Den Konstitution - A Reliable Newspaper from Luziyca

[Luziyca]

Esquarian Union to pledge neutrality in the face of the upcoming war

Headquarters of the Esquarian Union

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - Today, the Esquarian Commission, comprising of the top bureaucrats of the Esquarian Union have issued a press release regarding the upcoming war which could begin at noon WDT when the ultimatum presented by Nevanlinna expires, and their stance regarding this conflict, stating their intent to be neutral.

Luziycan delegate to the Commission, Jennifer Molander has said "we have discussed and we have decided that the EU as an institution shall remain neutral in this up and coming conflict for the forseeable future. Nations can decide their own policies regarding this, but the EU will encourage neutrality, and we strongly discourage all EU members participating in the conflict from fighting against other EU members directly."

She added, "Despite all of our differences, we must remember that all of us are partners in trade and culture, and to this end, we will do everything in our power to prevent this war from affecting our day-to-day operations."

So far, Vestmark is the only member of the EU to express support for the Nevan government, while Vitoria has appeared to be bound to support Michilies. Pavonistade, Luziyca, Katranjiev and Kofeiya have expressed neutrality, while the remainder of the EU members have not taken a position. Observer-wise, Ionland and East Cortoguay are fully supporting Michillies, while Scotia is diplomatically siding with the Michillies.

In other news

• Nevanmaa - Officials accuse the Michillian-Nevan War Act, 2015 as provocation
• Namor - Txo Antelope claims media makes the situation worse than it is
• Masseau - Latest to join exercises in Lazarene Sea
• Opinion piece - Peace is in all of our best interests

[Luziyca]

Po'ai Peace March granted permission to enter West Po'ai

Po'ai, Nantai

PO'AI, NANTAI - In the eastern neighborhoods Po'ai, a peace march is planned to be held soon to protest the war between Nevanmaa and Michillies, with the intent to enter the western neighborhoods that is under Luziycan administration.

Kai Lai and Mei Guang, the co-directors and founders of the White Shirts, made this announcement to the Namorese press from their headquarters in Mojing.

"In light of the tensions between Nevanmaa and Michillies, we will organize a March for Peace in Po'ai," Kai said. "Thousands of activists will take part. The purpose of this march is to strongly condemn what has happened the past few days and urge both the Nevan and Michillian governments to think for the children and reconcile. The world does not want a global conflict, and the human race cannot sustain the destruction that will inevitably come with it. We are urging all people regardless of race, nationality, gender or creed to come join us. The more people that come out, the stronger our message will be." Mei Guang added, "The great thing about humans is that we have differing opinions and views of the world at large. But disaster comes when we are not able to co-exist with our differences and instead go to extraordinary lengths to destroy diversity in thought. We the White Shirts are appealing to the people of Nevanmaa and Michillies. We want them to know that they are all humans who want to live fruitful lives, but this cannot happen if there's a war going on."

The directors said they plan on holding the march on both sides of Po'ai (the Namorese-controlled east and the Luziycan-controlled west), but added that they will have to receive permission from the Luziycan government in order for that to happen.

"This is why we chose Po'ai as the place for our march. Po'ai is divided, but if we overcome the barrier and come together as one human race to denounce the coming conflict, we can make a big difference," Kai said. "We do not have the Nantai dispute in our minds. That's not important - world peace and the future of our children are important now. We request that the Luziycan government cooperate with us and make this march possible to the fullest extent.

"Anyone who loves peace is welcome in this march. As I said before, nationality doesn't matter. We are all one in this. Domestic and foreign politicians are welcome, too."

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Since the announcement was made, thousands within Namor voiced their intention to take part in the Po'ai March for Peace. Among them include the band group One Dream, singer Ge Chu, Po'ai mayor Hai Min, West Namor governor Ming Liang and several Esquarian Games athletes including gymnast Lu Jin. In Luziyca, Clara Etemevok, Matt Torgovets, Governor Ted Vorokovich of Pustinia, Mayor Tzo Sergoy of Po'ai, as well as Chief Executives Kung Alicia of Nantai and Embla Borghild of Inleda have expressed their intention to attend In addition, President Breuvi Shjoraski, as well as Sera Svensson, leader of the official opposition have expressed their intention to attend. A few thousand have also expressed their intention to attend.

The municipal administration of Po'ai has granted permission to allow the march to go on in the city, with the Department of Homeland Security giving special permission to permit the marchers to enter via the Central Avenue Port of Entry without needing their passports checked, although they can only stay in West Po'ai for a maximum of 24 hours and they are not permitted to leave the county unless if they are citizens of Luziyca.

With Tao James being unable to attend, Shjoraski has hinted that Tao James could be granted diplomatic immunity for this event only, meaning he won't be arrested on outstanding charges should he participate in the march.

More as the story develops.

In other news

• New Zepuha - Government to side with Nevanmaa
• Vyvland - Magane and Vyvland to be neutral
• Nevanmaa - Ultimatum passes with no response, war commences
• Kraq - Government to side with Michillies

[Luziyca]

Po'ai peace march commences

Po'ai, Nantai

PO'AI, NANTAI - Today, over 100,000 people from all across the world have converged onto the Nantainese city of Po'ai, beginning in the eastern neighborhoods administered by Namor, before at noon Namor time (11 am Nantainese Summer Time or NDT), they entered the western neighborhoods via the Central Avenue Port of Entry.

Mayor Tzo Sergoy said "It is quite symbolic," as he walked side by side with Hai Min, mayor of eastern Po'ai, "that people from all across the globe have gathered in one of the major divided cities of Esquarium and march together in the name of peace."

Veteran Colonel Sobeck Theodorovski (b. 1963), now aged 52 years old and head of the National Association for Veterans of the Third Namo-Luziycan War has said, "Nearly two decades ago, Po'ai was at the center of a bitter war between Namor and Luziyca. Now, the peoples of Po'ai are marching together for a common cause: to convince the Nevans and Michillians to reconsider their actions."

Around six in the evening, NDT, at an intersection that was normally busy, the demonstrators have gathered to hear speeches. The Po'ai Police Department has estimated that "the population of the western neighborhoods of the city has almost doubled with the protesters."

One of the speakers was President Breuvi Shjoraski, who said, "I have attended this, because the worst thing that can be imaginable is a nuclear war. Our country has promised to remain neutral in the crisis between Nevanmaa and Michillies because the spark of the war is the bombing of the cathedral in Nevanlinna. In many ways, it is similar to the Third Namo-Luziycan War: it started because of an incident that helped spark tensions, there was fighting, and quite frankly, in the end, everyone will lose."
Shjoraski added, "We only pledged neutrality because we [Luziyca and Namor] nearly started the third great war. We do not want to risk participating in a war that will only bring death and devastation. On behalf of the government, I strongly demand that both governments head to the nearest negotiating table and start negotiating a treaty and end this before it is too late!"

Kung Alicia, Chief Executive of Nantai has said, "I am quite glad to visit my fellow brothers and sisters in the eastern neighborhoods and take part alongside my Luziycan and Namorese compatriots for a common cause: to send a message that this war is unacceptable, and will only bring harm to the world as a result of it."

Sera Svensson has remarked, "I am here to tell that our country, this free nation will stand in opposition, hand in hand with Namo, to the developments going on in the southeast. I yearn to prevent this from escalating any further, and I hope all nations hear the call."

Embla Borhild and Ted Vorokovich made a joint-declaration condemning the war, and expressing support to the White Shirts for their efforts at defusing the situation.

In other news

• Cortoguay - Commies to expel Ionese, establish ties with Nevans
• Vjaarland - PM urges negotiations
• Michillies - Shjoraski supports counter-ultimatum, but demands "full investigation for both the cathedral bombing and the Knights of the Blessed Sapphire attacks"
• Soled - Government to stay neutral

[Luziyca]

The legacy of the war

A trench, 2012

FENIKSGRAD, PUSTINIA - For some, it seemed like yesterday, but for many, it was a long time ago. Today was the 19th anniversary since the Third Namo-Luziycan War began. The conflict lasted almost a month and left around a thousand people dead. It eliminated the chances of detente happening for the remainder of the 20th century.

Nowadays, relations between Bethlehem and Namo are improving. They are more interdependent on each other in the modern global economy, and they are starting to bury the hatchet of hostile relations between the two countries. There are still some issues, like the Luziycan region of Nantai, which is claimed by Namor, and the suspected ties to Otekian freedom fighters, but for the most part now, things are going along swimmingly.

That said, the war began with the accidental incursion into the Namorese town of Vulan. While Luziycans agree that it is accidential, the actions followed could either be construed as self-defense or as an intentional attack on the settlement. If it was self-defense, it would be good to hear, and it would be justifiable, but otherwise, we provoked the Namorese.

Regardless, our refusal to apologize for what we've done was a very bad decision, since it just escalated things to worse places than what it should have happened. Bush could've used this to apologize and maybe extend detente, or he could've started a war. And we all know what decision he took.

Both forces fought extensively in the eastern states, with Luziyca to drive the Namorese out of the country, and Namor seeking to take over Luziyca and impose a totalitarian puppet state on us. Then Namor made the foolish decision to bomb Sudalto on the "premise" that we would use it to attack the northern regions of Namor.

That paranoia was justified: recently declassified documents showed that Luziyca had in fact considered liberating Oteki: the plan was to launch an assault on Gusev by land and a naval assault to take Kirkland and Kaltan but it was stated that "the earliest this [the operation] could be executed is mid-August," with aerial support from Sudalto. As well, there were plans to retake Cimmaron County in the works when a peace was negotiated, as well as the eastern neighborhoods of Po'ai.

After the negotiations were finished in Da Hegner, Namor withdrew all forces from Luziyca and the position was restored to status quo ante bellum. While Namor claimed victory for having intimidated President William Bush and his government, Luziyca justifiably claimed victory for making the Namorese withdraw.

However, nearly two decades have given both sides to learn their lessons: mainly restraint and to not resort to violence to settle their issues. Since detente began two years ago, relations between both Namo and Bethlehem have improved dramatically, and recent negotiations under Fu Wen seem to mark an end of an era: the end of hostility and paranoia over the "Red threat" from the east. Reflection has also shown that in reality, there was no real victor. Lives were lost, there was little to gain, and with the nuclear standoff, we could have lost everything.

Now if only if the Nevans and Michillians took a look at the history books...

In other news

• Geadland - Local elections to be held on June 6th
• Michillies - Michillies withdraws from ECO, Osonia might follow suit
• Kofeiya - Caliphate-affiliated state declares "sovereignty," government of Luziyca to not recognize it and to pledge support to Kofeiya
• Rutuba - Conscription to stay

[Luziyca]

Luziycan Armed Forces to help fight the ASQ

Foreigner Minister Vlasinov of Qianrong

YUCHENG, QIANRONG - Days after the controversial arrest of HDF members, President Breuvi Shjoraski has announced to launch a police action in Qianrong to help end the Second Domestic Terror War for good.

President Breuvi Shjoraski has said "We had confidence the Qianrongese would defeat the ASQ on their own, but due to their reports that they are unable to do it, we are going to send advisors to Qianrong to help train the military to function effectively. As well, we will send some troops to fight on the front lines to help end the terrorist attacks against Qianrong that threaten to leave Tuhaoese as the only ethnic group. The ASQ threaten freedom and democracy in Qianrong, and thus, we want to preserve their democratic traditions." He also added the troops will be placed under Qianrongese command.

There are plans to transfer fifty million lira's worth of equipment to the Qianrongese Armed Forces to help the Qianrongese military in their fight against the ASQ. He also pledged to provide humanitarian aid to Otekians, Shudri, and Minjianese, but stated "our nation shall not provide humanitarian aid to the Tuhaoese for they will only abuse it and use the supplies to conduct more terrorist attacks."

Sera Svensson supported the humanitarian aid, but stated that "it should be given to all, not just a select few," and criticized Shjoraski's reasoning.

More as the story develops.

In other news

• Namor - Royal University of Jerusalem to invest 10 million lira to revive Oriental Swedish
• Kraq/b] - Parliament falling apart as President vetoes bill condemning New Zepuha
• [b]Opinion piece - We're not racist but we're not helping Tuhaoese: why this will be awkward
• Upper York - Governor condemns OGIE militants going through Namor, points out "there are countless ways to get to Qianrong"

[Luziyca]

News in brief

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Lovato mission almost ready

Lovato design

STAGNO, LOMARDIA - The twenty people who were chosen to participate in the Lovato I mission are beginning to arrive in Lombardia, with the organizers at the University of Yerevan anticipating that all of them will be present by the time of the descent on July 1st to reside for one year at the Lovato habitat, located twenty meters below the surface of the Gulf of Arazei, and about a few kilometers west of Stagno.

Among the nations participating in the mission are Tuthina, Kraq, Gnasri, Kenzibwe, Soled, Vestmark, Masseau, Walminghaven, Crolacia, and of course, Luziyca, with Luziyca and Vestmark tied for having the most people participating, at three persons each, with two parents and a child in both cases.

We at the Constitution wish the twenty participants the best of luck in their mission, and may there be a lot of triumphs and successes on board the Lovato habitat. More about this story...

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First Presidential Debates to be held

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - On June 27th, LRT will be broadcasting the first Presidential debates in Bethlehem among the leaders of the major political parties within Luziyca: namely the Liberals, Whigs, the National Luziycan Party, and the Christian Luziycan Party, as well as one returnee which marks their first debate since 1980: the Social Credit Party.

President Breuvi Shjoraski and Leader of the Opposition Sera Svensson have already announced their intention to attend, as well as Arnold Khosedov of the National Luziycan Party, and Vonora Khendalor of the Christian Luziycan Party. More about this story...

In other news

• Koyro - Information of coup d'etat murky: here's what we know
• Kofeiya - Ciniki on the verge of falling to terrorist organization "Islamic Alliance for the Liberation of Kudomasho"
• Qianrong - Countless nations to help government against ASQ
• Lecistan - Nevan monarch to become Grand Duke of Lecistan: troubling news for Lutheran Catholics

[Luziyca]

Sera Svensson leads polls after first debates

President Breuvi Shjoraski

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - Today, the first Presidential debate for the 2016 election would take place, with the Whigs, the Liberals, the National Luziycan Party, the Christian Luziycan Party, as well as the Social Credit Party, which was broadcast live on LRT1. Topics that were covered were race relations with the local Shudri, relations with Namor, military intervention, the Esquarian Union, gun laws, and how to keep Luziyca competitive in recent years.

A notable event was when Shjoraski was debating gun laws with Sera Svensson, and he stated "Of course not. But the last thing I want are bureaucrats from Ainin infesting this great nation," in response to her pointing out that she doesn't want to impose a child-bearing limit which was suggested by Shjoraski to mock Sera Svensson's position in regards to gun laws.

After the end of the debate, a Gallup poll shows that 43% support Liberal leader Sera Svensson, two percentage points ahead of incumbent President Breuvi Shjoraski's 41%. NLP leader Arnold Khosedov is third, at eight percentage points, followed by Vonora Khendalor, leader of the CLP, who is currently sitting at five percentage points, before Socred leader Paul Nikolovich, at three percentage points.

The entire debate can be viewed here.

In other news

• Lecistan - Could Juhani III be a liberal leader?
• Korbathia/b] - 27 dead in riots in Videkuj
• [b]Montenia - Family of republican politician shot dead
• Opinion piece - Why this is the end of the Whig Party's dominance

[Luziyca]

Shjoraski apologizes, then digs deeper

President Breuvi Shjoraski

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - After the controversial statements made yesterday regarding Shjoraski's aid policy to Qianrong made during the first Presidential debates of this upcoming general election, President Shjoraski decided that it is necessary to apologize to the people of Qianrong for "having caused offense."

A major statement that was covered heavily on Qianrongese media were "How would you feel if your relatives were on the flight that was hijacked by the ASQ last year and sent crashing down onto Qianrongese soil? Would you still support giving humanitarian aid to the ASQ? They are a security risk," when responding to Sera Svennson's argument against the humanitarian aid policy that was met with furor within Qianrong for its alleged racism in refusing to grant humanitarian aid to terrorists.

In a brief statement issued through his attorney to Radio Free Qianrong, Nguyen wrote that "if my daughter had not died at the hands of the ASQ, the Luziycan government would be discriminating against her right now. She risked her life to try and save the lives of others, and the fact that he has used her death to justify a policy that would have left her discriminated against is an insult to her memory, her life, the lives of all innocents who perished on that flight, and their families." Other families who lost friends and loved ones on AH442 have issued similar statements. Shin Guang-Zhou, whose husband was first officer Shin Leng-Yi, accused Shjoraski of "trivializing" the incident. "You have reduced a national tragedy to a rhetorical soundbite," she told reporters. "Shame on you and all who support you."

Thus, Shjoraski was left with little choice but to apologize to the Qianrongese people and announce changes in humanitarian aid.

Shjoraski has said, "Last night, I reduced your national tragedy, the crash of the Air Hearadh Flight 442, to a soundbite. I used it to justify my sensible humanitarian policy that we should not be aiding terrorists in Qianrong. I may have caused offense, when it is not my intention. Thus, on behalf of the Whig Party and myself, I apologize for these statements."

He then announced, "I understand the Qianrongese government wishing to take over distribution, which is fine. However, we are going to end this 'racist' policy that Qianrongese officials have said would deny Mahusayanese and Tuhaoese their rightful share. Therefore, effective immediately, I will provide unconditional humanitarian aid to any and all Minjianese, Otekian, Muhasayanese, and any other ethnicity residing in Qianrong, with one exception: Tuhaoese who are suspected of having ties to the ASQ, or are related to someone suspected of having ties to the ASQ or related to someone who is related to someone suspected as such, except for politicians in the Qianrongese government are ineligible to receive aid for whatever reason."

"I hope that you will forgive me for what I have stated last night," Shjoraski concluded.

More as the story develops.

In other news

• Ocelot Isles - Could it leave the EU?
• Kraq - Civil war rages on as Caliphate attacks al-Jegria, Operation Skyfall about to begin
• Mingwok - Court factions institutionalized?
• Kenyen - Kung Alicia opposes "racist" aid policy

[Luziyca]

EU responds to the Namorese leaks

Headquarters of the Esquarian Union

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - With leaked cables coming out, notably including how Fu Wen criticized the poor people and contemplated denying Otekians in Qianrong aid, there was also one thing that the world media has not bothered mentioning yet: the leak of the Namorese plan to join the Esquarian Union to take away influence.

The leaked content regarding the EU is as follows:

FM Shen said formula for ECGS [Esquarian Congress] allows countries with large populations to get high number of seats. If in EU [Esquarian Union], Namor can have up to 469 seats compared to LUZ [Luziyca's] 252. Can encourage EU to move some of its institutions outside of LUZ (to here especially), thus reducing LUZ influence over the organization, enhancing Namorese influence. Namor can push for abolition of GWA [Greenwich Area] also.

President-General replied: Not bad idea, might be implemented as detente becomes permanent. Maybe wait until opposition is weakened electorally for such a plan to be put in place.

Fu Wen has previously said that the People's Republic of Namor was not going to join the Esquarian Union, which many Namorese claim is a way to spread our "imperialist" influences all across Esquarium. However, it was clear that they wanted to join to wrestle leadership away from Luziyca.

Thus, a spokesperson from the Esquarian Union said "We have noticed these leaks, among them being a proposal for Namor to join the EU to weaken perceived Luziycan influence. In some ways, the EU is meant to provide a platform of international co-operation among all member states of the EU, to ensure that peace can and will be the order of the day, and that one day, there could be Esquarian unity, or at least greater co-operation among all Esquarian nations."

The spokesperson continued that "there has been precedent for moving institutions: until 2006, our Supreme Court was headquartered in Jerusalem before it was moved by a majority vote in the Esquarian Commission, including Luziyca, to Alvahado in Vitoria, primarily to expand our presence in the southern hemisphere. If Namor joins, it may be possible that institutions could be moved, but to do this, there needs to be a 2/3rds majority in the Esquarian Council to permit the move to take place. Likewise, since the Greenwich Area has become part of Esquarian Union law in 1996 by passing a law in the Congress, it needs to have 2/3rds vote for its repeal in both the Congress, and the Commission. Should both approve, then the Greenwich Area is no longer an organ of the EU."

More as the story develops.

In other news

• Michillies - Crossing the moral event horizon in 3... 2... 1...
• Ocelot Isles - Ocelot Isles leave EU, Sinhako decides to become observer in EU
• Lecistan - First election to have around 1/4 of the populace participate, moderates win
• Opinion piece - The EU is the best hope for world peace

[Luziyca]

NLP leader Khosedov to step down due to cancer

Narsete La Via to take over Arnold Khosedov as leader of the NLP

FIRENZE, LOMBARDIA - On a campaign stop, it was revealed that he was diagnosed with testicular cancer, thus leading Arnold Khosedov to announce his resignation from the leader of the National Luziycan Party and thus announced to appoint Congressman Narsete La Via as his successor for the leadership.

"I have served well as leader of the National Luziycan Party since 2008," Arnold Khosedov announced. "However, yesterday, I was diagnosed with testicular cancer. While I am confident I will survive this ordeal that God has thrust upon me, it is clear that it will affect my duties as leader of the NLP, especially with election season coming up. Thus, it is time to pass the torch to a dear friend, an excellent representative, a trustworthy companion, and one of the finest patriots, Congressman Narsete La Via."

When La Via became leader, the NLP unanimously affirmed that he would serve as Presidential candidate for the upcoming general election, and as interim leader.

La Via said, "I am quite glad to have received the support of my fellow Nationalists for the leadership of the NLP, and I vow that as President, I will make this free and sovereign nation better than it has been under socialist Breuvi Shjoraski. I will be tough on crime, I will ensure that Nantai remains an integral part of Luziyca, and I will make sure that this slimy hand of communism does not rest upon this oasis of freedom and democracy!"

Currently, Sera Svensson of the Liberal Party leads at 46 percentage points, which is three percentage points higher than June 27th, whist the incumbent President and leader of the Whig Party, Breuvi Shjoraski still trails behind Svensson, but at thirty-nine percentage points, down by two percentage points.

There is nine percentage points of support Narsete La Via of the National Luziycan Party, which is up by one point. As well, Vonora Khendalor of the Christian Luziycan Party at three percentage points, down by two points, and Paul Nikolovich of the Social Credit Party taking the rest, and remaining unchanged.

More as the story develops.

In other news

• Kraq - Ragobad Front threatens to execute 17,000 Luziycans in Kraq, Shjoraski states "our airstrikes are to protect innocent civilians and restore order and stability to the nation."
• Korbathia - Civil war is underway in Nordanian nation
• Chorea - Chorean government says that they can't do anything about Esquarileaks, Esquarileaks leaks vote rigging allegations
• Lazarene Sea - Nevan-Michillian War Act to be repealed as Nevans withdraw from the Lazarene Sea

[Luziyca]

Operation Morning Calm proposed

The President shows his fury

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - In Kraq, thousands of ethnic Luziycans have been killed by the supposedly "moderate" Ragobad Front in reaction to Operation Skyfall, many by being shot, but some were tortured to death, according to footage. Operations have intensified against the Ragobad Front, culminating in the capture of Ata Ikram Ali. However, it is enough for the President to announce an expansion in Luziycan involvement.

President Breuvi Shjoraski announced, "These heinous attacks on innocent civilians, Luziycans who lived in Kraq for many generations, is unacceptable. We will not tolerate the genocide that is being committed against all Kraqi citizens, and in recent days, it is becoming clear that the only option for peace and stability within Kraq is by supporting the government of Ahmed Hussein."

Shjoraski warned, "To those who seek to destroy our people: you will not succeed. You could try, but people are helping defend Luziycans. Resistance forces are helping defend ethnic Luziycans residing in Kraq, and even the government of Kraq is doing their part. We vow to try the officials for genocide in the International Criminal Court of the EU, and we plan on expanding military operations to send our lads onto the ground. We hope for the survival of all Kraqis in this trying time."

"Thus," Shjoraski concluded, "we must fight to ensure that all Kraqis will remain safe. We will not back down, but rather, we will stand bravely in the face of danger."

Operation Morning Calm is proposed to send Luziycan troops to Kraq to "scour Ragobad and other major Kraqi cities clean of rebels in order to restore law and order," with high-priority organizations being the Ragobad Front and The Caliphate.

More as the story develops.

In other news

• Chorea - Worst tsunami strikes Chorea and Namor.
• Korbathia - Nevanmaa continues operations within Korbathia.
• Lecistan - Nevan monarch approves formation of new far-right government
• Opinion - Kraqis must be free and democratic: but they must be stable too

[Luziyca]

Shjoraski proposes to revive "Lagian League" as alternative to NOSDO

Breuvi Shjoraski at a community center in Vesterhag

VESTERHAG, WEST GEADLAND - At a campaign stop in Vesterhag, after it has been announced the Geadish government has left NOSDO, President Breuvi Shjoraski announced a pledge for foreign policy: to create an alternative to NOSDO that would exclude Nevanmaa, and to cover a broader area: in particular, covering all of the continents of Artisia, Nordania, the countries of North and South Velkia that border the Northern Sea.

President Breuvi Shjoraski announced "With the decline in Nevanmaa's reputation in the world, and the inevitable collapse of NOSDO, it is important to capitalize on this opportunity to create a strong military alliance comprising of countries on the Northern Sea. Any nation that seeks to protect freedom and democracy and to preserve it in the North Sea region has the right to join an alternative organization."

Shjoraski said, "I promise that if I am re-elected, I will launch a new alliance that will fulfill the role of NOSDO, but to function as a defensive military alliance. If any member of the new alliance is attacked, all members are pledged to defend it. If a member invades another country outside of the alliance, and it is to protect the civilians and preserve freedom and democracy, and it is not for jingoism, members should pledge to intervene as well. If it is for jingoism, however, members are not obliged to participate in the intervention."

When asked about the name by the National Enquirer, Shjoraski said, "The Lagian League may be a brilliant idea, but it seems a bit dated in my opinion. The Common Nordanian Command seems interesting, but it does not have that Nordanian feel that the Lagian League has. It would be up to the members of such an alliance."

Shjoraski also added that "even if this alliance does not form, I want Da Hegner to consider a military alliance with us to fulfil some of what NOSDO had been doing for Geadland's security and protection up until this point."

The leader of the Official Opposition, Sera Svensson however opposed Shjoraski's proposal for an alliance, stating that "a military alliance can only make things worse in a volatile region. What we need is a cultural alliance for all nations in the North Sea. No exceptions. As well, the Geads are not particularly fond of Luziyca, so they may see it as an attempt to reunite it with Luziyca and force another Tomas Kirk on them."

More as the story develops.

In other news

• Shibdan - Leaks reveal plan to relocate indigenous people to the Luziycan Arctic Territory from 1958
• Chorea - Over a thousand dead, 2.2 billion lira have been donated by various organizations including the Luziycan Red Cross.
• Lecistan - Civil unrest in small nation, potential communist revolution
• Michillies - Government to fortify overseas territory in light of coup from Lyanessia

[Luziyca]

Traitor to be given clemency by President

The little traitor scum

KENYEN, NANTAI - At a campaign stop, just days before the next debate in Yerevan, Lombardia, President Breuvi Shjoraski has approved clemency to noted traitor and murderer running for office, Private Tao James, who is currently wanted for desertion, one count of theft over ₤5,000, one count of theft under ₤5,000, one count of first-degree murder, one count of carjacking and one count of treason.

President Breuvi Shjoraski said that "with the recognition of the rise in popularity of Tao James in Namor, and with the potential of having a Socialist president-general born within our territory, it is clear that if in the event he gets elected, relations may cool as a result of him being barred from visiting the land of his birth, the Christian Republic of Luziyca."

The clemency that Shjoraski gave Tao James were as follows:

• Private Tao James shall be dishonorably discharged from the Luziycan Armed Forces for desertion, theft, murder, carjacking and treason
• Private Tao James shall be permitted to visit the Christian Republic for fifteen days in a one year period for personal reasons (i.e. to reunite with relatives), and for sixty days in a given year for business and/or diplomatic reasons
• James' Luziycan citizenship shall be revoked from the fifth of August: thus, he shall only be considered to be a Namorese citizen and will not be eligible to all the rights that apply only to citizens (i.e. unable to get a Luziycan passport, vote in Luziycan elections or run for office in Luziyca)
• Private Tao James shall be barred from returning to Luziyca to reside there permanently: should he return, the charges shall be reinstated and he shall be tried

Shjoraski said, "I am giving him clemency, as a sign to Namor that we are willing to forgive him. He may have betrayed our nation, but he is like any other man. His mistakes were serious, but I am not willing to risk detente should he wind up becoming President-General."

There was a lot of controversy as a result of Shjoraski granting clemency to Private Tao James, mainly due to his defection to the People's Republic of Namor in 1997.

Outgoing Nantainese chief executive Kung Alicia has stated that "Tao James was a traitor. The fact that President Breuvi Shjoraski has given him clemency shows that he is panda-ing to the brothers who seek to destroy our culture and identity, which we Nantainese have preserved for so long, shows that he does not care about us. He only cares about Namo: but what about us, the people of Nantai who are loyal to this dear fatherland?"

As well, the leader of the National Luziycan Party, Narsete La Via has sharply criticized Shjoraski saying that "this action dishonors everyone else in the unit. That traitor, James Tao, had the audacity to betray our fatherland, our countrymen who have sworn to support our troops. He goes out of the way to betray our trust. Why should we give him anything less than death?"

In Kenyen, there were some criticism of Shjoraski's decision: Ru Cheng led a protest march criticizing his defection to Namor.

Ru explained that "He has not apologized for what he did when he betrayed the country. A while ago, he even said that all Nantainese wanted to join Namor, and that the Luzzies were not fooling anybody. He does not deserve clemency, nor should he get off on the charges. If anything, that has dipped my support of Shjoraski to a new low."

About 12,500 people participated in the march criticizing the decision to grant clemency to Tao James in Kenyen.

Despite hopes that Shjoraski could use it to catapult himself to a lead and displace Liberal leader Sera Svensson, he fell further behind since July 14th.

Recent poll have shown that Liberal Sera Svensson is now at 52 percentage points, which were six points higher than July 14th. There are 15 percentage points for Narsete La Via of the NLP, six higher than July 14th. The CLP leader Vonora Khendalor has risen four percentage points to seven percentage points, and the Socred leader, Paul Nikolovich has risen to four percentage points from a measly point.

The incumbent candidate, President Breuvi Shjoraski tumbled dramatically, from 39 points on July 14th to only 22 percentage points, a decrease of seventeen percentage points. Many have attributed it to his foreign policy and the decision to grant clemency to Tao James.

An analyst from TVV, Sireno Riccio has said that "the decision to grant clemency has caused the President to take a major tumble, combined with foreign policy decisions, like his proposal to form an alternative NOSDO alliance. I think that is the moment where Breuvi Shjoraski essentially committed political suicide. I think it would be an ice cube's chance in hell for Shjoraski to win re-election, especially with the decision to grant clemency to Tao James."

In other news

• Britanno - Britanno next after Arkiasis and Geadland?
• West Cedarbrook - Four party alliance to be formed
• Chorea - Chorea and Namorese governments to declare memorial period, about ₤5.2 billion to be given to aid Choreans from charities
• Opinion piece - Sera Svensson will make this nation better

[Luziyca]

Second debate to be held in Yerevan, Lombardia

President Shjoraski in 2011 debate

YEREVAN, LOMBARDIA - The date for the second debate of the 2016 general election has been chosen: August 17th. The location has already been known since traditionally, the second debate is held in Yerevan. Televisya i Vost will broadcast the debate, since it will be conducted in the Lombardian language.

It will be held at the National Auditorium, with a capacity of 7,588 people. Tickets have already sold out for the debate between the candidates for the presidency of the Christian Republic, but unlike many other debates, there will be a twist: the foreign press shall be asking the Luziycan candidates questions.

When asked the reason for the decision to let foreign press ask the questions, organizer for the second national debate and analyst Sireno Riccio said that "the foreign media will give a fresh interpretation of how they think we are like. Over the years, the foreign journalists have expressed a heavy interest in asking the candidates questions, and so this year, we here at TVV shall be giving them what they always dreamed of: to ask our candidates the difficult questions, so we can get an outsider's perspective on our issues, our affairs."

The candidates have already began to converge towards Yerevan, and with the announcement of the debate, here are the recent statistics regarding the candidates according to the polls.

• Sera Svensson rises one percentage point to fifty-three percentage points
• Shjoraski has tumbled down from twenty-two percentage points down to eighteen, just one point ahead of NLP leader Narsete La Via
• Narsete La Via has risen to seventeen percentage points from fifteen points, an increase of two points
• Vonora Khendalor has stayed stable at seven percentage points
• Finally, Paul Nikolovich has risen by one percentage point to five points

Breuvi Shjoraski will need to act quickly so to regain his lost share of the lead, lest Narsete La Via takes a run for his money for the Leader of the Official Opposition. Sera Svensson can safely hold the lead now though, it is incredibly likely she will win the coming election.

In other news

• Irinushka - Mahmud Jakue Ehiztari's trial date set for the May 14th bombing of the Mendebaldeko Atea Merkatu.
• Lyanessia - Luziyca and EU condemn government, Luziyca to impose sanctions
• Ainin - Potential recession on the horizon
• Chorea - NV, secretive leader of EsquariLeaks interviewed by Mojing Sibo

[Luziyca]

Svensson wins debate, La Via calls her a whore

A guaranteed successor?

YEREVAN, LOMBARDIA - With the second round of debates with the questions being asked by foreign media instead of the moderator, who merely moderated the debate having concluded, it has been a shakeup for pollsters all across the country as the new NLP leader, Narsete La Via said "Zitto, puttana!" on live television, resulting in a drop of approval ratings due to his apparent misogynist views.

Unlike the first round of debates, which exclusively discussed healthcare, Namo-Luziycan relations, racial issues against Shudri, military interventionism, EU membership, gun control, and competition in the global economy, the TVV-hosted debate covered a broad range of issues from Namo-Luziycan relations to science research (with the Lovato cited as an example), electoral reforms, free speech, healthcare, and justice, just to name a few of the domestic issues, and their views on NOSDO, Otekian separatism, relations with the Triumvirate, the Four-Party agreement involving Luziyca and parts of South Conitia, and Esquarileaks to name some of the foreign issues.

However, once the debate came to a close, the statistics of the candidates have shifted a bit.

• Sera Svensson of the Liberal Party has maintained her top position, and is now at fifty-five percentage points, increasing by two percentage points from August 11th
• Brevi Shjoraski of the Whig Party has risen from eighteen percentage points to twenty-three percentage points, an increase of five percentage points
• Narsete La Via of the NLP has fallen significantly, from seventeen points to only seven, a decrease of ten points due to his comments to Sera Svensson
• Vonora Khendalor has fallen to six percentage points, a decrease of a single point, mainly for "All we truly need are candles."
• Finally, Paul Nikolovich has risen from five percentage points to nine percentage points, an increase of four points

Tyler Rabinovich, a statistician from Bethlehem has said that "If Sera Svensson can maintain her lead through the next debate in Jerusalem, she is essentially guaranteed to win the election, since the people have desire for change: the Whigs have been continuously in power since 1988, or nearly three decades. It is clear that with the end of communism in the west, the shift to a multipolar world, et cetera, the Whigs are no longer suited for governing in the twenty-first century."

Tyler Rabinovich noted that "However, with Narsete La Via's gaffes against Sera Svensson, the NLP will fall dramatically in popularity. The CLP may hold on in the more conservative areas of the Bible Belt, and the Socreds seem guaranteed to make a comeback from Congress after the last Socred congressman got voted out in 1970, especially since they have an appeal on youth who may be supportive of Unolia and Jahisticism. However, the Whigs have grown fat on power, they have dominated the political scene for so long, the curtain has started to close."

He then added that "I think the decision to pardon Tao James was essentially the point where it has become patently clear the Whigs have an ice cube's chance in h*ll in winning this upcoming election."

The entire debate can be watched here on TVV's website.

In other news

• Qianrong - Explosions at Xiamen Harbor, Shjoraski sends condolences to Qianrongese government, pledges an increase of aid
• Michillies - Shjoraski sends condolences to families of the 2015 metro disaster, demands peace
• Upper York - Natasha Roman's ONC attempts to officially adopt devomax
• Opinion - It is clear that disasters show people at both their worst and their best

[Luziyca]

Shjoraski duped by satire: interviewed by Namora Shinbunbo

Shjoraski: is he incompetent?

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - It was definitely true: President Shjoraski has been duped by Namora Shinbunbo, into believing it was a genuine Namorese newspaper. However, as the questions grew more and more absurd, he started to be suspicious that he was actually being interviewed by a satirical news agency.

As soon as the article was published, some met with skepticism, notably Nikolai Serhoskav, who said that "I refuse to believe that Shjoraski was an idiot who believed the Namora Shinbunbo was a legitimate news source from Namor."

However, for those who weren't skeptical, there was a field day as people mocked Shjoraski for falling so easily to a Qianrongese satirical paper affiliated with the Trang Vai satirical newspaper. In cyberspace, people mocked Shjoraski for believing the Namora Shinbunbo was a legitimate news source from Namor.

Sera Svensson commented that "Like Katarin Appehorst from Geadland, Shjoraski joins the club of politicians who were duped by satire. I do not think he deserves a second term if he is going to be so easily duped by satire."

As for Shjoraski himself, he stated "I have now realized, especially towards the end that it was a satirical news source, not a legitimate news source. In hindsight, I should have realized that it was satirical. That said, I am amused by the interview: it is great for satirical newspapers to interview some world leaders once in a while, but this close to an election? I think it might slightly harm my chances of re-election."

The entire debate can be read here.

In other news

• Qianrong - Xiangmen falls to communist forces
• Vordallia - Protests begin as economy gets worse against the communist system
• Yzerkatu - Majority vote to become a republic
• Lecistan - Potential genocide?

[Luziyca]

Satiregate and other surprises

The polls until August 17th

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - Today, pollsters have released a line graph revealing the results from when the first official polls related to the coming general election on June 27th, taking place after the end of the first Presidential debate held within Bethlehem, and all the subsequent other opinion polls regarding the candidates up to the one conducted on August 17th, 2015, after the end of the second Presidential debate held in Yerevan, Lombardia. How do the candidates stand?

Despite the absence of data from recent opinion polls, it is incredibly clear that the biggest losers may very well be the National Luziycan Party. While the expansion of the seats in the House as a result of the admission of Irinushka and Asenath in 2014 from 500 seats to 625 seats, it is incredibly unlikely that the NLP will hold on to a lot of their seats, especially due to the bigoted and racist views of its new leader, Narsete La Via.

But how can we really know that this is the case? If we are to hold an election today, if we base the results on the opinion polls, the composition of the house would most likely wind up like this:

• Liberals - 344 seats, government - 197
  
• Whigs - 144 seats, official opposition - 121
  
• Socreds - 56 seats - 56
  
• NLP - 44 seats - 13
  
• CLP - 37 seats - 6

You may think that the Whigs may lose a lot more than the NLP, and it does not help Shjoraski seems to be making a lot of gaffes lately, what with Satiregate when Shjoraski believed that Namora Shinbunbo was a legitimate Namorese news source, but it is currently with the most recent data we have.

The NLP is currently predicted to lose thirteen seats, but as the full implications of Narsete La Via being a former Purity Congress member and a sexist continues, La Via may very well risk wiping the entire NLP out. Many supporters of the NLP would be drawn either to the Whigs, or to the Socreds, which are predicted to split the right-wing vote as its leader, Nikolovich appeals to young rightists who lean more closely to the late Jarrod Thuman of Unolia than to the "old right" personified by Shjoraski and La Via respectively.

As for the Liberals, they seem poised for victory. A major factor is many young people who do not align themselves with the Socreds tend to be aligned closely to the leftist Liberals. Combined with a significant anti-incumbency factor against the Whig Party which has run Luziyca since 1988 (in the east, 1991 if you were west of the former DMZ), and calls for a greater safety net, Sera Svensson has charmed many into supporting her policies and political party, with a charisma that would make even a televangelist jealous of her abilities. Many centrists seem likely to vote for Svensson on the tenth of November and bring in a new era: ideally one of a Luziyca that will exercise its power with caution.

May you make the best choice.

In other news

• Ziegenhain - Viktoria to become new leader after Ulrich's death
• Aucuria - Controversy after Shjoraski says "Kartupelis" instead of Kalnaspils
• Qianrong - RPAE declares communist state, discussions on whether to aid the Qianrongese government against the red menace
• New Zepuha - Civil unrest in southern regions of New Zepuha

[Luziyca]

Kung Alicia to announce retirement from politics

Kung Alicia

KENYEN, NANTAI - With the two term limit approaching its end, famed Chief Executive Kung Alicia of the constituent republic of Nantai has announced her retirement from politics after January 15, 2016, when her successor will take office as the next Chief Executive, citing being "too old to remain politics."

"I have represented Nantai for a long time. Kenyen is my home, my city," she said. "I grew up in Kenyen, and I have represented my constituency from 1980 to 2004. I represented Kenyen-Southwest during the most devastating war that this city has ever experienced. I eventually became Vice-President, but then I discovered that the best way for me to enjoy life was to go to Nantai and represent my people in Kenyen."

She said that "Never have I betrayed my country. I spoke my own mind freely, I may have said some things that were not exactly wise, but as Chief Executive, I believe I have done a wonderful job. However, it is now time for me to end my political career, for I am getting too old to remain in politics: any politics, to be honest. I left federal politics because the stresses were taking their toll on me, but now, I feel I have achieved the best I could do."

She stated, "For the next leader of the PAP, I shall endorse my trusted colleague, my secretary of the Nantainese Department of Finance, Tam River. I have full confidence that she will do a wonderful job in leading Nantai to prosperity."

More as the story develops.

In other news

• Riro - Nari pipeline agreed, Central Council in Namor approves it
• Katranjiev - City of Krasimir offers ONC and Namor to hold talks in the city
• Shibdan - Estimates of Punli Strait oil fields grow from 10 billion barrels to 12.5 billion barrels
• Jerusalem - OBS to hold third and final debate on October 12th

[Luziyca]

Operation Magpie to commence

LZS Varanken, aircraft carrier

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - Today, in light of Aucurian President Jankauskaite's request for aid from the Esquarian Union against a potential Ziegenhainian invasion in light of the death of the late Fredrich Ulrich, former leader of the country, President Breuvi Shjoraski has passed an executive order authorizing Operation Magpie to warn Ziegenhain to back off.

The plan for Operation Magpie is to deploy aircraft carriers LZS Varanken and LZS Azubah to the edge of Ziegenhain's territorial waters, along with several bomber and fighter planes to fly close to the shore of Ziegenhain so to inform the government to back down from their threats against Aucuria, lest there be harsher consequences.

Shjoraski explained that "Aucuria, unlike Qianrong, is very strategic. It is near one of the most horrific authoritarian regimes within the world, and thus, it is in our best interests to protect Aucuria from an impending invasion. The intent with Operation Magpie is to put pressure on the government of Ziegenhain to warn that any further action against Aucuria shall not be tolerated and any efforts shall result in harsh consequences for Ziegenhain's government."

The Esquarian Congress in the EU has expressed "full support for Operation Magpie," and passed a joint resolution with the Esquarian Commission condemning Ziegenhain for its genocide and for its threats towards a fellow EU member. It has also passed a resolution that will see the groundwork for the foundation of peacekeeping forces.

In other news

• West Cedarbrook - Why are they so obsessed with local coverage of national elections?
• Hyd Gohin - Borders reopened, but suspect flees
• Vyvland - Gyneld Welelmsen elected as Conservative leader, to be new Prime Minister following Kurt Blymont's resignation
• Unolia - What can we expect in the next University Cup?

[Luziyca]

Is a Great Recession likely?

Gijirokastra Stock Exchange

GIJIROKASTRA, F.C. - With Pavonistade entering a recession, and the stock exchange in Esquarian City dropping by several hundred points over the past few days, Gijirokastra's Stock Exchange fell 177 points when the stock exchange closed yesterday evening to 9,871 points. As the main stock exchange in Luziyca, since the merger of the Bethlehem Stock Exchange and the Gijirokastra Stock Exchange in 2005, it shows that recession is becoming increasingly likely for this global power, and economists forecast that this plunge may last for "weeks".

As the largest economy in Esquarium, Luziycan investors began fearing a recession following the editorial by an Aininian newspaper stating that a recession is likely to happen in the coming months early this summer. They have watched major markets like Namor and Pavonistade, as well as various other countries such as the Michillies and Qianrong, and as Pavonistadian and Namorese stocks have decreased, many investors are jettisoning their shares, fearing that the stocks will lose their value over the coming days.

"We're talking a crisis," Joseph Rosunov, an economist from St. Anthony's Academy warned, "that is worse than 1980's recession. We may risk entering another great depression, especially in countries like Qianrong where Yucheng's stock exchange has decreased by 421 points. In Gijirokastra, the market is certainly bearish, and the plunge may accelerate for a while."

On the political arena, President Breuvi Shjoraski campaigning for the Whig Party has said in Feniksgrad that "It is too early to tell, but I am confident that we will get through the crisis, if we stay the course with our current policies," before attacking Sera Svensson, stating that "If Svensson takes over, however, we will enter a new great depression. Her policies may be sensible, it may be just, but she has a disadvantage: she was born in the right place at the wrong time. She is running on a platform that makes more sense in West Luziyca under communism than the present day."

Sera Svensson has countered it, explaining that "if we do our best to implement strong regulations so to cushion the impact, we will do well in resolving the crisis. However, if we do not do that, the impact will be hard and everyone shall suffer, from the richest of the rich to the poorest of the poor," at a campaign stop in Nazareth.

More as the story develops.

In other news

• Decision 2016 - Sera Svensson leads the polls at 52%, followed by incumbent Shjoraski at 26%, Nikolovich at 12%, Khendalor at 7%, and La Via at 3%.
• Odissia - Constitutional Court to issue judgement on Lecistani independence, Alfhild Amandus says "Lecistan is sovereign, since it has consistently maintained its sovereign independence since 1947. The Odissians should respect their sovereignty."
• Tuthina - 100,000 black Nevans in a conservative monarchy: is it a match made in hell?
• Filimons - Protests following opposition's decision to propose a bill withdrawing recognition of the Nevan realm

[Luziyca]

The former President, William Bush, leaves the Earth

William Bush, 1999

HOOSIER, AMATROV - Today, sad news has struck the nation as the family of former President William Bush announced that he had died of pneumonia. Having served from 1992 to 2000 as the leader of the Free World, and from 1960 to 1992 and again from 2000 to 2004 as representative, he has had a long political career. He oversaw the transformation in the 1990s, the Third Namo-Luziycan war, and unprecedented economic growth in the late 1990s due to the dot-com boom.

The statement released by matriarch Marlana Bush has said, "It is with the greatest sadness that a devoted husband, statesman, and father, William Bush has died at 7:26 am this morning from pneumonia at the General Hospital in Hoosier, Amatrov. He had just turned ninety-two on the seventeenth of September, and has lived a long and fulfilling life."

Since leaving office in 2004, he wrote his memoirs, "The Hero of Luziyca", releasing it in 2006, but in 2009, he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. His health deteriorated, and he was diagnosed with pneumonia on August 11th. He entered a comatose state on Sept. 15th, and was in critical condition. Despite all the best efforts of the doctors to treat him, William Bush left the mortal coil.

After the announcement of his death, President Breuvi Shjoraski has sent condolences, saying that "when I entered office, he was friendly, he was caring, and made sensible choices that benefitted the country. I developed a friendship with him. It was not very close, but I trusted him and he trusted me, and I know that Luziyca will miss him: he has led this nation in the 90s, through the Third Namo-Luziycan war, the massive economic growth afterwards, and the changing of the guard in terms of geopolitics. His death is like losing a father."

Liberal candidate Sera Svensson has also sent condolences to the family, saying "I am sorry for not just your loss, but all of Luziyca's loss."

The Presidential candidates have all agreed to suspend their political campaigns for the coming general election until after the state funeral concludes on September 26th in Bethlehem. The third debate will still be on schedule, to be held on October 10th. In addition, all Luziycan flags across the nation, at diplomatic missions, military bases and EU institutions are to be lowered to half-mast.

More as the story develops.

In other news

• Geadland - The Liberal proves why Namor should just drop their claim over Nantai
• Unolia - Triumvirate exposition to be held in Unolia
• Yzerkatu - Soled and Yzerkatu to co-operate
• Dihlatora - PM expresses silence on whether Dihlatora is a country, Secretary of Insular Affairs says "depends on your definition."

[Luziyca]

The funeral of former President William Bush

William Bush, 1999

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - Yesterday, late President William Bush had an official funeral at the Congressional Palace, attended by all the major Presidential candidates for the coming general election, as well as all the living former Presidents: Prevayu Brouvayeshki, Franklin Varanken, and Merari Noah, and delegates from a few other nations.

Marlana Bush gave an eulogy, saying that "William Bush was a loving statesman, father, husband, and of course, a wonderful leader. He has meant everything to me from when I first met him to his death, and I will miss him. He always had a good sense of humor, he had a friendly attitude to all, and with his departure, I will miss him. He lived a long life, and I know he will be missed."

His son, Rybak Bush said that "I had a great father. He was friendly but did not hesitate to punish us if necessary. He taught me how God was a strong moral compass and to this day, I try to be devout and attend church regularly. I want to enter politics, or the civil service, since my father taught me about politics and his views, and they have shaped my life for the better."

After singing various hymns, and readings of condolences and poetry from various people, the coffin containing William Bush was covered in the Luziycan flag and covered, heading from the Senate room where the funeral was held to the House of Representatives chamber, and then out the main entrance of the Congressional Palace, where it was placed on a hearse to head to the Woodlawn Cemetery, where many prominent politicians, Presidents, soldiers and generals were buried. The internment of the late President will be private and be held on Sept. 28th, with only close friends and family attending.

It was said that many Luziycans watched the funeral of William Bush, most on television, but some watched it on the internet via a live feed from the Congressional Palace.

With the funeral over, the political campaign started to resume with a few television ads airing immediately after the funeral from the Liberals, mostly in the Jerusalem metropolitan area.

In other news

• Katranjiev - Esquarivision 2015: what can we expect tonight
• Qianrong - Danh Dap falls to communist forces,
• Namor - Central Council passes law that makes Peitoan streets named after Jung To be renamed, Kenyen to rename street where Namorese consulate is at to Jung To Avenue in response
• Soled - Coup in progress?

[Luziyca]

Candidates express concerns at Lecistan's election

Breuvi Shjoraski at the Talnakh Library

TALNAKH, SOLOMON - At a campaign stop at the border town with Katranjiev, President Breuvi Shjoraski expressed concern of the potential voter fraud in the ongoing Lecistani elections, as the elections are now being held, due to the government refusing to let Scotian observers into the country.

"As the leader of the free world," Shjoraski said, "and as an everyday Luziycan, I am worried for the people of Lecistan. Thousands of people are being thrown in jail for exercising their God-given right to speak their minds. More had to flee. The government has refused to let independent observers monitor these elections, saying that 'We are convinced that the Scotian observers are spies working with the government of Scotia, who has for years seen Lecistan as an enemy. All elections in Lecistan have since 1965 have been free, and we at the Ministry will keep it that way.' This is not a valid reason: it is an excuse to ensure that Nevanmaa will annex Lecistan into the Nevan realm."

He added that "If you think I am a conspiracy theorist, MP Juhana Stenvall has proposed to include Lecistan in the Eduskunta. If the bill passes, Lecistan would very well be just a Nevan realm, since Lecistan now has a personal union, it has a common currency, it is painfully clear that Nevanmaa will annex it. They are even banning protests in the name of curbing extremism and terrorism, when it is really to harass, intimidate and ensure the victory of pro-Nevan parties."

"With this," Shjoraski says, "this election will almost certainly be fraudulent, and we call for increased sanctions on Lecistan and to cut all diplomatic ties with Lecistan except basic humanitarian needs."

When Sera Svensson heard of it, she stated that "the only way to truly send a message to the Nevans is to cut ties with the Nevan Realm and switch recognition to the Nevan Republic." Her statement had garnered a lot of controversy, and sent her approval rating down a few percentage points.

But Narsete La Via, leader of the NLP stated that "Lecistan is their own country. They do their elections their own way. We should not get involved in Lecistan, and instead focus on our own people first."

Paul Nikolovich has "generally agreed" with Shjoraski's position, while Vonora Khendalor hasn't made a statement yet.

In other news

• Unolia - Baseball players go on strike: are they communist spies from Roubao?
• Nevanmaa - Juhani III to visit Lecistan
• Opinion poll - Svensson leads the polls at 48%, Shjoraski at 27%, Nikolovich at 17%, Khendalor at 7% and La Via at 1%
• Lombardia - Homeless Shudri man is beaten, dog stolen by animal rights group: Firenze police to lay no charges on group

[Luziyca]

Campaign enters the home stretch: Svensson poised to win

Sera Svensson

JERUSALEM, INLEDA - Days after the end of the debate organized by Oresund, and with under a month to go before Luziycans go to the polls, it is clear that the election campaign is entering the home stretch. The debate in Jerusalem was like the first debate in Yerevan: a moderator asking the questions and the candidates answering, instead of reporters asking the quesiton. Of course, the main topic of this particular debate was the economy.

On October 6, the polls have shown that Svensson leads the polls at 48%, Shjoraski at 27%, Nikolovich at 17%, Khendalor at 7% and La Via at 1%. Notably, Sera Svensson has consistently been leading the polls, generally by the double digits.

Now, a poll from the Jerusalem General Survey has shown that the Liberal Party leader, Sera Svensson leads the polls by 53%, an increase of five percentage points. Incumbent President and leader of the Whig Party, Breuvi Shjoraski, has fallen two percentage points to 25%. Paul Nikolovich has fallen two percentage points to 15%. Khendalor has fallen two percentage points to 5%, while Narsete La Via has risen to 2%: double that of the polls on October 6th.

Thus, using the data from the Jerusalem General Survey, we could witness what could be the composition of the House of Representatives:

• The Whigs currently have 265 seats out of 500 seats, or 53%. If the election was held today, the Whigs will only get 156 out of 625 seats, or a quarter of the seats. The Whigs would lose the equivalent of 140 seats out of 500 seats.
• The Liberals have 147 seats out of 500 seats, or 29.4% of the seats. If an election was held today, the Liberals would gain 300 seats out of 625, or 48% of the seats. The Liberals will gain the equivalent of 93 seats out of 500 seats.
• The National Luziycan Party currently has 57 out of 500 seats, or 11.4% of the seats. If the election was held today, the NLP would only get 13 seats out of 625, or just 2% of the seats. The NLP will lose the equivalent of 47 out of 500 seats.
• The Christian Luziycan Party currently has 31 out of 500 seats, or 6.2% of the seats. If the election was to be held today, they would only get 31 seats, or about 5%. The CLP will only lose the equivalent of six seats.
• The Social Credit Party has had no representation since 1970 in the House. If an election were to be held today, they would get 94 out of the 625 seats, or 15% of the seats. They will gain the equivalent of 75 seats out of 500 seats.

Thus, it is clear that the biggest loser may very well be the NLP, losing about 83% of their seats. Following them would be the Whigs, losing 47% of their seats. The CLP could lose about one-fifth of their seats. The only parties to make major gains will be the Liberals, which will gain 163% of their seats, and the Socreds, which will have a 9400% increase.

Thus, while the economy may be playing a significant role in this election, change is going to be the major theme of the coming election, as many voters want change away from Whig party rule, and to a new type of government that could care for the welfare of the people, instead of just the cold statistics.

In other news

• Saexland - Government to rescind recognition of Lecistan
• Lecistan - Saltuceri deposed, goes missing
• Pavonistade - Trade deal reached with Hyd Gohin
• Opinion - The Whigs are the only suitable choice for this free nation

[Luziyca]

Shjoraski to cut ties with Lecistan while Svensson seeks to recognize the Lecistani Republic

Breuvi Shjoraski in Vesterhag, July 2015

GIJIROKASTRA, F.C. - In light of the deteriorating security situation in Lecistan, with a three-way civil war between national socialists, republicans, and monarchists within the country, President Breuvi Shjoraski has stated that "due to the deteriorating security situation, we are going to implement orders to ban all non-essential travel to Lecistan, and that any Luziycan citizens who are currently in the country must leave."

Shjoraski received the news in Gijirokastra, and has decided to follow North Daecon's lead, stating that "as much as it is ideal to try and resolve the situation: the truth is that with the situation in Lecistan's capital is deteriorating, we are left with no choice but to evacuate all of our staff, including the ambassador, Mr. Sandro Merolla, within the next few days. We plan to be out of Lecistan no later than next Tuesday. Likewise, we will declare all the Lecistani embassy staff persona non-grata, and they also need to leave the Christian Republic within 96 hours, and sever all non-essential ties to the country."

Shjoraski then went on to say that "the situation in Lecistan has gotten worse since the Nevan King, Juhani III became the Grand Duke. The political situation has deteriorated, and with the electoral fraud committed under the watch of Saltuceri, it is easy to see why the Solidarity front is unsatisfied with the situation in Lecistan: they are no longer willing to trust the word of the Grand Duke."
"But it does not warrant violence," Shjoraski stated. "If all sides desire to do so, I am willing to send peacekeepers to help stabilize the situation within the country, and provide an opportunity for the people of Lecistan to exercise their God-given democratic rights. But the last thing we want is for Lecistan to fall into a war like in Kraq, or worse, Odissia using it as a reason to violate the wishes of the Lecistani people to be sovereign, and reintegrating it into the Odissian nation."

Sera Svensson at another campaign event pledged that if she were elected, "we will provide unconditional support to the Lecistani Republic, and will recognize it as the sole legitimate government of the country. I oppose Odissian claims, and I think that it is up to the people, but the people want an end to the monarchy."
Her bold statement has cost her some ground, with Narsete La Via saying that "this statement proves that she is a West Luziycan-style communist. The Lecistani Republic would oppress Lecistanis: for better or worse, the only choice that will benefit Lecistan is the Grand Duchy."
An analyst has stated that "Her position on the situation of Lecistan will cost her some ground, and if Shjoraski does exploit it, he could win a second term by a slim margin."

More as the story develops.

In other news

• Katranjiev - Crown Princess Deidre baptized at Krasimir Castle chapel
• Nevanmaa - More Nevan troops to be sent to the Grand Duchy of Lecistan
• 2016 Election - Svensson still leads at 45%, Shjoraski rises to 28%, Nikolovich rises to 20%, Khendalor at 5%, and La Via at 2%
• Shibdan - Zari Hydrocrabons CEO requests "more assistance" to help extract oil from the Punli strait