PORTAS ANNOUNCES DEFECTION TO LCLC
Portas stated that the lack of accountability within the PSD made the party 'unelectable'
Lotrič, Midrasia - Former cabinet minister and member of the Social Democratic Party, Melcion Portas has today announced his defection to party Fight Against Corruption (Lutte Contre la Corruption). The move comes amid the ongoing investigation into the affairs of Prime Minister Charles Vauban and a number of other notable figures in the PSD and UDA. The move is likely to be a huge blow to the Social Democrats election hopes, whilst greatly benefiting the LCLC.
Whilst initially serving as Business Secretary in the first Vauban cabinet, Portas left the cabinet in 2015 following a reshuffle, amid speculation that the Prime ministers relationship with Portas had soured over their time in government. Portas was incredibly critical of the PM following his departure, describing Vauban's leadership as 'totalitarian' and criticising the PMs reliance on a 'select circle of special advisers'. Portas was one of the first MPs to call for an investigation into the affairs of the Prime Minister and whilst had attempted to take a position on the investigation committee, he was ruled out due to his previous ties to the PM. Speaking earlier today to supporters Portas had stated that the current state of the PSD has made the party 'unelectable' and that members of the party must be committed to either 'working to internally reform the party', or to providing a 'radical alternative'. Speaking on why chose to split with the PSD, Portas stated that he did not believe internal members were doing enough to combat the PM and that the LCLC provided a 'suitable path to achieve political reform by working with parties across the political spectrum'. Portas' defection has been a major boon to the LCLC, who have jumped nearly ten points within the Polls over the past month. Portas, who has been notable to his active role in ongoing demonstrations in Lotrič and was in the past viewed as a natural successor to Mr Vauban, is likely to only bolster the election prospects of the anti-corruption party.
Sources also suggest that LCLC leaders may be willing to elevate Portas to party leader due to his recent popularity. Speaking on this claims, Portas stated that he had heard 'nothing of the sort' and that 'matters of party organisation are for the current leadership to decide'. Furthermore, other sources suggest that a number of other members of the PSD may be willing to defect to the LCLC, many of whom belong to the reformist wing of the Social Democrats, or are sitting in marginal constituencies. So far, there is no official word on any other defections, however betting companies have odds at 10/1 for Thierry Millón to be the next to defect to the LCLC.
No matter what happens, this election is likely to be monumental in Midrasian history, with both major parties currently involved in political scandals. Political analysts suggest that it may be the time for the smaller parties in Midrasian politics to shine. However, recent polling data suggests that a hung parliament is the most likely outcome, with a coalition agreement necessary to secure a majority within the Public Assembly. Ongoing protests within Lotrič and across the country are also likely to play a major role within the ongoing election, with the number of demonstrators reaching millions in Lotrič alone. The rising number of CGT demonstrators within the city may also see the Socialist Party make considerable gains within the upcoming election. The Royal Standard will continue to provide updates on the situation in election 2017.