Hypatian News Network [FT][CLOSED]

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

Previous thread

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Welcome to the Hypatian News Network!

This is a news thread dedicated to posting stories out of the Commonwealth that may be trivial or hold some importance but otherwise are either too short to go into my maintenance thread or are better written here due to the nature of the topic. It, along with my maintenance thread, contributes to the overall narrative and stories connected to the Commonwealth in some form. Stories posted here are IC and publicly available to anyone with access to the GALNET (NSFT's version of the Internet). Finally, while this will be the new thread for all HNN content, the prior thread and its content are still canon.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

Coalition considers welfare bill as deadline looms

07 Samhain 2200

Editor Eliza Iverness

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Harlow, Hellas Province, Mars — The deadline for the Rowland-era policy that created sweeping benefit programs for workers affected by the Automated Revolution is fast approaching. The Coalition has until the end of the month of Samhain to negotiate a deal that would satisfy both the Liberal Conservatives and Labour and prevent the loss of benefits to billions of people. Labour First Secretary Charlie Eden told reporters that she was optimistic that a deal could be reached. Labour wants to keep the Universal Basic Income (UBI), Housing benefits, Medicare, and Disability benefits on the table as well as extend retirement benefits with a contentious state-subsidised program known as 'Retirement Credit', create an education program for affected workers, and introduce price-caps on cyberware such as prosthetics and augments.

But such a bill may be a hard sell to Liberal Conservatives who are dangerously close to losing seats following an almost disastrous performance during the election. Some MPs like Alexander Gramm (LC - Victoria) felt that Labour was 'asking too much,' particularly on price-caps. The Cyberware Cooperative, a guild comprised of several unions and corporations that manufacture cyberware, stated they would lobby against such a price-cap and have gone so far as to create a 'war chest' to prevent it from passing with that provision. To the CC, such a policy would jeopardise jobs in the cyberware industry, sink profits, and introduce unregulated foreign products into the market.

Likewise, the Housing and Rental Associate (HRA) took exception to the idea of continuing the 'Housing Credit' that was introduced under the Rowland administration, which they said had disrupted the real estate market considerably. The Housing Credit allowed the government to subsidise rent and housing for workers affected by the Automated Revolution and safeguard them from foreclosures with reduced mortgages and rates. The policy created artificial pricing schemes that the HRA felt were anti-business and 'oppressive', driving real estate investment away and causing the closure of several businesses, especially those that weren't willing to sign on to the program. 'It essentially nationalised the housing market,' HRA Spokesperson, Lee Pobrecasa told HNN.

In Housing and Rental Association v. Commonwealth of Hypatia, the High Court ruled that the government was not overstepping its bounds as the agreement to participate was voluntary, and participating banks and real estate corporations were fairly compensated via reduced taxes and market value reimbursements by the government. Even still, the HRA has continued to challenge the program to no avail.

Labour-aligned unions however are supportive of the platform, though some have expressed anxiety about the price-caps and the fact the Refugee Integration and Community Action Policy would still retain some of these provisions. Several unions have already begun to lobby the National Workers Commission to put pressure on Labour MPs to get RICAP repealed, fearing that Liberal Conservatives could pass on the deal in favour of bringing in more foreign workers if general strikes occur.

'It'll be a delicate balancing act and it'll be up to Stigandr to negotiate a deal,' R'talli, a representative of the NWC told HNN. R'talli believes that if a deal can't be reached, Labour will likely threaten to break the coalition which would create a snap election. The NWC has not ruled a general strike out of the question if such a thing were to happen. However, some have wondered if such a strike would be as impactful. 'Are unions and workers still needed?' is a question none would have thought to ask prior to the Automated Revolution, but now it has found its way in the highest halls of power. The truth is, the 'Guilds' as they are called, tripartist cooperatives meant to reconcile concerns between the State, business, and workers may be a thing of the past. One thing is for sure, though, organisations like the NWC aren't going away without a fight.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

Liberal Conservatives reject Labour demands amid welfare fight

08 Samhain 2200

Editor Eliza Iverness

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Harlow, Hellas Province, Mars — With just weeks to go before the benefits of the 'Worker Relief Policy' created under the Rowland administration dries up, the fight in the Apella has grown between the two dominant parties of the Coalition. Labour's First Secretary, Charlie Eden, lambasted Liberal Conservatives for rejecting demands of the party on keeping much of the WRP's provisions and extending benefits for the billions of workers affected by the unemployment that was wrought by the Automated Revolution.

Prime Minister Stigandr said that the Liberal Conservatives wanted more time to negotiate rather than 'push through ultimatums.' This came after Liberal Conservatives voted down a 'Conciliation Vote' by Labour which would have established a joint committee between the two parties in the Coalition. Such a committee would have been able to fast-track legislation under parliamentary procedure. Instead, such a bill would have to be presented to the full Parliament, putting it at greater risk.

"We have the numbers to get this done and out the door painlessly, saving billions from losing their benefits and causing an economic catastrophe," Eden said. Other Labour MPs derided LibCons' 'weakness'. The United Nationalist Party used the opportunity to launch attacks on the Coalition, one advert read, 'If they don't have the spine, how do you expect them to run the country?'

Concerns of gridlock are also causing anxiety among guild associations in the country. The National Workers Commission announced today that they would sponsor rival candidates to the Liberal Conservatives if a snap election was held, a harrowing warning for LibCon MPs already dangerously close to being edged out by Labour. Such a thing could also benefit longtime rival UNP; who is starting to capitalise on the discord and considering candidates for contested seats.

A rift in the LCP has begun to form between the party's liberal and conservative factions, with the former worried about both a snap election and the fallout if the deadline passes. Some have suggested a controversial amendment to the Policy Revitilsation Act which limits certain federal policies to a maximum of ten years. The liberal wing has floated the idea of repealing the time limit of ten years entirely, meaning any policy could, in theory, be kept in perpetuity provided it was renewed every two years as outlined under the PRA. Conservatives in the party have said they wouldn't support such a motion as it would affect other policies such as international relief policies.

'The PRA was already controversial in its day with a ten-year maximum, exceeding a Prime Minister's typical tenure; it would be unacceptable and unreasonable to remove this limit. We would no longer be able to merely allow policies to lapse without argument but have to debate every one such as our relief policies to foreign states. It would jeopardise our image. Do we continue to let policies expire after ten years, or do we have it out and -- to save face -- keep funnelling money,' MP Erin Blackmoor stated.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

Welfare Act clears Commons

09 Samhain 2200

Editor Eliza Iverness

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Harlow, Hellas Province, Mars — After several days of negotiations, the Coalition's two parties have reached a consensus. The 'Welfare Act' was passed by Parliament late last night along party lines with both Bronze and the UNP voting down the measure. The bill will now go to Empress Tristan to be signed into law ensuring billions of workers retain their welfare benefits as they had them under the 'Worker Relief Policy' that was created by former prime minister Cora Rowland.

The 'Welfare Act' expands the Commonwealth's Medicare program to include all citizens, retains the Universal Basic Income scheme but creates adjustable inflationary and living cost rates based on location, retains the Housing Credit system, expands Disability insurance and benefits, and creates a Retirement Credit scheme. Labour negotiated down price caps for augments in exchange for forgiveness programs to amputees making under £56,000/year.

Not all were content with the law, however, as the Housing and Rental Association (HRA) issued a statement over the legislation calling it a 'deplorable law that would continue to damage real estate markets.' Likewise, the Cyberware Cooperative was displeased with the legislation amounting the forgiveness program to 'taking buckshot to the face,' in a fiery open letter to Parliament.

Charlie Eden, First Secretary of the Labour party, was far more enthusiastic following what she called 'hard-earnt but successful negotiations' with Prime Minister Ragnvald Stigandr, who is also head of the Liberal-Conservative Party. Eden acknowledged that the price-caps were an unfortunate loss for Labour but the forgiveness program was a monumental step towards aiding low-earners. 'We're in the business of giving people the financial freedom they need to live their lives, we won some and we lost some today, but I am very pleased as we have worked very hard to get this,' Eden told the press.

Once signed into law by the monarch, the law will go into effect once the 'Worker Relief Policy' hits the deadline at the end of the month, ensuring there isn't a gap in benefits.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

Jon Gunnarsson killed by bomb

16 Samhain 2200

Editor Eliza Iverness

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Jarlstead, Rovanian Primarchy — Jon Gunnarsson, a prominent member of the extremist paramilitary organisation known as the Aldermen, was killed along with three others by an improvised explosive device in the Rovanian capital of Jarlstead this morning according to the Jarlstead Constabulary. The incident happened in Jarlstead's Breiðness district at around 3 AM according to authorities. Residents were allowed to return home after the area was swept for further explosives.

According to the Imperial Marshals Service, the IED was placed in a garbage bin near an alleyway where suspected Aldermen militia members met. Forensics teams have worked all morning collecting and analysing evidence at the crime scene. IMS believes the device was planted by another paramilitary organisation known as the Longbeards. The incident came just before a major shooting several blocks away at an Alehouse where another Alderman had been killed, though IMS is still waiting to release details about that incident.

Questions were raised during a press conference, held by the Jarlstead Constabulary, over a possible 'gang war'. Chief Floki Vignarsson said that an escalation was possible between the two groups but that the Constabulary would investigate all possible leads. "We have some of the best investigators working around the clock with several agencies to find the culprits of this incident and bring them to justice for this disgusting act of violence," Chief Vignarsson said.

Gunnarson was a prominent member of the Aldermen, an extremist paramilitary organisation comprised largely of ex-soldiers and supporters of the Marto-Eridani Dynasty that ruled the Eridani Imperium. They are on a federal watchlist list according to documents obtained by an information request alongside the Longbeards and many other groups. They advocate for a violent overthrow of the current government in Kadria, the Imperium's homeworld and the capital region, and a re-establishment of a 'Martian Dominion'.

For several years the Imperial Marshal Service and other agencies have been monitoring the groups' activities, making several high profiles arrests in 2197 and 2198 during the 'Apaldal Raids' which snagged several ringleaders like Isma Gurminsson and Vik Ragnvar. Weapons have also been routinely confiscated by authorities and several have been arrested for making explosives such as those used during the failed bombing of a prominent Kadrian businessman in the Parthian Vale.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

Rovanian 'violence' escalating, says IMS; More details about Gunarsson released

22 Samhain 2200

Editor Eliza Iverness

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Jarlstead, Rovanian Primarchy — Two more bomb attacks and a string of violent attacks have shaken Jarlstead and left 11 people dead in what has been described as an 'escalation of violence' says the Imperial Marshals Service. The violence follows a bomb attack that occurred on Sam 16th which killed Jon Gunarsson and other alleged members of the Aldermen, an incident later confirmed to have been conducted by known members of the Longbeards, a now rival militia to the group of Gunarsson's.

According to authorities, Longbeardsmen conducted the Sam 16th attack following rumours that Gunarsson and other members of the Aldermen were leaking information to law enforcement about their activities. Until recently, the two groups had shared a common interest and routinely cooperated. Gunarsson was long considered a firebrand among the Aldermen, chastising Hypatian leadership for not doing more to support their cause, and rallying supporters into what Gunarsson personally described as a 'coalition of warriors'.

Despite this, Gunarsson had recent troubles with the law. Last year he was arrested for allegedly smuggling weapons into the Primarchy according to new documents released by the IMS. Said documents show that Gunarsson had the charges against him dropped, though the IMS refused to comment as to why. Many speculate that this may have somehow reached the Longbeards and other militias that Gunarsson may have been acting as an informant, something the Aldermen deny.

Some Aldermen and Longbeards, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told HNN that Gunarsson had a 'personal falling out' with Longbeard leader 'Mr. Grey'; an otherwise unknown figure that authorities have yet to identify. Whatever the disagreement, it would seem that it was quarrelsome enough to warrant an apparent attack on the Aldermen in what Jarlstead Constabulary's Chief Floki Vignarsson said was 'a gang war'.

The new wave of violence since the 16th has taken the city captive with citizens concerned for their safety. Rena Helmsdottir, a local resident of Jarlstead, told HNN that she was 'terrified for her family' following the recent attacks and had pulled her children from school. Rena said that they weren't able to move away due to travel restrictions for Rovanian settlers.

Despite concerns from residents, Chief Floki Vignarsson of the Jarlstead Constabulary reassured them that they were investigating all possible leads during a press conference. Vignarsson has been working with both federal and imperial officials to deal with the 'wave of terrorism' that had gripped the city. Many think he isn't doing enough, going so far as to file a petition to Jarlstead Commissioners to replace Vignarsson. A second petition has been made to Governor-General Geraldine Rousseau for assistance.

Rousseau's office responded to the petition stating that it was a 'local matter that wouldn't require further action at this time' but that they were monitoring the situation. They noted that the Imperial Marshals were already present and were working diligently with authorities and were 'fully confident' in the IMS' capabilities to take control of the situation.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

GRA and CRE agree to security and economic partnerships

22 Samhain 2200

Editor Eliza Iverness

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Harlow, Hellas Province, Mars — Both the Galactic Republic of Arkasia and the Colonial Republic of Earth have agreed to sign onto the Mutual Prosperity Initiative, establishing both economic and security agreements with the Commonwealth. Prime Minister Stigandr lauded the agreements at a press conference in Harlow.

"These agreements represent the hard work and dedication of the amazing men and women in our Diplomatic Corps who made this possible. I look forward to the bright and prosperous future with the Arkasians and the Dornie. Mars bless Hypatia," Stigandr told the press.

The Mutual Prosperity Initiative was established under the Roth administration and has become a central feature to Hypatian foreign policy in recent years. Former PM Cora Rowland expanded on the agreements to include more security provisions and successfully negotiated a basing agreement with both the Phoenixi and the Arkasians earlier this year. Those agreements marked a significant shift in Hypatian foreign policy in what many called the 'Rowland Doctrine'.

The latest round of negotiations secures agreements on IP law, multinational enterprises, investment regulations, migration and tourism, tariffs, non-aggression pacts, extradition treaties, and defence sales.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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Commonwealth expands further into the Beta Quadrant

⮞ 02 Mariner 2200
Martian Standard Time

The Auracexian agreement increases Commonwealth 'oversea bases' to 73 in the Beta Quadrant

Editor Eliza Iverness | Auracexia

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

AURACEXIA — A new security agreement negotiated between the Ascendant Stellar Hegemony of Auracexia and the Commonwealth would allow for the basing of Hypatian forces in Auracexian territory which would bring the total number of 'oversea bases' in the Beta Quadrant to 73. The agreement has been described by the nation's top military headquarters, known as 'Amsterdam', as one of the largest expansions of Hypatian naval presence in the Beta Quadrant to date. Hypatian Prime Minister Ragnvald Stigandr held a press conference after the announcement."We are committed to maintaining a good working relationship with the Auracexians and this agreement will ensure that," Stigandr told the press.

Beyond the naval facilities, both nations have agreed to sign a non-aggression pact and the Auracexians will be able to procure weapons and equipment from Hypatia as a part of the deal. The agreement will also mark the third of its kind in what many have described as a turn in the page for Hypatian foreign policy -- similar agreements were established with the Arkasians and the Phoenixi just weeks earlier.

Some have questioned the administration's 'expansionism'; criticising the absence of any major conflicts of note in Beta. Stigandr, when asked about a relatively unknown conflict regarding an arctic dwelling lupoid species, downplayed the matter entirely. "We have been monitoring local conflicts and build-ups with allies such as the Domain and Arkasia and have not identified any major threat in these regions. It should be said that the Commonwealth isn't made of iron, and not having good relationships with major powers in the region would be a good way to see that power rust. These agreements are as much a trust-building exercise as they are practical and necessary," Stigandr said.

Regardless of critics, the Senate overwhelmingly voted in favour of the agreement giving Stigandr much needed political capital for the deal. While Beta may not be a hotbed of conflict right now, the Scutum-Centaurus Crisis in the Gamma Quadrant may have helped nudge many of the realms towards supporting Stigandr's security agreements. "What we saw in Gamma was a lack of preparedness on our part, and this convinced a lot of people that we needed to be more active in galactic politics. The age of isolation was over for Hypatia," Senator Salak Vuuni told HNN.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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Breaking: Transit Authority loses contact with Spaceliner in the Martian Delta

⮞ 03 Mariner 2200
Martian Standard Time

A spaceliner registered to StarHop Travel stopped responding to hails with 1,500 souls aboard

Editor Eliza Iverness | Cassio Reach, Martian Delta, Delta Quadrant

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

An Endeavour-class spaceliner like the HCRV Fortunate

CASSIO REACH — Transit Authority's Janus AI announced that it had lost contact with a civilian spaceliner, HCRV Fortunate, after repeated attempts to hail the vessel failed. The Fortunate was travelling from the Genova system in the Gamma quadrant to Cassio Reach on a regularly scheduled transit according to StarHop Travel, the company that owns and operates the Fortunate.

According to Transit Authority, the ship inexplicably failed to check-in near the Gamma-Delta Periphery, and despite repeated attempts to make contact with the vessel, TA was unable to get a response. StarHop Travel CEO and founder, Mark Ehlens, released a statement on the social media platform, Chirpr, following the incident:

"StarHop Travel is fully cooperating with the authorities to uncover what exactly has gone wrong and we will continue to update everyone as the situation develops. We understand this is a very distressing and dynamic situation, and we would like to express our deepest apologies to loved ones affected by this incident. We should have some answers soon."

▲17,736 ☁ 13,415 ↺ 5,672

The Fortunate is an Endeavour-class luxury spaceliner that was built by Orion Builders and sold to StarHop in 2197. The spaceliner can hold up to 1,700 crew and passengers and was assigned to the Genova-Cassio Reach transit route the following year. Like most spaceliners today, the Fortunate is individually piloted by an AI albeit there is a captain for redundancy. According to StarHop's records, Captain Mikimoto Abe has been the captain of the Fortunate since the ship began its maiden voyage and has an exemplary record.

Transit Authority said that the ship's manifest at Genova recorded 1,532 passengers aboard at the time of departure nearly three days ago. Up until today, the ship had made routine check-ins with Transit Authority and no outstanding incidents had been reported during its voyage. Captain Mikimoto's last report received on the 2nd of Mariner at 18:00 GST likewise didn't raise any alarms with TA. The crew and passengers were reportedly in good spirits and the ship was moving ahead of schedule.

"Something happened between 18:00 GST and the check-in scheduled at 06:00 GST," said R'talli Sima, the chief investigator assigned to the incident from the Imperial Marshals Service. Sima noted that not only did Cap. Mikimoto not check-in at his scheduled time, but the AI piloting the spaceliner had also not responded to Transit Authority's hails. Shortly after, the ship's transponder stopped transmitting and the vessel completely disappeared from TA's Telemetry and Registry Service.

According to the IMS, Transit Authority immediately notified State Security and the Maritime Marine Service, known as the 'Garda', following the transponder failure and after repeatedly trying to reach the ship had failed. "It isn't uncommon that ships fail to meet their check-ins," Sima added, "Space weather and other problems can inhibit a crew's ability to meet the schedule but there's a procedure in place that requires repeated attempts to contact the vessel by TA and for the crew to immediately make contact as soon as services are restored. None of this would impact the vessel's transponder."

The Garda said that they had dispatched two patrol ships to the area of the Fortunate's last known position to conduct a search for the spaceliner. Ships were also dispatched to possible routes the spaceliner may have taken but so far these efforts have turned up nothing. The Commonwealth Navy announced they would be deploying two patrol destroyers to the region to aid in locating the ship as well.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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Breaking: Advisory issued by Transit Authority as second spaceliner disappears

⮞ 04 Mariner 2200
Martian Standard Time

Another spaceliner registered to StarHop Travel stopped responding according to Janus

Editor Eliza Iverness | Cassio Reach, Martian Delta, Delta Quadrant

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

An Endeavour-class spaceliner like the HCRV Fortunate and HCRV Trident

CASSIO REACH — Transit Authority issued a travel advisory for the western sectors of the Martian Delta after a second spaceliner disappeared this morning. The HCRV Trident was en route from the Umbra system in the Gamma Quadrant according to authorities, the ship is a similar model to that of the Fortunate and was carrying 1,279 passengers and crew. It was also registered to StarHop Travel according to documents obtained by HNN.

The second disappearance of a civilian spaceliner has shocked the nation creating more questions than answers. CEO Mark Ehlens reiterated that the company was fully cooperating with authorities to understand what has happened to both spaceliners. Meanwhile, the Imperial Marshals working with State Security have raided several depots of the company across the Martian Delta. A number of people have been taken in for questioning but authorities said they don't have a list of suspects currently.

Transit Authority's travel advisory was issued as a precaution according to Janus, the AI administrator for the department. Minister of Commerce Julian D'Oros said that the Department of Transportation would be meeting with officials from the State Department and the Ministry of State Security in Harlow to discuss travel restrictions with the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister Stigandr who just returned from a trip to Narthis stated that he would be monitoring the situation closely. "I will be creating a task force to focus on these disappearances and my administration will be working closely with several federal agencies in the region. Our hearts go out to the families who are looking for answers about their loved ones. I am very optimistic that we will find both of these ships and bring justice to whoever is responsible," Stigandr told reporters outside the prime minister's No. 17 Ardern Street residence.

The State Department has reportedly reached out to the Menelmacari, Nimatojin, and the Arkasians for assistance in looking for the spaceliners. A lack of manpower due to the Scutum-Centaurus Conflict in Gamma has left gaps according to the Ministry of Defence, who would not comment further on what those gaps were, citing national security.

When asked about whether terrorism was a possibility and if the spaceliners had been subject to potential hijackings, Stigandr said that all options were on the table and they'd be looking at every possible lead. The Commonwealth Navy said they would be deploying a carrier task group from the Solarian Reaches to Maia, a system near where the Triton Gap sits, the Navy notified the Eridani of the deployment to avoid possible tensions stating that the task group would be focused on searching for the spaceliners.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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Carrier Task Group heads to Delta, says MoD

⮞ 05 Mariner 2200
Martian Standard Time

Commonwealth Navy deploys carrier group to assist in search of missing spaceliners

Editor Eliza Iverness | Rhea System, Solarian Reaches, Alpha Quadrant

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

RHEA — Carrier Task Group 11 under the command of Captain Jaan Ver S'leni departed the Port of St. Lucille anchorage in the Rhea system after it was given orders to mobilise late last night, the Ministry of Defence announced. The task group will head to Victoria in the Beta quadrant before departing to the Cassio Reach where it will then travel to the last-known locations of the missing spaceliners, HCRV Trident and HCRV Fortunate.

According to the Department of the Navy, CTG-11 is travelling with several expeditionary style ships including a drone carrier to widen the search area. The MoD said that previous efforts had been hindered because of the limited operational range of the ships they had at their disposal in the region and a lack of manpower. Currently, the First Fleet which is normally based at the Alpha-1 anchorage in the Martian Delta is deployed to Gamma as a part of the Scutum-Centaurus Conflict.

Prime Minister Stigandr said at a press conference that the Security Council had "no doubt" in finding the spaceliners. Stigandr noted that the search had become an international effort drawing in assistance from the Nimatojin, Eridani, and other powers. "Between patrols, the manpower we are throwing at this, and the tools at our disposal -- it is only a matter of time before we locate the missing ships and return loved ones to their families," Stigandr said.

Many questions remain about the two incidents. Both spaceliners were of the same make and model and owned by the same travel company. According to authorities, the ships came from Gamma and refuelled at the same systems on their way to their destination. Both ships were also heading towards regions home to Kuthirans and Rovanians -- the Parthian Vale for the Trident and the Primarchy for the Fortunate. Some have questioned whether the ships could have been hijacked by separatists given that the Vale and the Primarchy are home to peoples previously under the control of the Eridani.

"I want to caution against such rumours as the intelligence we have does not currently corroborate that either of these two incidents are the result of a hijacking. There's a lot of unanswered questions -- namely, there hasn't been an announcement by any group claiming responsibility; and there hasn't been a ransom issued to us or the victims' families that would suggest it's the result of piracy," the PM's press secretary, Rene Vanderbilt, told reporters.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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Apella debates Keiper Integration Bill

⮞ 11 Yuletide 2200
Martian Standard Time

Planets like Makemake could be integrated into the Ecumene according to proponents of the 'Keiper Integration Project'

Editor Eliza Iverness | Apella, Harlow, Hellasmark, Mars, Sol System

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

HARLOW — Lawmakers in the Apella were at odds over a new proposed bill by the Keiper Integration Project spearheaded by MPs like Dellatross and Michaels (LCP) according to those familiar with the debate. The KIP successfully lobbied for legislation that would formally integrate Keiper objects like Makemake, which had been annexed under the Keiper Economic Industrialisation Act, and make them official territories of the Ecumene -- a new administrative development created by Tristan I for the 'core worlds' of Hypatia.

Unlike other territories, however, Keiper objects within the 'Keiper Economic Zone' aren't 'inhabited' in the same sense but are specially zoned regions of intense industrialisation comprised of various corporate or federally-subsidised industries and housing for workers or automation. KIP argues, however, that these habitats known as 'The Blocks' by workers in these zones are technically habitation and thus qualify the KEZ for integration. KIP says that incorporating the zones into the Ecumene would provide new protections and benefits for workers and weaken the corporate power of industry giants like Yokohama, DuVal, and Fournier.

The Big Three, as they are collectively referred to as, however, argue that this definition of habitation is legally dubious and that under charter these zones are considered corporate property. Any attempts, they say, would violate federal law regarding eminent domain without just compensation and that if integration were to happen, companies operating these habitats would be forced to close them, rendering the point moot.

Javers (UNP) was sympathetic to the Big Three and argued that it'd be "silly to have a territory where no one lived". But the disagreement isn't just between the United Nationalists and the Liberal-Conservatives. Labour, who forms part of the governing coalition with the LCP, took the opportunity to lash out at their allies for "lukewarm support" according to Labour First Secretary Charlie Eden. Eden, who has a history of challenging her coalition partners, told Labour supporters during a press conference that the "LCP's hesitance to move on landmark legislation is a disaster in the making for this government." Eden further commented that the LCP is more concerned about "kickbacks" from corporate donors than "morals."

In a surprising rebuff, Erin Blackmoor, who serves as the leading chair of the LCP, suggested that the Labour First Secretary had "her head in the clouds" during a townhall meeting yesterday when he was asked about her comments. "It is a rare occurrence that the UNP and the LCP have similar views on an issue, but the fact is that if a company like Yokohama closed down their habitats and facilities, there'd be no voting base in the Keiper. We'd have to legislate a way to prevent that -- and at that point it just becomes madness. Workers in the Keiper are already guaranteed certain protections under the Fair Labour Act," Blackmoor said.

Overall, Keiper objects like Quaoar, Sedna, Haumea, Makemake, Orcus, Salacia, Vanth, Actaea, and Weywot could be candidates for the integration if the bill made it through the House according to the Imperial Charters Office. The ICO, which handles the registration and annexation of territories in the Commonwealth, told lawmakers today that even if this bill were to pass, it would require an amendment to the KEIA that either superseded it or redefined these territories. "Currently, the KEIA is very clear that these dwarf planets and the regions around them are economically zoned and not currently considered 'inhabited' in a legal sense; their purpose was never to be for colonisation but to maximise industrial potential in Sol after the repeal of the Mutual Security Treaty," ICO Chief Arval Del told lawmakers.

In order to safeguard facilities, the Commonwealth renegotiated the Mutual Security Treaty with the Menelmacari, ending the fleet cap in Sol and the Solarian Cold War. Soon after, KEIA came into force to move large amounts of material and facilities into Sol from regions like the Martian Delta. It also provided a great number of jobs as several megascale projects were created by Nerys I to help the country recover from the Great War. "We needed to get the labour force moving, and we needed to quickly get ourselves back on our feet. We had to match military production and economic production to pre-war levels and for that reason, KEIA was necessary," Admiral Julios told HCN.

With opinions split in the nation's parliament, many suspect that compromises will first need to be made between Labour and the Liberal-Conservatives, otherwise, the bill won't make it past the first debate. Prime Minister Stigandr has not voiced support either way, but having a split camp at a critical time when the UNP is gaining a lot of traction in previously LibCon strongholds like the Martian Delta could mean a major defeat come the midterms.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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East Mangala Protocol begins

⮞ 12 Yuletide 2200
Martian Standard Time

East Mangala takes centre stage on Hypatian defence and foreign policy on Mars

Editor Eliza Iverness | Queenstown, Hellasmark, Mars, Sol System

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

QUEENSTOWN — Outside his Ardern Street residence, Prime Minister Stigandr addressed members of the press about a new and potentially controversial policy regarding the nation's northern neighbour on Mars. The 'East Mangala Protocol' is a defence policy several months in the making that puts the region at the centre of Hypatia's 'Hellas Doctrine' according to Stigandr. The region in question is a stateless region considered a 'Martian Forum Administrative Zone.'

"Ever since the Mangala Crisis, there has been great unease and distrust along the northern border of the Hellasmark. For many Hellasmen, the aggressive posturing by the Nimatojin and their deployment of a paramilitary to our borders has long soured relations between ur two nations and undermined the trust Her Majesty's Government had in the Martian Forum," Stigandr said.

The Mangala Crisis was a months-long international incident between the Republic of Sunset and the former United Republic (now the Commonwealth) under the Roth administration. During the crisis, the RoS committed to a build-up of forces along the northern border within East Mangala using paramilitaries known as the OSA. In response, the Roth administration mobilised missile forces along the same border in a tense stand-off. OSA aircraft continually buzzed the nation's border from the Hellas Sea and along the demarcation which kept UR Forces on high alert throughout the crisis.

Eventually, the RoS withdrew the OSA after an agreement was made in the Martian Forum but the incident damaged relations and hurt HMG's perceptions of the international body. Following the crisis, the Roth administration created several permanent missile sites and reinforced the borderlands. Under the Rowland administration, the Commonwealth banned the OSA from operating in Hypatia and added it to a terrorist watch-list.

The East Mangala Protocol is a first issued by the Commonwealth and could lead to a series of talks and negotiations in the Forum. Stigandr was adamant that the Commonwealth will "respect East Mangala's territorial integrity" but that the region was now under "Hypatia's guarantee" stating that any attempt by other Martian powers to move forces into the region to annex or manage its security without consulting the Commonwealth could be considered an act of hostility and be met in kind with similar deployments by the Commonwealth to "safeguard national interests and enforce domestic stability."

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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Hellasmark considers ambitious 'Revitalisation Project' in northern provinces

⮞ 21 Yuletide 2200
Martian Standard Time

The Hesperia Basin could serve as major source for water according to kingdom's Interior Minister

Editor Eliza Iverness | Hesperia Province, Hellasmark, Mars, Sol System

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

HESPERIA — Hellasman leaders have unveiled a multi-billion dollar plan to revitalise the northern provinces of the Hellasmark as a part of the 'Martian Bicentennial Settlement Project.' The project would alter the northern landscape of the Hellasmark to make it 'sustainable' and 'greenify' the region for long-term development according to Interior Minister Johan Halberd. Halberd, who helped spearhead the planning for the project, says that the plan would alleviate a lot of the growing pains coastal cities are feeling thanks to a population boom in the country.

According to the Hellasman Census Bureau, the Hellasmark's population nearly doubled from 250 million in 2185 to almost half a billion people in 2200. Much of this growth has been felt in cities like Port Anseris, Victoria, and Harlow who have had to annex more land in recent years to accommodate their growing populations. It's a problem that has kept much of the Hellasmark government occupied as lawmakers in Hellantis, the country's capital, debate legislation on things like water allocation and space.

"What we have is plenty of land but it's in very water-poor regions of the country, and so most of our urban development has been along the Hellas Sea with the inland areas being sparsely populated if at all," Professor T'kurri of the University of Port Anseris told HNN. T'kurri has worked with researchers across the Commonwealth to devise a model of 'population dynamics' to explain how the migratory impact of people, especially on terraformed worlds like Mars, can affect local ecosystems. Part of the research T'kurri and his team are working on has also been used by the Interior Ministry, T'kurri says.

"They were very interested in our work and brought in a lot of experts to talk with us and go over our models to see if something like this was doable," T'kurri told HNN. The project would require an army of scientists, researchers, and other specialists and take many years to complete but if pulled off would open up an entire region to settlement.

The focal point of the project is the Hesperia Basin, a large plain that stretches from East Mangala into the Hellasman provinces of Hesperia, Tyrhennia, and Ironforge. The land here is mainly arid and flat with gentle slopes going south into the watershed of the Reull, the country's largest river, and north towards the coast of Solitude which is controlled by the Eridani Imperium.

"There are lots of areas in this basin where we could artificially control the flow of water to rehydrate the land and also signs of a past aquifer that could be recharged over time," T'kurri explained. The project isn't without its risks, however. Certain areas of the basin would likely collapse as the region is an old basalt plain from the Tyrhena volcano which sits in East Mangala, just miles from the border. While Tyrhena is an extinct volcano, its lava flows underground have created miles of caverns and sinkholes that are unstable due to erosion post-terraformation. Areological surveys of the region show that some lava flows are expected to be up to 500 meters thick having filled in older impact craters from the Noachian Era.

"We'd have to build a series of connected reservoirs and have spillways constructed in certain places to minimise the flow downstream if there was a major collapse," T'kurri said. Craters with large caverns beneath them could cave in from the weight of the water and would require careful surveying by experts and possible intervention by construction crews. Other risks are involved as well. The Interior Ministry noted that flooding of major reservoirs could create marsquakes similar to the quake outbreak that occurred in New Australia and parts of the Hellas Province during the 2150s. There's also the risk of groundwater contamination that'd have to be carefully assessed and monitored. The Hesperia Aquifer is largely believed to be a deep aquifer far underground but with channels to the surface through complex volcanic vents. Identifying these possible routes of contamination would be imperative the Interior Ministry noted.

"Everything we do in this region could have a larger impact and would take a lot of careful consideration," Halberd explained. Finally, the worst problem is flooding, Halberd explains. While the basin is mostly flat, Mars' overall elevation is sporadic and there's two broad slopes in the north and south. The Reull could likely handle any drainage from the basin into the Hellas Sea with watersheds like the Dao and Harmakhis rivers in East Mangala receiving more flow as well. There isn't a drainage basin in the north around Solitude and the slope is more pronounced in some areas.

"We're trying to work with the Eridani on building a canal through Solitude that'd handle the runoff without risking damage to Solitude or its neighbouring areas. The slope forms something of a fjord almost with a lot of very loose rock and soil that'd create landslides," Halberd told HNN. Without Eridani involvement, the Interior Ministry said it could still go ahead with the project, but it would require finding alternative ways to avoid major deluges down the Soltitude valley. One solution is creating a network of downsloping channels and pipes under the Hypatian side of the slope to prevent water from accumulating and flooding the lowlands around Solitude but much of this is still under consideration.

Once there's water, Halberd says, they can begin importing species native to Mars. Trees and other deep-rooted vegetation would help slow erosion and control the flow of water. "We've had great success in other regions of the country, we'd get to build our own ecosystem here from scratch almost," Halberd explained.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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BREAKING: Eridani surprise attack shocks Hypatia; Tens of thousands feared dead

⮞ 08 Odyssey 2200
Martian Standard Time

Travel advisory issued for the Martian Delta due to ongoing hostilities
Volunteers needed for Search and Rescue, Contact local Civil Defence office for more information
Editor Eliza Iverness | Sigurdshafn, Rovanian Primarchy, Martian Delta

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

Sigurdshafn from Orbit // credit: huang Frank @ artstation

SIGURDSHAFN — Described as the 'darkest day' in Hypatian history, a surprise attack by Eridani forces in the Martian Delta has put the nation on high alert. According to the MoD -- Eridani forces launched simultaneous strikes against the Theseus Anchorage, the system of Sigurdshafn in the Rovanian Primarchy, and the Cassio Reach. While considered unsuccessful according to the Commonwealth Navy, significant damage and casualties have been reported.

Enemy forces were repelled from the Reach but the phase-gate connecting the Martian Delta with both the Commonwealth's territories in the Alpha and Beta quadrants has been damaged and operations suspended pending repairs. An attempted incursion in the Theseus Anchorage was likewise repelled according to the Navy though some casualties were sustained. In Sigurdshafn, however, the situation has become dire.

According to the State Department, the attack at Sigurdshafn was the most severe as enemy forces hit suddenly and without warning, quickly overwhelming local defences.

"Ships bearing the Eridani insignia committed gross acts of violence in Sigurdshafn by launching an orbital bombardment on civilian centres. These attacks not only inflicted significant damage to metropolitan areas but also sparked a number of firestorms. According to preliminary estimates released by the Primarchy's Environmental and Conservation Ministry, these fires have destroyed an estimated two million square kilometres in the wake of the attack and have caused significant damage to the local environment and population centres. Current estimates put the loss of life in the upper tens of thousands," Grand Admiral Tevellos, whose been charged with handling the crisis by the Empress, stated in a press conference after the attack.

Search and rescue operations are underway but the Primarchy has stated that such efforts could take months. A national emergency was subsequently declared following the attack by Empress Tristan I who convened an emergency meeting of the Security Council. A statement issued by the Palace of Northminster read as follows:

"We have seen the darkest day in our history unfold over the last few hours. A surprise attack conducted by the Eridani Imperium has struck at the very heart of this nation and shaken it to its core. This cowardly and belligerent act will not go unanswered; wherever barbarity rears its ugly head, the Commonwealth will overcome it. Today a nation mourns. But rest assured, millions of brave personnel in our armed forces have answered the call. We will prevail at all costs and we will bring those responsible to justice."

The Kadrian ambassador has reportedly been summoned and provided an ultimatum in the wake of the attacks according to the State Department. The Imperium has been given 48 hours to stand-down or face an "all-out war" according to officials.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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Charlie Eden sworn in as PM amidst 'Delta Crisis'

⮞ 08 Odyssey 2201
Martian Standard Time

Stigandr issues reisgnation as deputy PM is sworn in

Editor Eliza Iverness | Queenstown, Hellas Province, Hellasmark, Mars, Sol System

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

QUEENSTOWN — Former Deputy PM and First Secretary of the Labour Party Charlie Eden has been sworn in as the nation's third prime minister amidst a turbulent time for the Commonwealth. Eden's appointment by the Crown comes after the resignation of her predecessor, Njord Ragnvold Stigandr, who stepped down as PM following ill-health.

Eden got her start in politics after joining the Cybersocialist Party where she rose to prominence thanks in part to her characteristic boldness and ability to relate with the growing labour movement following the collapse of the Roth administration. She left the party after it failed to win any local elections during the 2197 midterm run and was reportedly offered a position in the Labour Party. In Labour, Eden became known as a firebrand capable of holding her own in debate. She won her primary, easily defeating her Libera-Conservative rival Jon Bellows for the seat of the Victoria constituency.

Labour voted Eden First Secretary to lead the party in the 2200 elections where she negotiated and secured a ruling majority with the Liberal-Conservatives. Part of the powersharing agreement involved splitting the cabinet between both parties and assigning Eden as the deputy prime minister with Stigandr of the LC servicing as prime minister.

Eden's reported views have echoed the general shift in opinion towards social corporatism and democratic socialism in the Commonwealth's younger generation as well as its labour movement. Her anti-monarchist sentiments have likewise created a lot of resentment among older generations. The Labour Party under Eden surprisingly gained a number of seats during the election, particularly in the Martian Delta, putting the Liberal-Conservatives in danger of losing their nearly fifteen-year dominance as the primary political party.

Yet despite these victories, Eden's rise to the prime-ministership comes at a particularly vulnerable time following a surprise attack by the Eridani Imperium in the Martian Delta that has sparked riots in the Rovanian Primarchy, a trade crisis, and a humanitarian crisis. As prime minister, Eden is also the head of the Ministry of State, which controls the State Department and thus puts her on a collision course with the nation's diverse domestic politics and international relations.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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PM makes major bid for party supremacy

⮞ 11 Odyssey 2201
Martian Standard Time

Eden calls for election in major political shake-up

Editor Eliza Iverness | Harlow, Hellas Province, Hellasmark, Mars, Sol System

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

HARLOW — PM Charlie Eden has called for an election in a daring bid to gain party supremacy in parliament and possibly force the Liberal-Conservatives into the minority. Such an election comes at a time of crisis after an Eridani surprise attack resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands in the Martian Delta. The Commonwealth responded by carrying out pre-emptive strikes against Eridani military installations just hours later.

Eden's meteoric rise to power has been considered a political upset and was only possible due to the resignation of Njord Stigandr who tendered his leave to Her Majesty for 'reasons of poor health.' Stigandr's resignation then allowed Charlie Eden, who was serving as deputy prime minister at the time, to assume the office of prime minister. The arrangement had been done as part of a power-sharing agreement between the Labour Party, which Eden led as the first secretary, and the Liberal-Conservatives, led by Stigandr.

There are questions about whether the Crown could forestall such an election, particularly during a national emergency. Such a move would likely lead to court challenges by Eden, who doesn't share imperial or royal sympathies. It would then be up to the High Court on whether the Crown's Imperial Prerogative could be used in this manner. The Crown could also move to dissolve parliament, but this would result in snap elections that could propel Eden back to the forefront of Hypatia's political stage. Labour gained a number of seats after Eden was elected as the party's first secretary -- and Labour could gain more seats if she capitalised on both the momentum and the blowback of perceived disenfranchisement of the people.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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Cease-fire declared ahead of investigations, talks

⮞ 14 Odyssey 2201
Martian Standard Time

Harlow and Ebonheart agree to cease-fire amid push for answers

Editor Eliza Iverness | Harlow, Hellas Province, Hellasmark, Mars, Sol System

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

HARLOW — Northminster announced that it had agreed to a cease-fire agreement between Hypatia and the Imperium after a tense week of conflict. The agreement was struck in the Martian Forum, an international body on Mars that hosts delegations from several Solarian nations. While the cease-fire has gone into effect, several nations have descended on the Martian Delta to assess the damage, provide aid, and investigate the debris left-over from the three climactic clashes between suspected Eridani and Hypatian forces.

The opening hours of the Eridani assault have come into question by nearly all members of the Forum due to 'anomalies' reported by Hypatian researchers and defence analysts. The Commonwealth originally issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the Imperium to stand down or face an 'all-out invasion' -- a decision that exacerbated tensions considerably as the Eridani denied any involvement.

The Galactic Republic of Arkasia, GRA, proposed an alternative that both nations agree to a temporary cease-fire, permitting them to remain mobilised at the Harlow Line, but also allowing other parties to join Hypatia in investigating the attacks. According to those familiar with the, at times, heated discussions in the Forum, both nations finally agreed. Hypatia further rescinded its ultimatum as a 'gesture of goodwill'.

Doubts on the origin of the hostile forces that attacked the Commonwealth's territories of Cassio Reach, Theseus, and Sigurdshafn have only complicated matters after a round of accusations, according to officials. The Eridani were quick to accuse Hypatia of violating the Treaty of Harlow, the accords that brought an end to the Great War, whereas the Commonwealth lambasted the Eridani for doing the same and willingly assaulting a lightly defended planet to 'inflict significant casualties on civilians.

Further tensions were marked by the exchange of ISCMs between the two powers that shocked a number of nations and brought the two powers dangerously close to a state of total war.

Interstellar Cruise Missiles (ISCMs) were originally developed and designed by the Commonwealth as a 'long-range deterrence' and have been a staple of the nation's strategic arsenal for over thirty years. They have long been a hotbed of controversy by many nations including the Menelmacari, Domain, and the GRA. The treaty of Queenstown that ended the Solarian Cold War between the Menelmacari and Hypatia forbade their deployment in Sol.

Hypatia has long maintained a 'Strategic Ambiguity' policy in regards to its use of ISCMs. Such a policy has allowed the Commonwealth to justify its use of ISCMs in scenarios where a first-strike or pre-emptive strike could be possible. Despite concerns and international protests, Hypatia has continued to develop and improve on the design with the latest being that of the Achilles Strategic Weapons System or ASWS, a fifth-generation development and application of the technology.

Hypatian ISCMs were used to great effect in the opening hours of the Great War, taking down a number of Eridani military stations and sites across the Imperium. It has long been debated among military circles if this attack was necessary, though the Commonwealth has long asserted that the strike conducted had delayed the USEI to mount a number of important evacuations in the Martian Delta. This has been backed up by a number of post-war assessments, lending credence to the government's assertions.

What was different in the opening hours of the Delta Crisis was the retaliatory strike of Eridani ISCMs which followed Hypatia's pre-emptive one. 'Black Arrows' as they've been reportedly named, were developed in secret by the Eridani based on designs of the Reaper Mk IV ISCM used by the Commonwealth in the Great War. Hypatian Intelligence Services have noted that the eventuality was not unforeseen, though questions are being raised by the National Security Committee in the Apella about the weapons. It is believed that the Imperium managed to deconstruct and analyse undetonated ISCMs from the conflict, allowing them to develop their own capabilities, according to Naval Intelligence.

Eridani ISCMs were reported in a number of systems by the Commonwealth Navy with several striking military targets of interest to the Imperium. The Navy says that it is conducting a full review of the damage but has stated that Vanguard counter-measures were active and a number were successfully intercepted before any significant damage was done. Overall, a report issued by Amsterdam, the nation's top military headquarters, stated that both nations committed to a 'limited exchange' of the weapons that was confined to the Martian Delta. While official figures are unknown, it is estimated that the Commonwealth has maintained an arsenal in the hundreds of thousands and that the launch on the 8th of Odyssey amounted to only a 'few hundred warheads' according to Amsterdam.

National Security Committee has stated that it is investigating the launches as part of an official inquiry.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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Eden on the attack as election heats up

⮞15 Odyssey 2201
Martian Standard Time

Liberal-Conservatives decry 'Shock and Awe' strategy of Eden Campaign

Editor Eliza Iverness | Harlow, Hellas Province, Hellasmark, Mars, Sol System

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

Current Majority Government: LibCon and Lab Coalition // Prime Minister Charlie Eden
Victory Threshold: 50%

Results: Total Votes Counted 38.6% // Liberal Conservatives 12.5% // United Nationalist Party 7.1% // Labour 17% // Bronze Alliance 2%

HARLOW — The snap election issued by PM Eden is already heating up with the PM launching a series of attacks against her own coalition partners, the Liberal-Conservative Party. It is clear to many that this election will be unlike any other as Eden seeks to campaign publicly across the Martian Delta, an LCP stronghold, in a first-ever done by a prime minister. Eden's first rally was held in the Cassio Reach just a week after the Eridani attack drawing in tens of thousands with what her campaign described as a 'huge success.

Publicly campaigning may be a first, but Eden has also tapped into Duval Idustries' mass media empire to broadcast her rallies and speeches to larger audiences on a scale not previously done. Otto Duval, CEO and founder of the conglomerate, has already donated to Eden's campaign and stated that Eden had hired a team of specialists to assist with marketing her platform to the younger generation.

Described as direct and energetic, Eden's populist rhetoric has already started to sway early voters with the Labour Party pushing ahead of the LibCons in a first. Currently, Labour is pulling 4.5% ahead of the LCP which has held dominance for over 15 years but now maybe dethroned if all goes well.

"The Era of the LCP is over, the Era of Mars is over; They are a relic of a bygone age and have amassed their power by disenfranchising you. The Merit System, the Consolidation Plan, the Electoral Summons -- these are all tools that have ensured elections work in their favour. As Prime Minister, I will see the end of these programs, I will fight for you, and we will build a Greater Hypatia."

— Greater Hypatia Rally, Cassio Reach

Eden's platform, titled 'Greater Hypatia,' has framed the PM's vision for the future. She has put the social and economic policies of the LibCons and the Rowland Era squarely in her sights attacking the Merit system and the Consolidation Plan. She is also campaigning for greater 'democratisation' of the Commonwealth, drawing power away from the imperial state.

Liberal-Conservative's First Secretary Asman Gormor described the fiery rhetoric as a 'shock and awe' strategy by Eden's campaign. Reportedly, the LCP is looking to get assistance from Yokohama on establishing counter-media, with the company disclosing that it had donated nearly £35 million to Gormor's campaign. It is unclear if the LCP will seek to hold rallies of their own or rely on mass media like they have before to campaign virtually. It is a move, however, that some analysts believe may cost them.

"Eden's drive to get out there has resonated with the public in a way we've not seen before," says Ass. Professor Miguel Santiago of Pennworth University. Santiago works in the Political Science and Mass Marketing Insitute and has been studying elections in the Commonwealth for several years. "We're seeing an entirely new thing, and it's put Gormor and his party on the defensive in such a way that it may prove damaging."

Gormor replaced Stigandr as leader of the LibCon party and also suffers from a lack of exposure according to Santiago. Gormor originally worked as the party's financial chair prior to Stigandr's resignation and was considered by the party to be a moderate choice as his replacement, but Santiago believes that may hurt him. "In the nicest way possible, Gormor is a nobody. He joined the LCP only a few years ago before being assigned to handle the parties finances as treasurer and has very, very little public or media presence and experience. Gormor has been described as very reserved, almost nervous in a public role; that's dangerous compared to Eden's almost firestorm personality."

Santiago believes that the LCP had become complacent, a view that is shared by Isaac Corello, a political analyst. Corello has noted that Rowland had a similar endearing personality like Eden's that made her particularly liked by the public, especially during a time of hardship like Reconstruction. However, Rowland, he believes, was the peak of the party and after she retired, the LCP became too comfortable.

"It's a fall from grace. I really think it is -- they [LCP] rode on the sort of coat-tails of Rowland's solid leadership and have just come to expect that will carry them through perpetually; that's not going to happen here, I think," Corello told HNN. The major shift in demographics under Rowland, Corello says, is 'pulling the ground out from under them.'

Eden's campaign is expected to perform nearly fifteen rallies over the next week both in-person and virtually using holographic projection. She hasn't pulled any punches going after the LCP describing them as 'too moderate and stagnant for the modern age.' She has also lambasted Stigandr's foreign policy calling the former prime minister's role internationally as a 'joke.'

"Stigandr's lukewarm leadership has gotten us nowhere. The UIK, the EAM, the USEI -- these nations don't respect us. The 'Good Neighbour' policy of the Rowland and Stigandr Era needs to end, and it needs to end now. Relationships are built on mutual understandings and playing nice has turned this nation into a mat," Eden said during her rally in the Reach. She envisions a more active Commonwealth that has stronger ties with powers but is also capable of holding its own.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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LibCon stronghold falters

⮞ Odyssey 2201
Martian Standard Time

Labour continues to trail ahead in elections as Martian Delta votes come in

Editor Eliza Iverness | Harlow, Hellas Province, Hellasmark, Mars, Sol System

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

Current Majority Government: LibCon and Lab Coalition // Prime Minister Charlie Eden
Victory Threshold: 50%

Results: Total Votes Counted 56.1% // Labour 27.3% // Liberal Conservatives 17.7% // United Nationalist Party 8.1% // Bronze Alliance 3%

HARLOW — The LibCons' stronghold now rests on a quickly eroding foundation as votes begin to come in from the Martian Delta. In a major political upset, Labour has pulled ahead of their rivals, the Liberal-Conservatives, by nearly ten points. Charlie Eden's decision to break the mould of virtual campaigning and instead hold a number of major political rallies in the Delta is paying off and leaving Gormor's party in the dust.

Described as the 'Greater Hypatia' campaign, Labour's firebrand leader, Charlie Eden, has taken the party to unseen heights with her fiery personality and 'no-nonsense' attitude. In recent days, Eden has launched a number of attacks against the LibCons, brought to attention Gormor's weakness as a leader, and taken to task the status quo policies of the Rowland Era.

Her decision to 'go retail' with her platform took her rivals by surprise leaving the LibCons woefully unprepared despite being more well-funded according to recent financial records. Yokohama and Sato have chosen to back Gormor's platform spending nearly £350 million on the campaign, more than double what Duval Industries, Fournier, and Belmont have spent on Eden's. But DVI's broadcast subsidiary, Minerva, has larger network coverage than that of Yokohama's.

A few of Eden's policy objectives have come to light amid her campaign's trailblazing. Many have suggested that Eden sees herself as a reformer whilst others are concerned her policies could harm the Commonwealth despite their good intentions.

• Repeal Consolidation Policies such as the Refugee Integration and Community Action Policy and the Child Naturalisation Act
• Amend the Public Security Services Act, abolish the State Security Agency, cut funding to Civil Defence's Intelligence Services and the Imperial Marshal Service
• End the Northern Expanse Colonisation Policy
• End the Good Neighbour Policy
• Repeal the Mutual Prosperity Policies
• Establish a Constitution, limiting the powers of the sovereign, and further federalising the Commonwealth
• Enact extensive social reforms by ending the Preferential Immigration Program and Merit system
• Expand the Fair Housing Act and Medicare
• Enact election reform

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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BREAKING: Labour ends Liberal-Conservative's 15-year dominance

⮞ Odyssey 2201
Martian Standard Time

Martian Delta votes majority Labour marking the end of the Rowland-Stigandr Era of politics

Editor Eliza Iverness | Harlow, Hellas Province, Hellasmark, Mars, Sol System

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

Current Majority Government: LibCon and Lab Coalition // Prime Minister Charlie Eden
Victory Threshold: 50%

Results: Total Votes Counted 99% // Labour 58.9% // Liberal Conservatives 23.1% // United Nationalist Party 11.7% // Bronze Alliance 6.2%

HARLOW — In an explosive turn of events, the Labour Party has unseated the Liberal-Conservatives as the majority party, bringing to a close a fifteen-year chapter for the nation. The election officially marks the first time a single party has crossed the threshold to form a government on its own in the biggest political upset of the century. Eden celebrated the news in Na'au City where she made a speech to thousands of supporters from the Imperial Chateau Hotel.

"Today, you made history. The Commonwealth will now have a Labour Parliament -- Your Parliament, so that we can all build a Greater Hypatia together," Eden said.

Gormor and his party conceded the election.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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Official Press Bulletin

⮞ Odyssey 2201
Martian Standard Time

Editor Eliza Iverness

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

⮞ Mars | HARLOW — National Security Committee receives testimony from former PM Njord Stigandr and other officials in relation to the ISCM strikes on Eridani military targets.

⮞ Delta Quadrant | PARTHIAN VALE — Eridani and Hypatian forces continue to stay mobilised at the Harlow Line in the Delta Quadrant according to the Ministry of Defence.

⮞ Mars | HARLOW — Parliament has passed PA-4:1-1938, coined the "Capital Act of 2201", incorporating the cities of Queenstown, Northminster, Bay City, and Fujita City into the capital of Harlow as semi-autonomous boroughs. PA-1938 also officially renames Parliamentary Hall to the Apella to bring it inline with the colloquialism.

⮞ Mars | PENNWORTH — The Security Council announced that it would be commissioning two new fleets in preparation for the establishment of five new installations in Auracexia as a part of a bilateral security agreement. ADM Dockett, who serves as the Commander of BETACOM, will have these fleets and installations assigned to his command.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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Official Press Bulletin

⮞ Odyssey 2201
Martian Standard Time

Editor Eliza Iverness

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

⮞ Mars | HESPERIA — Northern Water Revitalisation Project is approved by the Hellantic government; construction of the Grand Halberd Dam begins in Hesperia Basin.

⮞ Delta Quadrant | MARTIAN DELTA — Several powers have descended on the three battlefields associated with the 8th of Odyssey attacks to investigate enemy origins.

⮞ Delta Quadrant | ARVANIA — Commonwealth agrees to build stellar foundry in Arvania and deploy a citadel as a part of an economic and security agreement.

⮞ Beta Quadrant | NICEAN EXPANSE/BEYON — Parliament passes Nicean Integration Bill ending their military dominion. Admits the state as the Beyonese Realm to the Commonwealth.

⮞ Beta Quadrant | NICEAN EXPANSE/BEYON — Security Council redeploys the Seventh fleet to the Martian Delta.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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Official Press Bulletin

⮞ Odyssey 2201
Martian Standard Time

Editor Eliza Iverness

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

⮞ Mars | HELLASMARK — The Interior Ministry announced that the Eastern Territory in the Hellasmark will officially be incorporated into the realm as the province of 'New Hanover' after meeting population and petition requirements.

⮞ Alpha Quadrant | SOLARIAN REACHES — The Crown has announced that it has retired the name of the 'Martian Interior Systems', which encompasses Hypatian territories in the Solarian Reaches, in favour of the 'Ecumene'.

⮞ Delta Quadrant | ROVANIA — The Longbeards have won a majority in the Leidang following a meteoric rise in support after the suspected Eridani attacks in the Martian Delta.

⮞ Mars | HARLOW, FCR — Prime Minister, Charlie Eden and her government have been accepted by the Crown.

[Hypatian Commonwealth]

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NSC releases report following inquiry into ISCM strikes

⮞ Odyssey 2201
Martian Standard Time

Former PM held at fault for 'poor judgement'

Editor Eliza Iverness | Harlow, Hellas Province, Hellasmark, Mars, Sol System

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⮞ Commonwealth News | Top Stories Today

HARLOW — The National Security Committee has released its findings following a formal inquiry into the ISCM strikes conducted by the armed forces. In the final report, the NSC concluded that officials acted lawfully on the 8th of Odyssey and that procedure was followed appropriately. Had the committee determined officials had acted unlawfully, they could have deferred the matter to the Ministry of Justice.

Instead, the report largely found that based on the information the armed forces had at the time of the attacks, the use of ISCMs could be considered 'reasonable.' Counter to this, however, the report did chastise the former prime minister, Njord Stigandr, for what the committee described as 'poor judgement,' including members of his cabinet.

"In conclusion, the actions taken by the prime minister in the first few hours were hasty and lacked good judgement. While not criminal in nature, there existed other options available to the cabinet beyond the use of interstellar cruise missiles that could have achieved the same objective."