CORNELLIAN EMPIRE NEWS (closed, Region Only)

[The Greater Union Confederacy]

Confederate Free Herald

The Dominguez Administration: A Year in Review


Pictured above: President Eufemia Monola Dominguez

It has almost been a year since then-Senator Eufemia Monala Dominguez shocked the country and the world by defeating Provincial Governor Régulo Macías Ybarra (NL) and consequently becoming the first woman President of the Confederacy. Her road thus far has not been easy. With party in-fighting and the newly formed coalition between the New Liberals and the Reform Union, it makes it nearly impossible to pass legislation in a timely manner or even pass it at all. However, she has not let this faze her.

With approval ratings well above 50%, a growing economy and diminishing crime rates, Dominguez continues the path of success, albeit some argue nominal, it is better than what the country has seen in the last decade. In the capital alone, crime has dropped 10% and 5% nationally. How has she done this? In the 2017-2019 budget, she increased the National Crime Prevention Agency's (NCPA) funding by 1 billion dollars. Though the cuts she had to make were unpopular (particularly education and social security), her return has been miraculous and have people ignoring that fact. While her road in the rear-view is impressively paved, her future does not look so pretty.

Rumors have been swirling around the capital that the Reform Union and the New Liberals may be combining to offer a full fledged constitutional reform that would shake up the executive branch of government. What the alleged amendment would do is re-create the executive branch to have nine councilors, all of which would be chosen by the legislature and the President would be selected by the Council. To this rumor, the President said:

"[The New Liberals] been trying to oust me since the day I was elected. What's concerning is that my approval ratings remain well above water and there is real change happening in the country. That said, it is clear to see that the New Liberals and now the Reform Union are dead set on partisanship rather than positive change. If that's the case, see you next year in the mid-terms."

In other News
- Secretary of State: "I'm going to begin to plan foreign visits both inside and outside the country"
- NLP Chair: "We're coming for Dominguez"
- Federalist Infighting Grows

[The Demphorian Kingdoms]

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Official Statement of the Government of the the Kingdom of Demphor, Élbannin and Duís
Oifigeil Ráiteas nà Riaghaltais nà Rìoghachd nà Démpharás, Élbaniøs & Duís

---

From: The Right Honourable Sylvester Dermot, Secretary of State and Foreign Affairs for the Kingdom of Demphor, Élbannin and Duís
Released to: Foreign press corps, Ormania State Department Office

---

Presented to the press on 20 May 2017.

---

Over the following month, the Demphorian government has conducted an investigation over the development of a thermobaric bomb developed by the Roman State, which was detonated on 16 April 2017.

The results brought out by the inquiry no longer permit the Demphorian government to maintain the attitude of comfort which it has observed for years as a result of these agitations which center at the Roman state. Instead, these actions impose upon His Majesty's Government the obligation to condemn the actions of Rome in detonating such a weapon. It is clear from the statements of the Roman government and it's action on the detonation of a thermobaric bomb that, in the eyes of the Demphorian government, the detonation of such a weapon is threatening to the region of Belisaria and Demphor's allies and forces in the region.

The State Derpartment underscores the Demphorian government's support for the successful implementation of disarmament of this weapon. The existence of such a weapon is detrimental to Demphorian interests of strengthening bilateral trade, investment ties and increasing opportunities for Demphorian investments in Belisaria. The State Department expresses concerns that a political and economic crisis may come about if such a bomb is not dismantled.

We nonetheless hope that an arrangement can be made and may contribute to a de-escalation of tensions. We look forward to initiating a dialogue with the Roman state on efforts to that can responsibly terminate the development of this warhead.

From the undersigned,

Sylvester Dermot
Rùnaire na Stàite agus Dàimh-Coimheach
Rìoghachd nà Démpharás, Élbaniøs & Duís
20 May 2017

[Late Roman Empire]

Chalcedon Gazette,
Antonius Constantius

The Divine Augustus today released a statement, condemning the "hypocrisy of those nations which have condemned our inherent and natural right of self-defense and have accused us of belligerence and expansionism, when we are simply asserting our freedom of action and reminding the world and the region that we are not to be taken lightly. Those who have the unmitigated gall to denounce us for developing a thermobaric weapon and testing it, or who have attempted to pressure us to dismantle it, even as they have engaged in militarizing islands and setting up colonies in other parts of the world, or even in developing a thermonuclear weapon without consulting their neighbors, are themselves guilty of considerable hypocrisy with regards to the issue of militancy and militarization.

"Rome is a sleeping giant no longer. Our self-imposed caution regarding military matters, due to the need for structural reforms of both the State and the armed forces and the purge of the dry rot of the Sarmaticus era, is over. This does not mean that we are going to attack our neighbors. What it does mean is that we are going to be more asserting in helping keep the peace and protecting our allies. We are not a rogue nation. We are no New Othman or Deadora. What we are is one of the most prosperous, responsible, mature, and yes, advanced nations in the region. Of whom much is given, much is also required.

"To the nations of this region: we are no threat to you as long as you behave yourselves like civilized nations and don't bully or coerce or intimidate your neighbors. To those rogue nations who do that, though, know this. We helped found the Cornellian Peace Organization, as part of a partnership to help maintain peace and prosperity in this region. I know because I was there at the founding summit, as an Imperial State Secretary at the time, acting on behalf of my best friend, the late Emperor Valerian, a man of peace.

"We call upon those nations that have a knee-jerk, hypocritical response to Roman development of such weapons to open their minds and remember that this is not some tinpot dictatorship or banana republic here with such weapons. This is one of the grown-ups in the region, one of the adults in the room, one of the great regional powers, and if we have such a bomb, we have it because it is truly necessary for both national and regional security. We do not spend billions of solidi lightly, trust us on that much.

"God bless you all. Grace be unto you, and peace, in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen."

[The Demphorian Kingdoms]

---

The U.B.C. Nightly News Theme plays with a sense of urgency, drawing the viewers in to the U.B.C Nightly News from 9 - 10. A map zooming in on the Demphorian islands brushes across the screen for a quick few seconds as photographs of demonstrations, military exercises, storms and political events occupy the background in quick, faded moments. An old, frumpy man of 68 years comes to the screen as cameras focus on the newsroom at different, specific angles. He looks to the screen without smiling and begins his segment.

"Math anmoch and welcome to the 9 o'clock news here at the United Broadcasting Centre, the fastest news source in Cornellia. I am Joe Malloy We'll begin tonight with several segments in international news, beginning with the heated exchanges this week between President Élbhin and the Emperor of Rome, Augustus. Earlier in the week the Demphorian State Department called for the disarmament of thermobaric warheads which were tested by the Roman government last month, stating that 'The existence of such a weapon is detrimental to Demphorian interests of strengthening bilateral trade, investment ties and increasing opportunities for Demphorian investments in Belisaria. The State Department expresses concerns that a political and economic crisis may come about if such a bomb is not dismantled.'"

"The Roman government responded today with a statement of Emperor Augustus himself, in which he stated that ''Rome is a sleeping giant no longer. Our self-imposed caution regarding military matters, due to the need for structural reforms of both the State and the armed forces... ... we are no threat to you as long as you behave yourselves like civilized nations and don't bully or coerce or intimidate your neighbors. To those rogue nations who do that, though, know this. We helped found the Cornellian Peace Organization, as part of a partnership to help maintain peace and prosperity in this region.'"

"Élbhin's administration refuted the statement made by the Emperor today, with senior Presidential spokesperson Amy Humphrey stating that 'The Emperor of Rome in is no position to dictate to any country on the subject of peace when it creates weapons that are against the ideals of a partnership to help maintain peace and prosperity in this region.'"

"Joining us today is our Senior Roman Politics Correspondent Geraldine MacDonald to discuss this recent exchange. Now, Geraldine what does this mean for Roman - Demphorian relations in general?"

"Well, Joe, it's interesting to witness this exchange between the Roman and Demphorian governments, seldom do they interact on the international state, but now it's much more interesting seeing that these once cordial relations are beginning to become very testy. While not even being named, the Roman Emperor has gone out of his way to suggest that Demphor could be considered a rogue nation, calling it hypocritical as well. This probably has angered the Demphorian government which would argue that is not only a member of the CPO, but also NCTO and has troops committed in peace efforts across the globe."

"Interesting, so does this mean that the Demphorian government will take any further action?"

"Considering that Rome is indeed a large power on the global stage, sanctions or any further actions of punishment would not be pursued, but you could see Demphorian diplomats taking up further action in talks and lobbying foreign governments for the dismantlement of this weapon."

"Excellent, thank you for your input Geraldine. In further news, the Senate ratified Cornellian Trade Organization membership with a vote of 20 - 11, officially cementing Demphor's membership into the organization. Senate Òraideach Jamie Lyons stated she is proud that Demphor can finally join following a year of deliberation throughout of the presidential campaign. National Labour Senators left the chamber this afternoon furious, stating that the membership would jeopardize Demphorian jobs at home."

"And now, for a short commercial break, afterwards we will discuss the 4th teacher's union strike in Ormania and the opening of a brand new square in Konflania. This is Joe Malloy, and we'll be right back."

The cameras zoom out as the closing theme plays to end the first part of the 9 o'clock news.

[New Othman]

Survey Times,
Tansu Maret

A sample of 3,000 Othmani nationals conducted by telephone over a 30 day period:

Regarding Lazodiria, a recent former enemy, the poll found:
 
68% approve
28% disapprove
4% unsure
 
45% believe that Lazodiria will never approve of New Othman, however.
49% believe that Lazodiria will approve of New Othman in time.
6% were unsure.
 
Regarding Prince Nathaniel Victor VII of Lazodiria, the poll found:
 
59% approve of Prince Nathaniel Victor VII
40% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding Adiron, another recent former enemy, the poll found:
 
63% approve
30% disapprove
7% unsure
 
Regarding new President George Rowan, the poll found:
 
70% approve
20% disapprove
10% unsure
 
Regarding the Liberal Opposition Leader, Saito, the poll found:
 
90% approve
8% disapprove
2% unsure
 
Regarding United Valik, another recent former enemy, the poll found:
 
75% approve
22% disapprove
3% unsure
 
Regarding Prime Minister Stanislav Lubinski, the poll found:
 
80% approve
19% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding the Late Roman Empire, the poll found:
 
91% approve
7% disapprove
2% unsure
 
Regarding the Emperor Titus, the poll found:
 
90% approve
6% disapprove
4% unsure
 
Regarding Caesar Servius Ahenobarbus, the poll found:
 
87% approve
10% disapprove
3% unsure
 
Regarding New Edom, the poll found:
 
89% approve
9% disapprove
2% unsure
 
Regarding King Elijah IV, the poll found:
 
94% approve
3% disapprove
3% unsure
 
Regarding Queen Mara, the poll found:
 
97% approve
2% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding General Adam Nicanor, the poll found:
 
40% approve
54% disapprove
6% unsure
 
Regarding Sarah Carmel, the poll found:
 
44% approve
50% disapprove
6% unsure
 
Regarding Count Thomas Lalery, the poll found:
 
56% approve
43% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding Deadora, the poll found:
 
6% approve
90% disapprove
4% unsure
 
Regarding Jennifer Thrall, the poll found:
 
26% approve
70% disapprove
4% unsure
 
Regarding the Shrailleeni Empire, the poll found:
 
30% approve
60% disapprove
10% unsure
 
Regarding the Mother Empress, the poll found:
 
45% approve
54% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding the Imperium of Arbites Materia, the poll found:
 
50% approve
47% disapprove
3% unsure
 
Regarding the Curia, the poll found:
 
40% approve
40% disapprove
20% unsure
 
Regarding the Empire of Ghant, the poll found:
 
66% approve
33% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding Emperor Nathan IV, the poll found:
 
71% approve
28% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding Empress Sophia, the poll found:
 
75% approve
15% disapprove
10% unsure
 
Regarding Nymun, the poll found:
 
45% approve
45% disapprove
10% unsure
 
Regarding Cassandra, the poll found:
 
20% approve
75% disapprove
5% unsure
 
Regarding Latium, the poll found:
 
63% approve
34% disapprove
3% unsure
 
Regarding Emperor Constantine, the poll found:
 
80% approve
15% disapprove
5% unsure
 
Regarding Consul Alexander Pompilius, the poll found:
 
87% approve
11% disapprove
2% unsure
 
Regarding Free Garza, the poll found:
 
89% approve
9% disapprove
2% unsure
 
Regarding King Diego IV, the poll found:
 
85% approve
12% disapprove
3% unsure
 
Regarding Premier Hernan Pacino, the poll found:
 
77% approve
22% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding former Premier Jacinta Castillo, the poll found:
 
84% approve
15% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding former Premier Marco Roman, the poll found:
 
93% approve
5% disapprove
2% unsure
 
Regarding the Papal States, the poll found:
 
83% approve
13% disapprove
4% unsure
 
Regarding Pope Pius XIV, the poll found:
 
88% approve
9% disapprove
3% unsure
 
Regarding Akai, the poll found:
 
44% approve
55% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding Ditu Hulang Lazin, the poll found:
 
56% approve
42% disapprove
2% unsure
 
Regarding Prince Sanfu, the poll found:
 
69% approve
30% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding Gloria Regis, the poll found:
 
2% approve
96% disapprove
2% unsure
 
Regarding the Feminist Collective, the poll found:
 
1% approve
97% disapprove
2% unsure
 
Regarding the ETC, the poll found:
 
48% approve
44% disapprove
8% unsure
 
Regarding the Intellectual Party, the poll found:
 
91% approve
5% disapprove
4% unsure
 
Regarding Novitera, the poll found:
 
58% approve
40% disapprove
2% unsure
 
Regarding Chief Executor James Trask, the poll found:
 
29% approve
60% disapprove
11% unsure
 
Regarding Urdnotia, the poll found:
 
22% approve
77% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding General Urdnot, the poll found:
 
10% approve
88% disapprove
2% unsure
 
Regarding Rietumimark, the poll found:
 
15% approve
75% disapprove
10% unsure
 
Regarding the ruling Party in Rietumimark, the poll found:
 
4% approve
91% disapprove
5% unsure
 
Regarding Deweden, the poll found:
 
55% approve
40% disapprove
5% unsure
 
Regarding the Queen of Deweden, the poll found:
 
64% approve
35% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding the Federation of Allamunnic States, the poll found:
 
78% approve
21% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding the new President of the FAS, the poll found:
 
65% approve
32% disapprove
3% unsure
 
Regarding Generalissimo Stevan Grimmeburger, the poll found:
 
81% approve
18% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding Vannois, the poll found:
 
66% approve
32% disapprove
2% unsure
 
Regarding the current sovereign of Vannois, the poll found:
 
76% approve
21% disapprove
3% unsure
 
Regarding Lyncancestria, the poll found:
 
63% approve
24% disapprove
13% unsure
 
Regarding the Emperor of Lyncancestria, the poll found:
 
64% approve
33% disapprove
3% unsure
 
Regarding Demphor, the poll found:
 
71% approve
20% disapprove
9% unsure
 
Regarding the Demphorian Government, the poll found:
 
45% approve
53% disapprove
2% unsure
 
Regarding Laudine, the poll found:
 
75% approve
21% disapprove
4% unsure
 
Regarding the Government of Laudine, the poll found:
 
81% approve
14% disapprove
5% unsure
 
Regarding Nekulturnya, the poll found:
 
77% approve
10% disapprove
13% unsure
 
Regarding the Tsar of Nekulturnya, the poll found:
 
88% approve
11% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding Ashab, the poll found:
 
13% approve
25% disapprove
62% unsure
 
Regarding the President, the poll found:
 
66% approve
22% disapprove
12% unsure
 
Regarding the Intaki, the poll found:
 
8% approve
39% disapprove
53% unsure
 
Regarding the Theology Council, the poll found:
 
1% approve
98% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding Dengali, the poll found:
 
7% approve
91% disapprove
2% unsure
 
Regarding the Dengali warlords, the poll found:
 
4% approve
93% disapprove
3% unsure
 
Regarding foreign interventions in Dengali, the poll found:
 
94% approve
3% disapprove
3% unsure
 
Regarding Gran Chaco, the poll found:
 
64% approve
31% disapprove
5% unsure
 
Regarding the government of Gran Chaco, the poll found:
 
34% approve
61% disapprove
5% unsure
 
Regarding Hostillia, the poll found:
 
8% approve
90% disapprove
2% unsure
 
Regarding the Son of Heaven, the poll found:
 
2% approve
97% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Regarding the CTO, the poll found:
 
63% approve
33% disapprove
4% unsure
 
Regarding the CPO, the poll found:
 
48% approve
42% disapprove
10% unsure
 
Regarding the Treaty of Beaulieu, the poll found:
 
31% approve
61% disapprove
8% unsure
 
Regarding revision of the Treaty vs. repeal, the poll found:
 
62% favor revision
28% favor the Treaty as is
10% want repeal
 
Of those voters aged 55 and above, the poll found:
 
51% regard former enemies as still suspect
35% consider former enemies as now at least partners, if not friends
14% depends upon the particular nation
 
Of those voters aged 35-55, the poll found:
 
31% regard former enemies as still suspect
37% consider former enemies as now at least partners, if not friends
32% depends upon the particular nation
 
Of the voters aged 18-35, the poll found:
 
12% regard former enemies as still suspect
38% consider former enemies as now at least partners, if not friends
50% depends upon the particular nation
 
Among men, the poll found:
 
32% regard former enemies as still suspect
50% consider former enemies as now at least partners, if not friends
18% depends upon the particular nation
 
Among women, the poll found:
 
25% regard former enemies as still suspect
55% consider former enemies as now at least partners, if not friends
20% depends upon the particular nation
 
Regarding Premier Recep Adnek, the poll found:
 
73% approve
25% disapprove
2% unsure
 
Regarding Udan Varcar, the poll found:
 
81% approve
9% disapprove
10% unsure
 
Regarding Ursula Weiler-Kotuk, the poll found:
 
70% approve
28% disapprove
2% unsure
 
Regarding Akonder Tufan, the poll found:
 
82% approve
14% disapprove
4% unsure
 
Regarding General Recep Borek, the poll found:
 
91% approve
8% disapprove
1% unsure
 
Secularism vs. theocracy, the poll found:
 
75% Secularism
23% Theocracy
2% Mix of both
 
Women’s rightful status in society, the poll found:
 
53% Equal to men
43% Inferior to men
4% Superior to men
 
Most important issues to you, the poll found:
 
69% Economy
21% Crime
7% Foreign Policy
2% National Security
1% Ethics/Morals
 
Presidential or parliamentary system, the poll found:
 
57% Parliamentary
41% Presidential
2% Unsure/Other
 
Republic vs. Monarchy, the poll found:
 
76% Republic
23% Monarchy
1% Unsure/Other

Dictatorship vs. democracy, the poll found:

41% Dictatorship
54% Democracy
5% Unsure

[New Othman]

New Ankara Times,
Arzu Onan, Senior Writer

The ruling Social Republican Party took a serious beating at the polls in the 21 May, 2017 elections, dropping from 167 seats to a mere 100 seats, a net loss of 67 seats. Overall, they fell from first to third ranking among parliamentary party caucuses. The SRP’s coalition partners, the Social Democrats, increased their strength modestly, adding a net 3 seats to reach 120 instead of their former 117. This made them the largest single party in the incoming Grand National Assembly. The principal opposition party, the Democratic Union Party, came in second instead of third for the first time since their formation, at 112 seats in the new legislative term.
 
Accepting the ramifications of this defeat, Premier Recep Adnek, who had never faced a national election before, tendered his resignation to President Gozde Polat, though he consented to remain as caretaker until a new government could be formed. Negotiations were to begin in earnest for the creation of a governing coalition with a working parliamentary majority, of course, but it was clear that the senior partner would now be the Social Democrats and it was likely that Deputy Premier Akonder Tufan was the leading candidate for the premiership. Udan Varcar would probably remain the effective leader of the opposition, not that many of the smaller parties would likely give him much support, given their diversity.
 
Despite the presence of fifteen official parties on the list, nearly half of them failed to achieve the mandatory one percent threshold required for representation in the Grand National Assembly, leaving them out in the proverbial cold. Even so, eight of the fifteen, a slight majority, obtained parliamentary representation, including two parties widely believed to have foreign funding: the Magi Rights’ Party and the Feminist Action Party. The Magi bloc took 12 seats in the incoming chamber, while the Feminists came in dead last with only 4. The neo-fascist Justice Party, by contrast, led by former Foreign Minister Bulent Incirlik, achieved 8 seats, returning a fascist-oriented party to the national legislature for the first time since the founding of the Republic.
 
It was the second tier, though, not the first or third, that produced the real breakthroughs, as the far left Popular Front, a loose coalition of anarchists, anarcho-communists, council-communists, anti-Leninist Marxists, syndicalists, libertarian socialists, utopian socialists, and religious socialists, including Islamic socialists and members of the New Edom-based End Times’ Church, garnered 20 seats in the new parliament. Also achieving a real shocker, with its first time showing, was the National Democratic Party, a centrist, constitutional monarchist group formed by Prince Suleiman, grandson of the last Sultan, former Ambassador to Ghant, and husband to Princess Alysanne Gentry of Ghant. The NDP claimed a surprisingly strong 24 seats, making them the fourth largest party in the Grand National Assembly.
 
The new deputies are set to take office on Thursday, 25 May, 2017, with President Gozde Polat being replaced by a new President elected by the entire chamber (the President’s term is only as long or short as the parliament’s term, although there is talk of creating a set term of office for the head of state). The new President would then appoint a new Premier, based upon whichever party or coalition has an effective majority in the Grand National Assembly. There has been, however, some discussion of adopting the Adiran system, where the President and Premier are combined into one and chosen based upon a parliamentary majority. Adiron is one of the few countries able to make a multi-party parliamentary system function and that has been noted by many Othmanis, despite past animosity in some quarters for the country most responsible for New Othman’s defeat in the Lazodirian War. Such reforms, however, would require a constitutional revision, which would necessitate a certain popular momentum behind them.
 
In the meantime, expect to see a somewhat different Grand National Assembly and definitely a new Premier, if nothing else. Many expect Premier Recep Adnek to accept a lesser or higher post, depending on the circumstances, but he is unlikely to stay on as the nation’s chief executive and head of government, due to his party’s new weakness in the chamber. Even so, most acknowledge that Adnek was not responsible for his party’s defeat, at least not in large measure.
 
“Adnek is something of a scapegoat, a fall guy here. He came in at the end of three years or so of mediocre Social Republican rule, where the major initiative for the most useful reforms came in the form of a push from the junior partners, the Social Democrats. It’s no secret that the SDP have been the driving force for much of what has worked, except regarding the Allah Intikam insurgency, and that was only because this required a military man in the form of General Recep Borek. What hasn’t worked has mostly been the SRP and its tendency to leave the same people in office for years in spite of their manifest incompetence and corruption.
 
“The contrast has stuck in the mind, and so the SDP have emerged from their coalition with the SRP relatively unscathed, especially since the Premiers have all been SRP. Ursula, of course, despite her good intentions and continued personal popularity, has been responsible, in many ways, for the decline of the party associated with her tenure,” Ozgur Sabri, a leading political analyst with the National Radio Corporation, a state-run entity, told the New Ankara Times on the record.
 
It will be an interesting few months, if not years, in any case, as the fallout from this particular election becomes clear to everyone in the country, the region, and the world. The SRP has been toppled from its dominant position at the top of the parliamentary heap, and the Republic will never quite be the same. Expect many more corruption scandals to be unearthed, we at the New Ankara Times suspect, and the effects of that could be momentous. Also expect an expansion of the welfare state to an extent, which may or may not be a good thing, depending on your perspective.

[Novitera]

The camera switches through a number of scenes displaying different scenes all over the world, stock price numbers, various Noviteran city skylines, sports teams at play and finally the Noviteran flag. A energetic instrumental tune plays throughout until the camera focuses on a man and woman in their 40s dressed impeccably.

"Good afternoon. I am Lance Natsu."

"I am Merril Dawson and this is the Noviteran News Network."

Dawson spoke first. "Riots have broken out today across Avantine, Heselory, Dabrid, Palatine and Folkport. Organizers originally called for a march against Gallows Street for causing the recent devastating financial crash. The worst rioting according to our investigators in the field appears to be Avantine where Army units from the 2nd Infantry Division have been called in to protect Gallows Street." The display pans to a view in the streets of Avantine being captured from a news helicopter. Large mobs of people are in the street and several burning trash cans could be seen. Smoke from grenades wafted upwards. On the other side of them were soldiers, neatly arrayed in riot gear and were differentiated from police officers by their multicam BDUs. A few military kamatsus and trucks could be seen behind them.

"Avantine City Mayor Tegan Strickland has asked that people participating return to their homes and stay there. While the Avantine Police Department is occupied dealing with rioters people should stay indoors until the streets can be safe once again. Those caught vandalizing or looting will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law." Added Natsu. The display showed a ground view captured by reporters earlier. This time looters could be seen smashing a grocery store window. Another scene showed a man jumping up and down on the hood of a parked sedan.

"We're here to teach those bankers in Gallows Street a lesson. They can't make gambles on our economy like they've been doing! We want the people responsible to pay! A rioter wearing a bandana over his face was captured saying.

The camera switches to Mayor Strickland on a podium. "I understand people are outraged. Causing property destruction and more loss of value is not the answer. This was suppose to be a peaceful protest which I would be all for. But now the demonstrations have gotten out of hand and I have asked APD Chief of Police to disperse the crowds."

"In other news regarding the financial crisis, Gallows Street banks have been scrambling for liquidity. Bank of Novitera has reported the sale of over a dozen subsidiaries to PR Metro either in the form of asset sales or stock buyouts. Shockingly, Civic Bank has declared it will be turning over a controlling interest in its major foreign subsidiary in Fineberg to the New Edomite national government. However both banks have stated publicly that their financial position has stabilized through these sales and we'll be an end to their liquidations. Kazushin Automobiles has also filed bankruptcy claiming they are unable to pay vendors." Stated Dawson.

"Suicides are also up according to the Avantine Police Department especially among those who work on Gallows Street. Triple-N would like to bring to attention the Suicide Hotline and encourages any who are having suicidal thoughts to give them a call." Natsu said then the scene displayed a phone number.

[Free Garza]

El Ganador,
Ruben Ramirez Lopez, Staff Writer

Her Royal Highness, Princess Blanca Pahath-Moab of the royal House of Valdez has accepted a proposal of marriage from His Imperial Highness, Prince Bryan Gentry of Ghant. This match would hardly be the first to bind the Houses of Valdez and Gentry, but it would be the first to also connect the royal family of our nation with that of the Tsardom of Nekulturnya. Credit for the match has been given to Her Royal Highness, the Queen Dowager Bessandra of Free Garza and Her Imperial Highness, Princess Cassandra Gentry of Ghant, as well as Her Royal Highness, Princess Rosa FitzRaymond, Marchioness FitzRaymond.

The engagement was also announced in the Senate today by the President of the Senate, Oscar Delgado, as well as in the People's Assembly today by Premier Hernan Pacino. Archbishop Urban Montano, Primate of Free Garza, has granted the blessing of the Church of this union, despite it not being carried out in a Catholic Mass, Garzan Rite or otherwise. This will be the bride's second marriage, as she is the widow of the late Brigadier General Perrin Pahath-Moab, President of the Council from 2012-2015. She is also the mother of their only son together, Stephen Pahath-Moab, named after the younger brother of General Pahath-Moab.

Asked if she plans to convert to the Church of Ghant, Her Royal Highness declined to comment at this time. His Catholic Majesty, King Diego IV, has granted his blessing to the union as well and hopes to see all who bear goodwill to both Free Garza and Ghant and are invited attend the nuptials when they are held in the near future.

[Ghant]

| NATIONAL NEWS | LOCAL NEWS | ECONOMICS | WORLD |
| FOOD | ENTERTAINMENT | SPORTS | OPINION |

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Sara Haribec assumes leadership of Labor Party

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Ms. Haribec has choice words for Roman Emperor Titus

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By John Igara| GHISH

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2017 GHL Finals preview

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Who is General Nicanor?

Sara Haribec, new leader of the Labor Party, gives her introductory press conference

Oniaherri, Onia, Ghant- Following a period of party leadership struggles, that saw Labor Party Leader John Masara resign, Sara Haribec has emerged victorious in party elections that have propelled her to the leadership position. At the age of 35, she is the youngest leader of the Labor Party that was made famous by her great-grandfather, Malderi Haribec, who was Prime Minister of Ghant from 1939 until he stepped down in 1974 citing ill health. She is the first member of the Haribec family to lead the party since that time.

“I now see that being disinterested in politics is not ideal for a leader of a major party in the opposition,” Masara said from his home in a press release.

“In retrospect, it was a mistake to run for leader in the first place, since my stated views would, if I had any, be incompatible with ninety per cent of the Ghantish population. This, I’m told, may harm my chances of electoral success, which, frankly, has never been my priority. If I knew what my stance was on the prospect of a rapacious and unaccountable Independent Coalition Government with complacent Conservative support for the next five years was, I would probably be against it, but I can’t be sure. Apparently, this is a problem and I accept that, so I’m told.”

Masara has been leader of the Labour Party since 2013, following the resignation of then Prime Minister Ormund Borlidoc. “I want the best for the Labor Party and one day I may consider rejoining it, if I find the time and the inclination.”

In the meantime, Sara Haribec, from her seat in Oniaherri, capital of the Province of Onia, addressed an eager crowd on a warm, sunny day punctuated by clear skies and gentle breezes.

“Thank you, my friends, thank you

Normally I’d start by thanking family and friends for helping me reach this milestone. However, I’d be remiss if I gave them all the credit. My decision to seek the leadership was never in spite of my responsibility to my family, but because of it. And therefore family and friends were always at the very heart of this campaign. We did this together.

To my fellow Labor Party candidates, and to the thousands of Ghantish citizens who worked on your campaigns, I want to say: we are not adversaries but allies. Your courage, intelligence and commitment will continue to bring honor to the Labor Party of Ghant moving forward, with eyes on the 2018 General Election.

And for the health of this party, the hard work he has done, I want to thank from the bottom of my heart, my friend, my colleague and a great Ghantar, John Masara. John, we continue to need your leadership, your wisdom and your unparalleled commitment to the country and to our party.

This has been a great campaign. We are fiercely proud that it has been fueled by volunteers. More than twelve thousand Ghantar stepped up. Thank you for your dedication to making this wonderful country even better.

Like every effective organization, this one has had principled, brilliant, and generous leadership. Melissa Sardugi, Benfrey Artocas and Annabelle Zelina. My friends and compatriots. Thank you for what you’ve done, for what you’re doing and for what we are going to do together.

My fellow Laborites, it is with great respect for those who have stood in this place before me, and great resolve to do the hard work required in front of us, that I accept, with humility, the confidence you have placed in me, as Leader of the Labor Party of Ghant.

Thank you. All of you. For your trust. For your hope. For choosing to be part of this movement we’re building. And on this lovely spring evening in Onia’s capital, I am honored to stand with you, proud to be the Leader of the Labor Party of Ghant.

My friends, this is the last stop of this campaign. But the first stop of the next one. Over the past 6 months, I have been to hundreds of communities from coast to coast to coast. I’ve met, talked with, and learned from thousands and thousands of Ghantar.

And because of your hard work, more than one hundred thousand voters have sent a clear message: Ghantar want better leadership and a better government. Ghantar want to be led, not ruled. They are tired of the cronyism and negligent politics of Mr. Izarbegiratzeak’s government. And unimpressed that the Conservative Party, under Mr. Xibal, have decided that if you can’t beat them, you might as well join them.

We are fed up with leaders who pit Ghantar against Ghantar. West against East, rich against poor, Dakmoor against the rest of the country, urban against rural.

Ghantar are looking to us, my friends. They are giving us a chance, hopeful that the party of my great-grandfather, Malderi Haribec, can rediscover its sunny ways.

Hopeful that positive politics has a fighting chance against the steady barrage of negativity that you and I both know is coming soon to TV screens across Ghant. The phone messages, our volunteers tell us, have already started.

The Independent Coalition will now do what it does. It will try to spread smoke. It will sow distractions. It will attempt to convince Ghantar that we should be satisfied with what we have now.

For at the heart of their unambitious agenda is the idea that “better” is just not possible without compromising our values.

That to hope for something more from our politics and our leaders, more humanity, more transparency, more compassion, is naive and inevitably, will lead to disappointment.
And they will promote that fatalistic idea with passionate intensity. They will do so for a simple reason…

They are afraid. But… And I want to make this perfectly clear… My fellow Ghantar, it is not my leadership that Mr. Izarbegiratzeak and his party fear.

It’s yours.

There is nothing that they fear more than an engaged and informed Ghantish citizen.

My friends, if I have learned one thing in this life, it’s that our country is blessed with countless numbers of activist citizens, from all walks of life, and of all political views. They have come out by the thousands over the course of this campaign.

They’ve gathered by the hundreds in places like Babu, Onia and Ludiba, Nathia, Gambar, Dakmoor and Orbuga, Eskura. Ghantar who thought they were sending community leaders to be their voice in Ghish, but instead got only Mr. Izarbegiratzeak’s voice back in their communities.

We’ve seen their hopeful faces in crowds of Ghantar gathered in Galan and Gadea, Ordosa and Orzibal. Middle class Ghantar who are putting much into the economy and getting too little in return.

We’ve seen hard-working east-coast Ghantar from Onmutu to Goeporta, from Cegana to Dakar, who have decided that this is a government that does not share their values.

We’ve met young Jendebasa leaders from all across the north, who are simply tired of being forced to the margins of this country. With the courage to walk 1600 miles through a Ghantish winter to make the point that they will be idle no more.

I want to take a moment to speak directly to my fellow Onians. Your engagement and your support in recent months has been deeply moving. I have learned so much from our conversations and our meetings I take nothing for granted. I understand that trust can only be earned. And my plan is to earn yours.

I feel confident about the future. I want to share with you why Onians have always been builders. From my Great-Grandfather to Ormund Borlidoc to today, they have actively participated in shaping our country, together with so many other Ghantar. Our work is not complete. We face enormous challenges

Helping the middle-class make ends meet. Reconciling economic growth and environmental stewardship. Playing a positive and meaningful role in the world.
To rise above these challenges we must demonstrate our audacity and ambition, my friends.

Audacity and ambition, always.

Let’s be honest. We will not convince everyone. There will always be skeptics. People who say that our country is too big and too full of differences to be effectively managed, or for everyone to be represented. They are wrong my friends.

I am not claiming that it will always be easy. That there will not be any obstacles along the way. That we will not have to make some compromises.

Ghant is a grand, yet unfinished project. And it is up to us, together with all Ghantar, to build the country that we want.

The time has come for us to write a new chapter in the history of our country.

Let’s leave to others the old quarrels and old debates that lead nowhere. Let’s leave to others the ultra-partisan rhetoric and the old ways of doing politics. Let’s leave the personal attacks to them.

Onians, let us be, together, once again, builders of Ghant. So that our country can match the height of the dreams and ambitions that are shared across this country. So that we can leave our children a better world than the one that we inherited from our parents.

My friends, the Labor Party will regain the confidence of Ghantar when it proves that it is here to serve them. This is the task at hand. This is what will guide me as Leader of the Labor Party of Ghant.

To the new generation of Ghantar and to all the young people who are not engaged by politics, I have a very simple message for you.

Your country needs you

It needs your energy and your passion

It needs your idealism and your ideas

The movement we are have been building over the past 6 months, it is yours. It belongs to you.

It is the movement with which we will change politics.

It is the movement that will allow us to reform our political institutions, to make reconciling the environment and our economy a real priority, and to play a positive and constructive role in the world.

My fellow Laborites, Ghantar are looking to us. This campaign has been their campaign, more than just ours.

They want something better. They refuse to believe that better is not possible. They see the country their parents and grandparents worked so hard to build, and want to hand an even better country to their children.

Ghantar share deep values that cannot be shaken, no matter how hard the Independent Coalition may try. Optimism. Openness. Compassion. Service to community.

Generosity of spirit.

We want to believe that change can happen. We want leadership that will shape our best instincts into an even better country.

But Ghantar will not suffer fools gladly. Ghantar turned away from us because we turned away from them. Because Laborites became more focused on fighting with each other, than fighting for Ghantar.

Well, I don’t care if you thought my great-grandfather was a great or arrogant. It doesn’t matter to me if you were a Haribec-Laborite, a Borlidoc-Laborite, a Masara-Laborite or any other kind of Laborite. The era of hyphenated Laborites ends right here, tonight.

From this day forward, we welcome all Laborites as Ghantish Laborites. United in our dedication to serve and lead Ghantar.

Unity not just for unity’s sake, but unity of purpose.

I say this to the millions of middle-class Ghantar, and the millions more who work hard every day to join the middle-class…

Under my leadership, the purpose of the Labor Party of Ghant will be you. I promise that I will begin, spend and end every day thinking about and working hard to solve your problems.

I know that you are optimistic about us, but cautiously so. You are, after all, Ghantar. You know that hope is a fine thing, but that without an equal measure of hard work to back it up, it will be fleeting.

So I know that you will judge us by the tenacity of our work ethic, the integrity of our efforts, and, come 2018, the clarity of our plan to make our country better. That is as it should be.

I know how lucky I have been in my life. Lucky, most of all, to have learned so much from so many Ghantar. To learn that, above all else in this country, leadership means service.

I love this country, my friends, and I believe in it deeply. It deserves better leadership than it has now.

So let us be clear-eyed about what we have accomplished. We have worked hard and we have had a great campaign. We are united, hopeful and resolute in our purpose.

But know this: we have won nothing more and nothing less than the opportunity to work even harder. Work even harder to prove ourselves worthy of leading this great country.
We should be deeply, deeply grateful for that opportunity. As your leader, I fully intend to make sure we make the most of it. Change can happen. Ghantar want leadership that will work with them to make it happen.

Be hopeful my fellow Laborites. Work hard. Stay focused on Ghant and its people. We can lead the change so many people want.

A better Ghant is always possible.

Together, we will build it.

Thank you.”

Following Ms. Haribec’s speech, she was fielded a number of questions regarding her policy platform. The one that elicited the most quoteworthy response was a question about her thoughts on Emperor Titus of Rome’s speech in response to criticism on its thermobaric bombs program. So far the Ghantish government has been mum on the subject, despite Ghant’s longstanding policy of opposing the development and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, be they nuclear, biological or chemical in nature.

“I find it absolutely incredible and audacious that the Emperor of Rome would dare call anyone else a hypocrite, when he himself speaks hypocrisy. This isn’t about thermobaric bombs, which for the record are not weapons of self-defense, but weapons of terror that have no place in a world of peace and rule of law.

No, my friends, this is about Emperor Titus’s calls for other nations to behave in a civilized manner, and how quickly he is to warn rogue nations of their conduct. Let me ask Emperor Titus, and the people of Ghant and Rome, and indeed the rest of the world this. What credibility does Emperor Titus have in making these calls, when he has forged an alliance with Akai, which is itself a rogue nation? A nation that relies upon bullying, coercion, a complete and blatant disregard of international rule of law and human rights? I urge all peoples to not look at what Emperor Titus, but what he does.

Emperor Titus has the gall to make idle threats against the nations of the world, while he lies in bed with the likes of Akai. A nation that undermines the Cornellian Peace Organization, that Romans take pride in having co-founded. A nation that chafes at international rule of law, which Rome considers itself a champion of. A nation that supports through force of arms other rogue nations that threaten the peace of the world today. Indeed, Emperor Titus claims that Rome is the most prosperous, responsible, mature and advanced nations in the region, but his policies are anything but.

So when Emperor Titus calls upon us here in Ghant, who condemn the use of thermobaric bombs, to have an open mind, what do we say in response? The answer is simple. In the words of Marcus Aurelius, ‘the perfection of moral character consists in this, in passing every day as the last, and in being neither violently excited nor torpid nor playing the hypocrite.’ To that end, I urge Emperor Titus, and the people of Rome, to reevalute their policies before trying to claim any moral high ground, because right now the ground they claim to stand on is very low indeed.”

[Ghant]

Gimme News

May 27, 2017

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Vikandi Cup Playoffs: Finals are set
Conference Finals summaries and Championship Finals previews
Carp vs Gulls

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(Ghish, Ghant)- The conference finals of the 2017 Vikandi Cup playoffs have concluded, and the Southern Conference Champion Gadea Carp shall advance to the Finals against the Northern Conference Champion Goeporta Gulls. Here are the Conference Finals summaries and a preview of the Finals.

Conference Finals Results

1. Gadea Carp (Emperor's Trophy Winners) VS 2. Ghish Imperials (Gadea wins series 4-3)

This was the eighth playoff meeting between these teams with Ghish winning five of the six previous series. They last met in the 2012 Southern Conference Quarterfinals, which Ghish won in five games. This was the first time that the Imperials have advance to the Conference Finals since that year. Gadea last went to the Conference Finals in 1987; they defeated by the Zuria Spurs in six games.

The Carp defeated the Imperials in seven games. In Game 1, the Imperials held onto a one-goal lead until Manny Gumbara tied the game in the third period, and in overtime, Louis Arbona scored to give Gadea a 2–1 victory. Game 2 remained scoreless until John Manura scored with 10:01 left in the game to give the Imperials a 1–0 lead and the victory; Bobby Dignamu made 25 saves in the process. In the first period of Game 3, the Imperials scored twice compliments of Olio Beagorri in the span of three minutes leading them into a 3–1 victory back at the Imperial Hockey Palace. The Carp responded with a 2–1 victory for Gadea in Game 4. Back in Gadea, the Carp commanded Game 5 to take a 3–2 series lead. In Game 6, Olio Belagorri scored twice, forcing a seventh game in a 3–2 victory. In Game 7 back in Gadea, Marko Skogaro scored twice, with his second goal coming late in the third period to win by a score of 2-1 and sending the Carp to the Finals for the first time since 1941, when they lost to the Dakar Royals in six games. Carp defenseman Tommi Tudo was named series MVP.

1. Arrautsa Flames VS 3. Goeporta Gulls (Goeporta wins series 4-3)

This was the second playoff meeting in three seasons and the fifth overall between these teams with Arrautsa winning all previous series. This was Arrautsa’s ninth straight Conference Finals appearance. The Gulls last made the Conference Finals in 1989 where they were defeated in seven games by the Izuna Seals.

The Gulls defeated the Flames in seven games. The first game of the series went into overtime, and at 6:38 Borig “Bonebreaker” Ojembarrena put the puck past the Gulls goaltender to take Game 1, 2–1. In Game 2, the Flames rallied from an early-two-goal deficit to defeat the Gulls 3–2. The series shifting to Goeporta in Game 3, the Gulls won by a score of 1–0; Josu Targona scored the lone goal for the Gulls with 3:12 left in the game. Although the Flames tied the game after being down by three goals in Game 4, Goeporta won the game on Josu Targona’s goal 13:10 into overtime, tying the series 2–2 in a 4–3 victory. Lucas Bambu made 40 saves in Game 5 for the Gulls as Goeporta took a 3–2 series lead in a 2–0 victory. In Game 6, Ojembarrena's hat trick propelled the Flames to a 4–2 victory, putting the series back in Arragara for Game 7. The Gulls won Game 7 in overtime compliments of a Josu Targona goal with 8:00 left in the game, sending the Gulls back to the Finals for the first time since 1971, where they defeated the Ghish Imperials in 5 games. Gulls offenseman Josu Targona was named series MVP.

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Gadea Carp VS Goeporta Gulls

The 2017 GHL Finals is the 123rd edition of the Ghantish Hockey League's championship series, a best-of-seven playoff between the Southern Conference (SC) champion Gadea Carp and the Northern Conference (NC) champion Goeporta Gulls, the first meeting of those franchises in postseason history. The Carp will have home ice advantage in the series due to their better regular season record. The series will begin on June 1, and conclude no later than June 18.

The Carp, playing in their fifteenth Finals and their first since 1941, are vying for their seventh championship and first since 1927, which to date is the longest championship drought in GHL history. It is the Gulls’ eighth appearance in the Finals and their first since 1971, which was also their last Finals victory. The Gulls are looking to capture their fifth Vikiandi Cup Title. The two teams entered their matchup as two of the three franchises with the longest Vikandi Cup droughts, a combined 136 years without a championship. Carp head coach Alex Tortorenu had previously coached the Ordosa Dragons to the 2007 Finals, losing in six games to the Lianu Reds, while Gulls head coach Al Torres previously coached the Lorazaina Lakers to the 2013 Finals, losing in five games to the Arrautsa Flames. This is the first time in Finals history that two coaches are vying for their first championship after losing their previous appearances with different clubs.

Other News

• Sara Haribec assumes Labor Party Leadership
• What’s going on in New Edom this time?
• Stock Market woes

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[United Valik]

Glauconium Observer,
Apoloniusz Metaxas

In a shocking development, seven leading public officials affiliated with the Federalist Party of United, as well as nineteen actual officers of the Federalist Party have been arrested on charges of either participating or complicity with human trafficking, in connection with the Principalities of Brod, Duscha, Azmar, Kruskal, and Ozanka, as well as the Imperial Territory of Soca, in the Empire of Delvian States. These twenty-six key Federalists were not alone, though, as four vice-consuls, three charge d'affairs, and two military attaches, were also arrested, along with eight prominent corporate executives and entrepreneurs, as well as ten reputed racketeers with no discernible lawful income. Yet it was these more political figures that were most stunning of all, as the authorities had carefully avoided prosecuting politicians when possible in the past, due to fears of political repression.

However, events in the Empire of Delvian States have triggered Federal Ministry of Justice investigations into the activities of an alleged organized crime and human trafficking syndicate known simply as the "Association." One source, who spoke on grounds of total anonymity, conceded that, "the sheer level of this organization's depravity and barbarity staggers the human mind once the facts are known. Whatever the Federalist Party might claim, we have sufficient evidence of slave-trafficking, kidnapping, rape, torture, mayhem, murder, and consorting with pirates and state sponsors of slavery and piracy to bring criminal indictments against the individuals in question. Human slavery is anathema to the Constitution, laws, and fundamental principles and human values of this Federal Democratic Republic, and so there will be zealous prosecution, hence the arrests by the Federal Enforcement Agency (FEA), with search and arrest warrants issued by the judges of the Federal District Courts bench in four individual districts." (By Federal law, no Federal agency can arrest a citizen without a bench warrant and probable cause.)

The charges of the indictment are staggering, in fact, though not all of the accused are accused of exactly the same crimes. Counts range from human trafficking to consorting with pirates, aiding and abetting piracy, to tax evasion, to kidnapping, to rape, murder, murder for hire, assault and battery, mayhem, torture, to "tampering with the internal politics and government of sovereign states" to even espionage in cases where anti-piracy intelligence was compromised and sold to foreign governments. If convicted, penalties vary from two to three years, with hefty fines, to death by firing squad or public hanging.

While not identifying which foreign governments assisted the Federal authorities with busting this racketeering ring, it is strongly suspected that not only the Imperial Delvian Government, responsible to the Tsar himself, but also the Government of the Allied States of New Edom, as well as several Princes and their governments at the state level were active in providing evidence that aided in the sting. Several billions worth of property and chattel were seized, the latter being released from captivity and given a chance to testify against their captors in due time.

Nevertheless, the Federal Minister of Justice, Abderus Zografos, hastened to add that, "Due process and the rule of law has been and will be respected at every stage of this prosecution of these alleged racketeers and slavers. If acquitted, they will not charged with the same offense twice, but we will do our utmost within the parameters of our Constitution to bring these villains to justice."

Despite attempts to dissociate itself from and denounce these activities, the Chairman of the Federalist Party and six other leading figures within the Party have resigned, including two Federalist deputies in the Federal Assembly and one Federalist senator. New party officials are now in the process of being selected, but the deputies' vacancies require special elections by Federal law, and that in a political atmosphere charged with growing anti-Federalist sentiment among the populace, something that bodes ill for the party's political fortunes.

To put it in the words of one Federal city councilor, "If this continues into the next electoral cycle, we are screwed."

[Free Garza]

El Matador,
Jorge Espinoza, Political Affairs Correspondent

Not too surprisingly, given that he is now even more popular than in the past, former President and Premier (and Ambassador to Ghant) Marco Roman has declared himself a candidate for the Senate in the next election cycle, and has filed the official paperwork to be among the candidates in the upcoming caucuses for selection of registered Christian Democratic Party candidates. As always, since the next election date is not yet known, the caucuses select the candidates for the next cycle in advance, so as to have candidates already fielded and listed on the ballots and have time to fund raises and canvass for them. The Senate is chosen on a basis of one at-large position (Senate President) and ninety-nine senators chosen in thirty-three electoral districts, which three senators for every district.

Roman is seeking the at-large position, a highly contested race for certain, in which he will face the candidates of the Socialist, Liberal Democratic, and Communist parties, as well as other Christian Democrats for the caucuses, and possibly some independents in the general elections themselves. If elected, he would automatically become Senate President in the next Cortes, and could not be removed except if he resigned or was impeached and convicted. Roman has held the Senate Presidency before, so this would be nothing new to him. In the last capacity, under the Revolutionary Republic, Roman was Interim President of Free Garza when the late President Anibal Guzman retired from public office, and he then won a term in his own right in the following elections.

If elected, Marco Roman would become the first ever person to hold the Senate Presidency twice in his lifetime, though, of course, the post has lost some of its power due to the abolition of the Republic and restoration of the monarchy. Marco Roman is 48 years old, has a wife named Victoria Espinoza (first cousin to this reporter, I must disclose), and is father to two sons and five daughters by his wife. He has been married for twenty-eight years, having wed Senorita Espinoza when he was twenty and she was eighteen years of age. He is also a grandfather twice over, as his two sons each have wives and three children between them.

Senor Roman is also diagnosed with and suffering from Hepatitis C, a condition that requires constant medical treatments and can result in more serious illnesses, such as cirrhosis of the liver and various forms of cancer. Senor Roman is a devout Catholic of the Garzan Rite, an eighth degree Mason of the Scottish Rite, and noted for his brutal candor, which cost him his last position as Ambassador to Ghant. He is reportedly worth nine million garzans, though his philanthropic contributions, mostly to parochial schools and church charities, have apparently reduced some of his considerable fortune to an extent, just not enough to wreck his finances. He is an avid hunter, fisherman, and cigar aficionado, and has bragged of being completely faithful to his wife during the entirety of his marriage (and she to him). He has, however, admitted that dirty needles used during a tattooing session was the cause of his transmission of Hepatitis C.

[Free Garza]

El Matador,
Lisa Benitez, Editor-in-Chief

In a shocking lack of discretion, Socialist candidate for the Senate Presidency Daniel Serrano, an openly gay man living with his boyfriend of 9 years, has publicly denounced the Edomite Morality Act and Compulsory Nudity Act, calling for the repeal of both as well as the legalization of same-sex marriage and a secular state at home. Serrano has drawn fire before for being what some have termed "reckless in his denunciations of and attempts to repeal Free Garza's ban on late-term abortions." Even so, some feminists have expressed disquiet over recent comments by Serrano that "feminism is often extremely homophobic and transphobic as well."

Serrano, who is also a vegetarian and has condemned hunting and fishing as well as bullfighting, openly praised the new Labor Party Leader in Ghant, Sara Haribec, including her condemnation of Rome's so-called hypocrisy. He has called for a total ban on civilian possession of handguns, much tighter restrictions on shotguns and rifles, and a steep ammunition tax as well. However, he also praised King Diego IV for "actively modeling the practice of constitutional kingship through the civilized, democratic world, showing considerable self-restraint and keeping his word about respecting the responsibility of governments to the Cortes."

Describing himself as a "populist" and atheist, Serrano has openly criticized the public school systems for not teaching evolution as fact and for encouraging abstinence more than contraception during sexual education. He has called for contraceptives to be widely and cheaply sold over the counter in pharmacies. He also called for the nationalization of tobacco distribution, so as to control the supply more effectively and reduce the sale of tobacco to youth.

Serrano has urged doubling the capital gains and estate taxes and imposing tougher fines for polluters as well as taxing plastic grocery bags. He has even also urged a tax rebate for solar energy use and for recycling, as well as higher gasoline taxes to both raise highway funds and encourage carpooling. He also called for higher civil servant and teacher pay, better veterans' benefits, and paid family leave.

If elected, Serrano would be the first openly gay man to serve as President of the Senate. He would also be first avowed atheist to hold that position as well. Serrano is of noble birth, but his companion, Luis Ochoa, aged 29 years, is of peasant stock and is a delegate with the National Teachers' Federation as well as a mathematics teacher at King Ferdinand High School. Serrano is currently Chairman of the Science Department at Garza City College himself and is 45 years of age.

[Caranthir]

Giame da l'Voisim | Our Voice
5th Month, 30 RY 82
9:45 PM, Sunday

Champions at last
10-man Sporting Klube da Kranzia proclaimed champions after 2-1 thriller against Olimpiakus
Mira Fionain (@rMFiorain)
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Meridia, Carinthia — It was striker Arnoldt Postein who scored the match winner in the 88th minute to put Sporting above the opposition. With these three points, Sporting was officially crowned champions for the 2016-17 Liga Prima season, accumulating an impressive 80 points. Sporting keeper Teronin Anzim was named the official Man of the Match after an impressive game, stopping 8 of 9 shots on target, and defensive midfielder Piere Bertrillon was voted as the Fan's Man of the Match after producing the equaliser in the 51st minute. Sporting wing back Kristijan Vijatov also had an outstanding game after missing the last three weeks with a pulled quad.

On paper, Sporting had the seeming advantage over the bottom table Olimpiakus, and up until the 33rd minute, that's how they played. Sporting's starting 11 only saw one change: Defensive midfielder Anno in for the injured Oxtoko Inda, while Olimpiakus's starting 11 saw no changes for the match up. Olimpiakus was the first on the board thanks to Dewedish left winger Jens Fisker, who placed it neatly in the bottom-right in the 33rd minute. The final minutes of the half saw both teams sharing equal opportunities. Olimpiakus's chance to double up on their opponent came in the 45th, when right back Dmytro Palij miss-timed a challenge and fouled Fisker right outside the box. Match referee Patrik Rauschenberg judged there was malicious intent and subsequently sent the right back off, leaving Sporting with 10 men and giving Olimpiakus a superb free-kick position. The kick, taken by Lyncanestrian midfielder Moïse Dembélé, bounced off the bar and into Anzim's arms, who managed to keep a hold of the ball.

The second half started with a bang. Six minutes into the start of the half, Bertillon lasered it into the top-right corner, giving Sporting the equaliser they desperately required. The goal, which was the result of poor communication between the keeper and his defence, gave the downtrodden Sporting a much-needed momentum shift. Counterattack followed counterattack with neither team capitalising on any run. Despite the one man advantage, Olimpiakus was losing a majority of the 50/50 battles and had poor passing as the game drew on. It was not until the 88th minute when striker Arnoldt Postein scored an impressive goal from outside the box. The Olimpiakus keeper expected the shot to go safely over, however, he misjudged and cost his side the match.

"It's an amazing feeling," Sporting manager Marcel Parmentier said in the post-game press conference. "The amount of work these boys have put into their game is exceptionally, and to have paid off with a championship is more than any manager could hope for. It's truly a pleasure seeing these boys grow as players and as a team." When asked about the sending off of first-choice right back Dmytro Palij, the manager had this to say: "While it is unfortunate that [Palij] was sent off, it is [Rauschenberg's] right to judge what is and isn't malicious. While I personally wouldn't have pulled the red, we just have to make do with the situation and move on."

The championship is Sporting's third consecutive one, surpassing Reial Saivi for the most in the top division with 21.

With this loss, Olimpiakus now find themselves fourth from the bottom of the table, with only a one point lead on third bottom, Thessalia. Thessalia plays tomorrow against Reial Saivi and a win would propel them above Olimpiakus. As the season comes to a close, pundits can only guess at what teams will join Spartan Vermle in being sent back down to La Liga Segona.

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© National Media Association RY85

[Valdiu]

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Peregrine crashes outside Seaview

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Kara Chandragupta, Reporter | k.chandragupta@pcnn.net
3:44 PM, June 09, 2017

An Aerodynamica F/A-21G Peregrine crashed outside Seaview Joint Airbase today at roughly 6:28 AM. The pilots sustained minor injuries but ejected safely and the wreckage has been secured. According to Air Force officials, the cause of the accident has not been definitively ascertained, but it appears the crash was caused by a structural failure.

The Peregrine is Valdiu’s premier air superiority and, after a series of upgrades, strike fighter aircraft. Developed by Garrison-Howard’s Defense Aerospace division, it has logged thousands of flight hours. A statement following the fatal crash of a Peregrine in 2014 called the aircraft “extraordinarily safe”. That crash, in which a Peregrine slammed into the slopes of Mt. Cabose, killing one of the pilots, was attributed to improper maintenance on the part of the ground crew.

According to eyewitnesses, the aircraft was taking off for a routine training flight when the aircraft’s left engine exploded. The pilots ejected moments before the ₳38.2 million jet slammed into the ground. “It was about a hundred feet up when it just blew up,” said Sarah McConnell, who was on her way to work when the accident occurred. “It started on the left side and then the whole plane came apart. Then the top came off and the rocket seats went zoooom, and then two parachutes opened.”

The two pilots, Parker Garibaldi and Anne Venna, landed safely not far from the runway, where they were picked up by emergency crews. They sustained minor spinal injuries consistent with the heavy G forces associated with emergency ejections. They were transported to the base medical station and were released within hours.

Air Force press officer Capt. Ryan Howard spoke to press shortly before noon regarding the incident. “No cause has been determined as of yet and likely will not for several weeks. However, preliminary review of footage of the crash has led us to believe that a catastrophic structural failure occurred in or near the location of the left engine in the aircraft.” Howard went on to praise the aircraft’s safety record, calling it “superbly designed” and the crash “an isolated incident”.

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[Leasath]

Trusted Imperial News Source Since 1952
Vannois | international | locale | sport | religion | économie | divertissement | alimentaire | opinion

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Foreign Secretary: Roman aggression 'a bit foolish'
Saint-Nazaire, the Vannoisian Empire
By Jérémy Mignard, Political Corespondent (@LeCitpolitique)

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Foreign Secretary Jean-Yves Nicollier on the mid-morning show Today in Belisaria, 11 June 2017

SAINT-NAZAIRE - Foreign Secretary and Deputy Prime Minister Jean-Yves Nicollier took to the morning airwaves today in order to address recent actions taken by the Roman Empire to the east of Vannois. Nicollier, who as Foreign Secretary has taken a relatively neutralist line on most states outside of the Southern Belisarian Community and nations such as Rietumimark, was characteristically mild mannered in his comments on the Roman decision to execute a major thermobaric bomb test in the south of their lands, possibly near to the Latin or Ecclesiastical borders; both are official allies of Vannois through the SBC and its defense institutions.

"... [You] know, I wouldn't have previously thought of the Romans as any sort of sleeping giant, or some kind of semi-failed state. They way they go about it, really it's almost as if they haven't had any interaction with the outside world. I feel that instead of 'announcing' their presence through some foolish bomb testing, they might have just sent a diplomatic missive, perhaps?" Nicollier responded to various questions from the hosts of Today, with this directly following a query regarding why Rome might have felt the need to execute such a major test. Nicollier referred another question - "What is the official line being taken on these tests?" - to a press release made by the Office of the Prime Minister; that release, signed by the PM himself as well as Nicollier and Home Secretary Vivienne Brassard, stated that Vannois was "... not informed nor warned of any testing to take place near the borders of the Empire," and in addition stated that "[T]he Southern Belisarian Community leadership, namely High Commissioner Florentine Verruscosi as well as both Council and Parliamentary leaders, received no warning of the imminent testing before it occurred; they found out as we did in Saint-Nazaire."

When asked if any action would be taken by Vannois or by the Southern Belisarian Community with regards to the Roman testing after the show wrapped filming, Nicollier also stated that he "simply hopes that the Romans will act like responsible, mature, and advanced diplomats and friends moving forward in informing their neighbors of imminent major weapons testing." Finally, Nicollier said that there would "most likely" be no repercussions of note for Rome moving forward unless they "persisted in breaking the trust of Vannoisian and other Southern Belisarian Community diplomats - which I do not believe they will do."

In Other News
*Shadow Foreign Minister to Home Secretary: Lemaire may be jostling for reshuffle leading up to 2018 election
*Emperor to appear in Cléricot for re-opening of public secondary school in historical district near Imperial Palace
*Looking forward: Could the left retake the Belisarian Parliament?

[Caranthir]

12th day of the 6th month
4th Year of Ahsahwa
9th Day of Grojnoreloj

University Researchers Demonstrate How to Suck Carbon Dioxide from Air
______________________________________________________________

Nice, Her Most Heavenly Majesty's Realm — Researchers at L'Instituto Politeknika de Nice have unveiled a new process for removing carbon dioxide directly from the air and converting it to oxygen and carbon-based nanoscale fibres. The method could lead to a new front in the war against climate change and may just prove a new source of inexpensive, durable building materials.

Carbon fibres are increasingly being used as a structural material in a variety of different construction sectors, be it automotive, aerospace, and other industries, which benefit greatly from the lightweight and durability of the fibres.

"The useful attributes of carbon fibres, which also include enhanced electronegativity at the nanoscale," Professor and lead researcher Ludoviko Marŝanto at the university said during an interview. "The problem is the immense cost of constructing carbon fibres, especially nanofibres," Marŝanto says that his group's technology, which was first demonstrated three months at a conference in Meridia, captures the carbon dioxide from the air and employs an electrochemical process to convert it to carbon nanofibers and oxygen. According to Marŝantp, the method is more efficient and potentially a lot cheaper than existing methods.

"But it’s more than just a simpler, less expensive way of making a high-value product," Marŝanto continued to say. "It’s also a means of storing and sequestering carbon dioxide in a useful manner, a stable manner, and in a compact manner." He points out that if his process was powered by a renewable energy source, then the result is a net loss of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. In a recent demonstration to Her Most Heavenly Majesty and various environmental and energy ministers, his group utilised a unique concentrated solar power system, which makes use of both infrared sunlight and visible light to generate the large amount of heat needed to run the desired reaction.

The reaction requires molten lithium carbonate, with another lithium oxide compound dissolved in it, to run. The lithium oxide combines with carbon dioxide in the air, forming more lithium carbonate as the reaction progresses. When voltage is applied across two electrodes immersed in the molten carbonate, the resulting propagating step results in the production of oxygen, carbon (which deposits on one of the electrical nodes), and more lithium oxide that can be used to continue the reaction.

Researchers demonstrated the ability to make a variety of different nanofibre shapes and diameters by adjusting the specific growth condition, such as the amount of current applied to specific points of time and the composition of the various ingredients used in the process. They also showed they could make very uniform fibres. Marŝanto says "the mechanisms underlying the formation of the fibres still need to be better understood," but he is very "confident the group can keep developing more control over the nature of the fibres it makes."

As for the technology’s emissions-cutting potential, the researchers are optimistic. They calculate that given an area less than 10 percent of the size of the Rome or Hostillia, the method could remove enough carbon dioxide to make global atmospheric levels return to preindustrial levels within 10 years, even if we keep emitting the greenhouse gas at a high rate during that period.

[Late Roman Empire]

Chalcedon Gazette,
Manius Torquatus


In a statement released by Count Marcellinus, Master of Offices, today, the Empire is denouncing the, "hypocrisy of states guilty of far more bellicosity who are now condemning us for the just exercise of our right to arm, which is particularly unseemly given that thermobaric weapons are by definition conventional and we have had strategic weapons of mass destruction for decades without using them once. Yes, thermobaric weapons are by far the most powerful conventional weapons known to exist, but they are not WMDs. The ignorance of those who claim otherwise calls into question their competence to govern, though that is an internal matter for sovereign nations to resolve domestically, of course.

"It is also unfortunate that certain aspiring politicians, such as the Labor Leader of Ghant, while grasping at ultimate power in their own lands, show their ignorance, irresponsibility, and demagoguery in calling us hypocrites for seeking normal diplomatic partnerships and relations with various nations, which is what responsible nations do, including with countries that have existed for centuries and might not appeal to her, but are nonetheless vital and necessary powers within the regional community, such as Akai.

"To seek détente with Akai is not to threaten the alliance with Ghant. We have a treaty with Ghant, which is inviolable. This rapprochement with Akai is no peril to that. It is simply engagement of a nation that much of the region has unwisely sought to isolate and alienate for reasons that are themselves hypocritical. No one isolates Deadora for its own repressive policies, nor should they, so why isolate Akai? Do we agree with all of their policies and alliances? Of course not.

"Nevertheless, we don't agree with Deadora's role in Gloria Regis, or Shrailleen's for that matter, and we haven't isolated either nation. In fact, we maintain a non-aggression pact with Shrailleen and have had past wartime alliances with them. We don't agree with either nation's role in Dengali or Kurungarra, nor with the Imperium's, but we do not isolate Deadora, Shrailleen, or the Imperium. We do not agree with the Imperium's policy toward Adiron or Arcologia, yet we do not isolate the Imperium for that, either. The fact of the matter is that you don't have to agree with every aspect of any nation's foreign and domestic policy to have cordial relations with any of them. We do not concur with the domestic policies of most of the region's nations on various points, but we do not let that interfere with normal relations with any of them.

"We do not agree with the Compulsory Nudity Act, for instance, but we have worked closely with successive Edomite Governments, from those of King Mark and King James to Presidents Touchstone and Finnhald to General Pahath-Moab to King Elijah IV and Queen Mara. While we regarded King Elijah IV's government as the lawful one at the time, we were prepared to work with the Theocratic Republic of New Edom had it prevailed in the Third Civil War, of course, as it would have then become the sole national government and by default the lawful one. We would have recognized Mrs. Carmel's administration and worked to repair relations with her country afterward, as we did with Perrin's once he took control of the Edomite State.

"Had the Heir at the time of Perrin's death assumed full power instead, we would have worked with her as well. We will work with any government sane enough to do business with us and to cooperate toward the goal of a stronger, more peaceful, more prosperous, more united Cornellia. We are presently working with King Elijah IV, Queen Mara, and their ministers, from General Nicanor to Count Lalery to General Daniels to Governor Augrim. This is the Roman way, not to spit in people's faces, but to extend the hand of goodwill and partnership, regardless of cultural and political differences, and to seek our mutual interests together if we are able. If we are not able, well, that is another story.

"We didn't agree with everything done under Yulya Zimya, or under Nymun, but we worked with them. We didn't agree with every action of Lord Regent Prince Albert, but we worked with him. We don't agree with every policy of Emperor Nathan IV and Empress Sophia, but we work with them as well. There are limits, of course, such as when we had to quash the illegal regime of a client state, namely that of deposed and unlawfully restored King Lucian I of Gavinium Magnus, who had treasonously murdered his cousin and successor, King Maximian II. We cannot do business with every government. But no country or government has clean hands, so we will shake dirty and bloody hands for the good of the region and the Empire, and simply go home to wash our hands before supper.

"That is the Roman way. That is the path of partnership, of realism, of common sense, to do business with any government sane enough to do business with us, and we do not apologize for it, nor does it make us hypocrites. It makes us adults, and it's time for Sara Haribec, if she expects to become Prime Minister of her country, to grow up and join the adults at our table. I cannot speak for the electors of her land, but if she wants a government headed by her to be taken seriously, she'll put on her big girl clothes and act like a grown woman instead of a little girl. Her father was a great man, and I hope that if she does take power, she will prove worthy of his name and legacy. Otherwise, the Ghantar may be better off sticking with Hair.

"It would also well behoove the Foreign Minister of Vannois to stop pestering the Empire about its supposed aggressiveness when his own country has just gotten done significantly raising its own defense budget. I do not condemn his nation's measures for increased national military strength and we Romans expect the same courtesy in return for ours."

Response to what has been called the "Grow Up" communique has already been overwhelmingly positive in the Empire, at least. It remains to be seen how it is received elsewhere, of course.

[Ecclesiastical State]

E.S| international | church | sport | religion | economy | culture | science | opinion

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Cardinal Camillo: "We all wish to see Roman responsibility"
Fabria, the Ecclesiastical State
By Flavio Marcelli, Political Corespondent (@VeritasPolitica)

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Cardinal Secretary of State Camillo addressing reporters at the Vatican this morning

Cardinal Secretary of State Marco Furio Camillo has today urged for the Roman government to show some responsibility for its actions, saying that “bellicose responses about hypocrisy does not deflect from the reality that their actions are unnerving the nations of Belisaria”, the Cardinal’s comments follow that of Vannois Foreign Secretary Nicollier, who also criticised the Romans for endangering Belisarian peace.

The comments came as the Late Empire tested a large thermobaric weapon, in its southern provinces. The test was denounced softly, by the Vannois Foreign Secretary, who said “I feel that … 'announcing' their presence through some foolish bomb testing, they might have just sent a diplomatic missive, perhaps?" He also questioned the message behind the test, of which no warning sent to either Vannoisian Empire, Latium or the Ecclesiastical State.

For his part, Cardinal Secretary of State Camillo accepted the Empire’s right to test such weaponry, also possessing them, but stressed that not informing its members was tantamount to “treating its neighbours with contempt” and warned, “further actions such as these will jeopardise peace and understanding between nations.”

“While the Ecclesiastical State views all nations as sovereign entities, and with that comes the right to bear arms, that we do not dispute; testing them provocatively is not responsible. And we all, in Belisaria wish to see Roman responsibility” he explained.

He confirmed that Under-Secretary of State, Giacomo Amato had spoken to both the heads of government in Latium and the Vannoisian Empire, allies through the SBC Defence Agreement about the issue.

“Under-Secretary Amato did contact the Ecclesiastical State’s allies in the SBC, yes. What was discussed I cannot say, but we should take relief that we are on the same page. We want peace with Rome, but we want it to maintain a responsible approach to peace in Belisaria, because without it, things will fall apart and we will spiral into an abyss that only God can pull us out of” he said.

His Holiness, Pope Julius IV has not commented on the test himself and appears willing to delegate the issue to the Cardinal Secretary of State and his Under-Secretary.

Yet in the past, the Holy Father has expressed disdain for weapons of mass destruction and weapons of grotesque destruction, such as thermobaric weaponry, calling such weapons the “work of the Devil’s hands, tasked with dividing mankind, turning nation against nation and endangering the peace that the Lord expects us to uphold.”

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Approved by the Sacred Magisterium of the Ecclesiastical State
© Veritas 2016

[Late Roman Empire]

"To whom it may concern,

Rome neither is a part of the South Belisarian Community, nor does it owe any explanation to it, nor is it irresponsible for strengthening its armed forces, any more than Vannois is for doing so. Perhaps the Ecclesiastical State is bored with purging its worthy and respectable citizens or wants to divert from the hypocrisy of purging such citizens and seizing their wealth to line the pockets of the princes of its church. It is reckless and irresponsible to provoke the most powerful nation in Belisaria with constant attacks of this nature, rather than simply seek to engage with us in good faith and a spirit of goodwill, something notably lacking in the recent communiques of these nations.

"Rome is prepared to actually confer with in a peaceful manner, but expects to be treated with respect and goodwill in turn, not constant homilies from the leaders of nations who seem to arrogantly appoint themselves arbiters of this continent and its affairs. Rome is not prepared to let anyone dictate its foreign or defense or security policies to it, not now or ever. As the nation ruled by the very deputy of the Lord God Almighty, we are not going to prostrate ourselves to meddlesome hypocrites who are irresponsible yet accuse us of being irresponsible when we have been nothing but responsible ourselves.

"This kind of increasing nitpicking at the Empire has not gone unnoticed and the rulers of these nations do themselves and their citizens a disservice by making demands of the Lord of the World, who is neither obliged nor amused by their intransigence and impudence. We are more than ready to do business with any government sane enough to do so with us, but so far, the sanity of certain leaders is open to question, judging from their latest conduct toward us, of unprovoked and unjustified slights and insults toward the Roman State. We naturally hope that they come to their senses and engage us diplomatically rather than preach homilies at us from afar, which serves no purpose and achieves nothing whatsoever.

In hoc signo vinces,
Imperator Caesar Titus Augustus Dominus Mundus et Pontifex Maximus"

[Lacus Magni]

This post takes place in April 2017 after new elections were called in Latium at some point in late January to early February.

Latium | Belisaria | International | Local | Sport | Faith | Economy | Culture | Science | Opinion

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Pompilius – United Latium win largest majority in Latin electoral history
National Coliseum, Castellum ab Alba, Latium
By: Flavius Nasennius (@FlNasenniusRAL)

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Consul Alexander Pompilius (UL) thanks supporters as United Latium celebrates a massive electoral victory, 17 April 2017

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Castellum: Just as predicted in the polls during the weeks leading up to the election, Consul Alexander Pompilius and his United Latium party have retained and expanded their majority in the Senate. The election, first called by Emperor Constantine XX on 25 January with the dissolution of the 39th Senate, saw early exit polling suggesting United Latium would finish with 420 of the 673 seats. Though the sitting Consul saw his majority rise by 54 seats from 362 to 416. United Latium achieved a 45% share of the popular vote, which became the largest popular vote share since the 2000 general election. However, lower voter turnout resulted in United Latium receiving less votes overall than its Conservative Party predecessor did in the 2015 election.

Consul Alexander Pompilius took to the stage late last night to thank all of his supporters and the Latin people for their support and participation in Latium’s first general election since the 2016 succession crisis. “This election was a great thing for Latium. It brought us together to show that we can solve our differences in a civilized and safe manner...against all odds and those that work to tear us apart...I promise you that will work harder than ever as your Consul...to continue the great progress we have made these last few months.”

While United Latium saw massive gains, the leading center-left Progressive Party saw a sharp decline following Opposition Leader Flavia Lepera’s hard-line social democratic platform and constant, shadowed attacks on Pompilius in lieu of campaigning on her own platform. The Progressive Party finished the night with 202 of the 673 seats available, a decline of 37 from the previous election. This decline is largely attributed to Lepera’s platform as appearing too liberal and the rise of Felix Procilius and the new Citizens – Popular Alternative party, which siphoned liberal leaning voters from the Progressives. Procilius and Citizens – Popular Alternative earned a 10% popular vote share but only 5 seats with their secular-liberal platform, marking the party's first entrance into senatorial politics. The centrist Greek National Party (EEK) saw little in the way of change, only dropping 0.2% of the vote and losing one seat. While 5 independents Senators were elected, four other parties earned a single seat: Liberty Union Party, Catholic Democratic Alliance, The Greens, and Democratic Labor Union.

United Latium’s victory became the largest in Latin history, becoming the only the second time a single party has held over 400 seats – the first being the original Liberal Party after the 1980 election, holding 407 seats. Greeks leader Anna Kinnamos will replaced be by incoming senator John Daedalus as the youngest sitting senator at 26 years and 9 months old when the 40th Senate is sworn in.

Consul Pompilius has already been invited to the Palace of Augustus by by Emperor Constantine XX for tomorrow to discuss the formation of a government. The 40th Senate will be sworn in on 21 April with the State Opening of the Senate, led by Emperor Constantine XX, scheduled for 28 April at 7:30 pm.

Full Election Results

Other news

• Liga Magna opening round playoffs expected to begin next week.
• Emperor’s coronation planning reportedly underway, with LTCNews claiming a June or July coronation is most likely. Previous reports pointed to a Christmas Day coronation.
• Pompilius expected to forgo a Deputy Consul, three Tribunes in upcoming cabinet.

[Lacus Magni]

Latium | Belisaria | International | Local | Sport | Faith | Economy | Culture | Science | Opinion

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Consul announces legislative agenda; Sounds off on Roman weapons tests
20 Via Julia, Castellum ab Alba, Latium
By: Adrianos Iakovou (@RALinternationalis)

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Consul Alexander Pompilius speaking to the press from 20 Via Julia, 16 June 2017

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Castellum: The Consul announced his plans to move forward with his election proposal for a new gendarmerie and national police force. This new gendarmerie, the Civil Guard, as proposed by Consul Alexander Pompilius will replace the former Scholarian Guard and will be formally presented to the Senate for debate this week. The proposed Civil Guard will be placed primarily within the Home Department, though certain aspects of the Guard will remain under the control of the Ministry of the Defense, such as the Emperor’s ability to appoint the Lord Commander. This differs from the Scholarian Guard which was fully under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Defense. Since the end of the succession crisis in early December, former Scholarian duties had been handled by the Praetorian Guard after an executive order issued by Emperor Constantine XX in December. The Consul also fielded questions regarding a number of topics, from the Progressive Party leadership election, taxes, and the recent Roman testing of thermobaric weapons.

Pompilius highlighted that the Act of the Senate would allow for the Civil Guard to employ both men and women, unlike the Scholarian Guard. He refused to comment on the Emperor’s view of the proposed Guard or the likelihood that Imperial Assent would be provided to the measure as currently proposed. However, the topic quickly shifted towards other issues, first the recent Progressive Party leadership election which saw Manuel Batziolas replace Flavia Lepera as leader and Leader of the Opposition. Many suggest the election of Batziolas denotes an attempt to pull votes more Hellenic votes away from the Greek National Party and a move towards the center to combat Pompilius’ already large majority in the Senate. Pompilius said, “I’ll be sad to see her go,” Pompilius said, “[Lepera] never lacked for passion…but I look forward to facing off with [Batziolas] during Consul questions.”

Pompilius was briefly asked about his campaign promise to not raise taxes after leaks from the United Latium party office that Cabinet had discussed a rise in both income tax and VAT. “No, your income taxes will not rise in the immediate future,” the Consul stated before moving onto the recent war of the words between key Latin allies and neighbors.

A reporter first asked if he’s spoken with the Emperor regarding the recent events in Rome. But he deflected, “The Emperor and I discuss a great many things daily, most of them classified in nature.” Before further questions on the issue could be raised, the Consul made a statement. “Look, I think both sides have valid concerns. Of course nations, such as Rome, have the right to provide for their soldiers and ensure they are adequately prepared. And of course Rome’s neighbors have a right to be concerned in the lack of notice given before the test of such weapons….Latium has a strong relationship with Rome. Latium has strong relationships with Vannois and the Papacy. I cannot see any of that changing, nor do I wish to see it change. But we shouldn’t be airing our dirty laundry to the media. There is a right way to go about these things, and complaining to the media is not the best way to achieve that. I think, in the future, that we could all do a little better with communicating with one another, myself included. The point is, there are far more real and pressing concerns on the continent than this little 'story' you all are spinning around for more hits on your webpages.” When asked to name more real concern on the continent, the Consul simply stated, “Rietumimark,” before attempting to move on.

The next question Pompilius faced was also about Rome and the recent statements from Roman Emperor Titus. “I’m afraid I can’t read minds,” the Consul replied when asked by reporters if the recent statements from Roman Emperor Titus demonstrated personal arrogance and lack of respect for neighboring nations. Pompilius fielded one last question before ending the press event, smiling and saying, “No, I’m not concerned,” and pointed back to his previous remarks on the positive Latin-Roman relations when asked if he was concerned by Roman Emperor’s recent remarks and whether the actions were seen as aggressive. Also stating that, “As I’ve said, the His Majesty and I discuss a number of topics on daily basis. If you want his opinion, you’ll have to ask him,” when asked if he knew Emperor Constantine’s feelings on the matter.

Other news

• Mégas AEA Phoenix lift their 7th Ascensione Liga Premier title after the shortened 2017 season.
• Emperor Constantine travels to Imbros as calls for a devolved government on the island continue to be aired.
• 2017 SBC Summit: What you need to know about this year’s summit.

[Leasath]

Trusted Imperial News Source Since 1952
Vannois | international | locale | sport | religion | économie | divertissement | alimentaire | opinion

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Prime Minister comments on 'responsibilities of Superpowers'
Saint-Nazaire, the Vannoisian Empire
By Jérémy Mignard, Political Corespondent (@LeCitpolitique)

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Prime Minister, the Duke of Périnesse-Toucourt, at a meeting of parliament; 12 June 2017

SAINT-NAZAIRE - The Prime Minister has commented today on the 'responsibilities of superpowers' in a speech aimed at the recent row between much of the Southern Belisarian Community and the Roman state. The Duke, who has previously allowed his Foreign Secretary and others in his government to take control of most foreign affairs, is thought to have been incensed by the insinuation that he, or the Emperor Louis XIX, was in any way of questionable 'competence to govern' as put forth by Roman press. In addition, the Roman Emperor Titus has also called the competence of Southern Belisarian neighbors and leaders into question, stating that "the sanity of certain leaders is open to question," after his nation took criticism for a sudden thermobaric bomb test in the south of their country.

The Prime Minister had this to say in his prepared statements, and took no questions either before or after he had concluded. Beginning directly on questions of his own sanity, the elected leader stated that "[T]here is no question of my competence in leading this nation these past [6] years, nor in the abilities of our newly ascended Emperor Louis XIX... In fact, considering the caustic and rather unhinged response of Roman media, one might look inward when making such accusations and assaults in response to simple requests." The Prime Minister continued, saying that "... whatever Rome may thing, there has been no change in the Defence budget for the Armed Forces of Vannois in over half a decade; while I continue in my efforts to revitalize the military and ensure that our forces are well armed now and in the future, no such measure has been passed nor brought before His Imperial Majesty the Emperor; as such, I would ask that the Roman press try to do a little research before wildly accusing governmental leaders of foreign nations of hypocrisy."

Périnesse-Toucourt, ignoring hails for questions, finished by stating that, "Vannois views Rome with friendliness. I know nothing of any 'communiques' sent to the Roman state by my government with regards to any of these issues as referenced by the Emperor Titus, nor can I say that there was any intent of ill will on the part of my government when addressing Rome; in fact, one might look to the responses to our press and the statements of the Foreign Secretary by Roman elements and see that they, rather, contain little but a worrying propensity to enflame and twist facts, as if the Roman state was looking for some reason to become excited or angered at the Vannoisian, Latin, and Ecclesiastical states.

"I can only say that I hope for the best of relations with Rome, and that I hope they might take time to reflect on what their recent behavior in international media has looked like to the rest of the world before attempting to continue expanding this foolish row."

In Other News
*Vaillancourt, other opposition leaders express worries over Roman Emperor's mental capacities
*IVV Emperor Charles XII to launch
*Chiefs of Staff to Emperor, Prime Minister spotted exiting Cléricot café together after speculation over new policy announcements

[United Valik]

Glauconeum Herald,
Kajetan Motyka

Foreign Minister Talia Tsaros, in a recent press conference, weighed in on several regional issues and had some rather sharp words to say regarding certain foreign leaders on a wide range of differences with them. The nation's chief diplomat, who also happens to be head of the Popular Democratic Party, called for "calm instead of panic and hysteria over conventional weapons testing, as well as a little more restraint in vitriolic rhetoric aimed at smaller nations that are Rome's neighbors. Admittedly, the Empire is not responsible to or in any way answerable to an organization of which it is neither a member nor apparently inclined to be a member. Even so, the Roman Emperor should perhaps be driven a little less by pique and aggravation at the frustrations of his new job and the mindless carping of others, and perhaps a bit more by a desire to calm the evident anxiety of smaller states on his continent. As a smaller nation, I can understand some of those concerns, especially given that my own land was invaded and plundered by one of its larger neighbors in my own lifetime.

"However, it should be noted that this particular Emperor is no stranger to multi-lateral diplomatic and peaceful partnership with other nations, having helped found the CPO with his predecessor and other great leaders of the region, as well as having helped formulate the Valerian-Decentius Corollary to the Silvanus Doctrine. He has aided in improving the peace and prosperity of the region more than once. If he says that Rome's intentions are peaceful and that Rome remains one of the responsible powers of the region, I would tend to believe him, and so would most of the Federal Government. Titus Augustus is well known as a man of peace, not an aggressor or bully."

When asked about the recent issues and political disputes in Latium, Tsaros observed that, "United Valik has no desire to meddle in the internal business of countries like Latium. They have the right to govern themselves as they wish. That being said, the recent civil war was more than troubling, and I do hope to see perhaps more power in the hands of the Senate and Consuls, as well as other representatives of the People, less in the hands of an Emperor who just attained it by means of civil war. I have nothing against the present Latin Emperor per se, but the recent civil war was ample proof that political reform to liberalize and democratize the country, whatever the identity of the Consul and the makeup of the governing coalition, are quite useful to the long term goal of a more open and liberated Cornellia, one less oppressed and controlled by unpopular and unelected regimes."

When asked if this included Rome, Tsaros added, "Certainly, I would love to see more political reform in the Roman Empire, just as we have seen in Latium. However, one must bear in mind that things are more in flux in Latium, due to less general stability and order, than they tend to be in Rome. One of the more positive aspects of this, as opposed to the negative ones, is a greater opportunity for political change, such as a reduction of imperial and monarchical power and an increase in popular sovereignty. This does not mean, however, that we should discourage constitutional reform in the Roman Empire, which does appear to still be an objective of that state and its governing authorities."

When asked about Ghant, Tsaros remarked that "the Crown Act was a step backward in my personal view, and I doubt that I am alone there. It was a reversion toward feudalism once more. Quite frankly, I would also be leery of the merits of this dogma of regium coniugum, given that it empowers not one, but two people without any experience, training, or qualifications for government, and one of them for no better reason than that she married the Emperor. I say this with no personal animus against Emperor Nathan IV or Empress Sophia, simply observing my own, and to a large extent my country's, skepticism of feudal and monarchical institutions as a matter of principle, as opposed to meritocratic and republican ones. I quite candidly approve the Garzan people for doing away with it in their plebiscite, I might add.

"I share the Ghantish displeasure with the Rietumish government's conduct toward Deweden, however, in spite of disapproving of the principle of matrilineal succession on that nation's monarchy. After all, one is just a cultural and social injustice, whereas the other is pure repression by a Stalinist police state bent on not only depriving the Dewedish people of their fundamental right to national self-determination, but also of their political, economic, and civil liberties by means of tyranny and terror. I would particularly urge the Dituate of Akai to pressure and influence their Rietumish allies to adopt a conciliatory, humane, and peaceful relationship with Deweden and their allies in Ghant."

Regarding Arcologia, Gloria Regis, Dengali, and Kurungarra, Tsaros noted that, "We're not particularly fond of Deadora, Shrailleen, or the Imperium. They all have disturbing authoritarian, if not totalitarian tendencies, made worse by an intense and alarming religious zeal in the case of Arbites, and of a malignant and malevolent matriarchy in the case of Deadora, a softer and more benevolent, but still oppressive version in the case of Shrailleen. That they have also meddled in the internal affairs of Gloria Regis, New Edom, New Othman, Ghant, Arcologia, Gloria Regis, Gavinium Magnus, Dengali, and Kurungarra is even more disturbing to us.

"Even so, we're willing to reach out to such nations, hoping that they can perhaps bring some sanity to these various crises, plus the unfortunate issues with FODE, and perhaps even treat some of their own people with more dignity in time. We are a peaceful nation and want this region to be engaged in peace and prosperity if that is still possible."

Regarding New Othman, Tsaros weighed in by commenting that, "We are hopeful that with the insurrection and insurgency done, and with a new, free election that has removed many of the most corrupt politicians that New Othman has ever known, their republic might get a new breath of fresh air that sustains it for some time to come. It goes without saying that, as neighbors to New Othman, we have a stake in the continued, stable existence of the Republic there. This is especially the case due to the Othmani War four years back. We congratulate the Social Democrats on their victory and Premier Tufan on his new office as head of government."

As for Adiron, Tsaros had a surprising comment that, "Not only do we congratulate the new President on his election, but we wish to make it clear that one of the goals of our government in the near future will be improved relations with Adiron and closer co-operation with it, despite our differences, toward our mutual goals in foreign and trade policy. Adiron is one of the strongest champions of political freedom in the region, so it is integral to the survival of democracy here and elsewhere in Cornellia."

With respect to New Edom, Tsaros reiterated as follows, "We do not now, or ever, approve of the Compulsory Nudity Act or the Morality Act on their merits as codified legislation. They represent horrific violations of every tenet of civil liberties in our land. That being said, we recognize that New Edom is a sovereign nation with its own political and constitutional institutions and traditions, nor would we ever presume to dictate to it what sort of government or laws it should possess. We also respect that New Edom, as a matter of foreign policy, has provided much leadership to the region, particularly with respect to the CPO and its affiliated organizations, as well as the work of the CPO in securing peace and prosperity in Cornellia. King Elijah IV and Queen Mara have been especially just and benevolent monarchs, determined to succor their fellow man and do him good, not evil, in all things. They are shining examples of good government to all of us.

"We are also grateful that, in its anti-piracy and anti-slavery punitive expedition to the southern littoral of the Empire of Delvian States, the Allied States of New Edom have assisted us in cracking down on the organized crime and racketeering syndicate known as the Association, which has been a very harmful organization to the causes of human freedom, dignity, law, and order. This campaign of theirs has enabled us to gain vital intelligence to be used for the goal of stamping out this wicked, underground slavery ring, which has been a stain on the honor of our country for some time in the recent past. Whatever one's faith, one should always consider chattel slavery an abomination in the eyes of both God and Man."

Concerning Free Garza, Tsaros praised the King, Diego IV, for "being an exemplary constitutional monarch, thus setting new traditions of permanent, responsible government in that land, preserving what social reforms from the Revolution would suit the needs of his subjects on their own merits, and showing the nation, the region, and the world that his dynasty still has men and women of substance to it. We also applaud his willingness to work with heads of government of both parties and to act as an honest broker between the various factions of state in that country, while still exercising a strong moral influence, mostly in terms of opposing tyrants, favoring religious liberty, and adamantly denouncing the form of racial and religious bigotry known as anti-Semitism.

"I would also applaud the various Premiers, past and present, of Free Garza, for being such sensible and yet forceful, even blunt and direct, statesmen and stateswomen, as well as respecting and following the practice of an orderly transfer of power from one party to its opposition in the past elections since the restoration of the monarchy. They have also made it quite clear, whatever one's views of their policies, that their principal interest is the common good and the welfare of their people."

As for Gloria Regis, Tsaros called upon the Feminist Collective leadership to "dissolve your existing government, hold free and fair elections under international auspices on the basis of universal adult suffrage, and abolish all legislation aimed at reducing half of the population to poverty and slavery. It's quite clear that your Redstocking program for governance has been a catastrophe for your own country, and not just for the menfolk. It has forced women to be dominant as much as it has coerced men into submission and bondage. It is nothing but a betrayal of one's own fellow citizens and a criminal, totalitarian ideology bent on atrocities of the worst kind against humanity itself."

Speaking about Lazodiria, Tsaros asserted that, "Their government, focused as it has been on peaceful recovery, commerce, and a more just and open society, and as always, committed to the path of peace and goodwill toward their neighbors in spite of the ugly past, is but one of many reasons why we are proud to be among their friends and allies, whatever differences we may have with each other. Prince Nathaniel Victor VII is a man worthy of our respect and admiration as a man of principle and conscience, not to mention moral courage, as he proved both during the war and afterward. We would do well to seek even better relations with him and his government."

However, Tsaros had some very harsh words for the Ecclesiastical State and the Pope, Julius IV, warning that, "proscribing your enemies and pinching their estates is a tactic worthy of a tyrant, not a priest and a man of integrity. This is not only oppressive and a breach of human and civil rights, as well as property rights, but it is also unwise and will surely dry up investments and capital for much of your industrial sector. So far, your much vaunted reforms have all been about advancing your own ambition, pride, and vanity, not to mention your greed. I would remind you that in your own faith, avarice is one of the seven deadly sins, as is pride. I would challenge you to hold a free vote soon enough and test your popular support at the ballot box. If you are indeed a man of the people, as well as of God, you have nothing to fear from the electorate. You have a choice of joining the 21st century or getting left behind in the Dark Ages instead."

[Estoni]

Majevica Economic Issue

Osjekci Import Export Increasing Ship Breaking Business

In the first major expansion of it's business in the last four years OIE has announced it's intention to triple the number of ships it scraps at it's facility in Splitgorica, as well as opening a brand new facility on the island of Antekerun, a major boost for the regional economy. OIE already scraps between 80 and 150 vessels per year at it's Splitgorica facility and intends to up it's yearly scrappage rate to over 200.

While the majority of the Eesti economy has remained stuck at pre-millenial levels Osjekci Import Export has seen it's profits increase each year by a minimum of 8%. Although ship breaking has never formed a major part of it's business, the increasing size of their transport fleet induced the board of directors to invest in both small building facilities but more extensive facilities to scrap and repurpose larger vessels purchased at knockdown prices from larger shipping lines.

Government ministers in public have praised the clear superiority of the Socialist economic model, and pointed to the recession siezing the majority of the imperialist world and the high growth of OIE. However in private this newspaper understands that many are fuming that a business closely linked with organised crime is so blatantly flaunting their wealth and disobeying national laws. However most accept the situation, both for the jobs and money it brings to the Eesti economy and the fact that the company is a generous host to pliable politicians.

While this newspaper tries to maintain a neutral and factual line we are forced to question this expansion of OIE, already most of our nations ports are packed with half sunk vessels and many of our nations beaches are blighted with ships run ashore and cannabalised by half trained mechanics for valuable parts. Surely OIE should be focusing on actually scrapping these vessels instead of amassing a valueless fleet of hulks.