The Turtle Times

by **Sel Appa** » Fri Jan 08, 2010 9:21 pm

More to come

by **Sel Appa** » Fri Jan 08, 2010 9:21 pm

Communists Propose Bureaucratic Dictatorship for Sel Appa

8 January 2010

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NEMNENAIT—The Communist Party of Sel Appa today entered a proposed constitution that would abolish nearly five years of democracy in favor of a recently-theorized type of government commonly called "bureaucratic dictatorship". The alternative constitution is a game-changer amidst an ongoing two-year debate over a new constitution for Sel Appa. The Communist Party gave no previous indications it had been drafting an alternative constitution, which came as a surprise to many politicians, pundits, and political scientists.

The alternative constitution would replace a democratically-elected representative government with a bureaucracy that oversees all the day-to-day and long-term decisions. Instead of voting, all citizens would be able to join the government bureaucracy and work their way up the hierarchy. The bureaucracy would make all the decisions necessary to govern Sel Appa in various committees and authorities. Heading the bureaucracy would be a præsidium, similar to a cabinet, which would in turn be headed by an Executive President. The Communist Party touts their proposal as "more efficient and responsible" than the current form of government, which it says is tied to the ebbs and flows of public opinion. The Grand Archduchy is not mentioned in the proposal, but neither is it forbidden, assuaging concerns about the fate of the monarchy.

Formally proposed by Afiun Oubei (C), the alternative constitution received the support of all 117 members of the Communist Party. However, this does not garner a majority. John Hammond's Nationalist Party said it was looking into the proposal and did not rule out supporting it. Meanwhile, the Green Party, Liberal Party, and Conservative Party united in a joint statement saying they will "strongly oppose this subversion of democracy". The Socialist Party said it was "reviewing the proposal" and had not yet made a decision. The small Moderate Party also gave no notice of support or opposition to the proposal. The new constitution requires a two-thirds majority before going to a national referendum.

The Green, Liberal, and Conservative Parties have 124 seats, more than enough to block the proposal. However, the original proposal has not yet gained supermajority support either. Chancellor Ngu Phuok Dinh, a Communist, has not yet stated his position on the constitution and appears to still be reading it.

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by **Sel Appa** » Sat May 22, 2010 9:16 pm

Chancellor Dinh Calls For Dissolution of Parliament

22 May 2010

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NEMNENAIT—Throwing a new rock into the bush, Chancellor Ngu Phuok Dinh has called for Parliament to be dissolved and new elections to be held. Speaking before Parliament, the chancellor stated: "It has become clear that this Parliament cannot come to any resolution of this crisis. A new mandate must be granted so that we can begin crafting a more adequate constitution. Therefore, I will use every power available to me to seek the dissolution of this Parliament and for new elections to be held early." Immediately after the brief statement, boos and anger could be heard in the chamber. Others cheered on the chancellors new plan to resolve the years-long stalemate over a new constitution.

However, it is unclear how such an action could even take place. There is no provision in the current constitution that allows for Parliament to be dissolved early and it is unlikely that an amendment would pass enabling it. The ceremonial Head of State, Grand Archduke Kirby II does not have any power to dissolve Parliament either. Legal and political experts have begun to speculate how exactly the chancellor will go through with his plans. Some have suggested that some majority in Parliament should pass it and then a national referendum. This is similar to a constitutional amendment. Others say Parliament only needs a simple majority to vote itself into dissolution. Some pundits have designed a convoluted scheme where Parliament would expel enough of its own members to make it unable to meet, but it has been also said that this will just lead to a defunct Parliament until the next scheduled elections. Regardless of the method, most agree that it is a good idea to seek a fresh mandate.

Political deadlock has strangled Sel Appa as representatives argue over various details of what should be in the new constitution. The Chancellor has had to table debate over 500 times in the past two and a half years—the only way to avoid government shutdowns. There has been little hope of resolution, leading up to the Chancellors call for new elections. Public opinion polls show strong support for a new constitution, but divisions on what should be in it. New elections will certainly open a gruesome debate as parties hammer out their various platforms on how to structure Sel Appas next government. Indeed, one of the biggest disputes for the new constitution is over whether Parliament should be dissolvable.

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by **Sel Appa** » Sun May 23, 2010 2:10 am

Pirate Party Debuts to Contest Next Elections

23 May 2010

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ANILA CITY—A new movement has been formed among the nations technologically-savvy, seeking to manifest their political strength in national elections. The Pirate Party of Sel Appa began over a year ago as a protest and activist group. They finally have decided to take their ideas to the nation, filing for electoral certification. With well more than the 1000 signatures needed to register an official party, the PPSA is on its way to politics.

The registration comes amidst calls for new elections, something the Pirate Party is eager for. "We plan to take part in the next elections and now would be better than 2012." said Hennedy Dietrich, PPSA founder, "We want to get our views out on what we think should be in the constitution." Their fledgling platform calls for reform of intellectual property and copyright laws, as well as strong enshrinements of internet freedom. The new constitution provides a great opportunity for this, and they dont plan to let it slip away.

Party members eagerly boost their prospects in 2010 or 2012, but it is unclear how much support they will have. Thanks to Sel Appas proportional representation system, the party is guaranteed seats with even a small percentage of votes. The party is popular among teenagers and young adults and may bring the youth vote out in greater numbers than ever before, says Mr Dietrich, 30. "The younger people of Sel Appa really are enamored by our platform. They grew up on the internet and cherish it greatly." Although admitting that the party cant raise much money, says Mr Dietrich, they expect to promote themselves well on the medium they represent: the internet. "Absolutely we will take advantage of it."

But the party is not without its critics from intellectual property rights groups. "At least they gave themselves the right name." says Musicians Guild spokesman Danny Ballast. He said the Guild and other groups were looking to fight the party through legal means, but admitted that it would be hard to build a case against a political party. Sel Appa has few restrictions on what a party can support. However, Mr Ballast also said the Guilds "are not afraid to get ugly" with the Pirate Party. Sel Appas first elections in 2005 were quite docile compared to most nations, but that may change with the plans for a new constitution and Sel Appans getting more used to elections.

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by **Sel Appa** » Sun Sep 11, 2011 3:55 pm

Parliament Passes Dissolution Referendum

18 July 2010

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NEMNENAIT—After nearly two months of debate and wrangling, Parliament has passed a resolution to dissolve itself. As votes totalled up on the display, it became apparent that it would pass. Almost immediately as voting opened, the Communists and Socialists posted their votes, which constituted a majority. The Greens, Liberals, and Moderates formed an opposition, with only a few Liberals and one Green voting in favor. The Conservatives and Nationalists were split in their support.

Next for Sel Appa is a national referendum in three weeks on the proposal. Campaigns have already begun for and against the plan to dissolve Parliament. The proponents and opposition are each an eclectic mix of various interest groups with different motivations. If the referendum passes by 60% of Sel Appans, the Constitution will be amended to allow Parliament to be able run thru the formalities of dissolution. After that, new elections will be scheduled for this fall. The new Parliament will begin work on the constitution, which is expected to be passed by winter, with a referendum shortly after that, but possibly in 2011. If approved, the new constitution will go into effect, and the first elections under that constitution will be held. Polls have consistently shown that the referendum will pass.

Already, debates have begun on what will be in the new constitution. The Communist Party has outlined its plans to support some sort of bureaucratic dictatorship, with executives in charge of Sel Appa. The Socialists and Nationalists have expressed neutral opinions on the proposal, while the Greens, Liberals, and Conservatives have labelled it as anti-democratic. However, it is unclear how much say the Communists will have in the debate. Polls have been scattered and it is unclear what parties will run in the expected elections. The only party to have filed so far is the Pirate Party.

Vote Tallies:
Communist - 117/117
Socialist - 63/63
Green - 1/18
Liberal - 3/68
Moderate - 0/5
Conservative - 17/38
Nationalist - 20/42

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by **Sel Appa** » Tue May 01, 2012 10:36 am

Dissolution Referendum Overwhelmingly Passes; Parliament to Debate Dissolution

9 August 2010

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NEMNENAIT—Sel Appans went to the polls yesterday to vote on a referendum amending the Constitution to allow dissolution of Parliament. As early results came in, it was clear that Sel Appans overwhelmingly favored the referendum. For about half an hour, zero no votes were reported by any precinct. However, a few did come in as time wore on. Everyone except pollworkers were able to go to sleep early last night knowing that the referendum had passed.

Despite original questions about whether the Constitution could be amended to allow dissolution, law experts argued that the best way to resolve the crisis was with a referendum. The Supreme Court of Sel Appa ruled that a popular referendum would be taken as the will of the people, and thus valid.

All eyes return to Parliament, which must now debate an actual resolution to dissolve parliament. The vote only needs a simple majority to pass, but this is not expected to be a significant obstacle as the Communist and Socialist parties have been pushing dissolution for months and the two make up a majority. However, some debate is still expected as the Green, Liberal, and Moderate parties try to delay the dissolution.

Referendum
Should the referendum on the Constitutional Amendment that will allow Parliament to dissolve itself be passed?
YES — 98%
NO — 2%
(99% of precincts reporting)

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by **Sel Appa** » Tue May 01, 2012 1:42 pm

Parliament Votes Near Unanimously to Dissolve

10 August 2010

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NEMNENAIT—After just two hours of modest debate, Chancellor Ngu Phuok Dinh was able to introduce a resolution to dissolve Parliament under the newly-passed constitutional amendment allowing such. The call was barely finished when cheers and applause erupted from the floor. A vote was immediately held and the tally board quickly lit up with green lights. A few red lights poked thru, but were overwhelmed almost completely. When the roll was finally tallied, it came down 346-5, with only the Moderate Party members voting against it. Party leader Hillary Kerry did not comment and appeared calm and collected. The members are believed to fear being out of Parliament since the Moderate Party as an external structure has gone defunct.

The resolution calls for the dissolution of Parliament and for elections to be held eight weeks from Sunday on 10 October 2010. Political commentators expect the campaign to be brutal since the new Parliament will be charged with writing a new constitution for Sel Appa. Party machines are likely already preparing accusations and rebuttals against each other in the expected haymaker. Each of the registered parties has its own agenda and vision for Sel Appa, with only some overlap between them.

Vote by Party:
Communist - 117/117
Socialist - 63/63
Green - 18/18
Liberal - 68/68
Moderate - 0/5
Conservative - 38/38
Nationalist - 42/42

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by **Sel Appa** » Tue May 01, 2012 9:41 pm

A Look at Our New Parties

13 August 2010

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ANILA CITY—As the first election campaign since 2005 kicks off two years earlier than expected, the political spectrum has changed quite a bit. Some parties have renamed, others have realigned, one has disappeared, and one has come into existence.

The Communist Party has reorganized as the Authoritarian Socialist Party, the Socialist Party has reorganized as the Democratic Socialists United, and the Nationalist Party has reorganized as the Monarchist Party. Meanwhile, the Liberal Party has moved from the crowded left to adopt classic liberal views and the Moderate Party has gone defunct. A new party has emerged calling for more information freedom and civil liberties: the Pirate Party.

The Authoritarian Socialist Party (formerly known as the Communist Party) is again led by present Chancellor Ngu Phuok Dinh. The party seeks to implement a bold platform of more centralized power and a socialist-oriented economy. However, they have moved a bit to the right of the Democratic Socialists United, favoring some market approaches and economic growth over redistributionism.

The Democratic Socialists United, or DemSoc United/DSU, (formerly known as the Socialist Party) is again led by Kristina Leno, the daughter of former socialist leader Vladimir Ilyidge Leno. The party seeks to implement of democratic socialism. They are fairly progressive in many of their viewpoints, including the decriminalization of prostitution.

The Green Party is led by environmental activist Wendy Johnson. The party seeks to implement green democratic institutions. The party is socialist and progressive, but has a strong focus on environmentalism. It has a small green libertarian faction that supports free market solutions to environmental issues as well.

The Liberal Party is led by François Tourmont, pending a possible leadership election against Reginald Patrick who leads the Anvorbuod wing. The party, originally led by Earl Juvanya dar Krisip, had been a progressive-oriented party, but found itself crushed between three leftwing parties with strong bases. Under the leadership of Tourmont, the party has realigned to be classic liberal and libertarian. The party supports free market solutions and less government.

The Conservative Party keeps Alan Grant at the helm. The party seeks to have a constitutional monarchy and is free market and socially conservative. It supports privatization and helping business, along with moral values.

The Monarchist Party retains John Hammond. The party seeks to restore the monarchy. Grand Archduke Kirby II has not expressed any opinion on retaking even ceremonial power, but may find himself with it.

The _Pirate Party_ is led by Hennedy Dietrich. The party seeks to promote information freedom with intellectual property and other reforms. Notably, it supports the legalization of prostitution.

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by **Sel Appa** » Fri May 11, 2012 1:02 am

Latimer Research Poll Shows Sharp Ideological Twist For Upcoming Elections

20 August 2010

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LA BELLE CÔTE—Latimer Research has released a poll examining voter choices for the upcoming election. Leading the poll is the party of incumbent Chancellor Ngu Phuok Dinh, the Authoritarian Socialist Party, with 134 mandates. They are projected to gain 17 seats from the 2005 election. Also projected to gain seats is the Liberal Party, which has second place with 72 mandates. The Monarchist Party has also gained mandates, going from 42 to 51. Finally, the Pirate Party altho not holding any seats in the present Parliament is projected to win 25 mandates.

Several parties are projected to lose representation. The Democratic Socialists United are slated to lose 21 mandates to arrive at 42. The Green Party is expected to take 12 mandates, down from 18. Finally, the Conservative Party is projected to lose over half its seats, going from 38 to 15.

Georges Latimer, head pollster of the firm, said that the changes and responses to other questions led him to conclude that the vote will favor more ideological parties. "This election is about the Constitution and those parties that want to really shape the form of government will win more mandates." He continued, "That is why we see the AutSocs gaining quite a bit. They want to greatly reshape Sel Appa to have less democratic input. Meanwhile, the DemSocs appear open to that idea, despite their name. So we see their voters coalescing around the Chancellor Dinhs party. In addition, the Conservatives have collapsed due to the realignment of the Liberals and the wish by many Conservative voters for the Monarchy to be reinstated. The Conservative voters have shifted to the Liberals or Monarchists, depending on what is more important to them: liberalism or monarchism, altho both are inter-compatible." Latimer also said the Pirate Party seemed to be pulling mainly from the Liberals, Greens, and DemSocs.

"There has been a lot of shuffling around. DemSoc switched to AutSoc because they want a firm socialist government. Greens switched to Pirate a bit and Liberal because they want a democratic government. Liberals switched to DemSoc, Green, and Pirate because the party moved. We have seen a completely different Liberal Party. Many flipped over to Green and DemSoc. However, this was countered by Greens and Conservatives joining up. In 2005, libertarians only had the Conservative Party, now they can separate from the social conservatives. The Monarchists picked up a lot from the Conservatives as well, because many people want the Grand Archduchy reinstated. It has a plurality of support with 42% in favor, 35% opposed, and 23% undecided. The Pirates also picked up a lot of former Liberal support."

Latimer expects the trends to continue and says the biggest parties in the next Parliament will be the Authoritarian Socialist, Liberal, and Monarchist. The Pirate Party could win more mandates or less, depending on youth turnout. "They have a 38% plurality among youth, which would work out to 133 seats if all age groups." He expects the Conservatives to crumble further to the Liberal and Monarchist Parties, since social issues are backburnered in the constitutional debate. The Greens may decline a bit more because environmentalism is a given in Sel Appa. The Democratic Socialists will not gain and may lose more to their Authoritarian counterparts. "This election is all about the new constitution, so the Authoritarians are leading the vote for a more authoritarian and socialist government, the Liberals are leading the charge for democracy, and the Monarchists are pushing for monarchy of course. These are the three main groups and directions the debate will take. I can speak on behalf of all political scientists in saying that the debated in the new Parliament will be epic. It really could go either way."

Poll Results:
(2005 seats in parenthesis)
Authoritarian Socialist - 134 (117)
DemSoc United - 42 (63)
Green - 12 (18)
Liberal - 72 (68)
Conservative - 15 (38)
Monarchist - 51 (42)
Pirate - 25 (0)

The poll was conducted during 17 to 19 August 2010 and completed 1225 interviews, giving the poll a margin of error of ±2.8 percentage points.

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by **Sel Appa** » Sat May 12, 2012 12:01 am

Tourmont Wins Liberal Leadership Election

29 August 2010

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ANVORBUOD CITY—

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by **Sel Appa** » Mon Jun 11, 2012 12:36 am

New 'Russian Voice' Party Throws a Rock Into the Bush

3 September 2010

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ENIARKUSTAG—Just over a month until the election and a new political party has risen up from the abyss. The Russkiy Golosa, or Russian Voice, party seeks to promote Russian identity politics in the new parliament. The party is led by Katya Yudin, the former governor of Eniarku. Russkiy Golosa, which has the double meaning of 'Russian Voice' and 'Russian Vote', aims to make Russian an official language in the new constitution. But also, the party wants more prominence of Russian culture in what is predominantly an Anglo-French affair.

"For too long, we have been used for money and votes, but get nothing for it. Russians make up one fifth of Sel Appa, yet our tongue is not recognized or given any importance on the national stage." Yudin said in a press conference. She hopes to strike a chord with Russians who are proud of their heritage, but not bold enough to assert it. Russians in Sel Appa are known for "keeping their Russianness under their parkas", and also have been cut short of influence, despite being a major voting bloc.

The Russians had been a reliable vote for what is now the Authoritarian Socialist Party of Chancellor Ngu Phuok Dinh, with supermajorities in Russian provinces voting for the then-Communist Party in 2005. Despite this, few Russians were seated by the party, leading to subdued anger in Russian forums. New polling shows the party is beginning to make a dent in the AutSoc vote, which adds a concern to Dinhs hopes to return as Chancellor, as is expected. A spokesman for the Chancellor had no comment on anything he or his party planned to do about the change in the tide.

Prior to the party, polls showed the AutSocs winning 65% of the vote, 15% going to the Conservatives, 10% to the Liberals, and the remaining 10% split between the parties, withe the Pirate Party taking 4th place at just under 4%. A new poll puts Golosa at about 40%, AutSoc at 34%, Liberals at 13%, and Conservatives at 9%. Golosa pulls from across the spectrum, except from the Monarchist and Pirate Parties. This has lead the AutSocs to shed about 20 mandates, however they maintain their lead in the polls.

Political commentators are split on what the ramifications of the new party winning substantial vote. Some say that the party will work with the AutSocs, which Russians maintain a positive view towards. They believe that Dinh will either incorporate their positions into his platform, or will be open to a coalition with the party. Others, however, speculate that Golosa will play the main parties off against each other and will end up a kingmaker. Polling shows this is plausible and growing in likelihood. The main two parties in the running are the AutSocs and the Liberals, withe the Monarchists playing a significant side role. Altho the AutSocs are projected to lead the next government, the Liberals could make a play for the Golosa bloc.

Tothe Institute Poll:
(2005 seats in parenthesis)
Authoritarian Socialist - 117 (117)
DemSoc United - 34 (63)
Green - 10 (18)
Conservative - 8 (38)
Liberal - 76 (68)
Monarchist - 52 (42)
Pirate - 26 (0)
Russkiy Golosa - 28 (0)

Russian vote:
Russkiy Golosa - 28 (0)
Authoritarian Socialist - 24 (46)
Liberal - 9 (7)
Conservative - 6 (11)
Pirate - 2 (2)
DemSoc United - 1 (2)
Green - 0 (1)
Monarchist - 0 (1)

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by **Sel Appa** » Mon Jun 18, 2012 2:22 am

University of Nemnenait Poll Shows Falling AutSoc Support

19 September 2010

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NEMNENAIT—The upcoming election continues to take twists and turns with a new University of Nemnenait poll showing a further decline in support of the incumbent Authoritarian Socialist Party. The party maintains a strong lead, but it has been narrowing against the Liberal Party. Most of the losses seem to stem from the growing Russkiy Golosa party, which is taking many former AutSoc voters. Elections watchers have eaten up what originally was expected to be a clearcut leftwing victory.

Chancellor Ngu Phuok Dinh and AutSoc officials have dodged the issue when questioned about it, but maintained confidence in their partys chances. Election watchers note that they could be noting that they will win the election, but are disregarding their odds at forming government. Few expect the Liberals to overtake the incumbent party.

Meanwhile, that party continues to rally support across the country, unlocking a quarter not previously seen in left-leaning Sel Appa. François Tourmont has toured the nation, grande ville and small town, sets bedecked with yellow serpentins, to cheering crowds. Some have stated that the party has offered them an option in the election and did not vote in 2005. Previously, the only free market party was the Conservatives, but many did not want to support a socially conservative party. Election watchers agree with this based on polling, saying Liberal voters are largely new voters, which may give solace to Dinh and his party: new voters are less reliable.

Katya Yudin was all smiles while speaking Russian thruout the Eniarku region, promising big changes to Sel Appa. She even ventured into Nemnenait neighborhoods and other Russian enclaves outside Eniarku. Her party has risen sharply in the polls, surpassing even the Democratic Socialists United and now pokes at the door of John Hammonds Monarchists. Asked nonstop about which party she prefers: AutSoc or Liberal, she relishes the limelight, the uncertainty, the power, and inevitably gives an open-ended answer. Her minders and supporters are similar, but voters are divided a bit on who they want her to throw her lot in with. 50% want Dinh, 40% want Tourmont, 5% want Hammond, 5% are other or undecided. Yudin is right, say pundits, to bide her time and play the two parties against each other extract the greatest concessions. Dinh and Tourmont have delayed to the post election whether they would invite Yudin to govern alongside them, but insiders have leaked that both are seriously considering their options and what will be traded.

The DSU is expected to coalition with the AutSocs and Hennedy Dietrich of the Pirate Party said "Only the Liberals seem to interest us." The Conservatives and Greens remained more open, altho the blue team ruled out supporting Dinh. "Absolutely not" said Alan Grant, the party leader. Wendy Johnson posited "I think we stand in a good position to support anyone and are willing to go either way." Leaks have revealed that the party fears the lurch to authoritarianism made by the former Communist Party. Both opening coalitions are short of the 176 needed to govern and the 234 needed to amend and pass a new constitution, but are almost evenly matched, handing a lot of power to the other four.

What is clear is that a lot is at stake and Sel Appans are not quite sure where to take things. When the country goes to the polls in October, the outcome will be far from predictable and could go left or right. Turnout is expected to be very high due to the closeness and importance of the race. The Elections Bureau has already begun to train workers and prepare for extremely high turnout. Extra ballot stock has been ordered, however the ballots wont be printed for another week as parties still have time to file.

University of Nemnenait Poll:
(2005 seats in parenthesis)
Authoritarian Socialists 101 (117)
Liberals 78 (68)
Monarchists 56 (42)
Russkiy Golosa 42 (0)
Democratic Socialists 32 (63)
Pirates 27 (0)
Greens 9 (18)
Conservatives 5 (38)

Eniarku Region:
Russkiy Golosa - 41 (0)
Authoritarian Socialist - 17 (46)
Liberal - 6 (7)
Conservative - 4 (11)
Pirate - 1 (2)
DemSoc United - 1 (2)
Green - 0 (1)
Monarchist - 0 (1)

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by **Sel Appa** » Thu Jun 21, 2012 8:03 pm

Guest Column: Dont forget conservative values at the polls

Alan Grant
30 September 2010

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CAPELLE, NIRE—In ten days, Sel Appans will take to the polls for the first time in over five years. The ramifications of this election are great. We will be electing the 351 people who will write the new constitution for our great nation. It is important that each voter considers what direction they want to take this country. There may be no going back.

It is wonderful to see more Sel Appans opening up to the values of free market capitalism. After many years of socialism and the dominance of the four left-wing parties, Sel Appa may finally be on course to restore its former greatness. However, we must remember the values we hold dear. Several other parties want to threaten our lives and our children. They want to legalize drugs. They want to legalize prostitution. They want to legalize homosexuality. We must ensure our society is free of deviant behaviors and electing these parties will encourage the further erosion of our society.

I urge Sel Appans to pair our growing free market values with our traditional family and conservative values and vote for the Conservative Party. We will ensure the constitution is centred around a free market republic. We will restore the monarchy to have some limited power and influence. We will bring Sel Appa back to its prime.

Alan Grant is an entrepreneur, theologian, and leader of the Conservative Party.

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by **Sel Appa** » Fri Jun 22, 2012 11:21 pm

Sel Appa Prepares for Pivotal Election

9 October 2010

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NEMNENAIT—Tomorrow, Sel Appans will head to the polls for the first time since 2005, two years earlier than originally scheduled. The 2009-2010 constitutional crisis came to a close earlier this year when Parliament decided to post a national referendum that would allow it to dissolve itself. The referendum overwhelmingly passed, Parliament dissolved, and set an election date two months later.

Despite this being a standard election between the eight registered parties, the main—and perhaps only issue—is the new constitution. The 351 representatives elected tomorrow will be charged with writing it. Every party has a different vision for what they want out of the constitution if they won the majority. Three main parties are considered in contention for the leading rights to the new charter: the incumbent Authoritarian Socialist Party led by Chancellor Ngu Phuok Dinh, the rising Liberal Party led by François Tourmont, and the traditional Monarchist Party led by John Hammond.

The eight parties contesting the election will need to form a coalition of 176 or more representatives in order to form a government. However, this government will be a caretaker government only and cannot issue major policy changes. It will, however, oversee the writing of the new constitution. What complicates things is that two-thirds majority will be needed to pass the constitution so it can be posted as a national referendum. So even if the government is highly partisan, it will still have to compromise with almost every party to get the constitution passed. The government will have the most influence, but will have to be open to compromises.

The Authoritarian Socialist Party has led the polls the whole eight week stretch. However, they have been rocked by the formation of the Russkiy Golosa (Russian Voice) party. Golosa sucked up a large contingent of the former AutSoc vote and the party led by Katya Yudin is now in a position to play kingmaker. Meanwhile, the Liberal and Monarchist Parties have gathered steam and present alternatives to the incumbents. The former leftwing Liberal Party moved to the economic right under Tourmont and struck an untapped well of libertarian Sel Appan voters, who wanted a free market party, but could not bear to vote Conservative. The Monarchists have seized on the idea, which seems decently popular, and risen in the polls. The remaining parties push smaller interests or have been squished aside by the tense race between the AutSocs and Liberals. The Conservative Party has declined significantly in the polls, as have the Greens and the Democratic Socialists. The new Pirate Party has held steady.

Looking at the polls, political scientists have predicted what might happen. The Authoritarian Socialist Party and the Democratic Socialists United are expected to form the first coalition. The Liberals and Pirates are likely to form the second. Both opening coalitions are far below 176, but the leftwing coalition has a small lead. The Conservatives ruled out joining the leftists, making them likely to add their paltry numbers to the right. Many speculate that they are hoping for a Monarchist-led government, however unlikely. The Greens are open to either, but are more inclined to the left. The Monarchists are also open to either, but have more conflicts with the left than the right. Russkiy Golosa has left open who they support more and it is believed that they are already plotting how to play both leading parties against each other. Golosa could clinch it for the left, but may prefer the right.

The AutSocs want a bureaucratic dictatorship style of government. Their partners in DSU prefer social democracy, but may be persuadable. Golosa is also probably open to such a concept, but will want to see what the Liberals offer them. Meanwhile, the Liberals want a democratic republican form of government with decentralized power and possibly federalism. The Pirates feel similarly, but are a special issue party unrelated to governance. The Conservatives want a constitutional monarchy with a republic. The Greens want a green-focused democracy with decentralization and localism. The Monarchists want a monarchy in some form, but would like to see significant power restored. However, the membership is split between those who are open to compromise as a constitutional monarchy and those who are more unrepentant supporters of the Crown. Finally, the expected kingmakers in Golosa are not picky about government, altho many suspect their sympathies lie more with the left. However, they are believed ready to accept anyone that takes their issues up.

Who will form the government is really up in the air, even if the polls that are available are used. A lot of power is in the lesser parties, particularly Golosa. All eyes will be on Katya Yudin as the votes get tabulated. The question on many minds is will she turn left or right? And what will coax her that direction. Insiders have said that Dinh is ambivalent about diluting national unity with a third language. The Liberals have expressed concern about the expenses of adding a language and having three official languages. John Hammond, meanwhile, attempted to speak in broken Russian which was saluted for effort, saying that he was open to making Russian official if Yudin partners with him. Few expect that he would be able to form the government, but even the Great Turtle is sighted from time to time.

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by **Sel Appa** » Sat Jun 30, 2012 12:28 am

Election Day: Who is Sel Appa Voting For?

10 October 2010

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NEMNENAIT—A crowd of reporters watched as Chancellor Ngu Phuok Dinh stood privately in his voting divider. There was no doubt who his vote was for when he turned around with a sealed envelope and strode directly to the transparent ballot box. "This is for our future." he said and walked out without saying anything else. In La Belle Côte, Dinhs challenger, François Tourmont emerged from his divider smiling. "Maintenant c'est la chance pour s'assurer Sel Appa a un avenir brillant et républicain!" (Now is the chance to ensure Sel Appa has a bright, republican future!) he proclaimed. The two men go head to head, both hoping to lead the new government, and the deliberations over the new constitution.

Meanwhile, Turtle Times reporters were sent across the country to interview voters and ask them about their choice for Parliament:

Ronald Spurlock, a resident of Anila City says he voted Liberal:
"I think they have the best platform for Sel Appa. Not ideological and we need to ensure Sel Appa remains a republic. Weve strayed too far into socialism and I think we need to step back a bit and let the market do things. Unemployment has grown since 2005 and the economy has surely slowed down. It is time for a change in policy and we must secure our republic."

Melanie Tatum, a resident of Fellitshire says she voted Green:
"Im not caught up in the struggle between the big parties. I think we need to remember our environmentalist...our treehugging roots. [laughing] I love being able to breathe fresh, clean air out here. Smell the oceans, go east and smell the fresh forest must. It feels so good for the soul and its important that that spirit is not lost in the new constitution. Also, I want to see a government that is more localized. If we put too much power in Nemnenait, we will get trampled out here. Here, we know what we need and want. For issues like defense, yea, that can be handled nationally, but for other issues, I think it should be more decentralized."

Vo Dong Huynh, a resident of Badongco, Thingpao voted Authoritarian Socialist:
"We need to keep our country on track with a strong, central government. I like the idea of taking power out of the hands of the people, who have so many competing emotions, and putting our decision-making needs in the hands of those who have the knowledge and capability to do the right thing. Dinh has made Sel Appa strong and I want him to be able to continue to do so. I am proud of my country with this type of leadership."

Marina Lipkovska, a resident of Zapkots, Alokinstag voted Russkiy Golosa:
"Katya has said it all. We are a large part of this country, but not accepted for anything. We demand recognition for our culture and views. Eniarku is not just a ski resort and camping destination! We have to make a stand and defend our honor in this country. We all love Sel Appa, but we want to be seen as a part of it, not shoved in the back or used only for hockey teams."

Joe Simms, a resident of Northcoast, Hannaj voted Liberal:
"Last time I voted Socialist, but I am going with the Liberals this time. We really need change here and I dont trust the socialist parties anymore. What Dinh is trying to foist on us is, frankly, terrifying. I think he will regret his party ever proposing this ridiculous idea that unelected bureaucrats could know whats best for us without any accountability. Democracy is flawed for sure, but this idea is even worse. I like Tourmonts ideas broadly and he also stands the greatest chance of opposing Dinh and his authoritarians"

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by **Sel Appa** » Sat Jun 30, 2012 4:46 pm

Live Posting: Parliament Election Results

10 October 2010

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NEMNENAIT—The Turtle Times will be liveposting as election results come in. Polls close at 2000h, so we expect to have some results shortly after that. We expect to be able to make projections before midnight and then begin speculation on what is next. Stay tuned!

2245h — The Elections Bureau will certify results in the early morning and apportion the seats. Parliament is expected to take office at noon. And then, let the fun begin.

2235h — Tourmont reported to have called Dinh to congratulate. Expect speeches soon, but if you think Tourmont will be conciliatory, you have another guess coming. This is just a paper victory.

2233h — DSU declined quite a bit, which gave AutSocs some more breathing room. Anything could happen now. We wont even begin to predict the ensuing circus.

2231h — And now, the moment you have all been waiting for: AutSoc 109, Liberal 80, Monarchist 54, Golosa 49, Pirate 28, DSU 17, Green 10, Conservative 4.

2212h — The AutSocs have taken a small, but clear lead. We are going to wait a little to have a final projection.

2200h — We are now adding together a lot of data. AutSocs and Liberals are tied, but a good bit of southern data is still outstanding. Cant call it yet. And then again, no one has a clue who the Chancellor will be in a week, if that soon.

2150h — If she hadnt mentioned Sel Appa so many times, you would think Yudin was planning to secede.

2130h — Yudin giving a victory speech. Yes, a victory speech. And she deserves it, blowing out the entire region. She should be fielding two phone calls tonight.

2117h — As southern data comes in, it is heavy heavy AutSoc. Areas that had been DSU went to the AutSocs. Liberals have only gained a bit from their meagre results in 2005. The South was always a socialist stronghold, along with the Greens. Natives province appears to be going Green again.

2110h — Dont let the toplines fool you. The AutSocs are lurking below, down but not out. The real loser has been the DSU.

2059h — The French region is now solidly Liberal on top. The Nemnen region appears to favor the Monarchists. The Anila region has been won by the Liberals. Anvorbuod is very strongly Liberal. The Central Coast is Liberal. The South is expect to be strongly AutSoc.

2045h — Much of the north is in, along with the French region. So far, our numbers put Liberals in the lead, but there have been many delays in the south, which is very favorable towards the AutSocs. It would be wrong to make projections based on this data, other than regional projections, based on population estimates.

2030h — Big numbers in from Eniarku. So we are able to project: Golosa 69, AutSocs 13, Lib 12, Con 4, Others 2. Seatwise, this means 48 for Golosa, 9 for AutSocs, 8 for Liberals, 3 for Conservatives, and 2 for the others, probably DemSoc for one of them. This is bad news for the AutSocs, but may not reflect as much nationally. The Russians feel stung by being ignored and punished Dinhs party accordingly.

2020h — Eniarku is overwhelmingly in favor of Golosa. Projections soon. The French region appears to give the Liberals a decent edge. DemSocs have declined, but are in second place. AutSoc numbers are weak, but the party has never been favored here.

2015h — Results are in from rural Reddingham, some of the Eniarku and French regions. The trends are showing good news for the Liberals and very good news for Golosa. AutSocs, it is unclear so far.

2008h — Other results coming in are interesting, but we will hold off a bit on that.

2006h — Fizroe: Monarchist 63, Conservative 16, Green 14, Liberal 6, Others 1. With this, we can project that the Monarchist Party has secured the first 2 seats.

2005h — Results are in from all of Fizroe. We will post them shortly.

2000h — Polls closed

1958h — Yall ready for this! First results are expected from Fizroe and the rural regions of Reddingham. But remember its only the national results that count.

1947h — Do the results even matter? Any number of coalitions could form and almost everyone will need to work together to pass this thing. With the amount of parties and seats open to either leader, anything could happen regardless of which party leads the pack.

1924h — Turnout is well above 2005. People are definitely taking this seriously because its implications could pan out for decades to come.

1855h — Polls expect an AutSoc win, but there is a lot of volatility. A last minute surge higher by Golosa would disrupt them a lot and really throw the election into doubt.

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by **Sel Appa** » Mon Jul 02, 2012 1:43 am

The Electoral Aftermath: Mike and Josh in the Morning Transcript

11 October 2010

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NEMNENAIT—Mike and Josh in the Morning is a syndicated radio program owned by the Turtle Times.

Josh: So, one hell of an election, eh?

Mike: Hahahahaha

Josh: Alright, lets take a look here: AutSocs 110, Liberals 77, Monarchists 50, Golosa 49, Pirates 25, DSU 19, Greens 11, Conservatives 10. What do you even say about this, Mike?

Mike: Well I mean everyone expected quite a split, but there was also hope that a government would form out of something. But both Dinh and Tourmont have no interest in bringing in Katya Yudin.

Josh: Yea, lets take a look at the options here: The Left Coalition, AutSocs with 110 seats and DSU with 19, have 129 seats. The Right coalition, Liberals with 77 and Pirates with 25, thats 102 seats. Neither has the 176 to form the government.

Mike: And even then, they still need 234 seats to pass the constitution. Theres definitely going to be a lot of compromising going on. I just dont get, I just dont get how neither of them...Youd think theyd be running after her, but nope, neither of them want anything to do with her.

Josh: Yea, how can they expect to form a government?

Mike: Well, looking at the Left: AutSocs, DSU, Greens...thats 140 seats. How does he plan to go without Yudin? The Monarchists and AutSocs will never agree to work together. They have counterpriorities. The Right: Liberals, Pirates, Conservatives...thats 112. Monarchists could make it 162. They still need 14.

Josh: This is insane. Purely insane.

Mike: No doubt. Well Sel Appa is definitely going to remain a republic with these results.

Josh: Haha yea.

Mike: Heres what I think will happen: Dinhs gonna come back as a caretaker Chancellor. Hes the incumbent. Hes already chancellor. Hell put something together. Just a caretaker role for 6 months, no policy changes. Then, itll be roundtable voting on the constitution. Theres no other way to do it. Anyone can make a proposal, post it, and itll get voted up or down. If its in, its in. No trading of ideas. Just straight up or down.

Josh: You know, you might be right. I think that might be what will happen.

Mike: Yea, I cant see anything else. Dinh is chancellor, he won the election. He has first crack at it again. After the constitution is passed, itll be back to the voting spots in 6 months anyway.

Josh: Definitely. Its certainly going to be interesting starting at noon. Coverage begins at 11 I think on SABC and then live in Parliament Building at noon, or knowing politicians...13 hours.

Mike: Yep. Now lets take a break...

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by **Sel Appa** » Mon Jul 02, 2012 7:48 am

First Day of Coalition Talks Result in Nothing

12 October 2010

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NEMNENAIT—Noon at the Parliament Building saw ambient discussion quiet down as the bell was rung and acting Chancellor Ngu Phuok Dinh strode up to the rostrum to gavel in the new parliament. "Ladies and gentleman of Parliament, welcome. Per our rules, as incumbent chancellor, I will oversee formalities until we elect a government. As you know, pre-opening negotiations has led to no immediately obvious government. Therefore, we will have to adjourn so that party leaders and deputies may negotiate a government." With that, he gavelled the parliament out and stepped down from the rostrum, back to his party section.

Party leaders and their deputies left the room to go to their respective party chambers. Authoritarian Socialist and Democratic Socialist deputies met each other and worked out the details of a pre-coalition agreement. By 14 in the afternoon, it was signed. Meanwhile, the Liberal and Pirate Party deputies met for half an hour in the Liberal Party chambers before signing a pre-coalition agreement. Shortly after that, a knock on the door revealed Conservative Party deputies who had come to join the pre-coalition agreement. After 45 minutes of talks, the Conservative Party had joined the Right Coalition. The news soon spread that the Left had a 129 member pre-coalition agreement, while the Right had a 112 member agreement. Each would require 176 members or more to sign an agreement for a government to take form.

Around 1430, most representatives had gone out for a late lunch and would return an hour later. Upon return, Left and Right deputies were sent to the Green Party and Right deputies were also sent to the Monarchist Party. After two hours of talks, both pre-coalition deputies left the Green Party chambers with their arms folded, indicating there was no agreement. A Green Party deputy told reporters that the caucus was examining both pre-coalition proposals. Meanwhile, Right and Monarchist deputies remained in the Monarchist chambers as talks continued. And in the Russkiy Golosa chambers, deputies spoke with reporters and said that they had not received offers from either side and seemed to be ignored.

The sun deepened towards the horizon as no word had come out of the Monarchist chambers. Speculation wore rampant whether the talks were going good or bad, but the fact that there were still ongoing talks indicated they were good, just very complex. As the sun began to set, a food cart was wheeled to the Monarchist chambers and brought in. The delivery boys were interrogated by reporters upon leaving the chambers. "The atmosphere seemed positive, but I think they had a lot to figure out." one of them responded before heading back to the Parliament Building kitchen.

Nightfall approached and deputies from each party except the Monarchists and Right pre-coalition were seen exiting Parliament. Around 2200, those deputies appeared from the chambers and rushed out. Two were left behind to field questions and told reporters that negotiations were going well, but there were many details to be worked out. The Right was open to restoring the monarchy, but there was debate, even in the Monarchist caucus, about how much power the monarch should be given.

Katya Yudin spoke with reporters and said that she was insulted by not even being sent any deputies to acknowledge her. She remains willing to join either pre-coalition, but made clear that Russian as an official language would be a requirement. Both Dinh and Tourmont scoffed at the idea before the election, but it is unknown if they are still opposed. When asked, deputies for the Left and Right had no comment on whether they were considering including Golosa. It would seem they prefer to do without the minority party. Talks will resume this morning.

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by **Sel Appa** » Thu Jul 05, 2012 7:51 pm

Coalition Talks Continue; Fears of New Elections Grow

15 October 2010

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NEMNENAIT—Coalition meetings between deputies have been going on for nearly a week, but have barely moved since initial agreements were signed on Monday. The Green Party entertained deputies from the Left and Right, and remained on the sidelines until it took a caucus vote on joining a pre-coalition. The party faction split is said to be 7 Social and 4 Libertarian, but deputies had said that all of the socialists are open to a Liberal-led government. Rumors percolated that the entire caucus fears the consequences of a Authoritarian Socialist government. Ultimately, the party voted unanimously to join the Right pre-coalition agreement, bringing it up to 123 seats, six less than the Left.

Meanwhile, the Monarchist Party remains divided over how much to ask of the only pre-coalition they are talking to: the Right. The Liberals are not interested in a powerful monarchy, but the Absolutist faction holds a majority of the caucus. It is certain that the monarchy will be restored, but the big question is what its powers will be. Insiders say that the party is asking for major influence and the Liberals have balked at this, but have not ruled it out. Even if the Monarchists sign with the Right, the pre-coalition will be three representatives short of a majority, which means it all comes down to who asks out Katya Yudin.

Frustration grew among the Russian party members, who were continuously ignored. "Neither of them have sent us any word at all." said Yudin in a Thursday interview. "I dont know how they expect to have a government without accepting us as members." Indeed, it would be impossible for either team to form a government without Golosa. But perhaps the two sides are hoping Yudin will backtrack her insistence on many things, such as language recognition. She however, is intent on holding firm. "They need me, so I will get what we want." Resolution seems far from the capital.

Talk grows of the potential for new elections to resolve the dispute. If the parties cannot agree to a government in a reasonable period of time (1-2 weeks), they will likely vote to dissolve and hold new elections within a month. This is hoped to be avoided because of the expense and the weariness of multiple elections in the same year. The referendum earlier this year and the expected election under the new constitution are others. Most analysts say this is ridiculous speculation and that a unity government is more likely, but are Dinh and Tourmont ready to work together? Stay tuned.

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by **Sel Appa** » Sat Jul 07, 2012 4:43 pm

Agreement Rocks Political Foundations

15 October 2010

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NEMNENAIT—At first it seemed like the announcement of a government, finally, when news media received an invitation to show up at the Parliament Building for a breaking event. Unsure if it was a prank, only a few reporters were dispatched, but seeing some decorations set up, more came out of the hedges. But it was still unclear who was hosting the event or what was going to happen there. No one immediately recognizable was seen; only hired set builders. A simple design was set up with generic Sel Appan colors, along with a table placed at centre with four chairs and two microphones.

As the set builders finished, representatives began to stream out of the Building. Few were recognizable because they were new representatives. They settled down in the front seats and one remained up. Reginald Patrick, a Monarchist representative and deputy leader was on the stage with some aides. The crowd of onlookers, reporters, and representatives quieted down as he took the lectern.

"Ladies and gentleman, welcome. For days now, Parliament has been choked by inability to form a government. We in the party chambers have struggled to forge deals and get the parties together. Thus, it is my great honor to introduce my good friend, John Hammond." Hammond strode carefully down the steps of Parliament with aides and arrived at the lectern. "A multitude of discussions have occurred in this building, known and unknown. We have all struggled to reconcile our disparate ideals. After days of deadlock, the system has been realigned. I would now like to welcome the esteemed Katya Yudin to the table with me. Yudin appeared from the side and sat at the table. Then, the two deputy leaders sat at the edges.

"It is our privilege to announce that the Monarchist Party and Russkiy Golosa have agreed to a Third pre-coalition agreement." Hammond announced before signing a document. The crowd sat in awestruck silence. He tapped the pen on the paper and slid it to the Russian leader. She grasped it, looked it over formally, and signed at the bottom. She passed the document to Patrick to sign, as she and Hammond stood up. They put their hands up and clasped them. The membership of both parties, in the front row, cheered. "And with this, we offer an invitation to the other parties to join a unity government led by the Monarchist Party, so that we can commence the writing of the new constitution."

It was later revealed that late Wednesday, Reginald Patrick had bumped into Vasily Rigov, the deputy leader of Golosa, in a Nemnenait restaurant. The two sat down to eat and began to talk about the goingson in Parliament. At some point, the topic of signing an agreement came up and the two met thought it brilliant. They each pledged to return to their parties with the proposal. The next day, deputies from both parties met secretly in the Golosa chambers, and began to hash out a deal. The Monarchists agreed to support Russian as an official language and other demands. In exchange, Golosa would support the monarchy in a flexible to absolute form. They hoped that shaking things up with this would cause other parties to sign on for the sake of the country. Whether that will actually occur remains to be seen, but these two leaders are upbeat and optimistic.

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