Esquarium Today [Regional News, CLOSED]

[The Jahistic Unified Republic]

Reporter Beheaded by GUS
Video Released Online of Sjal's Execution

City of Unolia The Provisional Government of the Jahistic Union confirmed that the rogue terrorists currently occupying the city of Brookopolis, the so-called Greater Unolian Society (GUS), have beheaded a Sjal reporter covering the events in the occupied city.

The reporter was identified by the official Government Press Secretary, Alisha Yttibi, as Ívar Leifþon, who was originally allowed in by both Jahistic and GUS soldiers. He was reported missing in the city on September 17th, three days after a joint operation by Koy Forces Unolia and the Jahistic Liberation Forces effectively cut off the city from the rest of the country. The blockade, according to sources, was the reason why they took Leifþon in the first place, as a bargaining chip.

"Such attacks on international and neutral people like a Sjal correspondent are a violation of common decency," said Chairman Jacob Connors at a press conference, "and will not be taken lightly."

Chairman Connors offered his condolences in a letter to Leifþon's family back in Sjalhaven and has reportedly engaged in a phone call with the Sjal Prime Minister regarding the incident.

"This is par for course when it comes to the GUS," said Commander Jackson Cody, who is the head of Jahistic forces in the blockade on Brookopolis, "we expect no different. This is the fifteenth display of such brutality that we know of from these bandits; the other fourteen were against high-ranking Jahistic Youth Corps members, with a median age of sixteen years."

Jacob Connors, immediately after his phone call with the Sjal PM, called Paramount Leader Ohanka Jon Bak-su of Koyro to discuss further plans regarding Brookopolis and had Unolian generals talk to New Zephuan representatives on his behalf.

Videos of the execution have been put up by alleged GUS moles on several social media sites. Although it was announced that it was up to the social media websites to each determine whether or not to keep the video up, Press Secretary Yttibi urged people not to view them, out of "common decency."

IN OTHER NEWS:

• Brookopolis Lighthouses win Unolian Handball Championship in exile.
• Jacob Connors offers asylum to Nevan blacks and other persecuted people; "instacitizenship" for Nevan Jahistics

[Qianrong]

茜蓉信息產業部 | Qiànróng Xìnxī Chǎnyè Bù
觀龍部㖔信 | Quan Rồng Bộ Thông tin
કન્રોંગ કાગવારણ નગ ઈમ્પોર્માંસ્યોન | Kanron Kagawaran ng Impormasyon
Qianrong Ministry of Information

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Acting Chancellor Hsieh Jiang-De speaking with the press in Sinro City, New Zepuha.

145 DAYS
since Chancellor Song
Li-Chao was abducted

"LUZIYCA'S ACTIONS ARE TANTAMOUNT TO BETRAYAL," HSIEH TELLS PRESS FOLLOWING SINRO MEETING
by DONG TRINH TAN - OCTOBER 26 2014
SINRO CITY, NEW ZEPUHA - With the meeting between Peter Bergmann of New Zepuha and our own Hsieh Jiang-De ending, the two leaders have begun accepting questions from the world press, and already the Luziycan media is scrambling to find out why Qianrong has turned away from Luziyca- hoping to get an answer from Acting Chancellor Hsieh himself. Today, they got that answer.

Joseph Kristanstrommer, a reporter from Luziyca's ITV, asked Acting Chancellor Hsieh why Qianrong has begun looking less towards Luziyca and more towards New Zepuha. Kristamstrommer also erroneously referred to Hsieh as Chancellor, not Acting Chancellor. Hsieh's response is below:

Firstly, it must be stated: I am not the Chancellor of Qianrong. Song Li-Chao is the Chancellor of Qianrong; I am only Acting Chancellor until he is freed from his captivity, and once he has been freed he will resume his duties.

However, Song Li-Chao and the circumstances surrounding his absence perfectly illustrate why Qianrong has come to trust New Zepuha. On May 28th, Song Li-Chao was in Kenyen, sitting with Breuvi Shjoraski, working out plans for common defense and economy policies between the two countries, hoping to continue the longstanding relationship between the two countries. And Breuvi Shjoraski agreed, the relationship was important, a common policy was needed. Six days later, not even a week, on June 3rd, Chancellor Song was abducted by the ASQ in an attack that also killed 50 innocent civilians. Luziyca said and did nothing. Breuvi Shjoraski, who had been smiling and shaking his hand six days earlier, who had promised that Luziyca would stand by Qianrong at all times, said and did nothing. In fact, Luziyca made no statements on Chancellor Song's captivity, or on providing any assistance in his rescue, until the 141st day of Song Li-Chao's captivity, in October. Breuvi Shjoraski didn't even find it necessary to comment himself; he had Nikolai Serhoskav send the condolences and the empty promises- meaning Shjoraski himself has still said nothing on the issue.

This is not how an alliance is supposed to work. Luziyca cannot pick and choose when to help Qianrong if it wants to remain close to us. It has violated the principles of assistance and cooperation that all alliances are based upon. For the Qianrongese people, this is a massive show of treachery and apathy from Bethlehem. We had viewed Luziyca as a faithful nation that we could trust- and in return, it has stood by and watched as Qianrongese men, women, and children were slaughtered by the ASQ. To be blunt, I would say that Luziyca's actions are tantamount to betrayal. In the absence of Luziycan assistance, Qianrong has gone to nations that are willing to do their duties as allies, and are willing to stand by us when we are facing trouble- instead of running away.

Even more egregious, Serhoskav announced that any Luziycan aid to Qianrong would have strings attached- Qianrong would have to continue blindly trusting the nation that said one thing and acted the opposite way, and would not be able to accept aid from nations that have actually proven themselves useful. This highlights the possibility that Luziyca is simply using us as a pawn, as a tool in the game of global politics. They don't view us as people with lives, with families, with hopes and fears, people in need of assistance as we fight a great evil. They view us as a means to their end. This is despicable and unethical. There are some places where international politics simply does not belong; this fight against terror is one of them. Luziyca, Namor, and some other nations view Qianrong's misery as little more than an opportunity to gain power, and we will not tolerate that. If Luziyca, or Namor, or WETO- if they legitimately wish to aid Qianrong against the ASQ, they should drop their strings, their attempts to grab power, and focus on actually helping Qianrong fight the ASQ. Even as it offers aid, Luziyca shows us that it cares more about gaining power than it does about doing the right thing. This only cements the realizations that have been shown by Luziyca's litany of betrayals since June 3rd.

By contrast, New Zepuha has done far more than it had to. Before today, there was no formal agreement between Qianrong and New Zepuha, and yet New Zepuha offered its assistance and joined us in our fight. They performed the duties of an ally when they weren't an ally, the inverse of Luziyca. New Zepuha has been immensely helpful in the fight against the ASQ, and as one of my duties is to ensure the safety and security of the Qianrongese people- New Zepuha has vastly outstripped Luziyca in that respect, and for obvious reasons I must choose a nation which does protect Qianrongese national security over one that does not.

This is the first statement by Chancellor Hsieh Jiang-De over Qianrong's relations with Namor, Luziyca, and New Zepuha since the end of the Fu-Shjoraski meeting in Namo. His response might be shocking to foreigners, but to the Qianrongese, this has been known for months: Luziyca abandoned us when we needed them, and New Zepuha gave us help even though it did not have to. This is ultimately why Qianrong has shifted towards New Zepuha, and Namor and Luziyca should consider their past inaction before criticizing Qianrong for looking towards nations that actually provide assistance. It is also a reminder to all nations that abuse or neglect to their allies: after too much, the nations you have mistreated may decide to go to a country which will treat them as they deserve to be treated.

COMMENTS

Shang Yung-Wei 262 1
I hope he got a standing ovation for that.

Makinang Binay 271 2
Calling Luziyca out on their bullshit at last. Thank Heaven for you, Hsieh.

Nguyen Duong Hoa 229 1
Let's all hope that the Zepuhans are better than the Luziycans, and that they keep up with all the help they've given us.

OTHER NEWS

- NSF announces the capture of several ASQ operatives planning attack on Yucheng
- Sjal reporter Ivar Leifþon beheaded in Brookopolis by "Greater Unolian Society"
- Nationwide state of emergency lifted after all suspects in "Week from Hell" attacks captured
- Namo on lockdown after sarin nerve gas attack on various locations in the city
- Nevan Prime Minister under continued fire for racist remarks, flip-flopping
- Nizdeslavia now facing off against Planinkhoran separatists

[Reuss-Gera]

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"Joining the Triumvirate is essential to protect our country from Cata Larga", says PM Joyce

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LIONSVIEW, ASCEARG - Both the House of Commons and the Royal Senate approved the Royal Edict 679 today, making the membership of Ascearg in the Triumvirate official. Following Cata Larga's "Power in the South" iniative, and yesterday's agreeement between Michillies and the Catalarguense Commonwealth, gave a boost to the Cabinet's willingness to engage in talks with the Triumvirate. Following the advice of Prime Minister Edward Joyce, Queen Maud III issued the now official Royal Edict 679, which sealed the alliance with the Triumvirate. The approval by both Houses of Parliament was expected, given the grand coalition between the center-right Agrarian Party and the center-left Social Democratic Party.

"Our relations with Cata Larga have been bad ever since the invasion of the Asceargish isles by the Directorate on the 17th century" said Prime Minister Joyce, when asked why he adviced Queen Maud to issue the Royal Edict. "While we have been trying to improve them for centuries now, the 'Power in the South' iniative and the agreement with Michilllies show us the true hostile face of the Commonwealth. Joining the Triumvirate was our only option left" he finished.

Furthermore, Queen Maud herself approved a treaty drafted between PM Joyce and the Government of Koyro, which allows for the establishment of a permanent Koy land force on the territory of Ascearg. The 39th Combined Arms Army is set to arrive in the Naval Base of Port Alfred within the month, and prepations have already started to provice Koy troops with a base near Lionsview.

When we contacted PM Joyce again, he informed us that his govenrment plans to bring a Bill in the Houses of Parliament next week, which will bring back conscription in the Royal Armed Forces. Unlike the present Royal Edict though, it seems unlikely that the Conscription Act 2014 will pass. Reason seems to be the reluctance of the Social Democratic Party to bring back a practise that it abolished itself in 2007.

[Sandhelm]

Nevermind me

[New Zepuha]

Rebel Inquirer

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Reforms Lack Teeth
As the king reforms racial issues, he continues to ignore major human and civil rights abuses.

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October 27th, 2014

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Safe Haven, New Zepuha - We all can applaud the King for making and honest, noble effort towards reforming our nation into a modern nation. Though while he is slowly mending the wounds of racism by finally giving minorities rights, or at least semi-freedom, he still ignores a few major issues. The nation still faces the threat of angry Islamic militants, albeit they have simmered down the past month; we still face extremely authoritarian laws, there is still the issue of the Inquisition and concentration camps!

So let's start out and take a look at the big muslim boom boom group, Tac Olum. Tac Olum is a group of freedom fighters originally intended to secure the freedom of Afqataar from New Zepuha. Though after the 'Great Compromise' the group had a sudden identity crisis, though it is now clear that they are back with a new message. 'Death to the Christian autocrats!'. This was conveyed by an attack on a border security station, where National Defense Force troopers engaged twenty attackers on an outpost. The soldiers were able to eventually turn back the assault with reinforcements, killing five militants and losing one trooper with three wounded. This proves the group is still a clear and present threat and the Afqataarian Office of Security* is a sham of an organization.

While the government is rife with corruption and faces an upset in upcoming election thanks to daring young politicians, a few laws stand out. The National Patriotism Act and the Administrative Detention Act stand out among many laws. These laws continually allow police to literally do as they please. There is no constitution to protect us and our laws are taking good advantage of that fact. While these laws are still in effect we cannot have true freedom.

I cannot say much for the Inquisition rather than to leave it to your own imagination. You can see what they have done in the streets, the public processions of convicted jews and Muslims. The country cannot go on in this light, even if we aren't a racist nation anymore.

Other News

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• Qianwrong sends it's delegation to New Zepuha to negotiate no doubt another deployment of New Zepuhan troops.
• Nevanmaa continues it's racial bigotry, now starting to sterilize them, now where have we heard that?
• Four Jewish students shot dead by police, innocent mistake or anti-Semitic assassination?
• Terrorists hit Namo

[Lyonsland]

Lyonsland's change of thought: Government seeking immediate help from Luziyca and neighbouring countries
With a mere four days left before Liberate Kuninglinn's deadline, Lyonsland is now calling on Luziyca and other nations to help the search for the family

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Over 800 people braced the cold to hold a candlelight vigil demanding for the release of the family and a ceasefire.

ETTSTEN, LYONSLAND: In a rather unexpected change of thought from the Lyonese government, Lyonsland is now calling desperately on Luziyca to help join the search to find the family following conflicting reports that the group may be hiding the family overseas. Just a week ago, Lyonsland refused a Luziycan request to help find the family, stating that their infamous intelligence agency (CIA) was supplying support to the terrorist organisation. The group, who have named themselves as Liberate Kuninglinn are demanding Lyonsland to transfer the islands back to Luziycan control by October 31st or they will murder the Kuusk family. Lyonsland has rejected this demand and has vowed to defeat the group and find the family.

A vote in parliament which was accepted by a vote of 278-57 (65 were not present/abstained) gave the government permission to issue the request to Luziyca and also called upon other nations to help the search. The full request, which was posted as an online video acknowledged that the operation would be "risky" and could possibly not be completed by the October 31st deadline but did raise hope for the Kuusk family, who have been in the hands of Liberate Kuninglinn for the past 24 days. They haven't been seen since a video posted by the group on the 19th October in which Marko Kuusk appeared at gunpoint, reading a statement from Liberate Kuininglinn and was forced to chant anti-Lyonese as well as anti-Jarkvensan slogans. While the Jarkvensan Whig Party has condemned the kidnappings, they have seized the opportunity to call for a referendum on Jarkvensan sovereignty, saying that it was "the only democratic way of determining Jarkvensa's future". These demands have also been rejected by the government.

Unity Party leader and Deputy Prime Minister Ivan Harlmorr, who included a proposal of Island Territory independence as part of his candidacy for Prime Minister earlier this year has criticized the Prime Minister and the Luziycan president for ignoring the risks earlier, and has stated that Jarkvensan independance was "the only way peace and order can be restored". The far-right Patriotic Front has also took a stance on the issue and have even suggested prosecuting all Luziycan presence on the islands, labelling them as "scum of the region". Furthermore, two more protesters have been killed following clashes, bringing the number to 12. Jarkvensa is also quite close to a state of emergency, or as Labour politician Majk Palann described it, "civil war".

Comments (280)

ÖanJarkvit said on 27th October, 2014 at 16:38 LWT
Who regrets voting Carl in?

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LindaSkadmarr said on 27th October, 2014 at 16:40 LWT
@ÖanJarkvit *raises hand*

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Geremö96320620 said on 27th October, 2014 at 16:42 LWT
wait lol where is jarkvensah

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tizzletrain said on 27th October, 2014 at 16:47 LWT
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[Sjalhaven]

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Ívar Leifþon beheaded by GUS, Vörðurþon announces "retaliatory measures"
by Sigrið Ægirþdóttar | 27 October 2014

Ívar Leifþon intervene in a press conference
on this June 14, 2014 photo

Njorg, Sjalhaven | It's official: the Provisional Government of the Jahistic Union confirmed the execution of Ívar Leifþon. The Unolian monarchist group that has seized the city of Brookopolis released a video yesterday showing the beheading of the journalist. The Greater Unolian Society, more commonly known as GUS, released the video on several social media websites, initially put up by GUS moles, was heavily shared, and despite being removed from most websites the video is still circulating on the Internet. The video shows a militant decapitating a man, identified by both the group and the Jahistic Government Press Secretary as Ívar Leifþon, with a knife. The journalist disappeared on the September 17, following the joint Koy-Jahistic blockade of the city, despite receiving clearance for covering the events from both GUS and Jahistic forces.

The Government has not yet confirmed the video as genuine and is actually working on it, and most officials believe that Ívar was the person executed in the video. Ívar's family in Nydvæ confirmed the death following the video, despite heavy physical changes due to the captivity and probably torture. "Our son never was meant to die like this. He spent his life covering war zones where most journalists refused to go. He really was dedicated in showing the world the suffering of the people there. We are proud of him and hope that he'll have the afterlife he deserves" said his mother Ellisif. "He already was there if we needed help, even late in the night. He was unbiased in his coverage, he was definitely a good person, if not the goodest. We lost more than a colleague today - we lost a friend." said his colleagues here.

Ívar was not the first person to be executed - fourteen Jahistic Youth Corps members all aged around sixteen were executed - but he is the first foreigner to be, without any ransom demanded. Prime Minister Jóhann Vörðurþon said the administration was working on determining if the video was genuine. "The summary execution of one of our citizen is a disgusting action. Leifþon committed no crime - killing him to make a point to the Triumvirate, an organisation of which Sjalhaven is not a part of, was an unnecessary act of brutality that benefits no one" he stated. "On behalf of Ívar's family, I'd like to thank Chairman Connors for his condolences and his efforts to handle the situation the best possible way." said Vörðurþon, having been called by Connors they day before.

The Dográðið has approved Vörðurþon's proposed measures, giving the Government sufficient power to arrest any individual suspected to have ties with GUS. Several arrest warrants were already issued for confirmed and highly probably GUS members, and more are to come. The Government will also transfer every gathered intel about the activity of the Greater Unolian Society in Sjalhaven and in other nations, and will extradite confirmed GUS militants to the Jahistic Union. Interviewed on those measure, the President of the Dográðið Ísak Sólvinþon stated "Those measures are not here to take our liberties away, but to protect us and help the rightful forces of the Triumvirate stop the worldwide menace calling itself the Greater Unolian Society. Those measures will be repealed as soon as the lawless threat is no more."

[Ocidenia]

Ocidenian government and secessionists sign a long-term cease-fire agreement

This week Prime Minister Simeon Brozhav and the leaders of the northern and southern secessionist movements had signed a long-awaited truce after the peace talks in Helmas, Sandhelm

Ocidenia celebrates a fulfilment of a long-awaited dream. This week Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Ocidenia Simeon Brozhav and the leaders of the secessionist movements of northern and southern Ocidenia had signed an official long-term cease-fire agreement in Helmas, Sandhelm, bringing an end to any potential hostilities between the forces of the Ocidenian government and the two secessionist movements until further notice. Although this agreement does not yet serve as an official completed truce between the conflicting sides, it has been described as a first big step in a journey towards complete peace between the sides of the conflict, something that the Ocidenian government promises to continue pursuing.

By signing the agreement, the conflicting sides had agreed on multiple terms, however, not all of them had yet been revealed publicly. Nevertheless, several key terms that had been highly anticipated by the Ocidenian society from the start, had been confirmed as included into the agreement. One of them is the restraining of any military action, lethal violence or any other forms of hostilities on the behalf of all sides. This term is one of the primary ones in the agreement as, according to the government representatives, it would further help the transitioning of the truce into a potential armistice that the government had already been planning for a certain period of time. The Ocidenian Military and the secessionist militant forces will further remain stationed on the demarcation lines, however, the positioning will slightly differ this time. Following several terms in the force positioning section of the cease-fire agreement, the sides will soon begin the mutual establishment of temporary demilitarized zones on the demarcation lines. Both the Ocidenian soldiers and the secessionist militants in the north and south will establish temporary posts, camps and bases, from where the stationed opposing forces will continue to observe each other’s actions. Both the Ocidenian Commonwealth Armed Forces and the northern and southern secessionist militants will be making sure that the sides will follow the terms of the agreement by avoiding hostile engagement and restraining any violations of the demarcation lines by the forces from either side.

The updates were given by the government representatives following the end of the signing of the cease-fire agreement in Helmas. The representatives spoke on the behalf of Prime Minister Simeon Brozhav, who currently is still in Sandhelm, but is expected to return to Ocidenia this week. Apart from the further agreement details, the representatives received a lot of questions regarding the mentioned planned armistice, however, no new details on the topic could be given, apart from the confirmation that the Brozhav administration is looking forward to signing an even more solid agreement, that would ensure absolute pause to any potential hostilities for an even longer period of time. Although the cease-fire agreement is already a big step forward, many government representatives claimed that an armistice would give Ocidenia a 90% chance of resolving the secessionist crisis without a single bullet fired in the future.

Meanwhile, a sense of stability has also been brought to the capital city Paradisa, which has been ravaged by protests for months. Upon hearing the announcement of the government signing a cease-fire with the secessionists in Helmas, Sandhelm, the anti-war protesters had temporarily settled down and ceased their activities as a reaction to their goals being met. Despite the anti-Brozhav protests continuing, the settling down of anti-war protesters is encouraged to be taken as a sign that the city of Paradisa might soon experience a slight return of peace and stability as well. Let’s all hope that this time will come soon. More news on this topic – coming soon.

[The Jahistic Unified Republic]

Second GUS Video Released, Showing Firebrand Correspondent
Demands Named as "Lift Blockade, Give Us Food."

Brookopolis A mere day after the graphic and unfortunate beheading of a Sjal correspondent in occupied Brookopolis was uploaded onto various social media sites, the so-called "Greater Unolian Society" has uploaded another video purporting to be Firebrand correspondent Jacklyn Lin, who was on permanent detail in Brookpolis when the city fell under terrorist control. The Chairman of the Provisional Government, Comrade Jacob Connors, has threatened to cut off more vital supplies to the city unless all foreign hostages and twenty-five percent of Unolian hostages are freed from captivity.

Currently, the city is given rations from the Jahistic Liberation Forces among Intercountry Freeway 42, also known as "Devil's Freeway". The rations are to keep the city of over a million fed and watered while the blockade carries on. Jacob Connors has already blocked most social media sites from the city, in conjunction with the Connect Unolia Internet Service Provider corporation.

"The people of Brookopolis know the stakes and will make any sacrifice to bring these monsters to justice." Connors said.

The person holding Lin, 22, hostage is believed to be the same man in the previous video, uploaded yesterday. Jahistic Military Police are still trying to figure out who the man was, as he was wearing a mask in both videos. He appears to be Yellow or Native Unolian, and also speaks fluent English.

"We are not negotiating," Press Secretary Alisha Yttibi clarified today, "we are demanding. It is either all foreigners in Brookopolis cross the freeway or else we crackdown."

More on this story as it develops.

[Michillies]

-retconned-

[Cata Larga]

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-SPECIAL REPORT- At least two Catalarguense casualties in Cata Larga-Ocidenia border skirmish
Government, military "in crisis mode"; Sant-Emile says Cata Larga "will ascertain the details of the confrontation and act accordingly"

PUERTE-DE-LIBERETE - At least two casualties are reported after an apparent border skirmish between Catalarguense and Ocidenian military forces in the early hours of the morning on October 28. As of the original publication of this article (0448 hours on Oct. 28), the Confederal Bureau of National Defense has released that at least one serviceman was killed in the skirmish and another was critically injured, with numbers likely to increase as more information is released. The CBND has also stated that the incident occurred at approximately 2 a.m. this morning at Outpost Sigma, a Catalarguense military outpost located along the southern Cata Larga-Ocidenia border. The amount of Ocidenian casualties, if any, is unknown as of the original publication of this article. Cata Larga has not engaged in hostilities with Ocidenian forced since the conclusion of the incursion of Catalarguense forces into Ocidenian territory in June.

Catalarguense Director-General Pietre Sant-Emile has been scheduled to hold an emergency press conference at 0700 hours this morning alongside newly-appointed Generalissimus of the Confederal Armed Defense Forces Vecepacie Faraciete, who has only been in that office for 6 days.

UPDATE - 10/28/14, 0727 HOURS: Director-General Sant-Emile, as well as Generalissimus Faraciete, have both confirmed that the skirmish in question has taken place. Sant-Emile has stated that "the Catalarguense government will ascertain the details of the confrontation and act accordingly". Faraciete has also stated that, as of the time of the press conference, the Catalarguense government and military were "in crisis mode". Vecepacie has, however, assured the public that "this sort of reaction is standard procedure in circumstances such as these, with this sort of high risk and high volatility". Sant-Emile and Vecepacie also made remarks regarding the presence of the West Cortoguayan navy near the territorial waters of Michillies, which Cata Larga had recently signed a mutual defense pact with, saying it was "another threat that must be considered during these decisive hours".

UPDATE - 10/28/14, 0751 HOURS: The Catalarguense military has put all military forces "on high alert", according to a CBND press release. The Confederal Directorate has released a statement assuring the public that "Cata Larga will not take any severe actions without due cause, and is investigating to determine whether such due cause exists".

UPDATE - 10/28/14, 0819 HOURS: Cata Larga has officially raised its PREPMIL rating from Tier C (mild risk of military confrontation) to Tier D (elevated risk of military confrontation), the third highest level in the six-tier military readiness system. The CBND has cited the Ocidenian border skirmish and the actions of the West Cortoguayan navy in the decision. The CBND has also advised all civilians living within five miles from the Cata Larga-Ocidenia border to evacuate in case of further confrontation. The CBND has not yet released further details on the skirmish in question.

Ǐs Mereǐs will continue to update this story as more information is released.
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Author: Hadrie de Fernandie - Ǐs Mereǐs Staff Writer
First Published: 28/10/14, 0448 Hours
Last Updated: 28/10/14, 0819 Hours

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-SPECIAL REPORT- West Cortoguayan naval forces reported near Michillian waters | Sant-Emile denounces Ascearg Triumvirate membership as "bordering on lunacy" | Namorese capital still reeling after poison gas attacks | Sjal journalist executed on film, footage posted online | Lyonsland's search for the Kuusks continues

[Ocidenia]

BREAKING NEWS

Armed clashes erupt on the Catalarguense–Ocidenian border

The military forces of Ocidenia and Cata Larga engage in bloody fighting on the border following an undetermined trigger of hostilities

Ocidenian missile strikes ravaging the field

Good evening. This just in – the armies of Ocidenia and Cata Larga were unable to keep a peaceful and non-hostile atmosphere on the border between the two countries, as this early morning the military forces of both countries engaged each other in a brutal and destructive clash right on the international boundary. It has just been reported that the hostilities had not yet ended and in fact seem to be continuing as the two sides continue multiplying their numbers to increase their combat capabilities in attempt to overpower each other. The Ocidenian Military Command has confirmed that the local forces stationed in the western border regions are currently on high alert as all of them are being called to contribute to the Ocidenian efforts of fighting off the Catalarguense counterparts.

With Prime Minister Simeon Brozhav still being abroad, the updates were given by a government spokesman, who has claimed that the current number 1 priority is to put an immediate end to the freshly-erupted hostilities on the Catalarguense–Ocidenian border and then mutually investigate the cause of the ongoing clash between the armies of the two countries. This is what the spokesman had to say:

“The most important thing for us all right now is to remain calm. What our administration and the administration of Director-General Pietre Sant-Emile should really be concentrating on right now, is bringing an end to the ongoing hostilities on the border between our two countries. Once this is done, then we can move on towards an investigation what has truly caused the eruption of these ongoing hostilities.

Although we do not want this to be taken as any form of an accusation, we must declare on the behalf of our government that the Ocidenian Commonwealth Armed Forces definitely could not have been responsible for the escalation of violence on the border with Cata Larga, as our country’s professional military has received a clear order from the government several months ago, which states that the Ocidenian Military is not to engage the Catalarguense Military in combat without provocation. However, I want to make this clear that we are not accusing the military of Cata Larga as initiating these hostilities first. We are open to all theories and any investigation, as long as we know that the conflict is settled peacefully. We sincerely hope that this entire event has been caused by a misunderstanding.

I would also like to add that Ocidenia has no interest in fighting Cata Larga, as despite the declaration of war and the claimed existence of a state of war between Ocidenia and Cata Larga by the administration of Director-General Pietre Sant-Emile, our country sees it only as unilateral. On the contrary of the Catalarguense declaration of war against Ocidenia, our country has not issued a formal declaration of war against Cata Larga and our administration does not plan do it any time soon. All that we are currently interested in, is stopping the hostilities before they escalate into something uglier. It will bring a painful burden not only to our two countries, but also to the already-unstable Eastern Esquarium.”

Meanwhile, it has been stated that the Catalarguense and Ocidenian armies continue battling each other by bringing in heavy ground artillery, while no aerial combat has yet been erupted. More updates – coming soon.

[West Cedarbrook]

West Cedarbrook 1 - Midday News, with Waclawa Keturah
Noon PM Wrycova Central Time

<Keturah> Good afternoon, West Cedarbrook! Today's leading story: The expected surge in immigration from New Zephua in the wake of the King's liberalization order has reached West Cedarbrook.
This afternoon we present continuing coverage of the first refugees from the far north to reach freedom in our land. Earlier this month, hopes ran high among non-Catholic New Zephuans in
the wake of the King's order dismantling much of the basis for repressive and discriminatory actions on the part of the government in that far away land. But more recently, in after the shooting
of four Jewish students by police in New Zephua, there has been a great rise in requests to West Cedarbrook for refugee status here. The Department of Immigration and Customs is scrambling
to cope with applications during the current surge. Much of the surge was encouraged by access to applications on the Deparment's own German version website, and by the ongoing instructions
on Radio West Cedarbrook Deutcher Service for those without internet access. The department estimates the number of refugees could peak at 300,000 to 400,000. The Militia has been mobilized
to assist the department, which normally handles 5 to 10 thousand immigrants per year. Housing is rapidly being sought in cities which will serve as entry points for the refugees, and construction
of units is being organized at unused military and naval bases, and other locations near cities and towns that are equiped for the inflow. Here's a report from Cyril Richard, onboard a WCAF
C17-A, with one of the first planeloads of new immigrants.

<Richard> Here onboard this long flight from the north, we have many refugees from all walks of life eagerly awaiting arrival at Borku Air Base, from which they will be examined for communicable
diseases, undergo interviews about their employability and needs for training, and from where housing will be assigned. Those with relatives in West Cedarbrook may proceed to reunion after
issuance of Legal Resident cards. We have just crossed into West Cedarbrook Air Space, and...

<loud singing>

כֹּל עוֹד בַּלֵּבָב פְּנִימָה
נֶפֶשׁ יְהוּדִי הוֹמִיָּה
וּלְפַאֲתֵי מִזְרָח, קָדִימָה,
עַיִן לְצִיּוֹן צוֹפִיָּה,

<young man's voice>
Louder, so Bergmann can hear it!

<louder singing>

עוֹד לֹא אָבְדָה תִּקְוָתֵנוּ,
הַתִּקְוָה בַּת שְׁנוֹת אַלְפַּיִם
לִהְיוֹת עַם חָפְשִׁי בְּאַרְצֵנוּ,
אֶרֶץ צִיּוֹן וִירוּשָׁלַיִם.

<Richard> There you have it. Hatikvah, the old hymn. Sung in the open for the first time by these refugees.

<singing in the background, God Bless West Cedarbrook, in German>
Gott segne Westen Cedarbrook Land des freien Immer segne sie und ihren Schutz auf dem Land und die Luft und das Meer

In unseren Städten und unseren Bauernhöfen, um unsere Nation Wir wahr sein

Gott segne Westen Cedarbrook Die weißen und blauen Gott segne Westen Cedarbrook der weißen und blauen

<Richard> I want to talk to some of the lucky here, so they can give you their stories. You, ma'am, can you tell me a little about yourself, and how you came to be a refugee?

<old lady> My name is Gretel Baumgartner. I'm 77. Retired. I never, ever thought I would live to see this day.

<Richard> Do you have any hard feelings toward New Zephua?

<Baumgartner, slowly, wistfull>No, not to my neighbors. They were good to me. We had as good a life as possible there. But I am glad to be free, finally. In West Cedarbrook.

<Richard, turning to a middle aged blonde> Hello, and welcome to West Cedarbrook. What did you do in New Zephua? Any thoughts about leaving?



<blonde> I'm Gertrude Eisendrath, 33, an Insurance Adjuster. My husband and I, and our two kids are looking forward to a new life, hopefully in Wrycova. After the King began liberalization
we had hope, but with the recent shootings, we left fast, getting pre-clearance online from Immigration and Customs. Anyone out there in Wrycova in the insurance businsess, contact me once I
get situated!

<Richard> What are your feelings toward New Zephua now?

<Eisendrath> Glad to be out. The "master race" can have fun with Tac Olum all they want as far as I'm concerned!

<Richard> Okay then. You, young man. What do you want to do once you land?

<Stern> Well, once my family gets situated, I hope we can change names to real Cedarbrookese names. I'm not gonna walk around as Heinrich Stern the rest of my life! Mostly improve my English,
and play basketball. Oh, and in a couple years, I'm gonna be flying one of these babies! Flying the Blue Diamond!

<Richard - turns to a little girl holding a small menorah.> Hi there! What do you have there?

<Girl looks up at Richard, smiles>

<Richard> Well, I guess mommy and daddy will have to speak for you. Waclawa, back to you.

<Keturah> The inflow mirrors West Cedarbrook's ethnic and religious profile. Jews, Sikhs, Hindus, and Protestants have applied for refugee status. Per Immigration rules, acceptance as a
refugee is pre-conditioned on avowal of allegiance to The Kramden, and active rejection of any creed or philosophy that would overthrow The Kramden. Cooperating and providing volunteers
are organizations such as the Magen David Adom, Gurdwaras in Wrycova and Port Yehoshua, and the Church of West Cedarbrook. The Reform Rabinnical Council has ordered Siddurim in both German
and Hebrew, and has been active in seeking housing for the refugees. Diwali Celebrations are planned for arriving Hindus at major airports since they were forbidden celbration of Diwali
in New Zephua. Immigration is attempting to place any arriving Amish, along with other farmers in rural areas, such as the lower Malawani Valley.

At Lom Air Base, near Ironton, Mayor Pearl Foch addressed the first arrivals earlier today:


<Foch>Welcome, Wilkommen auf West Cedarbrook. And Welcome to Ironton. We here are happy to see the arrival of so many seeking a free life in our great country. I can speak for the people
of Ironton, and for President Feld in assuring you that a bright future is yours. Here you will have the opportunity of true citizenship, the way of life where your thoughts and beliefs are
yours, and not the business of tyrants. We share with you the hope that the land you left will continue to move toward the community of free nations. But here you will start a new life.
Learn the language, apply yourself, and see the results in the happiness and accomplishments of your children. I look forward to greeting you in seven years, after you have attained full
citizenship. On behalf of the people of Ironton, and of the nation, welcome, and actively partake of the bounty that is this great land!

<Keturah> Just one final note, a call has gone out for additional labor and plumbing supplies at Lom Air Base, Iamus Carlus International Airport, and Borku Air Base. It appears that the toilet
facilities are clogged and inoperable within minutes of the arrival of each flight of refugees, discardiing their New Zephua papers in them.

[Namor]

Two suspects of sarin attack caught by police after standoff
Xuân and Hang, the two suspected of releasing poison gas at Liberation Square, tried fleeing Capital District despite lockdown
Other suspects identified, SPC issues warrant for She Jiao's arrest

October 28, NMR 2371

---

NAMO, CAPITAL DISTRICT - After a 20-minute standoff between police and suspects, Capital District police say they now have Xuân Đức, 39, and Hang Kuo, 42, in their custody. The two people were suspected to have released the sarin poison gas in Liberation Square, part of a series of poison gas attacks across the Namorese capital which became known as the "10-24" tragedy.

Police carrying Xuân off in cuffs

The names of the two suspects were released by the Namo police on the 26th, and was released again by the Public Security Ministry. Since then, police have acted swiftly to cuff the wrists of these two terrorists.

But it was a difficult task, made slightly easier by the lockdown imposed on the capital which prevents civilian movement into or out of the area. This allowed police to search for the suspects within a certain-kilometer radius.

Police forces in the western end of Namo, only a few kilometers away from the Cemetery of Martyrs, spotted a minivan driving on a street which leads to the border between Capital District and Southern Namor. Police tried to stop the minivan by telling it to turn back, as there is a lockdown in effect. The minivan ignored all warnings and headed straight towards the district line. The police then fired warning shots at the minivan, before shooting at its tires, swerving it out of control. Then, three people rushed out of the van, dashing elsewhere and seemingly trying to cross the border by foot. Police ordered a chase of the three people, warning them to cease running or be shot. One person, later identified as 50 year-old Chu Ming, was the van's driver. Chu listened to police warnings and surrendered himself to authorities.

But the other two people continued running. Police and special counter-terrorism units managed to surround the two people, blocking their paths from all sides. It was then when the two put their hands up and were cuffed and sent to the police van. Through thorough interrogation, the two people were identified as the suspects, Xuân Đức and Hang Kuo.

"Don't kill me," Hang murmured as he was dragged away, "Don't kill me. Show mercy, please."

Xuân Đức was more defiant, and continued to cause problems for the police. He flipped around and tried wrestling his arms and legs away from surrounding police officers. Finally, officers had to use an electric gun to bring him into submission.

"Down with the government, down with the oppressive government, Heaven will punish you," Xuân reportedly said before police tasered him for good. The two people are now in custody. Although he was shocked by the gun, police say Xuân did not receive major injuries from the incident. No police officer was hurt in the encounter.

Community celebrates two suspects' capture, await more arrests

News of Xuân and Hang captured by Namo police was welcomed by the local community, many of whom still can't believe anyone can perpetrate such a heinous act of terror in the nation's capital. But they are celebrating with caution, as they know the other suspects haven't been rounded up yet.

"These two dogs," one visibly indignant resident told PTH. "To hell with them! Why don't we have a death penalty so they can be drawn and quartered?"

"Hopefully they will receive a just and appropriate punishment," another resident said. "But I just want to see everyone responsible behind bars."

Some people say locals did not celebrate as hard over someone's death since NMR 2362, when news of the death of "Knights" leader Breuvi Chikmurdof spread across the country.

Authorities identify other suspects, SPC issues arrest warrant for "Temple of Heavenly Revival" cult leader

The Ministry of Public Security issued a list of other suspects suspected to be involved in the 10-24 attacks.

The courtroom of the Supreme People's
Court, where the arrest warrant for She
Jiao was given

• Shi Ro, ethnic Kannei, age 34, from Southern Namor. Suspected to have participated in the poison gas attack at Sha Ta Yin.
• Goro Mu, ethnic Kannei, age 33, from Southern Namor. Suspected to have joined Shi Ro in Sha Ta Yin attacks.
• Paz Yaniv, Yutai, age 35, from West Namor. Suspected to have set off poison gas in Central Station.

Shi and Goro, like the two suspects already caught, seem to be following the "Temple of Heavenly Revival" religious sect on social media; however, Paz Yaniv's situation is more complicated. Being of Yutai ethnicity and following the Jewish religion, authorities are wondering why he could have possibly joined in the attacks. Nonetheless, police are now searching for these three people.

The Supreme People's Court announced that it has issued an arrest warrant for She Jiao, founder and leader of the "Temple" cult which three suspects have been confirmed to be followers of. Judge Fa Jingwa issued the warrant on the grounds that "there is substantial evidence that the 'Temple of Heavenly Revival' cult is behind these attacks, and investigation can only advance if we seize its leader and explore deeper."

Following the warrant, the Public Security Ministry put She Jiao as the most wanted person in the country, replacing Mikhail Shumev (leader of the "Otekian People's Association" terrorist group), who is now in second.

COMMENTS

---

Chen Long
We caught 'em! Fuck yeah, long live Namor! 128 1

---

Li Xiannian
Now we should catch them all and shoot them! 49 2

---

Deng Xiaoping
Throw them into jAIl 55 0

Other news

---

Foreign Ministry: Cata Larga, Ocidenia must exercise restraint - After border clashes erupted between Catalarguense and Ocidenian forces, the Namorese Foreign Ministry said both sides must exercise restraint and added that Namor will take any appropriate action to prevent future fighting through diplomatic means.
Michillies close to war after spotting West Cortoguayan ships near territorial waters - Christiana said it has raised its readiness level after Michillies spotted West Cortoguayan ships near Michillian waters.
"Greater Unolian Society" beheads Sjal reporter, holds state reporter hostage - The "Greater Unolian Society" has executed a Sjal correspondent and is now demanding that Jahistic Unolian government end its blockade of Brookopolis lest it executes another journalist, this time a correspondent belonging to the state paper. The Jahistic government said it will refuse to negotiate with the militants.

[West Cortoguay]

Departamento de Información Popular Cortoguayano
Cortoguayan People's Information Bureau
Edicion Ingles | English Edition

---

Ships of the glorious People's Navy in exercises near the
Michillian maritime border.

HEIGHTENED REGIONAL TENSIONS AS IMPERIALISTS BEGIN MILITARY PROVOCATION ACCUSATIONS

by ROBERTO de GRANADA - OCTOBER 28 2014

LOS DOPICOS, WEST CORTOGUAY - Our government has slammed the unveiled accusations of 'military provocation' by the Foreign Ministries of Michillies, Cata Larga, and East Cortoguay. They claim that the naval exercises currently being undertaken by the People's Navy near the Michillian maritime border is an incitement on our part, without any such evidence behind it. In fact, their actions more than border on hypocrisy, as they are the very ones that are a danger to peace in the region. A Francesca Díniso was reported by the Michillian information service to have commented on the exercises as "a provocation of the Milicia Republiccana at a time when tensions are already high in the South-east. These acts by West Cortoguay simply are not helping." Though Díniso is only Under-Secretary of Defence for the Armada, a position somewhat equivalent to the Deputy Naval Commissar, her words are taken to represent the entirety of the Michillian [bourgeoise] people. A similar remark came the East Cortoguay Department of Foreign Affairs, with Foreign Secretary Giovanni Perez aggressively stating "This act by the West is malicious irritation at best, both to Michillies and to the fragile but saveable peace in Southeastern Esquarium. We urge the People's navy to call off their exercises or perform it in a less inflammatory area, at least."

Following this Cata Larga also jumped in on the dogpile against us. While their response was more subtle, it was obviously aggressive in nature, raising their military preparedness level to Tier D, or elevated risk of military confrontation, for the given reason of Western naval actions. Cata Larga has also recently signed a defence agreement with Michillies, and the East Cortoguayan fascist regime is friendly to both of these.

Our Glorious Paramount Leader Premier Arturo Peralta was quick to respond to these accusations, saying "I never knew how hypocritical our neighbors were. How dare they raise the level of tension in the region and then blame it on us. And they blame it on us for the sole reason that we have been conducting a pre-planned naval exercise within our own borders! As a sovereign nation we have the full right to do this under international law, and I say this to any imperialist who would like to take this given freedom away; either go to hell, or beware, because we will defend our proletariat to the death." His brave words were applauded by everyone in West Cortoguay, to be sure.

Under instruction from Premier Peralta, Military Commissar Basilio Rubio-Lopez has declared a heightened state of alertness for the military, and units have been instructed to move towards both the Michillian and Eastern borders, while elements of the navy have been reportedly ordered to near Cata Largan waters for a preemptive counterattack only if necessary, however this has not yet been confirmed.

All-in-all, the combined forces of the Michillian, East Cortoguayan, and Catalarguenese authorities should stop acting rashly, clearly understanding that their repeated military provocations are treacherous acts of leading the situation to an uncontrollable catastrophe, missing an opportunity of continuing the reparation of relations which we have strived for for so long, only to be rejected by the warmongers around us.

OTHER INFORMATION

• Peralta Condemns Catalarguenese-Ocidenian border skirmished, calling them "Imperialist Civil Wars"
• Jahistic Unolia's resistance against the fascist insurgents
• Praise for Ascearg's decision to join the Triumvirate; possibility of a West Cortoguayan entry discussed
• Namorese Reformer-Imperialists's capital attacked; martial law imposed

[Qianrong]

茜蓉信息產業部 | Qiànróng Xìnxī Chǎnyè Bù
觀龍部㖔信 | Quan Rồng Bộ Thông tin
કન્રોંગ કાગવારણ નગ ઈમ્પોર્માંસ્યોન | Kanron Kagawaran ng Impormasyon
Qianrong Ministry of Information

---

The new Speaker of the National Assembly, Li Jian-Zheng, speaking to the press today

147 DAYS
since Chancellor Song
Li-Chao was abducted

WU GUO-SUN STEPS DOWN AS SPEAKER OF NATIONAL ASSEMBLY; LI JIAN-ZHENG NAMED NEW SPEAKER
by GUO ZHOU-LEONG - OCTOBER 28 2014
YUCHENG, QIANRONG - The Speaker of Qianrong's National Assembly, Wu Guo-Sun, announced today that he would be stepping down from the position, saying that "the time has come for Qianrong's next set of leaders to step forward." Speaker Wu took office on January 11, 2007, after his predecessor, Yuan Hua-Ping, stepped down. Wu is one of the representatives from Huatou Province; he said that he would also be vacating this seat, meaning that there will be an election for his seat within the month.

"It has been a pleasure and an honor to represent the people of Huatou Province and the National Assembly for all these years, but I cannot occupy this position forever. Seven years have passed since I was selected Speaker, and the world has changed greatly for Qianrong since then. The time has come for Qianrong's next set of leaders to step forward, and to provide us with newer ideas to the problems we face. It is only through this that we can ensure the continued survival and well-being of the Free Democratic Republic of Qianrong."

Chancellor Song Li-Chao with former Speaker Wu Guo-Sun at an event in 2008 commemorating the 80th anniversary of the FDRQ's founding

The National Assembly, following this announcement, held a vote and declared that the next speaker of the legislative body would be Wu's suggestion for his successor, Representative Li Jian-Zheng, a representative from Saorao Province and a member of the Yinglidao faith, making him Qianrong's first Yinglidao speaker. Li announced that he would accept the seat, telling the press that "I will do as much as I can to ensure that Qianrong remains free and safe as Speaker." He also spoke about his experience representing many different Qianrongese, about his membership in the Nationalist People's Party, and about what he hopes to see as Speaker from the National Assembly. "All of these varied experiences- from my time supporting the NPP, to having to represent Otekians and Tuhaoese and Minjianese alike- have given me a unique perspective, one that highlights our need for unity and strength in these trying times.

However, in addition to speaking on his experience and his goals, Li made several comments directed at the current international situation involving Qianrong. "Ultimately, what Qianrong is undergoing, with the threat of the ASQ- this is only part of a greater struggle going on across Esquarium against those who would spread violence and anarchy. The fight against the ASQ is only one front in the war against chaos. We see it in the Zepuhans fighting Tac Olum; we see it in Namor hunting down the individuals who have attacked their capital; we see it in the Lyonese seeking to save the Kuusks; we see it as the Jahistics strive to stop the Greater Unolian Society; we see it in Ocidenia seeking to reestablish peace within its borders. Ultimately, across Esquarium, we are all fighting the same fight against those who would slaughter innocent civilians. And yet we are unable to stand together to fight this issue. The more despicable leaders of Esquarium see terrorists killing thousands of men, women, and children, and view it as nothing more than an opportunity to gain power at the expense of others. The perfect example is the Luziycans, who will only help us against the ASQ- who will only fulfill the duties they were supposed to fill as our ally- if we essentially swear fealty to Bethlehem, and refuse to accept any other help. This is not an issue where the people of Esquarium can afford to play games. This is an issue which threatens every nation in Esquarium. We must set aside our differences, all of us, across the world, and unite if we hope to keep the world one where liberty, prosperity, and security reign."

The Chancellery has officially commented, saying that, "while it is unfortunate that an experienced and knowledgable politician like Speaker Wu will be leaving us, we are excited for the vigor and passion that Speaker Li will be bringing as he enters his position. The National Assembly is a critical part of Qianrongese governance, the primary representative of the Qianrongese people and the legislative branch of the government, and we are glad that the members of the National Assembly have picked a Speaker that will help ensure that it functions smoothly... we are sure that, if Song Li-Chao was here with us instead of in enemy hands, he would have approved of Wu's successor, and that he would have been just as confident in Speaker Li as Acting Chancellor Hsieh is."

COMMENTS
No comments presently.

OTHER NEWS

- tensions rising between Cortoguay, Michillies over naval confrontations in southern Esquarium
- Namor hunting down remaining suspects following lethal sarin nerve gas attack in Namo
- West Cedarbrook begins propaganda offensive against New Zepuha
- clashes erupt between Cata Larga, Ocidenia; both sides looking for details of incident
- Greater Unolian Society has reportedly taken a Firebrand correspondent hostage
- Ocidenia signs ceasefire with various secessionist groups
- Sjalhaven promises "retalitory measures" following beheading
- Ascearg joins Triumvirate: "this is essential to protect our country from Cata Larga"
- Lyonsland will seek help from Luziyca to seek Kuusk family
- "Luziyca's actions are tantamount to betrayal", Hsieh tells press following Sinro meeting

[Qianrong]

RADIO FREE QIANRONG
自由茜蓉電台 - Zìyóu Qiànróng Diàntái
台觀龍自 - Đài Quan Rồng Tự
રડ્યો લીબ્રેંગ કન્રોન - Radyo Libreng Kanron








Free Media for an Unfree Nation

---

THE NEXT APPLIER OF THE RUBBER STAMP
Qianrong's National Assembly has a new speaker after seven years of Wu Guo-Sun;
Li Jian-Zheng, his successor, might prefer to be in a position where he actually has some political power.

YUCHENG, QIANRONG- OCTOBER 28^th, 2014 - Today, Speaker of the Qianrongese National Assembly Wu Guo-Sun announced that he would be stepping down after seven years in the position, and that he would also leave his position as Representative. When Wu rose to power, the ASQ and domestic terror in Qianrong were thought of as history, Song Li-Chao was fulfilling his duty as Chancellor, the FDRQ remained firmly in Luziyca's sphere. Perhaps this is why Wu resigned; it cannot be denied that the situation in Qianrong has changed massively in the seven years of Wu's time as Speaker.

And Wu's choice, Li Jian-Zheng, is definently a change. At least a decade younger than Wu, Li represents fresh leadership in the National Assembly. In addition, Li is Qianrong's first Yinglidao Speaker(his baptismal name is Yuehan, the Minjianese form of John), an obvious attempt at appeal to Qianrong's diverse population. And he seems to have big ideas: not only did he talk about his time as representative and his loyalty to the nation and party, he also urged unity across Esquarium as various nations- Qianrong, Namor, Lyonsland, New Zepuha, and several others- all fight against various terror groups.

With his big ideas, though, Li may regret winding up in the National Assembly. After all, what good is it to be the head of a powerless body?

Despite the FDRQ regime's insistence otherwise, the National Assembly is what is known as a "rubberstamp legislature". This means that a legislative body, while ostensibly holding the country's legislative power, is actually powerless. This is quite obviously true in Qianrong; the National Assembly only holds any legislative power in theory, all the governmental power in the FDRQ is ultimately held by the Chancellery, largely by the Chancellor himself. When the National Assembly "passes" a law, it's already been enacted by the Chancellor. The National Assembly is a trophy legislature, a show to try and convince Qianrong and the world that the FDRQ is actually free, democratic, or republican.

This is not likely to work well for Li. Li, unlike Wu, actually seems to have his own ideas and his own agenda. Speaker Wu did well as speaker because he didn't want to do anything. It was an easy paycheck, and all he had to do was sit still and shut up for six to eight hours a day when the National Assembly was in session. That doesn't seem like something that will sit well with Li. Li has come into office with strong words- words about doing things. He wants to see things done by Qianrong and Esquarium alike. He's not content to sit back and smile for the camera; he actually seems to be one of the few politicians who actually cares about doing his job, and doing it well. Acting Chancellor Hsieh, used to the pushover Wu, will quickly grow tired of Li- unless Li decides to sit down and shut up, which doesn't seem too likely at present.

Li will also have to deal with a National Assembly that has never actually written its own laws or had its own agenda. Since the days of the FDRQ's first despot, the semi-deified Zheng Hye-Jeou, the National Assembly has been told to do what the Chancellor wants and nothing else. If Li walks the walk, then the National Assembly might have to learn how to function as a normal legislature.

As such, Li's career as speaker will likely be rather shorter than Wu's seven years. Between a Chancellery that will no doubt seek to keep him down and a National Assembly that has no clue how to function independently, Li will grow frustrated with the way that the FDRQ dictatorship functions. If he doesn't resign himself, then Hsieh will grow tired of his independence and force him to step down.

This is simply not a good situation for Speaker Li. He has his own agenda, but has no way to bring it about. And that brings us to our title: Li is probably going to regret going into this part of the government very quickly. Maybe, if he had gone into the executive, he could wind up in a position where his wishes might actually mean something. Li would likely be a great fit for the title of Chancellor- a position where your agenda becomes law without question. Unfortunately, he's now the leader of a totally powerless assembly. Not that there aren't already enough people who are Chancellor of Qianrong.

In the end, though, the problem is with the National Assembly's rubberstamp status. Li's struggle wouldn't exist if the FDRQ was a legitimate government. The FDRQ is a despotic dictatorship, pretending to be a democracy, and while it has many institutions that seem democratic, these institutions are all ultimately powerless before the Chancellery. If the FDRQ was legitimately free, democratic, or republican, the National Assembly would have the nation's legislative abilities, and Li would be able to push his agenda.

With all the problems endemic in the FDRQ's autocracy, it's honestly surprising that it hasn't fallen already. What we can hope is that this problem is added to the litany of issues that threaten the FDRQ clique. Eventually, there will be so many problems that the FDRQ will cave in and collapse, and the Qianrongese people will have liberty at last.

---

OTHER NEWS STORIES
Uncensored, Unedited Truth
Michillies: Tensions rising between Michillies, West Cortoguay after naval confrontations between the two
Namor: Namor's newest taste of terror: Fu government pins blame for sarin nerve gas attacks on religious cult
Ocidenia: Brozhav has made peace with the secessionists, but he may be on the verge of war with Cata Larga
Lyonsland: Will Luziyca actually help the Lyonese, or will the Kuusks be as unimportant to Shjoraski as Song Li-Chao?
Unolia: "The people of Brookopolis know the stakes": Jacob Connors tries to justify starving Unolian civilians

[Namor]

She Jiao under arrest
"Temple" founder-leader facing terrorism, high subversion charges

October 29, NMR 2371

---

NAMO, CAPITAL DISTRICT - The Ministry of Public Security said it has detained and arrested She Jiao, founder and leader of the "Temple of Heavenly Revival" whose members were suspected to have set off the poison gas attacks which rocked the Namorese capital last Friday.

She Jiao, shown here in the "Temple" organization's latest video produced seven
years ago. The reclusive leader has not made any public appearances recently

She Jiao founded the "Temple of Heavenly Revival" in NMR 2344, after breaking away from mainstream Txoist-Buddhist sects. He was on the record calling fellow religious leaders as "too soft on real problems," and "too obeying towards the throne [referring to the government]."

One of the first acts of She as leader of the "Temple" was urge his followers not to pay taxes, as he called "all forms" of taxation as "unreal." He did this by claiming that the taxes actually went to the construction of an underground city beneath Mojing International Airport, part of a secret, undocumented "government plan." She started the "Mojing Airport conspiracy theory" and the organization promoted tax evasion for several months before She and several other people were prosecuted by the People's Revenue Service (PRS).

A xenophobic sect opposed to the presence of almost all monotheistic religions (which the "Temple" refers to as "ghost faiths"), the "Temple" has called on a ban on Christianity and Islam. She has delivered many speeches condemning both religions, and was consequently prosecuted for violating the Interracial, Inter-ethnic and Inter-religious Harmony Act (IIIHA).

As time passed by, She expanded his group's activities. In NMR 2364, She claimed in a video (pictured above) that he was "struck...by a series of revelations" and realized that he is the deity Maitreya, a figure in Buddhist eschatology which has steadily made its way into Namorese religion centuries ago. In Namorese history, many rebellions have stirred against central authority by leaders who claimed to be the incarnation of the deity. Sticking with that claim despite wide nonrecognition by both the secular and religious community, She called on his followers to escalate activities against "disbelievers" and "lackeys of the government," claiming that he "now has a warrant to topple the ruling establishment." Some of the group's followers have since resorted to violence.

It isn't known as of now if She personally coordinated the "10-24" terror attacks, but he has already been prosecuted for organized terrorism and high subversion, offenses under Namorese civil law. He has yet to respond to these charges.

In the meantime, police is still trying to look for the remaining three suspects identified yesterday: Shi Ro, 34, Goro Mu, 33, and Paz Yaniv, 35. The Capital District and the central government has asked for the public to support the actions of the police and cooperate with authorities as they investigate.

Despite the capture of two suspects announced yesterday, some are still infuriated by the sarin attacks and are calling for tougher action. Anti-imperialist activist group "Anti-CIA," while stating that the attacks were not perpetrated by "any foreign intelligence agency," is now supporting the bringing back of the death penalty to "properly punish the terrorists and their crimes." Marches were held throughout the country demanding that the death penalty, banned under the Wolf administration, return as a policy. Neither Capital District nor the Executive House has responded to these demands.

COMMENTS

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Ma Ying-jeou
Disgusting. We should sentence this criminal to death in the name of all humanity. Even if we don't have the death penalty we should kill this guy anyway to show our society's resolute opposition to him, his group and his terrorism. 75 3

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Chen Shui-bian
Agreed, brother. I own three monster trucks in my garage. If the government calls on me someday I will be more than happy to run this "Buddhist" and his "followers" over with all three trucks, then telling my dog to lick their blood. 50 10

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Lee Teng-hui
@Chen Shui-bian
I sure hope the government doesn't listen to your plan. Granted, this guy is bad and he does not represent mainstream Namorese religion, but we shouldn't run him over with...trucks? Just throw him into jail and let him starve there. 72 7

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Song Li-chao
LISTEN TO ME THIS GUY WORKS FOR THE ASQ SO COOPERATE WITH US SO WE CAN BOMB THEM ALL BOMB THEM ALL MWAHAHAHAHA HELP ME 2 30

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AntiCIA
@Song Li-chao
Sorry, "Song," but we support the ASQ's rightful resistance against the fascist junta in Yucheng. 98 50

Other news

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Qianrong names new speaker - Qianrong has named Mr. Li Jian-Zheng as the new speaker of the rubberstamp National Assembly.
Namorese netizens concerned that Qianrongese speaker looks "a lot like" Txotai AR Head of State - "Is it me," commented one netizen on social media, "or is it just the fact that Vang Jun [head of state of Txotai] looks a lot like Qianwrong's Speaker Li?"

[New Zepuha]

Federal News Network

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The Big Bad South
While racial reforms are coming easy to some, southern provinces are having a hard time accepting the change.

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October 29th, 2014

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Sinro City, New Zepuha - Reforms are going almost to plan, in the North at least it is. In the traditionally agricultural region of the Southern provinces, racism is still rife and blatantly obvious, as Provinces try to cling to old segregation laws. They claim it is their right, but no legislation in the nation permits segregation any longer. Federal troops have recently met in clashes with racist militant groups, and have had to use deadly force to dispatch demonstrators and violent rabble rousers.

In the southern city of Helena, yesterday, a church was in session for a black only service intended to protect them from racial attacks. This however, only made them more of a target for racist mobs that soon descended on the church. Shouting racial slurs and chants they surrounded the church in a mob of eighty people or so, and some began to chuck debris at the church windows shattering one. While occupants barred the door and awaited fearfully for the police to arrive, the police never came to their aid. The mob was soon able to overtake the church and severely beat the congregation of blacks inside. The attack left eight hospitalized and one dead, police investigations have been haphazard to say the least.

The Provincial governor Jurg Jungebonne has yet to take any action, as a noted segregationist it is doubtful that he will make a move any time soon. In a move of not-so-surprising authority, the Minister of Internal Affairs has ordered Imperial Guard troops to seize the city of Helensburg and arrest the chief of police; as per his authority during the current state of martial law. Just as well, during the martial law period arrests made by the Imperial Guard will be tried under a court martial. The Chief of the Helena Magistrate was arrested by Imperial Guards military police officers last night in a surprise raid of his home. He was submitted to intense interrogation and revealed the names of the attack organizers, who were also seized and arrested for inciting violence and multiple counts of assault. Chief Barbrady was charged with Gross Negligence of a Public Official, a crime that could potentially carry the death penalty. Until November 10th, the Imperial Guard will take over administration and policing of the city effectively occupying New Zepuhan soil for the first time in 50 years. This move has made it clear that the federal government will be standing by it's king.

It has yet to be seen what will happen with this new move of power, whether it will upset some leaders in the South or will it give them the scolding they needed. Was this wave of arrests and the take over of the city a simple political move? Will Bergmann take a moment from dealing with Qianrong to deal with Cata Larga and the further crippling of Eastern Esquarium? All this and more is yet to be seen.

Other News

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• West Cortoguay condemned for their hostile actions in Michilles by Chancellor Bergmann
• Trade predicted to increase as new deals with Qianrong go into effect on Friday.
• Troops in Irvadistan doing well in initial deployment stages
• Possible border war in Cata Larga, government ministers hold emergency meeting on Eastern Esquarian policy and whether to turn away from the West to solve issues at home.

[West Cedarbrook]

Warshawsky Endorses Michillies-Cata Larga Alliance
Advises West Cortoguay Against Action in Longfort Bay

In an after hours interview with the Morning Star foreign affairs staff, Secretary of External Affairs Dr. Theodore Warshawsky endorsed the recently announced alliance between Michillies and
Cata Larga. He also advised the government of West Cortoguay against any military action in Longfort Bay bringing the isolated Communist nation into conflict with it's neighbors.



"In our view" stated the Secretary, "the new Michillies-Cata Larga alliance is necessary in the face of the intrigues of greater powers from outside southern Esquarium, and indifference by
those powers to the needs of the southern continent, and to Southeast Esquarium. This government trusts that the agreement, especially under the leadership of Director-General Pietre Sant-Emile,
and Minister-President Annemarie Vang will be in the best interests of Eastern Esquarium. The policy of this government is to forestall such instability as we have seen this year in Southeastern
Esquarium. I refer specifically to the coups in the neighborhood of Cata Larga, and the subsequent civil wars unleashed by such interference. This alliance fits in with our policy. In
addressing the Senate earlier this year, Michilles Minister-President Annemarie Vang in her inaugural state visit held strongly against Luzyica's involvement in the Southeast. The recent
summit in Namor has, if anything, amplified her message. We want to protect the South Central from such similar activities. This alliance contributes to that objective.

In President Feld's recent address to the Assembla Nacional, we have called for dealing decisively with challenges to regional security, particularly armed threats against the democracies.
The Michillies-Cata Larga alliance is such a response to threats in this region. ".

When asked to respond to friction in Longfort Bay between The Michillies Republic and West Cortoguay, Warshawsky said "Premier Peralta should heed President Feld's comments from his address
at the Assembla Nacional. The Premier should not let his naval exercises rise to the point of threatening Christiana. Michillies has a strong and capable military. She has the support
of her neighbors throughout the region. What we see is part of a disturbing trend, here and across the South Central, of failing Communist economies attempting to export their problems.
It failed earlier this year during Dubrovka's Operation Crimson Lance and it will fail on this continent. It would be better for the people of West Cortoguay and for the southern continent
if the Premier would open his society to democratic, and free market trends. But if he threatens his neighbors, he risks enormous damage, and suffering for his people. West Cortoguay needs to weigh carefully their actions, so as not to upset the status quo in Longfort Bay. A provocation of it's neighbors could easily become a Casus Belli. We would consider any violation of it's neighbor's borders, including maritime borders to be a jus ad bellum for the aggrieved party."

Thoughts on Mutual Defence Treaty
The Secretary elaborated, "I support a mutual defense treaty between West Cedarbrook and Michillies. Such an agreement between Wrycova and Christiana would not be for
involvement beyond the South Central, and would be bilateral in nature. Since the September elections I have discussed with both Conservative and Libertrian Senators.
Most of the senior Senators with whom I have spoken support such an arrangement. Senate President Douai supports it, and so does Libertarian leader Daniels.
Even Senators that are skeptical of such agreements, such as Lorraine LaFarge have expressed an openness to discussing a treaty. The cabinet has been very supportive of this direction,
and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff believes this is a good idea. I have always wanted such an arrangement, and proposed it earlier, in the Markowitz administration.

There have been very positive reports from the Chappeaux IV exercises on the performance of Milicia Republiccana units during amphibious assult maneuvers
Michillien Units Participating in Chappeaux IV Exercises
,
General Williams of the 18th Amphibious Assult Divison speaking highly of their intiative and expertise. So such an alliance would provide synergy that would benefit both
country's capabilities. The exercises themselves have been an opportunity to deepen our person-to-person relations with our neighbor to the north. For instance, here's a note I
received from Miss Waters, on the visit of some Michillien soldiers to her 9th grade Michillèse I class at Plum Orchard High School:
"Please convey to the Michillien Ambassador, and Military Attache my thanks for the visit of Lieutennant M-------- to my class today. The students really perked up when he stepped
into the classroom. They were delighted with his stories about growing up in Michillies, and he really gave a vivid insight into life in Michillies. Also, since many of the children
have older siblings or parents serving in the Armed Forces, they were eager to ask him about his service, and how his family copes with deployment. I was especially happy when he agreed
to stay after school, and most of the class came back at the end of the day with lot's more questions. I hope this will get back to his superiors. The Lieutennant is a fine gentleman, and
speaks well for his nation".

I was glad to see this. Our nations have a fine tradition of friendship, and Michillies has been a trustworthy bullwark of democracy in the South Central. Personal relations go deep
between us and them. I have been greatly satisfied, on a personal level, by the stewardship of Foreign Secretary Caspio Torrenatto in that capacity. I first met Secretary Torrenatto
in 1998, when he was named ambassador to Wrycova. As Secretary of External Affairs under Gerald Markowitz at the time, I learned to value the insights and perspective of Secretary
Torrenato. And I believe that we can put together an arrangement of great mutual benefit to both nations."

Southern Union, Northern Continent
In the remaining time left in the interview, Secretary Warshawsky alluded to areas of interest he wanted discussed at the next Southern Union meeting. "I'd like to see the organization
address Aerospace development. In recent years this has not been a high priority for West Cedarbrook. But joining together with other Southern Union space agencies, and Aerospace delivery companies, our research team has indicated we can see a great improvement in this area, not just for ourselves, but for all member nations. There also needs to be coordination and guidance in the arena of international corporate governance. Manufacturers here have complained about raids on their boards of directors by some fund managers, some of which have very sketchy financial records. Dr. Levine of the West Cedarbrook Central Bank has brought this up with me several times in the last year. In this area also we want
to see greater fluidity, and availability for funds for software startups. Although established firms, especially in the Arlen area continue to do well, we need continual funding for
fresh concepts. West Cedarbrook commercial banks can provide such funding, both here and abroad. And the Southern Union can ease the way for this development."

Dr. Warshawsky was more guarded about developments in the northern continent. He recognized, and thanked the government of Bleckonia in the transit of the recent refugee surge
from New Zephua. "We have always had close relations with Bleckonia, and want to thank President Marks and Prime Minister Real for their kind assistance at this time". The Secretary
declined to comment further about conditions in New Zephua, beyond stating "New Zephua is going through many changes now. Positive change doesn't happen overnight. " He waved
off questions from The Morning Star if Chancellor Bergmann of New Zephua's condemnation of West Cortoguay, and if that nation's investment of troops in Irvadistan, where Secretary Warshawsky initiated shipment of supplies to the Iravadi government in opposition of Jihadist terror in 1998 implied any confluence of interest with the northern nation.

[Ainin]

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BREAKING | Supreme Court declares W. Ainin referendum unconstitutional; blocks
Injunction issued blocking the West Ainin independence referendum from taking place; government, opposition united in condemnation

---

Protesters march towards Legislative Assembly square in West Aininian capital Hilton against the ruling
(Image credit: Francis Vachirov - Aininian Press Association)

Forestia, FO ― The Supreme Court unexpectedly ruled against the West Ainin referendum authorisation act, in a 5-4 vote that sent shockwaves through the corridors of power over the day and threatened to enflame ethnic tensions in the usually placid province.

"United, unitary and indivisible," declares the preamble of the Aininian constitution. This was the main justification the top court gave today as it struck down the West Ainin Independence Referendum Act, in its ruling declaring that "the Constitution was the supreme law of the land, [...] none exempted". The case was originally filed by Alexandre Lusacie, leader of the far-right National Alliance, and was expected to be dismissed quickly by the country's top tribunal, making this ruling a complete surprise for most analysts and officials that ABC News has asked.

"I am entirely shocked that our court system would fail our democracy so," said West Aininian deputy premier Alexander Yuchenko at a press conference shortly after news broke, visibly emotional.

In Forestia, reactions were for the most part negative, President Steven Mann issuing a statement "deploring" the "unfortunate decision" but urging protesters to stay home and respect the ruling, a statement that has come under criticism by many for being overtly patronising and apologetic. Meanwhile, across the bench, Social Democratic leader Cody Ally called the decision a "blatant attack on Aininian parliamentarianism" and Green Party spokeswoman Joanne Cartier urged civil disobedience to the decision in a joint statement also signed by all but one Green MP, 97 Social Democratic MPs, 3 Progressive Conservative MPs who were immediately afterwards expelled from the PC caucus, Socialist Freedom Party chairman Daniel Noël and his entire caucus, and West Aininian Independence Movement leader Francis Saralys, also with his entire caucus. The National Alliance was the only party supportive of the decision, praising it as "defending Aininian unity".

A large crowd has gathered in the West Aininian capital of Hilton over the past hours, swelling past 10,000 according to police reports. Organised under the banner of the motto "they," referring to the national government, "stole our dream", the demonstrators marched down from Pine Park in the north of the downtown core to the government district, rallying on the steps of the province's top courthouse, the Court of the Republic for West Ainin. Similar protest marches are reportedly occurring in several other cities, their destinations for the most part being local courts and tribunals.

According to ABC News in-house political analyst Markus Thompson, the response to the ruling by the ruling ProgCons has revealed the deep faults between the moderate and conservative wings of the party, with Mann seeming to be stuck in a precarious middle position and being forced to issue "compromise" statements that seem to satisfy neither side and just continue to inflame tensions that threaten to destroy the government after barely 8 months. Over the course of the year, the ProgCon caucus has lost 27 MPs, the latest being 11 West Aininian deputies that resigned an hour ago over the issue, citing inexorable differences with the party, opting to sit out the rest of their term, which may be cut short by a government collapse, as independent agrarian centrists.

As the ruling seems set to cause a major political crisis, the National Union of Court Employees' West Ainin branch and the West Ainin Federation of Civil Servants have both announced their intentions to walk off the job across the province tomorrow at noon, opening the possibility of the province's administration being brought to a standstill.

Officials for the Supreme Court of Ainin have not returned ABC News' calls as of publication.

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Comments

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Sorted by: Most popular

▲ 224 ▼ 112 MasterZDF1134 wrote:
THEY STOLE OUR DREAM
THEY SHALL PAY

▲ 105 ▼ 24 CappuccinoAnalyst wrote:
I can see that the Mann Self-Contradiction Device, patent pending, is still hard at work.

▲ 93 ▼ 5 FootballFan032 wrote:
Guys, join me today at 8pm on the steps of the Court of the Republic for Linack in Hartly. We'll occupy the streets. Justice for West Ainin!

(Load more...)

In Other News

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• Politics - ANALYSIS: "Irreconcilable" rift erupting in ProgCon policy over social, W. Ainin policy between right and centrist wings
• Defence - "Any military action against Cata Larga is an act of aggression against the Aininian Republic," says PM Evaline
• Economy - Parliament moves to suspend Aininian-Luziycan free trade agreement in act viewed as direct response to Namo-Luziycan talks
• International - Alleged mastermind of Namo terrorist attack arrested by police: Namorese state media

[Nevamaa]

News in Brief

West Ainin independence referendum declared unconstitutional by Supreme Court
FORESTIA - Aininian Supreme Court announced that the West Aininian independence referendum is unconstitutional in a surprising ruling that angered both Aininians and West Aininians alike. The ruling was originally initiated by nationalist Alexandre Lusacie and expected to be dismissed.

The Aininian left has called the ruling "an attack on parliamentarism" while conservative prime minister Steven Mann called the ruling "unfortunate". Nevan Foreign Ministry also released a statement calling the ruling "an internal matter of Ainin that the rest of the world should not interfere with."

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Oriental cult believed to be responsible for Namo attacks
NAMO - Namorese Ministry of Public Security has arrested She Jiao, the leader of an oriental cult "Temple of Heavenly Revival" believed to be behind the Namo poison gas attacks. Jiao has been charged with terrorism and high subversion.

Jiao's cult has called its members not to pay taxes and has terrorized Christians in the past. Namorese Police is still looking for three other members thought to be behind the attacks. Prime Minister Rantala has offered his condolences to the victims of the attacks and stated that Nevanmaa is ready to provide emergency aid should the Namorese government request it.

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Tourist group assaulted by Patriotic Front Protection Troops - several injured
MARIANLINNA - Tourist group consisting of twenty-three Vyvlander, Geadish and Namorese tourists and several Nevans was attacked by a members of the Patriotic Front Protection Troops in Marianlinna yesterday. Eighteen people were injured in the ensuing scuffle, two of them seriously. The injured were then taken to Mariestad Kungliga Universitetssjukhus for treatment. According to reports, the tourists were aged 15-28 and were on a trip organized by the Nevan Free Youth, a Nevan left-wing youth organization.

According to eyewitnessess, confrontation began when a one of protection troopers noticed a Nevan Free Youth emblem on the shirt of one of the tourists and demanded that they take it off. When they refused, the protection trooper attacked them. According to the police, quick intervention by bystanders and members of the Royal Nevan Protection Corps prevented the scuffle from escalating. Eight members of the Protection Troops have now been arrested and charged with assault.

Patriotic Front party office refused to comment on the case.

[Michillies]

-retconned-

[Namor]

"He better come out now," suspect's father tells press
Search continues for Namo sarin attack suspects, some officials worry suspects already outside of Namo

October 31, NMR 2371

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NAMO, CAPITAL DISTRICT - The father of Goro Mu, one of the three uncaught suspects, appeared in front of cameras and called on his son to surrender to authorities.

Armed Police in the streets of Namo

70 year-old Goro Jing, from his home in Phingphen, Southern Namor tearfully said that his son ruined the reputation of himself and his family.

"He was a fine kid," he said, "but now he's all around and killing people. I wish he wasn't my son in the first place. I know he is not my son. He is just a criminal and this is what criminals do. My son was a nice person who wasn't indoctrinated by any cult or religion. My son was a clear-minded, bright person. This is not my son. This is my son manipulated by evil, and he ruined the honor of our family."

Goro paused for a long while when asked what he wanted to say to his son, who is still on the run, but he pushed the words out of his mouth.

"He better come out now," he said. "Come out now. Come back. You have nowhere to run and nowhere to hide. I am disgusted and the people are disgusted. I am standing with the people and standing against you and your friends. Once you're caught, I won't lift a finger even if they jail you for life." He took no more questions and left.

Police are still searching for the three suspects (Shi Ro, Goro Mu and Paz Yaniv), but met few success at the moment. Security analysts and Namo city officials expressed worries that either of the three suspects might have already fled the city and are out in the open, with one official speaking in anonymity that the time between the attacks and the moment a lockdown was imposed on Namo was "enough time" for the suspects to leave Namo if they were quick. The official interviewed said that he cannot determine exactly the ways the suspects could have left Namo if that is indeed the case, but assured that "there simply wasn't an appropriate amount of time for them to flee the country."

President-General Fu spoke on the attacks today, calling it "an unbelievable tragedy" and vowed to "bring the perpetrators to justice." He added that Namor is thankful of international condolences in the aftermath of the attacks.

COMMENTS

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Yo Yo Ma
So yah, what do we do now if these people actually managed to flee Namo? Impose lockdown on all Namor? 49 70

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Shin Wu
We'll get them soon. They can't hide too long. 80 2

Other news

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Foreign Ministry condemns West Cortoguayan "preliminary aggression" - The Foreign Ministry urged West Cortoguay to abandon all aggressive designs upon Michillies and condemns ongoing West Cortoguayan preliminary aggression against another sovereign state. The FM said that the "actions of West Cortoguay do not reflect that of a true people's republic."
Aininian court vetoes western Ainin independence referendum - The Supreme Court of Ainin declared the West Ainin referendum unconstitutional and has blocked the referendum, sparking protests from the opposition.
Namorese FM urges Nevanmaa to investigate ultra-nationalist youth attack on Namorese tourists - The Foreign Ministry called on Nevanmaa to conduct "full and comprehensive" investigations into an incident in which Namorese, along with other tourists, were attacked by a band of ultra-nationalist youth. The Foreign Ministry added that the Nevan government "should take more action against violent racist organizations."

Corrections
In an October 28 article on the tensions between Michillies and West Cortoguay, PTH accidentally misstated the capital of Michillies as "Santiago." It is actually Christiana.

[Sassau]

Rescue workers coordinate efforts at the site of the collision.

Five Dead In Train Collision

Weidensburg, Sarau: Five people are dead and 31 have been injured in a collision between two passenger trains in the central state of Sarau. Six of the injured have been rushed to Weidensburg Central Hospital in a critical condition, with a number sent to nearby Engelsfurt Hospital for medical treatment. The trains collided head on in the early morning and it is believed human error is to blame. Among the dead is one of the drivers of the trains. Authorities have said at least two people remain trapped in the wreckage and they are unsure if they are still alive.

The crash occurred on a section of line between the town of Engelsfurt, which lies just west of the city of Weidensburg in central Sarau state. One train was west bound from Weidensburg to the town of Luzern to the west of Engelsfurt and the other was heading in the opposite direction. Both trains were operating scheduled passenger services.

SKB, the national railways operator, has said that it would reschedule trains between Engelsfurt and Weidensburg tomorrow and services may be cancelled altogether. A spokesman for the company, Johann Ulbricht, said that because the line serving Engelsfurt was a dual line, services could remain operational for commuters tomorrow morning. He also said that trains would not be operational today and that SBB had organized alternative transport for affected customers.

Investigators are at the scene of the accident. A statement from the Ministry of Transport's Federal Transportation Accident Investigation Authority said that the collision may have been caused by human error, although they haven't ruled out other possible causes. Officials have said that the deceased driver's body has been sent away for an autopsy and medical records as well as drivers logs are being investigated.

Sassau's railway network is regarded as one of the best and one of the safest in Esquarium. The last fatal accident occurred in 2010 when one woman was killed in a low speed derailment of an inter city passenger train in the eastern state of Dessau. A stalled flatbed truck was determined as the cause of the accident in Dessau.