Tensions in Georgia reached boiling point on Wednesday 7 when President Mikhail Saakashvili declared a state of emergency following riot police clashes with demonstrators. The same day, the television station Imedi was shut down by the police for airing opposition speeches. Photos of the ransacked office are circulating online and bloggers are expressing their concerns about the presidents dictatorial moves.

By Team Observers

The 17th congress of the Chinese Communist Party (CPC) opened on 12 October. During the congress the representatives of the people must, in theory, appoint the next leaders of the country. However, in reality, they do nothing but ratify the decisions of the President and the Standing Committee. All the same, the Chinese media are required to follow the event closely, giving special attention to all information provided by the office of propaganda. This is clear when looking at images from the event.