire chairman Rod Bransgrove said the floodlights are `` more than fit for purpose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` creating more wattage '' .
`` I have n't heard any complaints directly linked to the floodlights , '' he said .
`` The issue is the response to light - and at what stage we respond to it .
That seems to be the crunch point . ''
Be flexible with the times On paper , the easiest step to playing more would be to alter the start time .
In England , a Test rigidly begins at 11:00 BST regardless of the weather forecast .
Issues for broadcast schedules and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as reasons for this .
But on day four in Southampton - with no fans in the ground - two hours of good weather before 11:00 were wasted .
Rain arrived at 12:00 and forced the players off after 10 overs .
The teams were not seen again all day .
`` Would n't it be great if they said 'we 've missed cricket so tomorrow we 'll start at 10:30 ' ? ''
said Vaughan .
Former England women 's bowler and BBC cricket presenter Isa Guha said : `` In golf @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the tee times forward if needed .
`` Broadcasters are happy to be flexible , especially in the current situation .
`` There would be an argument about the dew in English conditions , but after rain there is also a bit of moisture .
Just deal with it . ''
The colour of the ball used in Test cricket is the most discussed option for solving the bad light issue .
The traditional red ball is regarded as difficult to see in gloomy conditions and under floodlights .
Pink balls are used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Michael Vaughan says they could be used in all Tests to allow the game to continue when light is an issue .
Test Match Special commentator Simon Mann suggests trialling using a red ball until the light fades , then swapping it for a pink ball - and switching back if the light improves .
`` I know it would not be to everyone 's liking but bad light should be a thing of the past , '' Mann said .
`` We have got to find ways of playing rather than not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Broad , England 's two leading wicket-takers , said during the second Test that they were against the idea .
Whether the pink ball is used all or some of the time , there are other problems - it behaves differently to the red ball and is often said to lose its shape and hardness more quickly .
`` I do n't think the pink ball is the answer , '' Agnew said .
`` The red ball is the proven model for what makes a good game of cricket . ''
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ light is because they deem it is `` dangerous '' to continue .
Former England spinner Phil Tufnell says , although safety is the priority , the increased use of protective equipment should allow play in gloomier conditions .
`` If is gets really dark then play should stop , '' he said .
`` It is those spells where there are subtle dips - that is where you might have to just plough through .
`` We are playing a dangerous game .
When I went out to face Curtly Ambrose at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - and that was bright sunshine . ''
The umpires take a reading on the light meter and the level recorded when they first take players off is used as a benchmark for the rest of the Test .
Former England batsman Marcus Trescothick says that level should be lowered .
`` It seems stupid that we play day-night cricket , but when the lights come on and it 's a red ball that we go off so quickly , '' he said .
Tufnell says it requires a change in mindset from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Back in the day we were playing so much cricket - one-day cricket , three-day cricket , Tests - that when you did see a bit of bad light you thought 'let 's go off , I 'm a little tired ' .
`` Nowadays with central contracts , this is the event - this is the Test match .
There needs to be an attitude change - they have to be a little more up for it .
`` Let 's get out there and play .
Just get the game @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the wrong reasons over the past week , Vaughan says `` until money comes in to play , I do n't think anything will be done about it '' .
He suggests if a period of play is lost to bad light , organisers must return money paid by broadcasters to cover the Test .
`` The broadcast deals are huge , '' Vaughan said .
`` If the bosses of all TV channels who have written cheques got together and said 'if we go off for bad light we want a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I would guarantee a solution would be considered very quickly . ''
Given how long the debate about bad light has been going on , one thing seems certain : it wo n't be solved any time soon .
• None Mystery drama that will get you hooked • None New and powerful series from Steve McQueen

Last updated on .From the section Cricket
The second Test between England and Pakistan at the Ageas Bowl will be remembered for one thing: the weather.
Bad light and rain ruined the match. It was the shortest Test in England since 1987, with the stoppages making a positive result impossible.
The issue of bad light forcing the players off the field - and an apparent lack of urgency from officials to get them back on it - was a major talking point throughout.
"Disgraceful" and "appalling" were two words used to describe the situation.
After all, there has been more effort to get cricket played in this coronavirus summer than ever before - and at great expense.
It is undoubtedly a bad look for the game. So what can be done about it?
Get brighter floodlights
Bad light is one of cricket's oldest problems.
In recent years, floodlights have been used to help play continue for longer but, bizarrely to outsiders, play is still halted when artificial light overpowers natural light.
BBC cricket correspondent Jonathan Agnew thinks improving floodlights is the "first place to start", while England captain Joe Root says a minimum standard of floodlight should be introduced worldwide.
"When these lights [at the Ageas Bowl] were put in, they will have been state of the art, but these things do get quickly taken over by new technology," Agnew said.
"Test grounds need the latest high-intensity floodlights and they have to get on there and play to the close using them."
Hampshire chairman Rod Bransgrove said the floodlights are "more than fit for purpose", but that he has considered "creating more wattage".
"I haven't heard any complaints directly linked to the floodlights," he said. "The issue is the response to light - and at what stage we respond to it. That seems to be the crunch point."
Be flexible with the times
On paper, the easiest step to playing more would be to alter the start time.
In England, a Test rigidly begins at 11:00 BST regardless of the weather forecast. Issues for broadcast schedules and fans' travel arrangements are often cited as reasons for this.
But on day four in Southampton - with no fans in the ground - two hours of good weather before 11:00 were wasted. Rain arrived at 12:00 and forced the players off after 10 overs. The teams were not seen again all day.
"Wouldn't it be great if they said 'we've missed cricket so tomorrow we'll start at 10:30'?" said Vaughan.
Former England women's bowler and BBC cricket presenter Isa Guha said: "In golf they look at the weather and bring the tee times forward if needed.
"Broadcasters are happy to be flexible, especially in the current situation.
"There would be an argument about the dew in English conditions, but after rain there is also a bit of moisture. Just deal with it."
Change the ball
The colour of the ball used in Test cricket is the most discussed option for solving the bad light issue. The traditional red ball is regarded as difficult to see in gloomy conditions and under floodlights.
Pink balls are used in day-night Tests and former England captain Michael Vaughan says they could be used in all Tests to allow the game to continue when light is an issue.
Test Match Special commentator Simon Mann suggests trialling using a red ball until the light fades, then swapping it for a pink ball - and switching back if the light improves.
"I know it would not be to everyone's liking but bad light should be a thing of the past," Mann said.
"We have got to find ways of playing rather than not playing."
James Anderson and Stuart Broad, England's two leading wicket-takers, said during the second Test that they were against the idea.
Whether the pink ball is used all or some of the time, there are other problems - it behaves differently to the red ball and is often said to lose its shape and hardness more quickly.
"I don't think the pink ball is the answer," Agnew said. "The red ball is the proven model for what makes a good game of cricket."
Change the mentality
The main reason umpires stop play for bad light is because they deem it is "dangerous" to continue.
Former England spinner Phil Tufnell says, although safety is the priority, the increased use of protective equipment should allow play in gloomier conditions.
"If is gets really dark then play should stop," he said. "It is those spells where there are subtle dips - that is where you might have to just plough through.
"We are playing a dangerous game. When I went out to face Curtly Ambrose at 12:30 in the afternoon it was dangerous - and that was bright sunshine."
Play was stopped on day two shortly after Mohammad Rizwan (far right) had hit Stuart Broad through the covers for four
The umpires take a reading on the light meter and the level recorded when they first take players off is used as a benchmark for the rest of the Test.
Former England batsman Marcus Trescothick says that level should be lowered. "It seems stupid that we play day-night cricket, but when the lights come on and it's a red ball that we go off so quickly," he said.
Tufnell says it requires a change in mindset from players and umpires.
He said: "Back in the day we were playing so much cricket - one-day cricket, three-day cricket, Tests - that when you did see a bit of bad light you thought 'let's go off, I'm a little tired'.
"Nowadays with central contracts, this is the event - this is the Test match. There needs to be an attitude change - they have to be a little more up for it.
"Let's get out there and play. Just get the game on."
Impose financial penalties
Despite all the headlines for the wrong reasons over the past week, Vaughan says "until money comes in to play, I don't think anything will be done about it".
He suggests if a period of play is lost to bad light, organisers must return money paid by broadcasters to cover the Test.
"The broadcast deals are huge," Vaughan said.
"If the bosses of all TV channels who have written cheques got together and said 'if we go off for bad light we want a percentage of the money back', I would guarantee a solution would be considered very quickly."
Given how long the debate about bad light has been going on, one thing seems certain: it won't be solved any time soon.


bbc--2020-08-17--Barcelona set to appoint Koeman as manager after sacking Setien

Barcelona have sacked manager Quique Setien , three days after his side 's humiliating 8-2 defeat by Bayern Munich in the Champions League .
Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman , who played for the Catalan giants between 1989 and 1995 , is set to replace Setien at the Nou Camp .
Former Real Betis manager Setien , 61 , was appointed in January and took charge for just 25 matches .
Barca finished second in La Liga this season , five points behind Real Madrid .
A new coach will be announced `` in the coming days , '' said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ champions Bayern on Friday was the fourth time in the past five years they have been knocked out at the quarter-final stage of Europe 's elite competition .
Setien , who replaced Ernesto Valverde at the Nou Camp , had said after the defeat that it was `` time for us to review and take the decisions which are needed for the future '' .
After he was sacked on Monday , Barcelona said : `` This is the first decision within a wider restructuring of the first team . ''
The club @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , scheduled for June , will be brought forward to March 15 .
Barcelona defender Gerard Pique said he would be the `` first to leave '' if the club wished to make changes .
Koeman is going to be given a two-year deal .
He would have said yes to a one-year deal .
He has been trying to get to Barcelona for a long while .
Former Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino was contacted and there were talks with him even though the chairman realised the fans would n't like him [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] .
Pochettino is a better option .
There is no doubt about that .
But we 're not talking about the real issue .
A club that 's in disarray with a debt that some calculate could be 700m euros unable to move on because they spend 70 % of their income on wages for the first team .
They have no clear idea where to go next partly because they ca n't get rid of these guys and partly because they 've got no vision .

Last updated on .From the section European Football
Quique Setien's Barcelona conceded eight goals in a match for the first time since April 1946
Barcelona have sacked manager Quique Setien, three days after his side's humiliating 8-2 defeat by Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman, who played for the Catalan giants between 1989 and 1995, is set to replace Setien at the Nou Camp.
Former Real Betis manager Setien, 61, was appointed in January and took charge for just 25 matches.
Barca finished second in La Liga this season, five points behind Real Madrid.
A new coach will be announced "in the coming days," said the club.
Barca's thrashing by German champions Bayern on Friday was the fourth time in the past five years they have been knocked out at the quarter-final stage of Europe's elite competition.
Setien, who replaced Ernesto Valverde at the Nou Camp, had said after the defeat that it was "time for us to review and take the decisions which are needed for the future".
After he was sacked on Monday, Barcelona said: "This is the first decision within a wider restructuring of the first team."
The club also announced next year's presidential elections, scheduled for June, will be brought forward to March 15.
Barcelona defender Gerard Pique said he would be the "first to leave" if the club wished to make changes.
Analysis
Guillem Balague, Spanish football expert speaking on Radio 5 Live
Koeman is going to be given a two-year deal. He would have said yes to a one-year deal. He has been trying to get to Barcelona for a long while.
Former Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino was contacted and there were talks with him even though the chairman realised the fans wouldn't like him [as a former Espanyol player and manager].
Pochettino is a better option. There is no doubt about that.
But we're not talking about the real issue. A club that's in disarray with a debt that some calculate could be 700m euros unable to move on because they spend 70% of their income on wages for the first team.
They have no clear idea where to go next partly because they can't get rid of these guys and partly because they've got no vision.


bbc--2020-08-18--Dillian Whyte's boxing column: Howling like a werewolf, growing up in Jamaica & a cook-off against E

Dillian Whyte's boxing column: Howling like a werewolf, growing up in Jamaica & a cook-off against Eddie Hearn

If Dillian Whyte beats Alexander Povetkin on Saturday he will then fight the winner of Tyson Fury v Deontay Wilder for the WBC world heavyweight title .
In his new column , he talks about growing up in Jamaica without his mum and experiencing racism for the first time when he moved to England , through to his charity chicken challenge against Eddie Hearn and why he howls like a werewolf before every fight… Three of us , in three cars , headed to the Channel Tunnel and drove in convoy from France .
Someone hit a pothole , someone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cards got blocked because I was using them in different countries .
It felt like a challenge on Top Gear !
Lockdown has n't been that strange though .
It 's felt like a normal training camp , but with the addition of a versaclimber - this horrendous new machine , which mimics the sensation of climbing a mountain .
You have to move your legs and arms at speed .
That thing is the worst cardio machine I 've ever used .
It 's pure punishment .
The difficult thing has obviously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 'm not too tired after training I try to speak to them , especially my mum .
But I 'm really close with my team and I always make sure we have a laugh .
One morning , very early , I knocked on everyone 's doors to wake them up .
I 'm always doing things like that .
There 's only so many punches you can throw in a day !
I understand racism , I just do n't get it When I was two , my mum moved to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay in Jamaica with my brothers and sisters .
It was really hard .
I was starved , given no bed to sleep in , mistreated , this and that .
My mum was sending through money for people to take care of me , but they were keeping it and lying to her .
When I spoke to my mum on the phone I said I was fine as I did n't want her worrying .
I moved to England when I was 12 to be with my mum , which is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ called me a 'black so and so ' at school .
It did n't bother me .
But that 's when I realised I was different .
Even the police would call me names .
Growing up in Jamaica , there were no white people or black people , we were just Jamaicans , we were just people .
Race means nothing to me .
Racism is something I understand , but I just do n't get it .
Why would you think you 're better than someone ?
No-one 's better than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to relax .
I always win , so the lads accuse me of paying for cheat codes .
I love playing Fight Night .
But it only has old boxers on it .
I wish I could pick myself and fight Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua and get their belts , and then fight some of the legends , like Mike Tyson and Muhammad Ali .
I 'd love to have been able to fight them and see how my skills compare .
I also love cooking .
I had to learn to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just put simple ingredients together and that has n't really changed .
I cook a lot for the guys in camp and cooked a barbecue on my birthday .
I recently had a cook-off against Eddie Hearn for charity .
We had to make a chicken burger .
I went all out - grilled and pan-fried the chicken , added lettuce , tomatoes , pepper jack cheese , even pineapple .
Eddie just got a baguette , made some chicken mayonnaise and that was it… and he won .
He cheated !
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ baguette , even a burger , but that does n't make it a burger .
The worst thing is , I think his wife was preparing it behind the scenes .
My nickname is the 'Body Snatcher ' because I 'm an aggressive body puncher .
The fans gave me the name and I think it 's cool .
Just like when you a chop a tree down , you chop the trunk ... if you chop the body down , the head will fall .
When I get in the ring it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it 's not football , it 's boxing - the other guy is trying to knock me out , so I 'm going to try to knock him out first .
Before I go on my ring walk , I howl like a werewolf .
It 's a mental thing - turning from a civilised person into a fighter .
That 's when it 's time for 'maximum violence ' and the animal takes over .
I come out to the Jaws theme and Back In Black by AC/DC .
I love @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scared me when I was younger and it still scares me now to be honest .
Back In Black is one of my favourite songs .
People know it and people like it , so they remember it .
I want everyone to have happy memories when they watch me fight .
I can be heavyweight champion of the world I 'm working with a new coach now - Xavier Miller .
Well , I say new , I 've actually worked with Xav for about a year , as he was in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He 's a proper student .
He 's even been analysing my sparring from two years ago .
He gets me boxing five or six times a week , when I only used to box three or four times .
He always says : `` You 're a boxer , so boxing is what we do . ''
Having to wait over 1,000 days for a title shot has been crazy .
I 've done everything the WBC has asked of me , taking dangerous fights , fights I should have lost .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk my mandatory position , something I 've worked so hard for , against Povetkin , a former world champion and Olympic gold medallist .
But I know I can win and I know I can go on to be the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world , otherwise why would I be doing all of this ?
• None Mystery drama that will get you hooked • None New and powerful series from Steve McQueen

Dillian Whyte v Alexander Povetkin - WBC interim & Diamond world heavyweight title Venue: Matchroom Boxing's Fight Camp, Essex Date: 22 August Coverage: Live text commentary on BBC Sport website & app; updates pre and post fight on 5 Live Boxing with Costello & Bunce
Why I'm called 'The Body Snatcher' and howl like a werewolf before each fight
If Dillian Whyte beats Alexander Povetkin on Saturday he will then fight the winner of Tyson Fury v Deontay Wilder for the WBC world heavyweight title. In his new column, he talks about growing up in Jamaica without his mum and experiencing racism for the first time when he moved to England, through to his charity chicken challenge against Eddie Hearn and why he howls like a werewolf before every fight…
Like a Top Gear challenge
On 14 March I got a call from my manager saying I'd have to leave for my training camp in Portugal the next day. The borders were about to close. As I wanted to bring my dogs - Zeus, Titan and Hades - that meant I couldn't fly.
Three of us, in three cars, headed to the Channel Tunnel and drove in convoy from France. Someone hit a pothole, someone got lost, and then my bank cards got blocked because I was using them in different countries. It felt like a challenge on Top Gear!
I brought my dogs Zeus, Titan and Hades to Portugal with me to keep me company
Lockdown hasn't been that strange though. It's felt like a normal training camp, but with the addition of a versaclimber - this horrendous new machine, which mimics the sensation of climbing a mountain. You have to move your legs and arms at speed. That thing is the worst cardio machine I've ever used. It's pure punishment.
The difficult thing has obviously been not seeing my family. If I'm not too tired after training I try to speak to them, especially my mum.
But I'm really close with my team and I always make sure we have a laugh. One morning, very early, I knocked on everyone's doors to wake them up. I'm always doing things like that. There's only so many punches you can throw in a day!
I understand racism, I just don't get it
When I was two, my mum moved to England to work but I had to stay in Jamaica with my brothers and sisters. It was really hard. I was starved, given no bed to sleep in, mistreated, this and that.
My mum was sending through money for people to take care of me, but they were keeping it and lying to her. When I spoke to my mum on the phone I said I was fine as I didn't want her worrying.
I stayed in Port Antonio in Jamaica when my Mum moved to England to work as a nurse
I moved to England when I was 12 to be with my mum, which is when I first experienced racism. Someone called me a 'black so and so' at school. It didn't bother me. But that's when I realised I was different. Even the police would call me names.
Growing up in Jamaica, there were no white people or black people, we were just Jamaicans, we were just people.
Race means nothing to me. Racism is something I understand, but I just don't get it. Why would you think you're better than someone? No-one's better than anyone.
I moved to Tulse Hill in London when I was 12 years old to live with my Mum
Eddie Hearn cheated!
Gaming is something I do to relax. I always win, so the lads accuse me of paying for cheat codes.
I love playing Fight Night. But it only has old boxers on it. I wish I could pick myself and fight Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua and get their belts, and then fight some of the legends, like Mike Tyson and Muhammad Ali.
I'd love to have been able to fight them and see how my skills compare.
I'm a big gamer - I'm pretty good and love beating the guys in between training sessions
I also love cooking. I had to learn to cook from about six. I'd just put simple ingredients together and that hasn't really changed. I cook a lot for the guys in camp and cooked a barbecue on my birthday.
I recently had a cook-off against Eddie Hearn for charity. We had to make a chicken burger. I went all out - grilled and pan-fried the chicken, added lettuce, tomatoes, pepper jack cheese, even pineapple. Eddie just got a baguette, made some chicken mayonnaise and that was it… and he won.
He cheated! You can put whatever you want in a baguette, even a burger, but that doesn't make it a burger. The worst thing is, I think his wife was preparing it behind the scenes.
My epic chicken burger - the real winner of the charity chicken challenge!
The werewolf howl
My nickname is the 'Body Snatcher' because I'm an aggressive body puncher. The fans gave me the name and I think it's cool. Just like when you a chop a tree down, you chop the trunk... if you chop the body down, the head will fall.
When I get in the ring it's war. It's not tennis, it's not football, it's boxing - the other guy is trying to knock me out, so I'm going to try to knock him out first.
Howling like a werewolf gets me into the zone to unleash what I like to call 'maximum violence'
Before I go on my ring walk, I howl like a werewolf. It's a mental thing - turning from a civilised person into a fighter. That's when it's time for 'maximum violence' and the animal takes over.
I come out to the Jaws theme and Back In Black by AC/DC. I love Jaws the movie - the theme tune scared me when I was younger and it still scares me now to be honest. Back In Black is one of my favourite songs. People know it and people like it, so they remember it. I want everyone to have happy memories when they watch me fight.
When I beat Mariusz Wach in Saudi Arabia last December I unleashed a few of my trademark 'body snatcher' punches
I can be heavyweight champion of the world
I'm working with a new coach now - Xavier Miller. Well, I say new, I've actually worked with Xav for about a year, as he was in the camp for my last fight.
He's a proper student. He's even been analysing my sparring from two years ago.
He gets me boxing five or six times a week, when I only used to box three or four times. He always says: "You're a boxer, so boxing is what we do."
Xav has just tweaked little things, like making sure I keep my hands up
Having to wait over 1,000 days for a title shot has been crazy. I've done everything the WBC has asked of me, taking dangerous fights, fights I should have lost.
Once again, I'm having to risk my mandatory position, something I've worked so hard for, against Povetkin, a former world champion and Olympic gold medallist.
But I know I can win and I know I can go on to be the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, otherwise why would I be doing all of this?


bbc--2020-08-18--US Open: Serena Williams might feel less pressure without fans - Pam Shriver

Last updated on .From the section Tennis Serena Williams ' bid to finally land a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title may be boosted by the lack of fans at the US Open , says former world number three Pam Shriver .
She lost the past two US Open finals to Naomi Osaka and Bianca Andreescu .
`` Without the crowds there , I would n't be surprised if she actually feels a little less pressure , '' said Shriver .
Williams , ranked ninth in the world , will be among the favourites to win in New York when the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus pandemic takes place from 31 August .
Six of the women 's top 10 players , including world number one Ashleigh Barty and reigning champion Andreescu , will not play because of safety and travel concerns .
`` I do n't think it devalues the tournament , '' said Shriver , who reached the US Open singles final in 1978 and won five doubles titles at Flushing Meadows .
`` Anybody that comes through and wins seven rounds , under the circumstances of living in a quarantine bubble , unable to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at a major , it is going to be an incredible performance . ''
• None Will no fans lead to better behaviour on court ?
• None Halep becomes latest top player to pull out of US Open American great Williams is looking for her first major title since the birth of her daughter , Olympia , in 2017 , when she said she nearly died because of a series of complications .
No player has won more than her six US Open titles in the modern era , although edgy performances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stopped her moving clear of Chris Evert at Flushing Meadows and levelling Australian Court 's all-time tally .
Williams called umpire Carlos Ramos a `` liar '' and a `` thief '' in an angry outburst during the final against Osaka of Japan two years ago .
Last year , Williams labelled her performance against Canadian teenager Andreescu `` inexcusable '' as she looked a shadow of the player who had breezed through the previous rounds .
`` Serena has felt a lot of emotions at the US Open through the years , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ American Shriver , now a television analyst .
`` This pandemic has really put a toll on a lot of people and a lot of people in your family , as far as how they 're feeling a lot more anxious .
`` If you 've been through a lot , as Serena has , she might actually feel more comfortable playing under these circumstances than other athletes . ''
• None Alerts : Get tennis news sent to your phone • None Mystery drama that will get you hooked • None New @ @ @ @ @ @

Last updated on .From the section Tennis
Pam Shriver, who is now a television analyst, reached the US Open singles final in 1978 and won five doubles titles in New York
Serena Williams' bid to finally land a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title may be boosted by the lack of fans at the US Open, says former world number three Pam Shriver.
Williams, 38, has lost her past four major finals when aiming to tie the record set by Margaret Court in 1973.
She lost the past two US Open finals to Naomi Osaka and Bianca Andreescu.
"Without the crowds there, I wouldn't be surprised if she actually feels a little less pressure," said Shriver.
Williams, ranked ninth in the world, will be among the favourites to win in New York when the first Grand Slam since the start of the coronavirus pandemic takes place from 31 August.
Six of the women's top 10 players, including world number one Ashleigh Barty and reigning champion Andreescu, will not play because of safety and travel concerns.
"I don't think it devalues the tournament," said Shriver, who reached the US Open singles final in 1978 and won five doubles titles at Flushing Meadows.
"Anybody that comes through and wins seven rounds, under the circumstances of living in a quarantine bubble, unable to do your normal thing you usually do at a major, it is going to be an incredible performance."
American great Williams is looking for her first major title since the birth of her daughter, Olympia, in 2017, when she said she nearly died because of a series of complications.
No player has won more than her six US Open titles in the modern era, although edgy performances in the 2018 and 2019 finals have stopped her moving clear of Chris Evert at Flushing Meadows and levelling Australian Court's all-time tally.
Williams called umpire Carlos Ramos a "liar" and a "thief" in an angry outburst during the final against Osaka of Japan two years ago.
Last year, Williams labelled her performance against Canadian teenager Andreescu "inexcusable" as she looked a shadow of the player who had breezed through the previous rounds.
"Serena has felt a lot of emotions at the US Open through the years, hence many a meltdown," said American Shriver, now a television analyst.
"This pandemic has really put a toll on a lot of people and a lot of people in your family, as far as how they're feeling a lot more anxious.
"If you've been through a lot, as Serena has, she might actually feel more comfortable playing under these circumstances than other athletes."


bbc--2020-08-18--What to watch for at US Democratic convention

Balloons .
Confetti .
Signs .
Big hats .
It 's the moment US election enthusiasts have been waiting four years for .
It 's convention season .
Day one of the Democratic National Convention is over - with Michelle Obama delivering the closing speech - but three more days of party events remain before the main moment - crowning the presidential nominee .
Of course this year , things are looking a bit different .
Here 's everything you need to know about this year 's convention , Covid-19 changes and all .
What is the Democratic National Convention @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comes together to formally name - and hype up - their candidates .
You may be thinking , 'is n't Joe Biden already the nominee ? '
Yes - and no .
He 's certainly the presumptive Democratic candidate , but things are n't party-official until they announce it at the convention .
Party members will also unveil the 2020 Democratic platform , the list of party values and policy priorities which they believe distinguish them from their rival Republicans .
OK , so where and when is the 2020 convention ?
Officially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ convention centre in Milwaukee , in the Midwestern state of Wisconsin , from Monday 17 August to Thursday 20 August .
But Covid-19 restrictions and concerns mean that the only people attending in-person will be those necessary to orchestrating the event .
Instead of 50,000 people gathering for the traditional calendar with days full of speeches , receptions and rallies , sessions will be streamed from the Democratic Party 's social media channels and aired live on most US news channels from 21:00 to 23:00 EDT each night .
How to follow the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be a live page from 2130 BST/ 1630 EST which you will find on the BBC News front page .
All the latest developments will also be tweeted @ BBCNorthAmerica while you can see the main speeches and get analysis on BBC World News ( global ) and the BBC News Channel ( UK ) .
You can also watch the convention on the DNC website ( sessions from 21:00-23:00 ET ( 01:00-03:00 GMT the next day ) every night between 17 and 20 August ) .
More on Joe Biden and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : What the US presidential hopeful wants to do POLLS : Who is ahead - Trump or Biden ?
US ELECTIONS 2020 : A really simple guide to the US election ELECTORAL COLLEGE : What is it ?
ONE-STOP-SHOP : All our US election coverage Will Joe Biden be there ?
Mr Biden will not be in Wisconsin .
The presumptive nominee will be dialling in from his home state of Delaware on Thursday night , and he will deliver his speech from the Chase Center , in Wilmington .
Ms Harris will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day earlier .
He already made an appearance on Monday in a couple of highly produced campaign videos as well as in a recorded conversation on race with politicians and activists .
• Where Joe Biden stands on the key issues Who are the speakers this year ?
Mrs Obama and Senator Bernie Sanders addressed the virtual crowds on Monday night .
Former President Bill Clinton and Jill Biden will be the final two speeches on Tuesday , after remarks from several lawmakers , including Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez .
Hillary Clinton , former @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , will take a prime time slot on Wednesday night , as will Senator Elizabeth Warren .
• How Kamala Harris could help - or hurt - Joe Biden Biden 's vice-presidential pick Kamala Harris will also get a chance to address the nation with an acceptance speech on Wednesday , as will former President Barack Obama .
What to watch out for This political convention wo n't look like any we 've seen before but the stakes are as high as ever .
Here 's what I 'm looking out for : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foremost , this is Joe Biden 's moment in the spotlight .
He will attack President Trump not only for his policies - which he says have `` left the US in tatters '' - but for his behaviour in the White House .
Biden frames this election as a `` fight for the soul of the nation '' and will present himself as the candidate who can unite and heal America .
Signs of weakness : There have been doubts , encouraged by his political adversaries , that the 77-year-old has lost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's traditionally been a compelling public speaker , and Democrats will be hoping he can rise to the moment and put doubts about his endurance and ability to bed for good .
An appeal to multiple audiences : Biden will use the convention to appeal to a national audience tuning into the campaign for the first time - especially independents and moderate Republicans - but he also needs to energise the base , including those on the left of the party .
Barack Obama was the last Democrat to build a winning coalition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his wife Michelle , closing out two nights , his campaign clearly hopes some of the Obama magic rubs off .
The rising stars : While Biden 's choice of Kamala Harris as his running mate has made her an heir apparent , there are other names on the speaking schedule who might someday challenge her .
That includes a gaggle of governors , such as New York 's Andrew Cuomo and Gavin Newsom of California , five of Biden 's 2020 campaign rivals and several members of his vice-presidential short list .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ who at 30 is still several cycles away from a possible presidential bid but is already a power in the progressive wing of the party .
Will any of them follow in the steps of then-state senator Obama in 2004 , and seize the moment ?
Why is a Republican on the bill ?
It 's rare , though not unprecedented , to have members of the other party show up .
This time , former Ohio Governor John Kasich , a Republican and Trump critic , addressed the convention on Monday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ direction the president has taken the Republican Party .
Will it just be politicians speaking ?
Not to worry - you 'll hear from ordinary , relatable Americans too .
Planners have promised `` fewer people behind podiums - and more people in living rooms , on factory floors , at small businesses , and in schools and town squares '' .
This line-up includes educators , gun safety advocates , healthcare workers and even some former Republicans .
We 'll hear from a Pennsylvania farmer , Rick Telesz , who voted for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mind after his family farm suffered amid the president 's trade war .
Another highlighted voice this year is gun safety advocate DeAndra Dycus , an Indiana mother whose 13-year-old son was shot and injured at a birthday party .
And it likely wo n't be just ordinary voters joining the e-party : expect appearances by celebrities .
In 2016 , we heard from actresses Meryl Streep and Lena Dunham , comedian Sarah Silverman and got a musical performance by Alicia Keys .
How is the candidate chosen ?
If you 've been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so far , you know why the nomination vote is a formality for Biden .
Delegates from across the nation will vote at the convention for the candidate that won their state 's Democratic primary election or caucus .
They 're not obligated to do so , but at least this year , the options are limited with only Biden still in the running .
• How is Donald Trump doing in the polls ?
As for those delegates who were promised to other candidates who 've since withdrawn from the race , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will .
Usually delegates are in the convention hall when they vote , but this year planners say a `` re-imagined roll call process will take convention viewers to all 57 states and territories '' on Tuesday .
If you want to know more about the delegate system , you can read about it in our guide to primaries and caucuses .
What happens next ?
Do n't worry , convention season is n't over yet .
We 've got the Republican National Convention coming up from August 24-27 though the pandemic has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ After that , presidential campaigning will be in full force until the general election on 3 November .
Make a note in your calendars for the debates too .
The first presidential debate is scheduled for 29 September with two more in October .
The US election process can be confusing .
The BBC is here to help make sense of it .
Please put your questions below .
In some cases , your question will be published , displaying your name , age and location as you provide it , unless you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never be published .
Please ensure you have read our terms & conditions and privacy policy .

An appeal to multiple audiences: Biden will use the convention to appeal to a national audience tuning into the campaign for the first time - especially independents and moderate Republicans - but he also needs to energise the base, including those on the left of the party. Barack Obama was the last Democrat to build a winning coalition - with the former president, and his wife Michelle, closing out two nights, his campaign clearly hopes some of the Obama magic rubs off.


bbc--2020-08-18--US Postal Service halts controversial changes amid voting furore

The US Postal Service has suspended new policies that were decried as an attempt to sabotage the 2020 election .
Postmaster General Louis DeJoy said he would reverse operational changes that critics say would hamper postal voting .
The U-turn comes as Mr DeJoy is due to testify to Congress and at least 20 states were preparing to sue .
There is a fierce debate over postal funding in 2020 , as record numbers of Americans are expected to vote by mail due to the pandemic .
The US Postal Service ( USPS ) under Mr DeJoy had begun what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months .
Policies that were begun under Mr DeJoy included removing mail boxes , cancelling delivery runs and closing down sorting centres .
In a sharp reversal , Mr DeJoy has now said that post office hours would not be cut , and post boxes and sorting machines would stop being removed .
Mr DeJoy , a former Republican donor , also said overtime pay would continue to be approved to ensure deliveries arrive on time .
`` To avoid even the appearance of any impact on election mail , I am suspending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concluded , '' Mr DeJoy said in a statement .
• What is US row over postal service about ?
A week ago , Donald Trump said he had no interest in any additional funding for the US Postal Service , lest the money be used to help process mail-in voting .
It was all part of his ongoing , and largely unfounded , campaign against the expanded use of postal ballots to minimise the risk of spreading coronavirus .
By this Monday , the president tweeted that he wanted to `` save @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crowd in Minnesota that he would `` strengthen '' the service .
And now , his postmaster general has said the agency will stop taking out postal boxes and limiting delivery routes .
It turns out the Postal Service is pretty popular .
A Morning Consult poll found 80 % of Americans have a positive view of it .
The elderly use it to receive prescription drugs .
For rural residents , it 's a lifeline to the rest of the world .
Whether the recent moves were a misconstrued part of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the left suspect , the result of a larger conspiracy , the White House concluded that there was only one way out - retreat .
The development comes as the row over the politicisation of the most popular US government agency has become a top issue in the 2020 presidential campaign .
Over the weekend , former President Barack Obama - in what was regarded as his most high-profile criticism of his successor to date - accused Mr Trump of trying to `` actively kneecap '' the postal service .
Defenders of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the USPS get out of financial debt .
Its budget shortfall has risen to $ 160bn ( £122bn ) amid a decade-long decline in mail volume .
However , Mark Dimondstein , the president of the American Postal Workers Union which represents more than 200,000 postal employees , told Fox News on Tuesday that the changes `` are truly slowing down mail , the customers see it ... the postal workers see it - mail is getting all backed up '' .
Nancy Pelosi , the Speaker of the House , cheered the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reporters : `` They felt the heat and that 's what we were trying to do , make it too hot to handle . ''
On Sunday , Ms Pelosi had recalled the House from a recess in order to investigate the USPS policies .
Mr DeJoy , a major political donor who was appointed by Mr Trump to lead the USPS in May , is due to testify to a Republican-led Senate committee on Friday , and then to a Democrat-led House committee on Monday .
Last week , President Trump said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ USPS to shore up a predicted influx mail-in voting , claiming without evidence that it would lead to voter fraud and help Democrats .
Mr Trump has also suggested delaying the election , which he does not have the power to do , to stop postal ballots leading to `` inaccurate and fraudulent '' results .
• Does US postal voting lead to ‘ tremendous fraud ’ ?
Voting by mail is not new to the US .
According to Reuters , approximately one in every four voters cast ballots by mail in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than once via absentee ballots and then again in person , though numerous nationwide and state-level studies over the years have found no evidence of widespread fraud .
But these are rare incidents , and the rate of voting fraud overall in the US is between 0.00004 % and 0.0009 % , according to a 2017 study by the Brennan Center for Justice .

A week ago, Donald Trump said he had no interest in any additional funding for the US Postal Service, lest the money be used to help process mail-in voting. It was all part of his ongoing, and largely unfounded, campaign against the expanded use of postal ballots to minimise the risk of spreading coronavirus.


bbc--2020-08-18--Soldiers seize Mali President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta

Soldiers in Mali have detained the country 's president , as well as the prime minister and other top officials in an apparent coup attempt .
President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta and PM Boubou Cissé are being held at a military camp near the capital Bamako .
Earlier , the mutinying soldiers took control of the Kati camp .
There has been anger among troops about pay and over a continuing conflict with jihadists - as well as widespread discontent with President Keïta .
The Economic Community of West African States ( Ecowas ) , a regional bloc that has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ groups , has called for the immediate release of all officials .
In a statement , it also said its 15 member states had agreed to close their borders with Mali , suspend all financial flows to the country , and eject Mali from all of Ecowas ' decision-making bodies .
• Are coups on the rise in Africa ?
What do we know about the mutiny ?
It was led by Col Malick Diaw - deputy head of the Kati camp - and another commander , Gen Sadio Camara , BBC Afrique @ @ @ @ @ @ @ After taking over the camp , about 15km ( nine miles ) from Bamako , the mutineers marched on the capital , where they were cheered by crowds who had gathered to demand President Keïtas 's resignation .
In the afternoon they stormed his residence and arrested the president and his prime minister - who were both there .
The president 's son , the Speaker of the National Assembly , the foreign and finance ministers were reported to be among the other officials detained .
The number soldiers taking part in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demands .
Some reports say it was fuelled by a dispute over army pay .
Kati camp was also the focus of a mutiny in 2012 by soldiers angry at the inability of the senior commanders to stop jihadists and Tuareg rebels taking control of northern Mali .
Footage from AFP news agency showed a building owned by the justice ministry in Bamako ablaze on Tuesday .
What began as a mutiny appears to have morphed into a coup .
This will be welcomed by the huge number of protesters who have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for President Keïta to step down .
Parallels will be drawn between these events and 2012 when the government 's mishandling of a rebellion led to another coup .
Violent jihadists took advantage of that chaos to seize northern Mali .
And they continue to cause havoc across the region .
Why is the president unpopular ?
Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta won a second term in elections in 2018 , but there is widespread anger over corruption , the mismanagement of the economy and the worsening security situation with jihadist and communal violence on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crowds led by populist imam Mahmoud Dicko have been calling on President Keïta to step down .
Much smaller crowds reportedly gathered in the capital on Tuesday in support of the soldiers .
What has the reaction been ?
United Nations Secretary General António Guterres demanded the `` unconditional release '' of Mali 's leaders and the `` immediate restoration of constitutional order '' .
The UN Security Council will hold an emergency meeting on Wednesday , following a request by France and Niger , a senior UN diplomat told the AFP news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Union Commission , Moussa Faki Mahamat , said he `` emphatically condemns '' the arrests of President Keïta and his prime minister .
The Economic Community of West African States ( Ecowas ) said : `` This mutiny comes at a time when , for several months now , Ecowas has been taking initiatives and conducting mediation efforts with all the Malian parties . ''
Mali is a key base for French troops fighting Islamist insurgents across the Sahel region , and the former colonial was quick to react to Tuesday 's events @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Macron `` condemned the attempted mutiny under way '' and his Foreign Minister Jean Yves Le Drian urged the soldiers to return to barracks .

Soldiers seize Mali President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta Published 19 August 2020
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, The mutinying soldiers were cheered by crowds as they reached the capital Bamako
Soldiers in Mali have detained the country's president, as well as the prime minister and other top officials in an apparent coup attempt.
President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta and PM Boubou Cissé are being held at a military camp near the capital Bamako.
Earlier, the mutinying soldiers took control of the Kati camp.
There has been anger among troops about pay and over a continuing conflict with jihadists - as well as widespread discontent with President Keïta.
Tuesday's mutiny and arrests have sparked international condemnation.
The Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas), a regional bloc that has been mediating talks between President Keïta and opposition groups, has called for the immediate release of all officials.
In a statement, it also said its 15 member states had agreed to close their borders with Mali, suspend all financial flows to the country, and eject Mali from all of Ecowas' decision-making bodies.
What do we know about the mutiny?
It was led by Col Malick Diaw - deputy head of the Kati camp - and another commander, Gen Sadio Camara, BBC Afrique's Abdoul Ba in Bamako reports.
After taking over the camp, about 15km (nine miles) from Bamako, the mutineers marched on the capital, where they were cheered by crowds who had gathered to demand President Keïtas's resignation.
In the afternoon they stormed his residence and arrested the president and his prime minister - who were both there.
The president's son, the Speaker of the National Assembly, the foreign and finance ministers were reported to be among the other officials detained.
The number soldiers taking part in the mutiny is unclear - as are their demands. Some reports say it was fuelled by a dispute over army pay.
Kati camp was also the focus of a mutiny in 2012 by soldiers angry at the inability of the senior commanders to stop jihadists and Tuareg rebels taking control of northern Mali.
Footage from AFP news agency showed a building owned by the justice ministry in Bamako ablaze on Tuesday.
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Shades of 2012
Analysis by Will Ross, BBC World Service Africa editor
What began as a mutiny appears to have morphed into a coup. This will be welcomed by the huge number of protesters who have been out on the streets for months calling for President Keïta to step down.
Parallels will be drawn between these events and 2012 when the government's mishandling of a rebellion led to another coup.
Violent jihadists took advantage of that chaos to seize northern Mali. And they continue to cause havoc across the region.
Why is the president unpopular?
Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta won a second term in elections in 2018, but there is widespread anger over corruption, the mismanagement of the economy and the worsening security situation with jihadist and communal violence on the increase.
In recent months huge crowds led by populist imam Mahmoud Dicko have been calling on President Keïta to step down.
Much smaller crowds reportedly gathered in the capital on Tuesday in support of the soldiers.
What has the reaction been?
United Nations Secretary General António Guterres demanded the "unconditional release" of Mali's leaders and the "immediate restoration of constitutional order". The UN Security Council will hold an emergency meeting on Wednesday, following a request by France and Niger, a senior UN diplomat told the AFP news agency.
The chairman of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, said he "emphatically condemns" the arrests of President Keïta and his prime minister.
The Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) said: "This mutiny comes at a time when, for several months now, Ecowas has been taking initiatives and conducting mediation efforts with all the Malian parties."
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, Mahmoud Dicko has emerged as the leader of an opposition movement seeking the Malian president's departure
Mali is a key base for French troops fighting Islamist insurgents across the Sahel region, and the former colonial was quick to react to Tuesday's events.
The office of French President Emmanuel Macron "condemned the attempted mutiny under way" and his Foreign Minister Jean Yves Le Drian urged the soldiers to return to barracks.


bbc--2020-08-18--US stocks hit new high after coronavirus crash

A key US stock index has hit a new high despite ongoing worries about the sharp economic impact of the pandemic .
The S & P 500 , one of the widest and most prominent US market measures , inched higher on Tuesday to close at 3,389.78 - about three points above its 19 February record .
Other US indexes have also rebounded .
The Nasdaq hit another record after surpassing its prior high in June while the Dow Jones Industrial Average is within about 5 % of its February record .
US shares have been on an upward path @ @ @ @ @ @ @ central bank announced a slew of unprecedented economic support measures .
But when the pandemic set in and markets tumbled more than 33 % , such a rapid market recovery seemed nearly unthinkable , said William Delwiche , an investment strategist at Baird .
`` To be even having this conversation right now is remarkable , '' he said .
He said the strength and speed of the rebound was especially surprising , given America 's continuing struggle to contain the coronavirus and ongoing concerns about the economy .
The US saw its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three months to July , amid widespread lockdowns .
`` It 's not surprising that we had a meaningful recovery , but that over the last couple of months we 've continued to rally ...
I 'm shocked that we 're having this conversation , '' Mr Delwiche said .
Analysts say the recovery is partly due to Federal Reserve moves and other stimulus , as well as demand from investors who are confident the economy will heal and see few better opportunities to make money than on the stock markets .
While @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not unprecedented , said Sam Stovall , chief investment strategist at CFRA Research .
By his calculations , it 's actually the third fastest rise to a new high for the S & P after such a deep fall since 1929 .
But the gains in the US have outstripped many other markets .
London 's FTSE 100 remains about 20 % lower than its January high , while France 's CAC 40 is off about 19 % .
Japan , which has seen its Nikkei 225 index climb back to roughly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has benefited from both aggressive government stimulus and relative success at controlling the virus without mass lockdowns .
The unusual strength of the US rebound comes from its tech companies , such as Apple , Microsoft and Amazon , which have been seen as winners despite lockdowns , along with companies in areas like cloud computing and machine learning .
`` We would not be flirting with all-time highs were it not for technology , '' said Terry Sandven , chief equity strategist at US Bank Wealth Management .
Shares in the S @ @ @ @ @ @ @ climbed roughly 25 % so far this year , even as other areas remain flat or negative .
The energy sector , for example , is down roughly 37 % since the beginning of January , while financials are down about 20 % .
Howard Silverblatt , senior index analyst at S & P Dow Jones Indices , said that 's a warning sign for those who might want to see the new S & P 500 high as a signal about the broader economy .
`` There 's big dispersion between those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have done poorly , '' he said .
Overall , the S & P 500 is up about 5 % since the start of the year .
But of the 500 companies in the index , more than half have shares trading lower than they were start of the year , he said .
And that 's even though the big companies in the S & P 500 index are better equipped to withstand a downturn than many smaller firms .
`` We 've come a long way and there 's a lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concerning , '' Mr Silverblatt said .
`` If we do n't get what we expect - disappointment is not a good item in the market . ''
Mr Sandven said unless prospects for the wider economy improve further gains will be limited .
Political questions - about whether Washington will approve further economic stimulus and how the US presidential election will play out - could also mean a bumpy ride ahead for investors , he added .
`` Clearly there 's a lot of optimism riding on a return to growth in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` But there 's reason for caution . ''

But of the 500 companies in the index, more than half have shares trading lower than they were start of the year, he said. And that's even though the big companies in the S&P 500 index are better equipped to withstand a downturn than many smaller firms.


bbc--2020-08-18--US election 2020: What young Democrats think of Joe Biden

Joe Biden is about to be crowned as the Democrats ' presidential nominee - but what do young millennials and @ @ @ @ @ the party think of their candidate ?
At the age of 77 , the former @ @ @ @ @ older than the dozen voters we spoke to - yet it 's his moderate politics @ @ @ @ @ which has many struggling to get excited .

Joe Biden is about to be crowned as the Democrats' presidential nominee - but what do young millennials and Generation Z voters who support the party think of their candidate?
At the age of 77, the former vice-president is half a century older than the dozen voters we spoke to - yet it's his moderate politics rather than the age gap which has many struggling to get excited.
Video by Angélica M Casas


bbc--2020-08-18--Chrystia Freeland named Canada's first female finance minister

Canada 's deputy prime minister Chrystia Freeland has been named finance minister following a Cabinet shuffle .
Her appointment comes after Bill Morneau suddenly quit the job amid pressure from opposition parties .
One of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau 's most trusted ministers , Ms Freeland , 52 , will become the first woman to hold the position in Canada .
In addition to the shuffle , Mr Trudeau is suspending Parliament until 23 September .
It will then reconvene for a Speech from the Throne , where Mr Trudeau 's government will formally unveil its legislative agenda for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give his government the opportunity to present `` our roadmap out of the pandemic '' , he said in Ottawa .
Canada is going through its worst economic crisis since the Second World War due to the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic .
Ms Freeland has previously held several high-level cabinet positions , including the international trade portfolio .
As foreign minister she helped renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement - or Nafta - with the US and Mexico .
The former journalist was first elected as a member of parliament @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close Trudeau ally , veteran Liberal MP Dominic LeBlanc , takes over Ms Freeland 's role overseeing relations between the federal and provincial and territorial governments in the shuffle .
Mr Trudeau will be proroguing parliament until this autumn .
Proroguing ends the parliamentary session , allowing the government to reset its priorities .
During this period , there are no sittings in the House of Commons or the Senate .
That means parliamentarians do not hold debates , sit on committees or vote on laws .
It 's not uncommon for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between elections - but its use has been controversial in the past .
Opposition Conservative leader Andrew Scheer accused Mr Trudeau on Tuesday of `` walking out on Canadians '' amid a pandemic and of `` shutting down '' parliamentary committee probes into the WE Charity controversy .
Mr Morneau and Mr Trudeau are facing ethics investigations over their handling of a contract to administer a pandemic relief programme for student volunteers , which was given to the WE Charity .
Both had ties with the charity and have apologised for failing to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pulled out of the contract in July .
The prime minister said there will be `` ample opportunities '' for opposition parties to put questions to the government about the controversy next month .
Mr Trudeau has in the past criticised the former Conservative government for its use of prorogations when it was in power .
On Monday , Mr Morneau said he was resigning from his position in the Liberal party cabinet and his role as MP for his Ontario riding , Toronto Centre .
• A simple guide to the new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allegations amid a charity ethics scandal , and there were reports of a rift between him and the prime minister over how to handle the economic recovery .
Mr Morneau said the WE Charity affair did not prompt his decision to resign , adding he will seek to be the next secretary general for the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development ( OECD ) .
He said his successor should have a `` longer term perspective '' as Canada navigates the struggling economy .

It will then reconvene for a Speech from the Throne, where Mr Trudeau's government will formally unveil its legislative agenda for the coming parliamentary session. The speech will give his government the opportunity to present "our roadmap out of the pandemic", he said in Ottawa.


bbc--2020-08-18--Trump to pardon women's voting pioneer Susan B Anthony

President Donald Trump has said he will issue a posthumous pardon for women 's voting rights pioneer Susan B Anthony .
Making the announcement on Tuesday - the centennial anniversary of the 19th amendment , which granted US women the right to vote - Mr Trump said : `` She was never pardoned .
What took so long ? ''
Anthony was arrested in 1872 after illegally casting her vote .
She was later convicted of illegal voting in her home state of New York by an all-male jury .
Anthony died 14 years before the 19th amendment was ratified @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A 100-year milestone for women ... and what comes next With his wife Melania Trump beside him for a White House event , Mr Trump also signed a proclamation commemorating the 100th anniversary of the 19th amendment .
Last week , Mr Trump announced his support for a monument in Washington DC to honour the women , known as suffragettes , who petitioned for the right to vote .
`` Women dominate the United States - I think we can say that very strongly , '' he said , noting that there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Congress .
His announcement comes as Mr Trump tries to win over suburban women voters , who polls show have been moving away from him since 2016 .
It also comes amid a controversy over mail-in voting , in which critics say Mr Trump is trying to delegitimise the coming presidential election in November by starving the US Postal Service of funds .
• What is US row over postal service about ?
It did not take long for Mr Trump 's pardon to spark controversy .
Hours after the announcement , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ governor , tweeted : `` As [ the ] highest ranking woman elected official in New York and on behalf of Susan B Anthony 's legacy , we demand Trump rescind his pardon .
`` She was proud of her arrest to draw attention to the cause for women 's rights , and never paid her fine .
Let her rest in peace . ''
Anthony was convicted in a highly-publicised trial of illegally voting as a women , and was fined $ 100 by the judge in her hometown of Rochester , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the court , she chastised the government for barring women from voting , and vowed to never pay a penny of the fine .
Her arrest brought attention to the voting equality movement , and helped launch her onto the national stage .
She went on to merge the country 's two largest suffragette groups and travelled the US giving speeches and holding rallies .
• Unused ticket : The suffragette story in seven objects • Suffragists or suffragettes - who won women the vote ?
In recent years , women have honoured @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rochester on election day in November .
Thousands turned up there in the 2016 race between Hillary Clinton - the first female presidential candidate for a major political party - and Mr Trump .
After the 2018 midterm race , dozens of people posted their `` I Voted '' stickers on her tombstone , according to AP News .
Her legacy has also become increasingly divisive , with some critics saying she marginalised African-American champions of women 's voting .
• A 100-year milestone for women ... and what comes next While her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one prominent anti-abortion lobbying group has adopted her name for their cause .
The president of the anti-abortion Susan B Anthony List was invited to attend Tuesday 's White House ceremony , which also included other prominent conservatives .
Who else has Mr Trump pardoned ?
This will be the 26th pardon of Mr Trump 's presidency .
Most recently , he commuted a 40-month jail sentence for his long-time ally Roger Stone , who was convicted in 2019 of lying to Congress and witness tampering .
In February , he commuted the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Blagojevich , who was convicted of trying to sell Barack Obama 's senate seat when he left it to assume the presidency .

It did not take long for Mr Trump's pardon to spark controversy. Hours after the announcement, Kathy Hochul, New York's lieutenant governor, tweeted: "As [the] highest ranking woman elected official in New York and on behalf of Susan B Anthony's legacy, we demand Trump rescind his pardon.


bbc--2020-08-19--Mali's president resigns and dissolves parliament

Mali 's President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta has resigned , after being detained by soldiers on Tuesday , state TV reports @ @ @ @ @ , Mr Keïta said he was also dissolving the government and parliament .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ spilled to keep me in power , '' he added .
It comes hours after @ @ @ @ @ Cissé were taken to a military camp near the capital Bamako , drawing condemnation from @ @ @ @ @ Earlier , the mutinying soldiers took control of the Kati camp .
There has been @ @ @ @ @ and over a continuing conflict with jihadists - as well as widespread discontent with President @ @ @ @ @ to a series of protests in recent months .
This breaking news story is being @ @ @ @ @ be published shortly .
Please refresh the page for the fullest version .
You can @ @ @ @ @ smartphone or tablet via the BBC News App .
You can also follow @ BBCBreaking @ @ @ @ @ latest alerts .

Mali coup: President quits after soldiers mutiny Published 19 August 2020
This video can not be played To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. Media caption, The mutinying soldiers were cheered by crowds as they reached the capital Bamako on Tuesday
Mali's President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta has resigned, after being detained by soldiers on Tuesday.
In a televised address he said he was also dissolving the government and parliament, adding: "I want no blood to be spilled to keep me in power."
He and PM Boubou Cissé were taken to a military camp near the capital Bamako, drawing international condemnation.
A spokesman for the soldiers called for "a civil political transition leading to credible general elections".
Mr Keïta won a second term in elections in 2018, but there has been anger over corruption, the mismanagement of the economy and a dispute over legislative elections. It has prompted several large protests in recent months.
There has also been anger among troops about pay and over a continuing conflict with jihadists.
What did Mr Keïta say?
Wearing a surgical mask amid the coronavirus pandemic, Mr Keïta resigned in a brief address on state television.
"If today, certain elements of our armed forces want this to end through their intervention, do I really have a choice?" he asked.
"I hold no hatred towards anyone, my love of my country does not allow me to," he added. "May God save us."
What have the soldiers said?
A televised statement was read out early on Wednesday on behalf of the National Committee for the Salvation of the People.
Air force deputy chief of staff Col-Major Ismaël Wagué said: "Civil society and political social movements are invited to join us to create together the best conditions for a civil political transition leading to credible general elections for the exercise of democracy through a roadmap that will lay the foundations for a new Mali."
Image source, Reuters Image caption, Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta won a second term in 2018
He added: "As of today, all air and land borders are closed until further notice. A curfew is in place from 09:00 to 17:00 until further notice."
Flanked by soldiers, Col Wagué said: "Our country is sinking into chaos, anarchy and insecurity mostly due to the fault of the people who are in charge of its destiny,"
What do we know about the mutiny?
It remains unclear who began the mutiny, how many soldiers took part or who will now take charge.
It appears to have started when mutinying soldiers took control of the Kati camp, where the president and PM were later taken.
BBC Afrique's Abdoul Ba in Bamako says it seems to have been led by Col Malick Diaw - deputy head of the Kati camp - and another commander, Gen Sadio Camara.
After taking over the camp, about 15km (nine miles) from Bamako, the mutineers marched on the capital, where they were cheered by crowds who had gathered to demand Mr Keïta's resignation.
On Tuesday afternoon they stormed his residence and arrested the president and his prime minister - who were both there.
The president's son, the speaker of the National Assembly, the foreign and finance ministers were reported to be among the other officials detained.
Kati camp was the focus of a mutiny in 2012, also by mid-ranking soldiers, who were angry at the inability of the senior commanders to stop jihadists and Tuareg rebels taking control of northern Mali.
What has the reaction been?
When news first broke of the mutiny, the United Nations and African Union both called for the release of those held by the soldiers.
The Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas), a regional body, also said its 15 member states had agreed to close their borders with Mali, suspend all financial flows to the country, and eject Mali from all Ecowas decision-making bodies. In recent months, Ecowas has been trying to mediate between Mr Keïta's government and opposition groups.
The UN Security Council is to meet on Wednesday to discuss the latest developments in Mali.
Mali's former colonial ruler, France, was also quick to condemn the president's detention, and Foreign Minister Jean Yves Le Drian urged the soldiers to return to barracks. Mali is a key base for French troops fighting Islamist insurgents across the Sahel region.
A member of Mali's opposition M5 movement, which has held protests against Mr Keïta for the past few weeks, welcomed his resignation.
Prof Ramata Sissoko Cisse told the BBC World Service: "I think it's a relief for the Malian people and for all the citizens of Mali to finally hear from the president that because of the lack of support of the Malian people he finally accepts to resign, to give back power to the people."
M5 is led by the conservative Imam, Mahmoud Dicko, who has called for reforms after rejecting concessions from Mr Keïta.
Why Mali matters to West Africa and beyond
The desert regions of northern Mali are home to various militant groups, some of whom are linked to al-Qaeda, which have also spread into neighbouring Niger, Burkina Faso, Chad and Mauritania.
French troops, working with a regional force known as G5 Sahel, and a 10,000-strong force of UN peacekeepers are based in Mali, trying to tackle the militants.
The French troops first intervened in 2013 to prevent an alliance of Islamist and separatist Tuareg fighters, who had taken control of northern Mali, from marching on the capital.
The rebels had taken advantage of a security vacuum following the country's previous coup, when mutinous soldiers overthrew his predecessor, Amadou Toumani Toure.
Observers are worried that another round of instability in the country could further destabilise the region.


bbc--2020-08-18--Belarus unrest: President Lukashenko accuses opposition of staging coup

President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus has accused the opposition of trying to stage a coup , amid widespread anger over a disputed election .
Speaking as opposition leaders formed a council to organise a transfer of power , he said : `` We definitely consider this as an attempt to seize power . ''
The opposition contests the official results of the 9 August poll , which gave Mr Lukashenko 80 % of the vote .
The country has since seen 10 days of street protests and strikes .
The protesters allege massive vote-rigging and say the winner was opposition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only about 10 % of votes .
There were no independent election observers .
• 'The people will not forgive this' Hundreds of protesters have been wounded and two have died in clashes with police during the post-election protests .
Thousands have been arrested , and many have spoken of torture at the hands of security forces .
Ms Tikhanovskaya fled to neighbouring Lithuania , after being after arrested in the aftermath of the vote .
Mr Lukashenko , who has led Belarus since 1994 , insists he has won fairly and has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has Lukashenko said ?
On Tuesday he threatened action against the 35 people appointed by Ms Tikhanovskaya to the opposition co-ordination council , saying he had the means to `` cool those hotheads '' .
In a televised meeting , Mr Lukashenko said the group 's aim was clear : `` They demand nothing less than the transfer of power .
We see it unequivocally : it is an attempt to seize power ... with all the consequences that come with it . ''
Also on Tuesday , he awarded medals `` for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have helped him crack down on protesters .
At the weekend , more than 100,000 people gathered in Minsk - the largest protest held in Belarus since it declared independence from the Soviet Union in 1990 - to express opposition to his rule .
Strike action is also keeping up the pressure on the president .
State TV and key factories have been affected , and postal workers are now also reported to have joined the strikes .
• 'If you croak we do n't care ' : brutality in Belarus • Five @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country On a visit to a tractor plant on Monday , Mr Lukashenko defended the official election tally , telling workers : `` We held the election .
Until you kill me , there will be no other election . ''
But as he spoke , many in the audience booed him and chanted `` leave '' .
What else happened on Tuesday ?
Hundreds of opposition protesters gathered outside a Minsk prison to mark the birthday of Ms Tikhanovskaya 's jailed husband .
Sergei Tikhanovsky , who has just turned 42 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , alongside other rivals of President Lukashenko ahead of the 9 August poll .
Ms Tikhanovskaya , who is now in Lithuania , ran in his place .
Many protesters held red-and-white balloons , the colours of the opposition , while some chanted `` happy birthday Sergei '' and sang a song about prison walls coming down .
Ms Tikhanovskaya , 37 , said her husband was spending his birthday in prison because of `` a crime he did not commit '' .
`` All of this blatant lawlessness and injustice shows how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one person controls everything , one person who has kept the country in fear for 26 years , one person who robbed Belarusians of their choice , '' she said in a video message .
Ms Tikhanovskaya says that if votes had been counted correctly , she would have won a comfortable majority .
Mr Lukashenko , who has maintained close ties with neighbouring Russia , has sought Moscow 's help , saying President Vladimir Putin has promised to provide assistance in the event of any external military threat .
On Tuesday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Emmanuel Macron of France and German Chancellor Angela Merkel .
Both said the Belarusian government must start a dialogue with the opposition .
Mr Putin told them that foreign interference would only escalate the crisis , Russian officials say .
EU leaders are to hold an emergency video summit on Wednesday .
EU foreign ministers agreed last week to prepare new sanctions against Belarusian officials responsible for `` violence , repression and the falsification of election results '' .
On Monday , the UK said it did not accept the results of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Donald Trump said his administration was following the `` terrible situation '' in Belarus closely .
More about the protests in Belarus • LETTER FROM MINSK : Shocked by violence , people lose their fear


bbc--2020-08-18--Microplastic in Atlantic Ocean 'could weigh 21 million tonnes'

There are 12-21 million tonnes of tiny plastic fragments floating in the Atlantic Ocean , scientists have found .
A study , led by the UK 's National Oceanography Centre , scooped through layers of the upper 200m ( 650ft ) of the ocean during a research expedition through the middle of the Atlantic .
Such an amount of plastic - 21 million tonnes - would be enough to fully load almost 1,000 container ships .
The findings are published in the journal Nature Communications .
Dr Katsia Pabortsava , from the National Oceanography Centre , who led the study @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very small plastic particles in the top 5 % of the ocean , she and her colleagues could estimate `` the load of plastic in the entire Atlantic '' which is `` much larger '' than the previous figure .
`` Previously , we have n't been able to balance the amount of plastic we found in the ocean with the amount we thought we had put in , '' she said .
`` That 's because we were n't measuring the very smallest particles . ''
On their expedition - from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and her colleagues detected up to 7,000 particles per cubic metre of seawater .
They analysed their samples for the three most commonly used , and most commonly discarded , polymers - polyethylene , polypropylene and polystyrene - all often used in packaging .
The findings , the team hopes , will help future efforts to measure the ecological and environmental damage that might be caused by these plastic fragments , by providing a more `` robust measure '' of its accumulation in remote parts of the ocean .
Jamie Woodward , an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ University of Manchester , told BBC News the findings confirm earlier studies that the microplastic load in the oceans is `` much higher than [ we had ] estimated '' .
`` The geographical scale of the study is impressive , '' he said .
`` And the authors estimate inputs over 65 years .
This is important because microplastics have been flooding into the oceans for many decades .
`` We now need to understand the ecological impacts of this contamination in all parts of the ocean , since they have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a long time . ''
Amid the coronavirus pandemic , some environmental groups have reported the disposable face mask is now one of the most common items of plastic litter .
Susannah Bleakley , from the Cumbria-based charity Morecambe Bay Partnership , which co-ordinates beach clean-ups , told BBC News : `` We now find more disposable masks than plastic bags .
`` What we 're really asking is , as much as possible , can people reduce their use of single-use plastics and if people can dispose of it carefully . ''

Dr Katsia Pabortsava, from the National Oceanography Centre, who led the study, said by measuring the mass of very small plastic particles in the top 5% of the ocean, she and her colleagues could estimate "the load of plastic in the entire Atlantic" which is "much larger" than the previous figure.