Greater Díenstad News Feed

by **Abetton** » Thu Oct 13, 2022 3:51 pm

The Sauville Trumpet
-Since 1785-

His Majesty Appoints New Prime Minister

by: Jacob LaRuse

The Honorable Lady Aubrielle Cosette Lidel, newly named Prime Minister of Abetton

SAUVILLE - His Royal Highness, King Latimer of Abetton gave a formal announcement to Abetton today, announcing the appointment of a new Prime Minister, following the retirement of the Honorable Henry Henderson in July. Name suggestions from every Duchy were submitted to the House of Lords who finalized the list and presented it to His Majesty the King . Aubrielle Cosette Lidel. Lady Lidel comes with a rich pedigree in Abetton's government, serving as an Associate Magistrate in the capital of Arisse, located in the Duchy of Lillah and wife of Lord Lidel, Member of the House of Lords representing the Duchy in Parliament and with a younger sister a Member of the House of Commons. She was suggested to the House by Chief Magistrate Adrian Briar with similar endorsements by Corisande, Duchess of Lillah, Sir Arthur Arthur Cressida, member of the House of Commons, and other endorsements from Advocate General Billie Astoria, several Advocates for the Crown Justice Office and Crown Defense Advocacy Office, and was on the Queen's top consideration list for potential candidates for new Prime Minister.

The role of a Prime Minister in Abetton is of course to chair up the other ministries of the Kingdom's Government. He or She call meetings of the Ministers of the State, review the Constitution and of course advise the sitting Monarch on several matters according to information by the other ministers. Very importantly they serve as the main line of communication for foreign relations between states in broaching new relations. This has sometimes been met with disaster such as the notoriously hawkish Leon Schroeder, Prime Minister under Queen Beatrix I who helped advocate for the war against Katase in the 1860s.

For Lady Lidel, she spoke before a joint session of Parliament upon her acceptance, hoping to outline her plans as Prime Minister. First her attention drew to the ongoing issues in Greater Dienstad, a conflict which Abetton is neutral and maintains that. "I ask His Highness and members of Parliament to reject any weapons programs. A nation cannot be neutral while supplying munitions to one side or another. Abetton can be called upon to deliver all the needed humanitarian aide for the most vulnerable and helpless of all nationals caught in conflict." Lady Lidel continued emphasizing the need to better expand trade with Abetton's closer neighbors of the far eastern bloc to prevent major shipping and supply chain disruptions, the likes seen in the past two years that severely undercut Abetton's economy in 2020 and 2021."

With relations improving between Abetton and former enemy nation Phibeta, The Lady Prime Minister said she's optimistic about a bright future between the kingdoms. "When we stood once as enemies we will now be better friends than ever. While not forgetting it, we can leave the past behind and look to our future." With hopes to improve fuel trade as Phibetan refineries hope to improve fuel output to ease the fuel crunch and combat rising fuel prices. Concerns about the rise of Neo-nationalism in Phibeta has also shown concern in Abetton, with the Lady calling on Phibetans everywhere to reject the swell of nationalism and anti-foreign rhetoric. "Abetton saw the dangers of swelled nationalism and dangers of racial and ethnic nationalism. We paid a heavy price, please do not forget that important lesson you taught us two centuries ago." With her acceptance speech concluded the Lady took time to greet members of Parliament and members of the Royal Government and begin the process of moving to the Prime Minister's residence in Sauville with her husband and their daughter, Mirabella.

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by **Castille de Italia** » Thu Oct 13, 2022 5:45 pm

FARING SLAIN ON BÉZIERS STREET — HERSHEY BECOMES PRESIDENT

BÉZIERS — John Sinclair Faring, 4th President of the Castillian Federation, has died today, October 13, 2032. He was assassinated while riding in a motorcade in the city of Béziers on an official presidential visit. He was 57 years old.

Faring is survived by his wife, Clémentine Souz-Faring and children, Marie, John Jr., and Henry.

His Vice-President, Harvey Hershey, has been sworn in by a federal judge aboard the presidential plane at Béziers Aéroport, becoming the 5th President of the Castillian Federation. Hershey becomes the first Castillian leader in the democratic era to assume the presidency due to the death of a sitting president. Hershey, 52, took the oath of office administered by Jugefédéral Agnès Beaune, a judge for the Districtfédéral de la Province des Montagnes-sud (Federal District for the Province of the Southern Mountains), after being flown into the city by military aircraft.

"I do solemnly swear to faithfully execute the duties of the office of President of the Federation and swear unyielding loyalty to the Constitution, and to uphold it," Hershey affirmed in his swearing-in to Jugefédéral Beaune, which was closed off to reporters and the press but broadcast via radio across the nation by Manoir de Montbatten.

Hershey, who was a controversial pick for Vice-President due to his connections to former Castillian national socialist government officials, the actions of his vast corporation, and allegations of war profiteering during both the national socialist era as well as during the Second Closian War, now becomes chief executive of the Federation.

Béziers Visit

Faring had came to visit Béziers to help alleviate divide in his party and secure support from the PRI-leaning Labour politicians that have both grown in number after the Labour party split and the formation of the PRI last month. Béziers and the Province des Montagnes-sud had become the last bastion of major political capital for the Labour Party as its other voting blocs in other parts of the Federation have evaporated and joined the PRI. Faring had hoped to utilize the visit to heal divides and put the Labour Party back on track despite it losing the majority in the Senate to a coalition between the PRI and the Partei-Conservateur.

The itinerary for the day included a visit to Sousignon University, where Faring addressed both pupils and Labour Party members, calling for unity with the party and unveiling his new political agenda focused on both reelection in December 2033 as well as bringing the Federation out of recession. After leaving Sousignon, Faring's motorcade proceeded through downtown Béziers in a four-car makeup, the first car being comprised of security staff, the second with President Faring, First Lady Souz-Faring, Gouverneurgénéral of Montagnes-sud Olivier Borne, and his wife, Charlotte Borne. The third was security staff and the fourth comprising of the press pool. All vehicles in the motorcade were open-top convertibles.

As the motorcade turned onto Milano Street, one gunshot rang out and Faring was seen clutching his neck. Several more rang out within the span of a few seconds, with one striking Faring in the head which is presumed to be the fatal shot. Reporters on the scene covering Faring's motorcade report having heard several gunshots, while CBC and numerous other networks unwittingly recorded the murder on live television.

The motorcade, which was supposed to head to the International Trade Centre for a tour, immediately deviated to Gouvernmenthôpital Béziers. Faring was pronounced dead on arrival.

Pro-Fascist Charged With Murder

Harold Marques, a 29 year old handyman at the Federal Rationing Authority building in Béziers, has been charged by the Béziers Grand Arrondissment Prosecutor with two counts of capital murder. Marques was arrested in a restaurant roughly 2 kilometres from the scene of Faring's murder after a city-wide manhunt began. It is believed that Marques committed the act from the 3rd storey of the Federal Rationing Authority building. A high-powered bolt-action rifle was recovered at the scene from a storeroom on the third floor with a wide view of Milano Street.

Authorities charge that Marques is also the perpetrator of the murder of Officer Juan Chavez, a Commissariat de Police Béziers officer, who was killed shortly after the assassination. Body camera footage recorded by Chavez capture Marques fatally shooting Chavez with a pistol after Chavez approaches and attempts to question Marques.

Prosecutors and federal authorities have stated that Marques is a known fascist, having sympathies to the Greater Ordenite Reich as well as the former Castillian national socialist regime. Online writings of Marques reveal sympathies to John Oswald Vaughn, the former Castillian chancellor, whom Marques appears to have greatly admired. Authorities have stated however there is no proof of a connection between Marques and the Reich, though Marques has visited the Reich on at least one occasion according to Federal Customs records.

Impact of Faring's Assassination

Numerous heads-of-state have reached out to Hershey and Castillia as a nation, offering condolences. Millions have gathered in public places across the Federation to mourn the loss of a President who despite polarizing and controversial, still held a place in the hearts of many Castillians.

Marlène Backès, the Assistant President of the Senate and Leader of the PRI, who had recently declared her candidacy for President of the Federation in the 2033 election, offered her condolences. "We may have had our differences and grew to not agree on much anything anymore, but I still deeply respected him. This is an awful, awful day for our Federation," she told the press outside the legislature today.

Hershey's first order as President has been to declare a period of national mourning, beginning today and extending through the date of the state funeral for Faring, which will be October 25, 2032. All Federal Banners are to be flown at half-mast and employers are to offer at least one day of bereavement to employees during the period.

Questions abound however about why Faring's motorcade and security detail allowed for the assassination to happen. Just last week the Federal Ambassador to the Greater Dienstadi Regional Council, Chet Litheau, was assaulted in Béziers after leaving a meeting at the Cosmopolitan Club. Litheau sustained no major injuries. The perpetrator, Saul Ivey, is a prominent Nationalist Party organizer and stated that his motivation for attacking Litheau was due to Litheau's controversial legislation to organize the GDRC by adding committees and specific administrative offices. Ivey claimed that Litheau was a "rotten globalist" who "seeks to upend Castillian sovereignty."

Given the Litheau incident and overall security climate, many wonder why the motorcade was open-top. Officially, the Bureaufédéral de la Sécurité (FSB), in charge of presidential protection, has stated that it was Faring's wish to go open-top as it was an unusually sunny and warm day in Béziers for October.

The Federal Senate has convened for an emergency session with Backès along with Roger Litheau, President of the Senate and Leader of the Partei-Conservateur, indicating that their coalition will move to form a Senatorial committee to investigate the assassination. Hershey has also indicated that he will be forming a presidential commission to investigate the assassination as well.

by **Patrick OConner** » Fri Oct 14, 2022 4:42 pm

Official Release From the Secretary of the Press of the Timocratic Republic of Merkica

Written with help of Holy Marsh

The following is an Official Communique from of the Theocratic Matriarchy Holy Marsh to the Office of the President General of the Timocratic Republic of Merkica released with the government of Holy Marsh full knowledge and consent

From the Desk of the Arch-Bishop:

President Marai Overhill, it is a pleasure to see the Merican people move to stabilize their neighbor. Order is an important element in prosperity in all meanings of the word and the failure of the native government to handle its affairs reflects on their inability to prosper. We support your movements into the nation and remain steadfast in our ally-ship. Should you have need of us- though I doubt you will find cause- we stand ready to assist.

With Blessings,
Arch-Bishop Luboski, Voice of the Many-In-One, Grand Mistress, Alpha Praetor, Council Leader Maximal, et. all

In addition to this Phase 1 of what has been dubbed Operation Semsic has continued unabated and unchecked with numerous cities, military installations, and general hot spots having been surrounded, isolated and cut off from the outside world with the lead elements of the 4th Army no only hours from the border of New Licentia. This is an official declaration that the Republic Armed Forces will be stopping at the border in question. This is also a call for all surrounded zones to surrender peacefully to Republican Forces to aviod any more damage to the country and death and injury of its people. Failure to surrender will lead to pacification by Republican Forces in Phase 2 of Operation Semsic. Such pacification efforts will be determined by the resistance encountered at each zone on a zone-by-zone basis.

by **Holy Marsh** » Sat Oct 15, 2022 12:34 pm

President Faring of The Unbroken Castle Assassinated

Mar'si, Holy Marsh- The Arch-Bishop has expressed her sorrow at the assassination of Castillian President Faring, and likewise has reiterated her support for President Hershey as he leads the nation through this crisis. "It is the will of the Karda the Faithful that the acting President Hershey be blessed by the Holy Marsh as he moves his people through the bereavement towards the dawn."

It is no secret that the Federation has faced a number of internal issues in recent years, and President Faring himself had seen his own political star dim recently as a result of economic difficulties. The assassin himself is emblematic of the rise of anti-government agitators- Marques is a Fascist- that have started to use political violence recently. The assassination was proceeded by an unjust attack on the GDRC representative perpetrated by a fascist as well. The Federation itself was once Fascist and its movements away from that degenerate belief system has been jeopardized by rumored Reich involvement in the continued existence of fascist polities inside of the Federation.

Faring himself was seen in some circles as problematic. While fascist reactionaries are responsible for his death and the issues in the Federation are far from his fault, his leadership was marked by a change in the Castillian character that have brought concern to some of her allies. He authorized support of the slaver state of Barjaanistan and flirted openly with autocratic power grabs and openly postulated that the Romani-Mar'si Union dragged its feet in regards to Ralkovia. His hazy record regarding CASTLE also brought Castillia some ill repute.

As a result relations took a small hit. Having said that, the friendship between the two nations while tested remains strong. While the Marshite population in the Castillian Federation has never been very large, it has only rarely encountered issues with locals and report strong government protections of their rights and have been treated fairly. The movements made towards a brighter tomorrow for the people of the Federation are reflected in the actions of these local Marshites, loyal citizens as they are, who are noted for their extremely high percentage of active voters. Faring was not widely popular as a leader in the Marshite community but his assassination has been cause for anguish just the same.
Keeper Allewe of the Oathsworn Shrine and leader of the Castillian Marshite Karda has called for a period of prayer and reflection in lockstep with the mourning period of the state at large. Warrior Shrine Praetor Diana has offered the services of the Shrine Guard of The Unbowed Castle (Modern translation of Old Pushanian word for the land of the Castillia) for further events.

The Matriarchy herself will hold an international prayer service for Faring as part of the Arch-Bishop's daily service on the 19th.

Thought for the Day: Martyrdom is the only reward the righteous desire.

by **Phibeta** » Mon Oct 17, 2022 3:10 pm

The baby boy, birthed by Her Majesty, Queen Diane II

Kensington Palace has announced that Her Majesty, Queen Diane II, successfully gave birth to her second child at 10:03 am on October 15, 2022. The past days of labor from the queen have paid off, and now a second heir to the throne of the kingdom, a baby boy. She is now recovering in the Royal Cardinal Hospital as we speak. His Royal Highness, Prince Walter, Duke of Korngold is continuing to take his duty as Prince-Regent.

“It was a successful and safe birth,” says Dr. Gerald Walterson, the royal physician. “The baby boy is healthy and Her Majesty is recovering just fine”. This is the second child of Her Majesty, the first being Her Royal Highness, Princess Olivia, the Princess of Dolphine and the Duchess of Klinwind. When asked of the child’s name, Her Majesty responded for now, Matthew. The boy will have his name christened by The Archbishop of Drumchapel later next month.

We welcome the new addition to the royal family, and here is to many years of good health for the young prince!

Sir Nigel Lemprey, royal correspondent for The Weston Mail

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St. Paringtons Palace, the Meeting Place of The Phibetan Parliament

Phibetan Parliament Discuss Current Crisis In Northumbria

The Phibetan Parliament convened this week to discuss the Kingdom of Northumbria issue and our duty in the region. Civil war has erupted in the kingdom earlier this month with King Erich IV, a distant relative of our Her Majesty, Queen Diane II, deposed when citizens stormed the palace. With the safety of the Northumbrian Royal Family unknown, Her Majesty’s Government, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is in a panic. “Not only is one of our own honorary citizens in danger,” says Minister of Foreign Affairs, Conservative MP Robert Bishop of Yohannesburg. “The balance of powers is alarmingly being ruined at a tremendous pace”. The Timocratic Republic of Merika has made claims to the decaying state of Northumbria to annex their territory. The big two political parties (the Conservatives and Labour Parties) have exclaimed their disgust and discontent with the current situation and made calls to denounce the Timocratic Republic. Others, mostly the Nationalist and Imperialist Parties, have also exclaimed their discontent, but for absolutely different reasons.

“It should be us!” shouts Imperialist MP Schroder von Tallyflyn of Eberbruck. “Their king is a relative of our queen and therefore, we claim the state of Northumbria as rightfully ours. If anything, the Timocratic Republic is trampling on the rights of future Phibetans over there!”

“It is not our place to act,” says Republican MP (the only one), Richard Furness of Schultzstien. It is a region far off from our own, and while I sympathize with King Erich, it is just the way the cookie crumbles, monarchies have failed, and now begins an era of republican rule, if they don’t get invaded, and if they finish their civil war over there”.

“We must remember,” says Robert Bishop, “that the Timocratic Republic had to deal with its own civil war. Conflict right beside their borders can totally justify intervention, but that doesn’t mean that war and annexation is completely justified. Also, they must know that blockading our ships and our aeroplanes to rightfully return a member of our royal family does have very severe consequences”.

What ever the situation may be, Phibetans stand by for the complete self-determination of their neighbors, even for those far away from our island home.

Hans Eric Wardolf, politics editor for The Weston Mail

Other headlines

Polls Predict Another Win For Conservatives in The Local Elections

Phibetan Government Sends Condolences To Castille de Italia Following The Assassination of Their President

Mueseum of Phibetan History Opens New Exhibit On Dark Colonial Past

Presenting Truth to Promote The Glory and Power of Phibeta. Backed by the glorious Nationalist Party of Phibeta.

--Mondola, 17 Oct, 2022--

Those Damned Marshites, Cockroaches Of Pure Phibeta

An Artist’s Rendition of A Poor Boy, Experiencing The Shift, A Tragedy of Population Shifting Demographics

WRITTEN BY: Henry Illtovert, President of The Cardinal Supremecy Organization

One of the worst things to have reached Phibetan shores was the cursed plight of the damned Marshites. I often wonder why we are forced to share our true Phibetan land with these devils. They have invaded our Phibetan parliament with their damned peerages and the use of a terrible calendar system. There is only one age, and that is the age of our Heros Birth, of which it is 2022. But they also run a country of poverty, religious heritics, and a country where not a single man looks like a man!

The Marshites are of a Theocracy, which is a radical government ran by religious leaders, where power is held by the church, a barbaric and disasterous way to run a government, unlike our political parliament and our Royal Family. They go through major election cycles to see which deity they serve, which unlike our Cardinal Heroes, often change. Right now, they worship The Commune Shrine, a shrine of paupers. They believe in that one must sacrifice one's own wealth and belongings for the community. This gives the church power to control property, food, and even clothing. They do not have any money to embetter their lives and are forced to survive by church charity. While there is nothing wrong with church charity, there is something wrong with having to live off of it for the eternity of one’s life.

How does one work for a living if he earns nothing. This kind of thinking makes man lazy and feeble. There is no hard work, only church charity, which given the population of the Marshites, is making resources thin. We conclude that they eat only the smallest or rations, the thinnest of rags, and sleep under thin roofs, thin walls, with no proper doors or windows. I would even cast a bet that they do not have heating, electricity, or running water. I might as go as far as saying that the Marshites are even poorer than AHSCA and Xofrautan combined!

But that is not the only thing that worries us about that Marshites. Ever since their so-called “shift” where the Y chromosome changed to the X on account of some broken machine, there is no man in the country of The Holy Marsh. That must be one of the most ludicrous things I have ever heard. The nation preaches gender equality, but there are more women than men, and I am willing to bet the population of men is nonexistent. Unlike us proud Phibetans where we have actual gender equality, the shift is just a codeword for male extinction.

What is worse of all, is that there are Marshites right now that are serving in our parliament. There are already two in the House of Lords and Ladies on account that they represent minority religions as part of the Lords and Ladies Spiritual, and I have already mentioned the overuse and reminder of their damned calendar system. This cannot go on. We must rid ourselves of an ideology that chains its citizens to a heathenistic church, chained to a life of poverty, and spare the confusion of our youngest citizens, the children, who may think it is okay to change their gender.

So what now, of this impoverished country? The same plan as my good friend, George Wendell, once proposed to deal with AHSCA, Phibetan Interventionism. We provide them financing, industry, and military protection and all we ask is their subservience to the Great Phibetan Empire. They say the empire is over, but I say we can bring it back to the days of glory! We shall bring back the male population from the brink of ruin, and we will tell this leader, Archbishop Sasha Luboski (I bet she lives like a millionaire while her people starve in the slums) that her people need to be lifted up from poverty with good honest work! If not now, then I am sure Phibeta would do it!

Approved by The Nationalist Party

£1.50

by **Patrick OConner** » Fri Oct 21, 2022 7:58 pm

Timocratic Republic of Patrick O'Conner
Statesboro
Red House
Press Conference Room

The room is a large one. The floor is carpeted in a thick red soft one, and the walls are paneled with special soundproofing materials. Chairs are lined up in rows and all of them are currently filled with eager reporters. In the back of the room, multiple tv cameras are set and ready to roll. They are aimed at a podium, which is adorned with microphones from several different news agencies. It is a simple podium made of red ironwood shot through with yellow veins of crystallized sap. Behind it hangs a plain blue cloth backdrop. Men in suits linger everywhere in the room and they scream security. A voice comes from a hidden sound system.
"The Secretary of the Press David Conner will be speaking shortly."

From behind the curtain came out a man in a black suit white button-down shirt and red tie. He was of average height with black hair and a black mustache.

He takes his place behind the podium and coughs politely to get everyone's attention.

"To begin with, as of 1 hour and 16 minutes ago at 0546 local time Operation Seismic Phase 1 has been completed the 1st Army has reached the border of New Licenia and with the help of 2nd Army most of the country of Northumbria has been occupied. Excluding 21 separate hot zones each of which has been surrounded and cut off from the rest of the country. I will now be taking questions."

Reporters's hands shoot up but no one blurts out questions, such behavior is considered rude and inappropriate and will lead to the said reporter getting booted from the conference and banned from the Red House for life. Freedom of the Press was believed in but that did not mean you had to speak to them.

Conner points to one in the front row from the Main News Network, a reporter name Courtney Courtney printed on her name tag.
"What are these hot zones and what is the Republic going to do about these 'hot zones'?"

"The zones are a mix of cities and military installations that did not surrender during the initial invasion. These zones will be reduced in time. The cities will be first handled by riot police as a softer approach however if stiff resistance is met heavier forces will be used. As for the military installations, they will be called on to surrender, and if they fail, heavy assault forces will be used."

Another reporter from Vulpine Network, a man with Tuck Carson printed on his name tag was called on
"What forces will the Republic use in these heavy assaults?"

Conner looks down at his stand for a minute and seems to shuffle some papers.
"That is on a need-to-know basis."

"Understood what is the Republic going to do afterward though?"

"The Republic will help in its reconstruction efforts of the country before we leave. And yes the Republic does not intend to annex Northumbria and we intend to leave once a stable government has been established whatever form that might take."

"Have any of the monarchs been found?"

"Not at this time but the Republic Armed Forces and intelligence community are looking very hard for them. That is all the questions."

Conner turns and exits the stage.

by **Xofrautan** » Sat Nov 05, 2022 11:00 pm

The Xofrautan Express

-Proper Xofrautanese News From The Government-

Monday, November 6, 2022

The Prime Minister, Ms. Nehal Gurnani of the Xofrautan People’s Party

Ms. Nehal Gurnani Relected As Prime Minister For Sixth Consecutive Term

Ms. Nehal Gurnani of the Xofrautan People’s Party is Re-elected as prime minister for the sixth consecutive term in the Xofrautanian Parliament. The Xofrautan People’s Party is committed to preserving the national identity of Xofrautan and its people. It is a conservative and nationalist group that builds on the ideals of the national religion of Grixusni. It mostly consists of going for more traditional values and methods of running a society, which is mostly rule of the higher castes, or the elite. It is not a bad thing as other nations would believe. In the religion of Grixusni, the higher up on the caste you are, the more intellectual you are, which is what the government needs. It is a fact of life that no one in the country can dispute.

Ms. Nehal Gurnani promises to continue reforms including modernizing the industrial sector. “For too long, we had the hand-me-downs of our overlord, Phibeta. We have fallen behind economically. We should start abandoning these old machines and invent in new machines to boost our economy as we learn to make new crafts better”. Previously, she had a hand in creating the first internet system in Xofrautan, connecting the president to the internet for the first time. On social welfare, she promised to continue minimal foreign aid. “We are a proud people, taking the shackles off of our imperial overlords. We do not need much foreign aid. They say we don’t have much, but we have everything we need in our country”. This concedes with the ultimatum to be presented to the Xofrautan Parliament to leave the Phibetan Commonwealth of Nations, and the overall idea of isolationism.

People are reminded that the risk of famine, a size of which could devastate the country significantly, is rather near. Crop yields for this year are predicted to be 30% lower than last year, which were pretty low before. There have been significant protest from the urban poor, particularly children of the Grixusni faith to be treated as humans and not as rats. Not only that, but a bad drought in the rural area threatens to destabilize the country.

In the meantime, the prime minister will be inaugurated by the president in a ceremony later this year. The prime minister will be making her sixth opening speech to the Xofrautan Parliament next week.

Megaduta Chakarvarti, Editor of The Xofrautan Express

by **Greater Ordena** » Sun Nov 13, 2022 5:16 pm

F R E E • D Ì E N S T A D I • P R E S S

BREAKING NEWS!

INDEPENDENT JOURNALISTS AND HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVIST ORGANIZATIONS RAISE CONCERN OVER BRUTAL "ANTI-TERRORISM CRACKDOWNS" FOLLOWING KARKIT NUCLEAR ATTACK

In the weeks following the aftermath of the Karkit nuclear attack in which a nuclear warhead in the hundreds of kilotons was detonated in the port city of Karkit within mainland Ordena. Independent journalists and human rights activists have been following developments within the Greater Ordenite Reich and monitoring reports of brutal crackdowns within Ordenite occupied Krasnova following the 'Tsarina' claiming responsibility for the nuclear attack. Information having been obtained from Krasnova from confidential sources paint a grotesque picture of out right genocide not seen since the earlier years of Ordenite occupation. These sources tell about entire communities and even towns being emptied of their populations and sent off to die by the Ordenite's professional death squads, the Einatzgruppen. When the last war had came to a abrupt conclusion one of the terms of the armistice was that the Reich would abolish its labor and concentration camps within territory it held in Krasnova. However from sources inside Krasnova this was not the case and the labor and concentration camp system within Krasnova is alive and well and it's facilities are now beginning to see an influx of new prisoners.

Concern is being raised that a new wave of terror and killing is being unleashed by the Reich as direct retaliation for the Tsarina's attack on Karkit. Concerns are also high in regards to other territories occupied by the Reich including Hailandkill and Fustera as its speculated that perhaps retaliation could also come for the native populations under the Ordenite boot.

by **Eitoan** » Mon Nov 28, 2022 8:12 am

www.News-Herald.et.com

Shrdlu Re-Elected
President Returned by Majority, Runoff Averted

President Ephriam Shrdlu

Results in this year’s presidential election have been released from the Office of Elections Magistrate in Vladarsik, showing President Ephriam Shrdlu remaining in office with a solid majority of votes. Results are given here:

Ephriam Shrdlu, Free Democratic Party 53%
Kenneth Curtis, Socialist Party 22%
Kenneth Haan, Civic Platform 14%
Teresa Elear, National Democratic Party, 6%
Brenda Sanders, Communits Party, 5%

Running stronger than expected, President Shrdlu will continue in office for a second term, most likely with the complexion of the Ghastak and Dashez largely unchanged.

Issues regarding social welfare were seen as a major contributor to his victory. As the campaign progressed into October, polls showed slippage in his support among the better paid skilled blue collar component of the electorate. Among those voters without a college education in the upper income quartile a defection of 5% to the Free Democrat and 6% to the Civic Platform standard berarers was indicated by the end of the month. Students of labor economics pointed to a general satisfaction with home ownership and advancement opportunities among these workers, particularly in industries where retraining has taken place in the last three years. Mr. Curtis retained his lead among the remaining blue collar segment, scoring a solid 62% of estimate ballots today compared to 21% for the Communists and 10% for the Free Democrats. Among all voter groups Mr. Shrdlu was seen as moderate and balance with regard to social programs, neither too eager for experimental new policies, and relatively prudent in budgeting those services viewed as essential by most Eitoans.

Military issues were also a driver in this year’s presidential outcome. These were seen as an important concern by 37% of voters, compared to 15% in the last presidential election. The heightened interest was driven by Eitoan’s increased participation in international affairs, starting with the establishment of the Northwest Mutual Assistance Agreement and amplified by the nation’s participation in the two Ralkovian wars. Civic Platform was the beneficiary of much of the attention, and Mr. Haan scored well among Ralkovian war veterans, coming within 12% of the president among that demographic. Both Civic Platform and the Free Democrats have been viewed as being staunch on such issues as naval expansion, with the Socialists being seen as johnny come latelys. The left took a beating on this in the Frontier territories which have been traditionally more amenable to the Socialists and Communists. Voters there have not forgotten the fear of invasion early in the first Ralkovian war as neighboring Agar-Na became a battleground between Eitoan and Ralkovian forces. In the breakdown by religious groups, the National Democrats scored better among more traditionally minded Jewish and Christian voters, those groups having been among the more militarily oriented compared to the secular majority and pagan minorities. Although discrimination in the service has been long outlawed, some in the Camalgehey and particularly in the Rohrozh minorities still bear some distrust of the armed forces, with more than average opting for their mandatory service in the Uniformed Support Corps. In opinion polling the president and Mr. Haan were shown to have the confidence of the electorate on military affairs, compared to Elear, Sanders and Curtis.

In the breakdown between President Shrdlu and Mr. Curtis, his nearest rival, the split between major city and small town voters remained strong, a typical pattern for the Socialists and the Free Democrats. As expected, Mr. Curtis lead President Shrdlu in Kelso, beating him by 45% to 29%. He also bested the president in Berwyn, topping him by 35% to 30%, and in Stickney by 40% to 37%. After the three largest cities, the margin for the Socialist shrunk, with President Shrdlu carrying Vladarsik with a 51% majority. In the Southern territories, notoriously independent, President Shrdlu ran into some difficulty with voters in being seen as too deferential to big business, with Mr. Curtis benefiting from that perception. The president fell behind his previous performance there particularly in Burgess River towns, and in rural townships along the Tupiocan border. Southern voters, owing to more isolation from central authority starting in the colonial era have been restive about both big government and big business, the attitude being prominent among the farmers and ranchers of the south. Throughout the nation the gap between the two parties along the big city/ small town and rural split has widened since the last election. This has taken greater prominence this year with the weak performance of the Civic Platform and the general drawing away of the electorate from the Comminist and National Democrat extremes on either side of the political spectrum.

Prospects for the second term

Although analysts are still digesting today’s results, many have taken into consideration the likelihood of a second term for the president, and have put forward some observations. Legislative race results don’t indicate significant change from the Free Democrat/Socialist gentleman’s agreement in the Ghastak, and regardless of runoff results the president’s Free Democrats will enjoy a continuing majority in the Dashez. The administration is expected to continue emphasis on domestic economic development, particularly outside the main cities. Rural and small town voters were an important part of President Shrdlu’s success at the polls, and will be have a big voice in policy going forward. Secretary of Industry and continue in their cabinet roles in the second term. The president in discussions with Ghastakers and Dashezniks of all parties has been active in promoting additional funding for projects in the Frontier territories, those being among the poorest in the nation. Water conservation and distribution in the Frontier north has seen additional support in the Ghastak largely at the President’s behest. During the campaign the president voiced support for airport expansion in underserved cities, such as in the far Malawani Valley and Malawani Dashezniks have been pushing hard for this issue for the last seven years. Early in his second term the president faces a major appointment with the announced retirement of Supreme Court Justice Thomas Nadler. Most observers expect the leading issue of interest at this time to be whether the president will continue to hold the line on power rates.

Ghastak: Minor Shift Right Cedes One Seat From Communists to Civic Platform
Other Parties Static

Nationwide Results for Upper Chamber

Free Democrats 15, no change
Socialists 10, no change
Civic Platform 6, +1
Communists 3, -1
National Democrats 1, no change

In the nationwide vote by part slate for membership in the Ghastak with seats apportioned to the parties in contention, no strong trend among voters was detected to indicate a change of direction in national policy. The function of the upper house as the point of initiation for treaties, cabinet appointments dependent on legislative assent, and judicial appointments is expected to continue under the Chair of the Ghastak Louis A. Herb, and the general partnership between his Free Democrats and the Socialists is most likely to be the path to successful legislation. Pollsters point to the rural vote as a major factor in this year’s contest. Throughout the Ruzek Valley outlying areas carried the day for the Free Democrats, providing a strong base for the party in the Central Corridor territories. Secretary of Industry and Trade Loren Masters proved popular in these areas, and campaigned heavily for the party’s slate in the waning days of the contest, often spending three or four days away from the capital in this quest. His efforts to keep a lid on electric rates in the mid-Ruzek and extend utilities transmission lines as part of expansion deals the the area between Kelso and Stickney paid off in the party’s showing in those territories, with the Ghastak slate running a consistent three to five percent ahead of the President’s showing throughout the region. Mr. Masters kept a low profile in the business community, avoiding bringing up any distaste some electric power providers had shown for his policies. Among rural voters, Civic Platform candidate Kenneth Hahn fared better than expected, pulling in a component of votes downstream to the Ghastak which was partially attributed to Civic Platform’s gain. In this respect Mr. Hahn has appeared to allow the party to shed the urban, excessively pro big business image that plagued the party under former President Randall Ben-Joseph. In the northern and northwestern Frontier Territories Secretary Masters’ policies on electric rates were seen as popular in the hinterlands, and are thought to have contributed to a sag in performance of leftist parties at the Ghastak level. The Frontier territories are usually more receptive than others to Socialist and Communist messaging, but in rural districts the parties fared 2% and 6% worse respectively than two years ago. In Caldwell Territory Socialists cited an uptick in mutton prices as a reason for their poor showing this year in elections for both legislative houses. Ranchers there have complained about the impact of secondary labor boycotts hurting meat processing operations and logistics traffic and this has resulted in displeasure at left wing support of union efforts in bigger cities to employ the tactic as a means of contract negotiation.

Foreign policy dogged the left in the contention for the Ghastak throughout the campaign. Across the board, in all demographic segments and all territories voters polled showed strong support for Eitoan involvement in the Northwest Mutual Assistance Agreement, an initiative of the Shrdlu administration. Polls showed voters as believing the Free Democrats and Civic Platform as strongest in support of the alliance, now a mainstay of Eitoan foreign policy. This confirms the concept that active involvement in the western democratic alliance has replaced neutrality among voters at large, as well as in the military brass and the Department of Foreign Affairs. The left, on the other hand is viewed as clinging to the concept of neutrality, and has paid for it in their loss of support in the Ghastk tallies. The leftist problems in foreign policy extended beyond the Ghastak choice. Kenneth Curtis, the Socialist challenger to the president was plagued by the accusation that he had a poor knowledge of foreign affairs, and this may have been a drag on the Socialist Ghastak ticket. The Communists were seen as actually dangerous in terms of foreign and military affairs, and prone to putting Eitoan at odds with our NMAA partners as well as other friendly nations on the continent.

Civic Platform advanced in the election with the issue of alcoholic beverage classification. The issue has faded into the background since the last election for the Ghastak two years ago, but trends in polling showed that it had not entirely slipped the attention of voters. The proposed reclassification of alcoholic beverages failed in the Dashez last year, leaving the 2003 Beverage Classification Guidelines intact. The proposal to reduce the percentage of alcohol by volume that defines Class A beverages from 30 proof to 10 failed again in the lower house. Leading Eitoan distillers have boosted the bill, along with upscale grocers and the hospitality industry. Support for the initiative was backed by Civic Platform Ghastakers, and was supported in the party’s Ghastak platform this year. The party subsequently gained support from younger voters, surprising many who expected poor performance for the party usually viewed as stodgy and stuffy by them. Parents, on the other hand showed less than expected interest in the issue. The measure was also seen as a driving issue among Central Corritdor territory wheat growers.

Perhaps the biggest loss for the left was in the collapse of the Communist slate among Indigine voters. The Indigine, Eitoans identifying as native Eitoan ethnicity comprise 8% of the citizenry, compared to 6% Ralkoviak and 86% for the majority Mestizo (Gemesht). Observers point to better integration of Indigine, particularly among the Camalgehey and Rozhroz religious communities under President Shrdlu. Although these groups have long been making steady progress in job opportunities for many decades, the Free Democrats have made gains in the perception of sympathy for them under President Shrdlu, and their Ghastak ticket this year included a Camalghey candidate, District Court Judge Feionna Harris. The positive economy has benefited the Free Democrats here, and also the Socialists and Civic Platform flanking them on the left and right respectively. The President himself has presented a friendlier face to the Indigine sociologists say, campaigning in their neighborhoods and villages throughout the contest, and challenging leftists claims of his party’s indifference to their interests. His education policies were also popular among the Indigine in Frontier territories.

Dashez: Free Democrats Maintain Majority
51 Seats Head to Runoff in 45 Days

Early Morning Voting in Virden Territory

Nationwide Results for Lower Chamber

Races Decided:

Free Democrats: 205; Current: 239
Civic Platform: 71; Current: 77
Socialists: 47; Current: 53
Communists: 19; Current: 22
National Democrats: 15; Current: 18

Runoff Contests:

Free Democrat/Civic Platform: 23
Free Democrat/National Demcrat: 10
Socialist/Communist: 7
Free Democrat/Communist: 5
Civic Platform/Communist: 3
Socialist/National Democrat: 3

President Shrdlu’s Free Democrats held a majority of Dashez seats at the end of pre-runoff polling, with a margin so far of one vote, returning President and Speaker of the Dashez James Sandack to be the head of that body for the upcoming session. Contention for the remaining seats will be keenest between the Free Democrats and their opponents to the right, Civic Platform and the National Democrats in the next 45 days. As the news came in that he would be leading the majority again, , from his own campaign headquarters after defeating an unusually spirited Socialist challenger for his Leonore Territory seat. The 60 year old longstanding legislator was conciliatory in his statement, saying “I look forward to working with President Shrdlu and our friends across the aisle, in both directions as we continue stewardship for the nation’s finances and addressing local needs across the board. I see than many of our partners, both among inside the party and otherwise are returning, and expect that committee assignment will not be changed much at our next meeting. I shall meet with the president next week to go over unfinished business from the last session, and afterward with Treasurer Jonthan Shore and Education Secretary Steven Power to assess what can be done in the near term, and to move forward on the administration’s education and training agendas. Many of my own constituents, as well as those in the business community and senior Dashezniks have indicated the importance of these issues, and I want to be sure to set direction on them early on.”

The results thus far bode well for the Shrdlu agenda, with Free Democrats holding the presidency without a runoff ballot, and maintaining a Ghastak plurality and Dashez majority. The even split between parties to the left and right of the Free Democrats in the lower house insure flexibility for Mr. Sandack in crafting agreements favorable to the president. Furthermore, although the tossup seats will be determined on the strength of the remaining candidate in individual districts, the left is expected to coalesce behind Free Democrat hopefuls as they face Civic Platform and National Democrat opponents in the runoffs. However, within his own party a contingent of newly elected Dashezniks hailing from the Frontier Territories is expected to skew to the right on budgetary issues putting a brake on some new initiatives in social welfare.

Civic Platform, with 71 of their 77 seats won so far is concentrating on filling returning to represent her Blue Island district said last night “All incumbent senior committeemen that have won so far can expect to return to their positions next year. I am disappointed that Mr. Vacek will not be joining us to take up his post on the Foreign Affairs Committee, and have thanked him for his many years of service. His loss was unexpected. I have several successors in mind both currently on the committee and not assigned to it so far, and I’m looking at candidates facing a runoff too. I am happy to report that all members of the Education Committee will be returning.”

The Socialists, with 47 seats scored so far compared to 53 currently seem to be in a good position to continue in opposition in the Dashez. The party is contending in only 10 districts in the runoffs, so should be in a good position to plan it’s course. The districts in contention have Dashez leader Matyas Raspan’s party facing outlier parties, 7 Communists and 3 National Democrats, making it generally easier for his Socialists to pick up the votes of defeated centrist Free Democrat candidates. Leaving the campaigning to local leaders in those races, Mr. Raspan plans to spend much of his time in the next couple weeks in orienting 12 new members. “These men and women are fine additions, and I congratulate them on their decisive victories. The transition from private life or local office to Vladarsik is sometimes a shock, and I want to make their path to service in the Legislature as smooth as possible for them” he posted on his website. Since the majority of contested seats are against the Communists, the Socialists are expected to amplify the differences between President Shrdlu and the party’s standard bearer, Kelso Mayor Kenneth Curtis in the recent presidential race. Several party leaders have posted requests for Mr. Curtis to campaign in those left leaning districts to help bolster Mr. Raspan’s bargaining position in the upcoming legislative session.

The National Democrats, rightmost among the parties returned wins in 15 districts so far, and are close to their current number of 18. They remain in the fight for 13 seats, 10 against the Free Democrats ans 3 against Socialists. With their current Dashez leader Mr. Sedlak losing his Leonore Territory seat, a two way race has broken out to succeed him. Mrs. Machara Livrad, fresh from defeating Civic Platform’s Marty Nemecek is seen as the champion of the “New Guard”. The attractive criminal defense attorney was tapped by local leaders after the party was decimated in her Alton City district by the recent National Democrat defections to Civic Platform and the Free Democrats. Viewed as pragmatic, her campaign concentrated on local issues and the city’s soaring crime rate. Her rival, also newly elected Annette U’dra, former Aurora mayor won her seat by defeating long serving FDP Dasheznik Missy Ziska. The tone of her campaign hearkened back to the party’s pro-Ralkovia roots, upsetting many observers. The contest for Dashez leader is significant, given the drubbing the party took in this year’s presidential election and it’s weak position in the Ghastak.

Communist Dashez leader Frank Ackarat, insured of a return of 19 of their 22 incumbent seats struck a conciliatory note after the elections, telling the National Communist Dashez committee assembled in Kelso “The needs of the proletariat take precedence over the fine points of doctrine in our work in the legislature. The arc of history bends toward the victory of the people. This cannot be denied. As responsible dashezniks, we must work diligently for the benefit of our constituents, regardless of class, ethnicity, or faith. To that end I will guide our dashezniks toward legislation originated by us, or by our brothers in the Socialist opposition, or even from the capitalist parties for the benefit of all. Truly, only by demonstrating to the electorate that we hear their needs, and adopt a pragmatic posiiton can our cause be advanced. Power to the people!”. In his party’s races for the lower house, successful candidates averted campaigning on well worn Communist slogans, preferring to point out gains they’ve made in districts where they were incumbent, and listening carefully to workers and small business owners concerns where they saw a possibility to make gains. Although the approach shored up support in existing strongholds, the party also moved ahead of opponents to the right in 5 districts in the lower Central Corridor territories, and in 2 suburban Stickney contests. Communists in the lower house may have a greater say in the party’s national policy steering board, given the poor showing in the Ghastak and the fact that their presidential standard bearer, professor Brenda Sanders actually slipped behind the National Democrats. Still, the doctrinaire, rigid board has not traditionally been receptive to overtures to the party’s opponents to the right. At this point, all Communists returning to the Dashez are incumbents, with any hope for new blood hinging on the runoffs. New Communist dashezniks would be a small faction within the lower house, and would most likely be given junior committee assignments.

Leftists Vulnerable in Runoffs

Communism itself is under the microscope in the 45 day runoff campaign for the Dashez seats up for grabs. Attention has been focused on the turmoil in West Payson territory where outrage over the activities of Communist Little Ruzek Falls mayor Sh’yar E’melle to roil the public over allegations of extortion and censorship. In that city, resident and taxpayer Ashton B’yabt has seen his appeal to the Supreme Court denied on a narrow legal technicality, letting stand mayor E’melle’s actions against the citizen. Throughout the territory centrist and conservative parties continually hammered the Communists at every level. Across Eitoan the response to the Communist uprising in Northumbria has cast a jaundiced eye on the party, and been a drag on Socialist fortunes. In one runoff contest, an open seat in Invernass, housewife Ellie Lagan, the Free Democrat cruised past Communist L’dat Chenka for a big win, crushing her by 55% to 24%. Her victory was relatively unexpected in the left leaning district. In Pavanka territory, part of the volatile south all Communists standing for the Dashez lost this year, rising below third in all races. Party officials in that territory and in Leonore territory expressed shock in the results shortly after they were announced. Foreign policy loomed large, exposing a rift between the left and the centrist Free Democrats and parties on the right. The philosophical differences among the parties between internationalism and continentalism underpins that gulf. Leftists appeared more invested in an international approach, indicating the need to show solidarity with worker oriented and communitarian movements throughout Greater Dienstad, while most Free Democrats, and Civic Platform and National Democrats were seen as more sympathetic to the concept that “our home is in the West”, playing to responsible stewardship on the continent, particularly new NMAA memers Agar-Na and Federal Ralkovia. In the background was sympathy for ethnic and religious kin implicit in a continentalist approach, and a reluctance to become too greatly involved outside the northwest. Polling found this issue to be important in Coastal territory seats, the region having a large Ralkoviak minority. Ralkoviaks there reportedly view the rehabilitation and guidance of Federal Ralkovia to be of interest, and several of their fraternal organizations have been an influence in this directions. Within those territories there is also anti immigrant strains, particularly aimed at refugees from the Shartourn conflicts, and at Balkovians displaced in the Ralkovian wars. This remains a factor in runoff races in small coastal towns, as well Berwyn.

The issue of tight money is significant in rural districts, where Civic Platform, seen as the party of big business is being saddled with the results of anti inflationary policies of the National Reserve Bank of Eitoan. This should work to the advantage of the Free Democrats in those cases. In Kelso, usually left leaning, the Free Democrats also have found paydirt in the issue of education reform, where president Shrdlu’s initiatives have proven popular among middle income voters.

The presidential race is showing some varying impact on the upcoming runoffs. The contest between the two top vote getters, president Shrdlu and mayor Curtis this is irrelevant, since no runoff pits the Free Democrats against any Socialist. This has left moderate candidates of both parties to appeal to a wider audience across the pool of voters. Where the Free Democrats face Civic Platform opponents there is no clear trend. This is likely the result of the weak showing of Civic Platform presidential hopeful Kenneth Haan, as well as local issues and personal popularity in scattered districts. In Free Democrat vs. National Democrat contests, the rightist candidates lead in 6 of the 10 open seats. If that trend holds true, the National Democrats would boost their power in the Dashez to 21 from their current 18. In the battle between the Free Democrats and Communists, presidential results will allow Mr. Shrdlu to hammer the left as he assists his party’s hopefuls. All of these contests are in Dobrovice territory, with 5 of the 7 in Berwyn. As the inheritor of conservative voters, the outlook for the Free Democrats looks good in those races.

Territories and Municipal Returns
Prahe Ousted in Dobrovice Territory

In coastal Dobrovice Territory, the National Democrats have returned to the Governor General’s Residence on Armory Hill in Berwyn. The close 3 way election found incumbent Civic Platform Mark Prahe trailing his far right challenger Morgan Becker by 2 points, 44% to 42%. Governance of Dobrovice Territory returns to the National Democrats 4 years after Mr. Prahe unseated Prahe Jeffrey Grace 4 years ago. The race was followed closely by all Berwyn media. The remainder of the vote went to Communist Michael Lahad. Much of the campaign centered on policing and territorial government overreach in Berwyn, grabbing analysts’ attention across the continent. Early this year, after assessing their prospects in the gubernatorial race the Free Democrats and Socialists declined to offer a candidate for the job, quetly deferring to Mr. Prahe. Rumors abounded that their respective national party organizations put pressure on their Dobrovice counterparts to staunch involvement in the conservative leaning territory, under the fear that a National Democrat victory could spark a revival for the party nationwide or even lead to an uptick in violence aimed at immigrants and religious minorities. As the campaign entered the final weeks 17 Socialist and 25 Free Democrat territorial legislatures signed a memo of support for Mr. Prahe, indicating the gravity with which the center and moderate left considered the importance of his reelections. Miss Becker, Rector of the University of Berwyn campaigned on a strong law and order platform, and frequently issued statements viewed as critical of immigrant behavior in Berwyn and cities and towns in it’s vicinity. While stopping short of legally actionable rhetoric, the tone of her campaign was disturbing to many polled in the Berwyn suburbs and the countryside inland. Her rallies in lower income Berwyn neighborhoods were heavily policed, and skrimishes were reported occaisonally. Mr. Lahad, a territorial dasheznik veteran of 10 years received barely any coverage as the race between Mr. Prahe and Miss Lahad heated up. Within Berwyn resentment aginst Mr. Prahe’s role in the Krasnovian War riots provided an obstacle in his quest for re-election. In the rioting Mr. Prahe was frustrated by the perceived apathy of Berwyn mayor Ted Rinehart in facing down violence from the Ralkoviak extremeist Eitoan National Alliance Direct Action Party (ENADAP). The disturbances were the first serious ethnic discord in the nation in nearly 50 years. The riots led to the trial of ENADAP Ultimate Commander , RaSeveNek-X following grisly murders in violence against the Camelgehey minority. Mr. RaSeveNek-X is currently awaiting execution by hanging. At the time charges were levelled that ENDAP violence was funded and organized by agents of the Ordenite Reich. Mr. Prahe’s action of sending in the Militia to fight mobs caused a backlash by Ralkoviak voters in the city. Mr. Lahad only received significant votes in lower class Berwyn wards, and some of the economically languishing port towns. Governor General Prahe’s greatest strength was found north of the Ruzek, where he carried 65 out of 89 cities. During election day clashes were reported at polling stations in the Sydley Basin neighborhood of Berwyn. Outside of those reports, and some other isolated Berwyn locations election procedures were uneventful.

Full Swing Free For All for Blue Island City Hall

Blue Island City Hall

In the nation’s third largest port city, the unpredictable race for Mayor found incumbent Free Democrat Polly Verusha looking for a new job, coming in third in the field of 5 candidates at 25%. City Auditor Oliver Stuart claimed the win for Civic Platform with 32%. Hs was followed by Ludmila Turner for the Socialists at 28%. Mrs. Turner, now in her second term on the Blue Island School Board will continue in that role. Taking up the remainder were Communist union organizer Ron Hart with 8% and National Democrat Patty Gail, an accountant at 7%. Rising sewage rates sparked discontent among homeowners and in the business community following cost overruns on the Toja Main Interceptor Replacement Project (TMIRP) as Mayor Verusha was blamed for several misestimations of capacity requirements by the city’s Department of Public Works, a major bone of contention for the last 3 years between her and Mr. Stuart. The mayor had been accused of trying to sweep the issue under the rug by all of her opponents, although Mr. Stuart and Miss Turner presented vastly different alternative remedies. Mr. Stuart stressed the need to keep a tighter rein on the budget and pursue longer range financing. Miss Turner proposed a progressive rate for usage, with higher rates for industrial and commercial properties than for housing. Traffic safety around the Western High School complex was important also, with parents in the surrounding neighborhood pleading for additional policing during school hours, especially along Bachran Street. The issue took center stage after a near fatal accident there during May when 4 Western High seniors were grazed by a truck while cutting a fifth period math class. The traffic safety and TMIRP cost issues became increasingly bitter throughout the campaign, and found Mayor Verusha at odds with her own party’s council members as they tried to put distance between her campaign and their reelection bids. The friction within her party was seen to depress Free Democrat turnout for the mayor’s office, evidenced by her running behind President Shrdlu’s tallies in all but 2 wards. In the council election the impact on the Free Democrats was negligible, resulting in the loss of 1 seat to the Socialists. Overall the Socialists performed better than 4 years ago compared to the Free Democrats, both at the municipal and presidential level, with President Shrdlu losing to Mr. Curtis within city limits. This was attributed to the left’s expoiting divisions within the Free Democrat ranks there.

by **The Macabees** » Tue Nov 29, 2022 11:44 am

OOC N.B. Written with Potthan's permission as it regards the lease/expansion.

GOLDEN THRONE EXPANDS LAND LEASE AGREEMENT TO ALL NORTHERN POTTHANI RIVER COAST
The Fuermak seeks to significantly increase its military presence in the far west and reduce the vulnerability of its allies in the area.

TONGOLOSI — The Imperial Bureaucracy has reached an agreement with the imperial government of Potthan to expand the area assigned to Kríerstatón 'Potthan' significantly, the Kríermada naval base at the mouth of the River Dijik. The expanded area will be administratively known as Elokeum, the ancient name for the mythological world of the afterlife. In a statement released by His Imperial Majesty's government, Elokeum was described not only as a nascent imperial fortress in the far west but also an Eden for refugees, especially creolosos fleeing repression in Fustera and runaway slaves from Regime Ralkovia and elsewhere. Although the agreement's details have not been made public, it's understood that this is an expansion of the former lease agreement. Given the size, however, it's assumed that various population centers will come under the administrative control of Fedala, subjecting them to imperial law. Perhaps the closest example is the recent leasing of the entire Killian archipelago of New Hemett.

The decision comes after a longstanding debate on the vulnerability of imperial interests in the far west. Foreign policy analysts, like Professor Marko DeLang from the BedaFromm Institute of Foreign Relations, have long argued that imperial involvement in countries like Samarasta and Elokeum disturbs its core responsibilities in central Greater Díenstad. Last summer, DeLang was invited for a series of talks before His Imperial Majesty and the Kríerlord Kuncil after publishing a series of highly regarded papers criticizing the vulnerability of the Kríermada in that far west. This opinion was also held by a number of high-ranking naval officers. Their proposed solutions differed widely, however — while DeLang called for divestment, the Kríermada has persistently argued for reinforcements.

Now that the Kríermada is no longer stretched between two regions over a distance of at least 36,000 kilometers, the Fuermak approved new basing arrangements in Samarasta and the deployment of Kríergrup 'Samarasta' earlier this year. But critics have continued to question whether the Kríermada has sufficient port space in the far west to justify the permanent stationing of two fleet groups. The expansion agreement in northern Potthan addresses this concern by giving the armed forces enough space to build more extensive basing facilities in Libète Bay. Aside from naval assets, the expanded base complex area will also house forward Laerihans and Ejermacht rapid reaction forces.

If the Imperial Bureaucracy and Fuermak have been stubborn in retaining the military presence at the mouth of the River Dijik, they argue that this is because controlling the flow of traffic in and out of the Dijik is a core strategic benefit in the cold war with Regime and Imperial Ralkovia. Although the relevance of Ralkovia to current international affairs is questioned, after the country's partition by Eitoan, Arcaenia, and other allied states, it is undeniable that the Golden Throne's responsibilities in the area have grown.

Sea lanes between the Dijik and Samarasta have only gained additional significance since the latter's military alliance with the Golden Throne. Defending this space is considered crucial in a potential conflict with the Ordenite Reich over Fustera and Istoloa. Military analysts argue that not only is control of the waters between Potthan and Samarasta vital for the blockading of Fustera or Istoloa, but also for a cost-effective defense of Samarasta that would end a foreign threat before they reach Samarastan soil. The contrary would require a large investment of ground forces, whether for defense or — more so — liberation.

Events in the North Vanguat Sea have only given additional justification to the deployments to the far west, at least in the eyes of the Fuermak. As the Golden Throne grows its relationships in the area, its trade volume in western Greater Díenstad continues to expand. Whereas a year ago very little trade flowed to the extreme northwest of the region, with the liberation of Federal Ralkovia and its alignment with Eitoan Macabéan business now travels farther than it ever has. After the Czaslyudian Republic's interference with imperial commercial trade in the North Vanguat, it has become increasingly clear that the Kríermada needs to be prepared to defend its commercial privileges wherever its trade flows.

The expanded base complex, therefore, allows the Kríermada, and the Fuermak more generally, to wrestle for control of the Dijik River, the Libète Bay, the Istoloan waters, as well as the entrance into the Great Inland Sea.

Like with New Hemett, the arrangement allows for changes to the administration of the expanded leased area. First, the area will be renamed Elokeum and considered an extension of the Golden Throne. Thus, an attack on Elokeum would be an attack on the Golden Throne. Second, local Potthani civil law will be replaced by a combination of imperial civil and military law. Because it's expected that the civil population of Elokeum will be in some way related to the military function of the territory, special rules will be put in place to allow for the application of military law in relevant situations. While standard federal imperial civil law will be applied in situations unrelated to the military, local laws will be legislated by Elokeum's territorial administration which, in turn, will have both civil and military functions. Separating civil from military legal jurisdiction will be impossible in Elokeum, implying that in almost all situations the two areas of jurisprudence will overlap.

One special attribute of Elokeum will be its immigration policy. The expansion of the base complex will naturally require large amounts of labor. Furthermore, as the number of soldiers, sailors, and airmen increases so will the number of civilians who support them, especially service workers. The civilian side of the administration, such as law enforcement and border patrol, will also require labor. This increase in demand for labor is expected to increase the rate of migration of Potthanis and others to Elokeum. Because of the sensitive nature of the military facilities in the leased territory, Elokeum will have unique border controls that seek to control and vet the inflow of civilians. This is likely to manifest in the form of permits specific to the migrant's target locality and will require a substantial administrative staff at the local level to manage, which means the migration of Macabéan bureaucrats to Elokeum. Another source of immigration will likely be asylum-seekers, refugees, and escaped slaves. Elokeum will have an open policy towards this segment, but they will nevertheless need to be managed in relation to the requirements of military security. As a result of these dynamics, it's expected that the population of the leased territory will skyrocket over the next decade and beyond.

The length of the lease agreement is unspecified or unpublished. Likewise, the exact nature of the agreement remains secretive. It's suspected that the agreement is similar to that with the Killian government over New Hemett, but this cannot be confirmed at this time.

Whatever the precise agreement between the two governments, as it regards the ongoing debate on the viability and wisdom of imperial expansion in the far west nothing is solved. While the Imperial Bureaucracy and the Fuermak claim to solidify the security of its allies, assets, and commercial interests in the area, there are still many critics that see this newest decision as another step towards an overextension of imperial strength.

by **Morrdh** » Wed Nov 30, 2022 9:00 am

NAVAL CLASH IN EASTERN GD

NEWSFLASH: Naval clash reportedly underway near East Varessa.

Reports have been coming in of a major naval engagement currently developing in the wasters of eastern Greater Dienstad between East Varessa and New Garrack. It is understood that the clash is between forces loyal to Viktor Cathmore of Morrdh and those still loyal to Queen Lothwyn along with allied forces. The battle is still raging and both sides are known to have taken losses with a number of vessels sunk and others ablaze after being hit by missiles, columns of smoke rising high into the sky can be seen for miles around and are visible on satellite images.

At present it is uncertain who has the winning hand, independent estimates believe that Viktorite forces have suffered heavy losses after being caught in a pincer movement from the north and south. It also appears have some Viktorite vessels have tried to disengage from the clash and steam due east to reach the Sea of Tranquillity. A second fleet of vessels was sighted departing Morridane waters and were last reported to be to the north of Castille on a westernly heading.

Additionally, Loyalist and allied ground forces are believed to have capture large swaths of territory in New Garrack with a number of Vikorite holdouts still remaining. The capital of Derry is reportedly in Loyalist hands, though commanders have been cagey about confirming this and cited a concern over a potential insurgency action by Viktorite die hards.

by **Holy Marsh** » Fri Dec 02, 2022 9:37 pm

Basing Agreement Reached

Beakdale, Phibeta- The Ambassadress to Phibeta, Saj Khaira, has announced an agreement with Phibeta that will see Tactical Fleet 2-5 deployed as part of a basing agreement, along with Naval Security Force Detachment (NSFD) 2-5 and associated air elements. “This deployment to Joint Base Beakdale will see to it that the southern seas are further secured, and that our allies abroad are assured of our constant vigilance on their behalf,” she said while flanked by her counterparts in the Phibetan military.

The talks had been ongoing for some time, but insider reports suggest that they were pursued with unusual vigor in the past couple weeks. The cause of that increased pursuit is unknown. Tactical Fleet 2-5 is headed by the TMN Bajil, a Longsword-class Supercapital ship and the flagship of Admiral-Brother Jausiv Cauga. The first task force of the fleet is close by and will be making a preliminary stop to assess what needs to be done. It is expected that the Matriarchy will spend several billion Marshians on construction, let alone other developments in the other area likely exceeding $120 billion Marshians in the first few years. The whole Tactical Fleet is unlikely to be in port at any given time due to its size, as it often works in smaller Task Forces in concert with more specialized fleets in the area.

Tactical Fleet 2-5, 'Beakdale Tasking':
1 x Longsword-class Supercapital Ship, TMN Bajil
6 x MTD Type-115 Anubis-class Arsenal Ships
9 x Pijl-class Arsenal Ships
6 x Luna class Fleet Carriers
9 x Kazatlan-class Escort Carriers
50 x Lacto class CGNs
45 x Lamia-class DDGNs
30 x Libertas-class Multi-Role Frigates
30 x FAC-36 Crocodile
30 x LA-601 Xiphos class SSN
15 x LA-602 Kukri class AIP SSK
612 Aircraft (MAF-50 Pegasus, MAF-50S Silent Pegasus, MAF-52 Griffon, E-20A Pontus)
406 Helicopters(Mix of SV-22A, EV-22, and LA-214 'Molior')
Along with myriad support vessels*

by **Greater Ordena** » Wed Dec 07, 2022 2:20 pm

OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM THE REICHSCHANCELLERY OF THE
GREATER ORDENITE REICH.

Since the beginning of tensions in the Istoloan sphere regarding Tupenga and other former colonies of the Istoloan Empire. Diplomats of the Greater Ordenite Reich have been in close communication with Istoloan diplomats through the appropriate diplomatic channels via the Ordenite Embassy. In the lead up to the Tupengan crisis and the resulting civil war relations between the Greater Ordenite Reich and the Istoloan government were strengthened out of what many fear as an attempt at Marshite hegemony over the area. Over the course of the following months after a agreement had been finalized for the Istoloan government and Armed Forces to procure armaments and weapons systems from The Greater Ordenite Reich. Therefore shipments of various armaments and weapons systems including Anti-Air, RADAR, along with the appropriate missiles to utilize for the defense of Istoloan air space following the air raids against them. Furthermore additional shipments have been delivered which include various artillery pieces and systems along with the appropriate munitions, armored vehicles and other military transport vehicles that would help in modernizing the Istoloan Army. These shipments would also soon include various spare parts for these vehicles along with a permanent basing of Ordenite technicians and instructors to teach Istoloan Army personnel in utilizing them for their full potential in a foreseeable future conflict.

Talks are currently underway in regards to the Istoloan procurement of fighter aircraft from Ordenite stocks in order to modernize the Istoloan Air Force in order to meet the demands of the 21st century battlefield. This statement comes at a precarious moment as Tupenga has fallen into utter anarchy and the enemies of peace are threatening the sovereign government of Istoloa. The Greater Ordenite Reich stands as a committed mutual defense partner alongside the Republic of Istoloa and will continue to provide the adequate protection necessary for the Istoloan nation to remain independent of the globalist powers.

by **Phibeta** » Sat Dec 10, 2022 12:44 pm

The Results of The Local Elections of Phibeta’s Different Counites

With the local election season over, the results are in. There seems to be a demand for change in leadership as the local governments are making clear, as a majority of constituents have voted for their local governments to go either Labour or Democratic Socialist. In the recent polls, around 37.4% of the people have voted for Labour politicians into local government, while 32% have voted for Democratic Socialists (Henceforth called DemSoc). The polls showed that the Conservatives had the lead in the beginning but are seeing their worst turnout in history, with 4.3% voting Conservative. There has been some concern with the Nationalist Party rising up in the polls with 14.3% voting for them, making them the third largest party. In the past few decades, the Labour and DemSoc Parties have been talking about a coalition government and it is the case if this were the general election, since the percentage of control for a majority government is 55% or more. If those two were to make a coalition government, it would make the Nationalists the opposition, which would be led by Clifford Sellers, MP for Mondola.

“This is certainly a change in development,” says the Labour party leader, MP Harvey Raymond of Ezraton. “There is a small voice for change in our government for something livelier in leadership rather than the same old promises of the Conservative government”. Mr. Raymond plans on leading the coalition as prime minister once the general election rolls around, along with the leader of the DemSocs, MP Travis Graham of Rhodes as the Deputy prime minister.

“I take full responsibility for this poor turnout for the Conservatives,” says Prime Minister Douglas Sousa. “But I promise to continue our efforts for change and to continue our stable government”. One of the members most ecstatic for the political shift was Mr. Sellers.

“We are slowly making our comeback!” Mr. Sellers says. “We are projecting on going from fringe party to being the opposition! I love that the people are coming to their senses that Phibeta should return to its imperial glory!” While the Nationalists are celebrating, other parties are showing concern.

“Nationalism in the 1980s and 1990s almost ruined us, if not economically, then with our prestige and diplomatic ties worldwide” says Dana Collins, Cardinal MP for Vestershire. “It is clear that Nationalism has failed us, and will continue to fail us if we do not tone down nationalism and promote friendly, inclusive relations”.

The General Elections are scheduled to take place in 2025. Whatever the people choose, the future of Phibeta is in their hands.

Richard Boston, head editor for The Weston Mail

OPINION COLUMN: Our Friend Cartoonia

Submitted by: Sir Henry Moses KBE, Marshal of The Diplomatic Corps

Cartoonia is one of our most trusted allies in the world. It is a special relationship that has been around since the time of the Tower of Heaven War and the Tangatarehua War. It is a relationship forged by hundreds of years of history. It was Phibeta that had colonized the lands of the Cartune Isles which were names so after it’s discoverer, William Hogfred Cartune in 1504. The colony of Gallagher was founded in 1611 and continues to be the center of Phibetan politics to this day. The colony grew and in 1925 was granted the status of dominion following the loosening of the Phibetan Empire to allow more democratic reform. In 1954, the Cartoonian War of Independence was waged which they won since Phibeta was still reeling the effects of the Second Great War and was in no mood for a long war. In 1959, Phibeta joined Cartoonia in a war to defeat slavery in the Tower Wars (So-called since cultists used slaves to build a tower to reach their gods). This might have helped as a catalyst in the downfall of the Phibetan Empire, but this was also where the irons were forged for a new alliance between former enemies as well as the former dynamic of master-servant. This was made apparent in 1962 when His Majesty, King Clarence IV, made a state visit to Cartoonia. This was the official beginning of the “Entente Cordial”

It was a term coined in 1965, when Prime Minister Sir Henry Rodgers visited Chancellor Gumball Watterson to sign treaties and agreements for a new alliance. Though they are not members of the Phibetan Commonwealth of Nations, they are one of the closest partners Phibeta has. They still have a little bit of Phibeta in them as many of its historical districts were built by Phibetan architects of the Imperial Phibetan Style, and many Phibetans travel to Cartoonia on vacation every summer, as it is a nice getaway from the gloomy weather during the summer months. Our military every year conducts exercises and training to further our military strength, and we both share military intel and other diplomatic intel. It is one of the most open relationships of diplomatic play in this century.

Phibetans were worried when Cartoonia’s former adversary, Crossoveria’s Head of State, Supreme Leader Waldemar Rochester, made a state visit to another adversary of both nations, Tangatarehua. Back in 2020, Crossoveria under the ACE Junta tried to launch an invasion of Cartoonia which failed spectacularly. But this kind of threat is one of great concern that we were willing to create a grand coalition against Crossoveria. We are once again united in freedom against a tyrannic country. As the junta fell months later, this coalition never went anywhere, but it was a moment of solidarity.

Nationalists want to reclaim Cartoonia as our own, but again it is a sentiment not found in many Phibetans. The Nationalists say that Cartoonia today is a nation of debauchery, decadence, and anti-Phibetanism. In reality, we continue to have more in common than most may think. Supreme Leader Jimmy Kudo of Cartoonia is in good relations with our Royal Family, and their Chancellor Nigel Uno constantly speaks with our Prime Minister on important international affairs.

Regardless of those who wish not to think it, our special relationship continues to thrive every year and will continue to develop over the years to come!

The Marshite Fleet (Annex IX), Preparing To Sail Out To Joint Base HMNB Beakdale

New Foreign Installation at HMNB Beakdale Celebrated By Naval Staff, Scorned By Nationalists and Imperialists

The small minority in parliament is causing another fuss again as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Defense announce an agreement between The Grand Kingdom of Phibeta and the Theocratic Matriarchy of The Holy Marsh to support a small fleet at Joint Base HMNB Beakdale. Talks for naval basing with the Ambassadress of Holy Marsh have taken place for months now, but these talks have been moving faster until the agreement has been made.

“I believe this is good for peace and security in the region” says First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Sir Rodger Zellus. “The ambassadress from Holy Marsh has great enthusiasm that this joint venture would further our ties between our two great nations”. While other politicians on the other hand are expressing their rage, mostly of members in the House of Commons. MP Layla Hughes, the House of Commons Speaker, had to kick the gentleman out because of the angry rant that cannot be published on this publication.

“It seems,” MP [url]Jeanne Lamb[/url] of North Killdone and the Leader of The Imperialists, “We have lost our influence. We are no longer the rulers of the seas, but instead knee bowers to lesser and weaker powers”.

“We certainly welcome our allies and their naval vessels in joint basing and joint training ventures,” says Robert Bishop, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Conservative MP for Yohannesburg. “The Nationalists and Imperialsts believe it devalues the Royal Navy, but we believe that this will only strengthen our forces and builds momentum for coalitions if we are called to war”.

The Fleet are expected to arrive on Monday or Tuesday at the latest under the command of Admiral-Brother Jausiv Cauga. We welcome this joint exercise with the our allies across the seas.

Sir William Campbell, military editor for The Weston Mail

Other headlines

Mr. Jeremy Ackerman of the Phibetan Petroleum Company to Receive the Order of the Whetu Tapu Taonga [Seven Sacred Treasures], 6th Class by the Empress of Tangatarehua For His Service In Fighting The Energy Crisis in The South Seas

Prime Minister Douglas Sousa Orders First Rounds of Sanctions Against The Kingdom of Bagong Luzon for Act of Aggression Against The New Visayan Islands

The University of Laxony To Fire Economics Professor George Wendell For Nationalist Libel Earlier This Year

by **Xofrautan** » Mon Dec 12, 2022 11:05 pm

The Xofrautan Express

-Proper Xofrautanese News From The Government-

Monday, December 12, 2022

Ministry of Agriculture Predicts Another Round of Crop Failures and Food Shortages

The Rice Fields of Xofrautan, Mostly Dry and Barren

The Ministry of Agriculture, led by Ms. Anna Rosaline Ramientos predicts another round of crop failures and impending food shortage, the third one this year. It is not uncommon for crop failures and food shortages to occur in Xofrautan. This is usually combatted by the rare foreign aid that floods in during the year. This new failure and shortage raises concern for the Ministry of Agriculture. Global Warming, overproduction, and new industrial complexes are to blame for this frequency of crop failures.

“If our industrial sector keeps expanding, we might be seeing a famine that we haven’t seen since under the Phibetan Raj during the Second Great War” says Ms. Ramientos in a press release. “With the current foreign aid, chances are that we might not be able to feed our growing population”.

The President of the Republic, Om Mandalik has not said anything on the matter, choosing to change the subject by promoting the new internet network that has popped up in the last month or so. In a press conference at the parliament house, he boasted of Xofrautan’s mighty rice production.

“There is no problem in our country, and we do not need any more aid from foreigners,” says President Om Mandalik. “We have plenty of food in our storehouses, after all we are the largest producers of rice in the region. This is all being blown out of proportion. Propagated by those who wish us to be forced to bow before foreigners”.

With prospects of another harsh harvest, families have already sent their children out on their own in the world. This is already a tradition of the Grixusni religion, which is usually around the age of 7 for children to leave and either live as vagabonds, thieves, or laborers. But many families have decided to send them earlier, as young as 4 years old. Many families just can not afford to feed their children, nor themselves.

This will be a very harsh season for many on this continent.

Megaduta Chakarvarti, Editor of The Xofrautan Express

by **Holy Marsh** » Tue Dec 13, 2022 9:39 pm

Bishop Elections Begin! Elections Much Weightier Than Past Elections

Mar'si, Holy Marsh, Romani-Mar'si Union- After a multi-month-long hardening of systems and a furious- by Marshite standards at least- campaign season, the 22nd Bishop Elections are set to kick off. Most elections barely register in the political and social consciousness of the nation, and the Bishop Council has for many years been seen as an institution of only meagre import. With it being an advisory body by law, whether or not it has an impact has always been up to the Arch-Bishop who is also in charge of when to call for elections in the first place. During the reign of Arch-Bishop Lainika, it was rare for her to even reply to certain statements by the Council that she found particularly boring. Even Saranasata, whose reign was marked by both the glorious end of the Long War and the mismanagement of Faith that brought upon the civil war, did little with it.

However, Arch-Bishop Luboski has made it clear for some time that she views the Bishop Council as an important element in her rule. It reflects the will of the Faithful and as a conduit of the Faithful's expression of their love and loyalty to the Holy Marsh Herself, she views it as a potentially critical body and has indicated she would give their concerns far more gravity than others have. As such, these elections have been given extra attention as they present for the first time an actual democratic election of some consequence. Of course, officials have stressed to some excited foreign reporters that the Arch-Bishop pledging to take the opinions of an advisory board more seriously does not necessarily translate into any dramatic change, and that the Theocratic Matriarchy has no need of dramatic change.

Regardless, the nearly thirty thousand election contests have seen almost two hundred and fifty thousand challengers, a record number. While they are known broadly by their Shrine affiliation, in large part the elections are being driven by the involvement of the Seven Favored Shrines who have organized themselves and their Sponsored Shrines under an equal number of Alliances, Blocs, and Groups. These 'political parties to use foreign nomenclature present broad policy agendas that have made communicating to the voters easier. There are some concerns that this de-centralization of political influence could bode ill for the Theocratic Matriarchy, but so far this is a minority opinion.

Citizens in the Theocracy and her territories will be allowed to vote immediately, with voting to take place at sponsored election sites and monitored by the Inquisition and Marshite Militia, as well as associated Shrine Guard. Fears that the presence of Shrine Guard or the Militia may lead to political pressure at specific sites have been dismissed as hogwash. Marshites in the Romani-Mar'si Union will also be allowed to vote at the same time, with local officials have worked with Marshite Shrines to formulate appropriate arrangements.

Following an October 15th agreement between the major alliances, Marshites in other nations have been granted the right to vote in these elections. There was pushback to this proposal as before the Bishop council was restricted to those in the Theocracy and by extension the RMU. A Marshite citizen of the Sona Emperor's Domain lodged a formal complaint about this favoring some Marshites over others when, as per standard Marshite policy and doctrine, all followers of the faith are considered Marshites with the same *rights* and responsibilities. The Arch-Bishop was moved by this argument even against the well-reasoned opposition that this election was for a Theocratic body and decreed that all followers of the Faith regardless of nationality or citizenship could vote.

The Marshite Strategic Analysis Department has prepared a special elections department in accordance with the Favored Shrines and the Inquisition in order to spread awareness of the election and its sites. In its early days, the Marshite Division of Elections has focused primarily on security and stability, with little heed paid t the elections concerns spoken at length about by outsiders.

Marshites Head to the Polls Here!
MDE Document Detailing the Involved Factions

by **The Ice States** » Thu Dec 15, 2022 6:58 pm

(Ooc: This would have happened prior to the events here, such that the protests would already have formed, yet the response in the hereinbefore linked post will not have yet occured.)

Statement on Publications by Alexander Nicholas Saverchenko-Colleti

Last year, Alexander Nicholas Saverchenko-Colleti was a well-respected member of the Ice World Assembly mission. He had successfully authored the commendation of Esternial and repealed the original Freedom of Religion resolution. His reforms within the mission also resulted in greater participation of the Ice States within the World Assembly, building morale and influence.

Unfortunately, such a well-respected figure threw his career out of the window upon his submission of "Religious Freedom Protection". The proposal's broad and blanket prohibition on so-called "discrimination" based on religion would severely hinder the ability of member nations to promote belief in Klyprer -- notably, it would contradict the Holy Book of Klyprer's demands that "it is your duty to promote and build compliance with the first demand [that] no-one is to fail to worship [Klyprer] as the Lord of the Cosmos", and that "every leadership of men is to promote [Klyprer] as their leader and belief in [Klyprer]". The proposal was submitted by Saverchenko-Colleti through abuse of his position as World Assembly ambassador of the Ice States.

Indeed, the Ice States protested against the passage of this resolution, having issued a statement against the resolution while it was at vote. Unfortunately, Religious Freedom Protection promptly became known as General Assembly Resolution 635, turning into binding law upon all member nations.

This treason resulted in the Ice States taking action against Saverchenko-Colleti, who had been formally declared a traitor and sentenced to death by the Duke of Deephedge himself. Unfortunately, he had managed to escape Ice custody, entering the neighbouring nation of Motokata. Accordingly, we had demanded that Motokata extradite the traitor.

Motokata twice failed to comply with our demands that Saverchenko-Colleti be speedily extradited. What this resulted in was far worse than anything else Saverchenko-Colleti had done, however: on the Mokastanan website buscadorarchivos.ned, he uploaded nineteen files purporting to be secret files from the Empire. This was done for the sole purpose of taking down the reputation of the Ice States both abroad and domestically, out of what appears to be nothing more than petty spite against our desire to punish someone who abused their government office for private gain.

Unfortunately, Saverchenko-Colleti's attempt to take down the reputation of the Empire was successful, with the Ice States having lost its standing with both Holy Marsh, which closed its embassy at Magecastle; and the Golden Throne, which ceased its arms trading agreement with the Ice States and unilaterally disavowed further attempts to build relations between it and the Ice States. In addition, this has caused protests to form throughout the Ice States, which the Ice military is in the process of removing.

We would like to condemn the revelation of these files, as well as the complicity therein of the People's United Federation, as a grave breach of our national sovereignty and the legitimacy of the divinely-sanctioned Empire. There is indeed no excuse for an individual, especially a high-ranking, respected government official, to betray the Empire through attempts to destroy the reputation of the divine-sanctioned nation.

We have, due to this incident, as well as the PUF's failure to comply with our demands for the traitor's extradition, terminated all relations with the PUF. We would also like to take this moment to remind all peoples that we will be friendly with them if they respect our sovereignty and legitimacy; but we will not tolerate their complicity in treason against the Empire.

~Jeramy Vliet,
Duke of Magecastle,
Former World Assembly Ambassador,
The Empire of The Ice States.

~Sotolo II,
Emperor,
The Empire of The Ice States.

~Klyprer,
Lord of the Cosmos,
With behalf of the Chief Scribe,
The Empire of The Ice States.

by **AHSCA** » Fri Dec 16, 2022 7:51 pm

United Island Office of Culture and Information (UNICIM)

16 December 2022

New Astarian Station Set in Former Kyrenian Station

by:Asuka Kotobuki, Sr. Reporter

NARIMA VILLAGE - Much abuzz has been floating around about what to do with the space of land formerly occupied by the Sultanate of Kyrenian before the issues arose with the Duchess and the Sultana, a story already well known. In the hasty pullout by the Sultanate, a large scale demolition left the land torn asunder which required a lengthy cleanup and an uncertain future for those in the village who grew used to the presence of a foreign instillation and the economic boost it brought to the local economy and the Narima region as a whole. The western region indeed has had to contemplate what to do with the former site but none so much as the village that sat in the shadow. After much deliberation and the cooling of political tempers, it seems the future has finally been set, the site will be given over to The Imperium of Astares Amauricanum, AHSCA's newly formed friend and ally outside the Greater Dienstand region. Over the past year the Duchess has thought about what to do about the former site, meeting with local leaders and residents about the issue, debating between letting the land lapse back to a natural habitate, setting up a new UISDF station or possibly again leasing the land to another ally state, if not even seeing if the Sultanate and UIS could mend ties and set things up again.

The Kingdom of Mervay was considered as a potential, but the Kingdom declined the offer. With Mokatana already having a station set up in the west the PUF also decided to pass on the area. Finally, the Imperium came forward with a lease offer which included a whole cost cleanup effort on their part in exchange for a 5-year or 10-year-lease Ultimately a local referendum was held to leave it to the residents with a final vote count set to allow the building of a new facility, while a close vote, the Yes votes had it with a 5-year agreement. But the area will be far smaller than the original Kyrenaina station, only 1/3 the total size with the rest of the area being designated as a wild land preserve. This was agreed to by all parties with the hopes of continuing to preserve AHSCA's natural beauty while also securing the safety and security of all her maritime activities and peoples within the lands.

_{Artist Rendition SS Alizeo}

No Casualties After SS Alizeo Runs Aground

[/align]

by:Haru Shirashi, Junior Reporter

The SS Alizeo an older sail powered Amiru Class ship ran aground outside her port of call in the Cartoonia last Friday, causing substantial damage to her hull and starboard side but avoided a full sinking and resulted in no casualties with only a few minor injuries from passengers. The ship had departed the Abettonian archipelago colony of The Sugar Islands two weeks ago and was due in port the day she ran aground. Stormy conditions and poor visibility are considered to be the likely causes with strong gusty winds reported in the area that day and a combination of patchy fog and ocean mist causing the crew to likely miscalculate their root to safely dock in the nearby harbor.

_{Captain Yasunaga has been Captain of The Alizeo since 2018}

The ship's captain, Shinobu Yasunaga, (pictured) has assumed full responsibility for the accident and apologized to all passengers and to the Cartoonian Government for the trouble caused by the recent incident. She has declined further comment to the media pending her full review by the Civil Maritime Administration, standard after a major incident. Representatives of the Toyosatsu-Gotoh Company which own the Alizeo and Amiru class ships are also reviewing the incident and express their sincere apologies to passengers and all other affected by this incident. Captain Yasunaga and her crew are currently on paid leave pending the results of the CMA and company review of the incident which is expected by the end of December. Passangers of the Alizeo have been issued full fare refunds and travel vouchers for the return home, good on all AHSCA lines and even Mokan based airways.

Marshites Headed to the Polls in New Election

by Jonee Astamar, Staff Reporter

Mar'si, Holy Marsh, Romani-Mar'si Union- , The 22nd Bishop Elections are set to kick off and this particular election is expected to have far greater reach than prior. In fact, most elections barely register in the political and social consciousness of the nation, and the Bishop Council has for many years been seen as an institution of only meager importance. In Holy Marsh, The Bishop Council is the only publicly elected body in the Theocracy, made up of thirty thousand religious officials sent there by Shrine members to reflect the will of the membership. It is an advisory body with no direct legislative power but acts in service to the Arch-Bishop and the Cardinal Council. In past years, this could be a chaotic election with little in the way of a directed and national push. This year, with the influence of the Favored Shrines, the amount of possibilities has been reduced with a more coherent national strategy. Seven candidates are vying for the position and early polling results out of the Theocracy are showing an early favorable lead for the All-Species Alliance, a powerful alliance led by the Non-Human Shrine, and known for its large tent-pole philosophy. This is more than partially due to the large number of non-human species, causes, and needs that exist under it. They are known as superb consensus builders and believe in a form of democratic governance under the Arch-Bishop that is atypical. They are often seen (and decried) as the most peaceable Shrine, and the one most likely to seek compromise. Still, this is early data and circumstances can and are expected to change quickly. Marshites here at home in the UIS have a wide range of opinions about who they would like to see.

"Personally, I'm hoping for a Farsight Group victory. I think their policies speak most to me" Said one Marshite woman who's been on a month long visit to the UIS with some extended family. One family member also talked a bit about the candidate, The Bard. "Wait, wasn't she Stillestando's senator? I guess she's running for office in Holy Marsh now." The answer to that is no, this is not Former State Senator, Mikela Olaff, despite the likeness.

Other Headlines

Embassy Security Beefed Up Amid Ongoing Regional Tensions

Raimui Regional Governor Welcomes First Child

Duchess Express Concern Over Reported Xofrautan Crop Failures

by **Cartoonia** » Sun Dec 18, 2022 12:28 am

Captain Hitohito Tadano of the CCGC (Cartoon Coast Guard Cutter) Endurance has completed the last rescue and towing operations of the SS Alizeo outside of Port Dickson, the port serving the national capital of Gallagher. The SS Alizeo is an old sailing ship from AHSCA operating in Abetton and Cartoonia. This Friday, she had run aground on the rocks of the beach just outside the port. Fortunately, no one was hurt too badly by the look of things on both sides, only a few minor injuries, nothing that Port Hospital couldn’t patch up. The ship, owned by the Toyosatsu-Gotoh Company has been rocked by the mists of Cartoonia’s coastlines and what meteorologists at Wigglestien Mountain Weather Station state as “severe winds passing through the coast”. The CCGC Endurance was conducting training exercises at sea and started to head back to the base at Gallagher when she spotted the ship running aground. Captain Tadano ordered his crew to change course to help the ship back on the water and get the passengers safely on land, coordinating with the fire department and hospital.

“We’re just only doing our job,” says Captain Hitohito Tadano. “Our crew spotted the ship as she was trying to approach the port. We have a duty to protect people in our waters to safety”. The Alizeo has been towed into the drydocks of the Gallagher Naval Dockyards for damage inspection by the T-G Company if they wish. After that, they will be repaired free of charge, a service that is offered by the port for any ship in need of repairs after a long journey to Cartoonia. “We are an island nation a few miles from most other ports besides our domestic ports” says Horatio McCallister III, the Executive Director of the Port Dickson Authority. “and with the dangers of the seas most common in our area, we usually keep our dry docks open for all ships as a free service of the port authority”. Let it be known on the record that the captain of the Alizeo Shinobu Yasunaga has fully apologized for the incident to which the Port Authority responds with “no worries. It happens to even the best sea dogs”. Captain Tadano will be awarded the Coast Guard Commendation Medal by the Gran-Admiral of the Coast Guard Joe Swanson for his work on Friday. This stands as a true testament to the motto of the branch, “Semper Paratus” Always Ready.

-Alphonse Elric, Head-Journalist for The Gallagher Herald

by **Greater Ordena** » Sun Dec 18, 2022 4:25 pm

ORDENCHE - RUNDFUNK - GESELLSCHAFT

ORDENITE BROADCASTING CORPORATION

REICHS-MINISTRY OF PROPAGANDA AND ENLIGHTENMENT

Ordenstaat Hegeland proclaimed in Krasnova by Reichsmarshall-SS.
Overall administration and governance of Krasnova handed off to the Shutzstaffel in what is referred to as the "Utenbruck Accords".

Members of the Ordenite Waffen-SS assembled outside the Feldhernhalle in Berlina.

BERLINA, ORDENA-

A historically monumental decision has been finalized between officials of the Reich Chancellery and the Schutzstaffel which under the now written 'Utenbruck Accords' establish that the Reichskommissariat in Krasnova be given it's full control and governance to the Schutzstaffel. The move which was given the full approval from Reichsfuhrer Richtofen and the Ministerial Council for the Defense of the Reich. The accords outlined that due to the volatile recent history of the island of Krasnova in the past 7 to 8 years from the warring and internal strife that frequented the island due to remnants of the former communist regime. The Greater Ordenite Reich puts it's faith in the continued occupation and eventual Ordeanization of Krasnova by the Schutzstaffel. Therefore the Schutzstaffel's duties and responsibilities will also lie in the governing and administration over the Reichskommissariat in Krasnova and all of it's inhabitants.

Reichsmarshall-SS Hannibal Reichhold held a ceremony in the now de-facto capital of Utenbruck where he was crowned Reichsshutz of Krasnova with his newly appointed deputy Burkjard Bayerlein. Many SS functionaries and officials attended the ceremony with a massive crowd also in attendance to witness the ceremony which was topped off with a speech from Reichsschutz Reichhold. In his address to the people of Krasnova and the wider Greater Ordenite Reich, he spoke of the coming changes and the future of Krasnova under continued Ordenite rule. He went on to address the geopolitical situation with the Golden Throne and guaranteed the defense of Krasnova against all globalist invaders. When the speech was concluded a grandiose parade was had which featured soldiers mostly from the Waffen-SS who are stationed currently in Krasnova, however an Ordenite Army contigent was also involved in the parade too.

One of the very first decisions made by the Reichsmarshall-SS in regards to Krasnova was the change of name to now be officially the Ordenstaat Hegeland. The name 'Ordenstaat' being derived from the medieval State of the Teutonic Order and stood as a bulwark against Scythian invasions . The same would be the case in modern times with Ordenstaat Hegeland now being a bulwark and fortress against the globalist powers and any other enemies of the Reich. While the new SS state will essentially be able to govern its state as it pleases, any overly substantial decisions will be finalized by the Reich Ministry of the Interior. The overall defense of the now Ordenstaat Hegeland will still be the responsibility of the Ordenite Wehrmacht.

by **Agar-Na** » Wed Dec 21, 2022 2:36 pm

Prime Minister’s End of Year Report to Prince Harold

Prime Minister Bezalel Shapira has delivered to His Highness Prince Harold II Fragev the traditional end of year report summarizing major initiatives for the upcoming year. The Palace has approved release of the report to the public. Here are his remarks.

With the Help of Heaven, by your grace, and with the love of all your loyal subjects, and with the support of the Royal Council and Popular Assembly I am most honored to present to Your Highness this end of year report expressing the government’s major plans in the upcoming year.

God has smiled upon your wise reign, and provided well for your people. Although some still struggle in poverty, business is progressing nicely and government operations continue smoothly. Through careful budgeting, and in negotiation with the duchies and counties the government is proposing tax relief next year in the amount of a half percent reduction in the general sales tax. It is our belief that forecast expansion in the retail and services sectors will permit a modest increase in revenue under such a reduction, and the decrease in the consumer tax should prove most beneficial across the wide spectrum of Agarese society. Consideration was given to alternatives, such as the automotive fuel tax and levies on certain classes of industrial properties, but maintenance of revenue through a general sales tax was shown to be least unfavorable in distribution of benefits. Party leaders in the Popular Assembly have agreed to this, both Monarchist leader Da-Ja Feld and Liberal Viktor Mraz asenting to this policy last week, as well a all Independent Assemblymen. I look forward to presenting the final details to Your HIghness in early February.

I have reviewed requests for secondary education reforms with the Dukes of Nova Dubnica and Stupava both of whom request a shift of funding toward vocational and scientific education. They make solid arguments for this, citing the need for a trained work force to spur industrial growth in those duchies. Demand for agricultural workers in those areas south of Agar-Na has been declining for over a decade, an the case was made that this is a contributing factor to high unemployment and out migration toward bigger cities. County officials will cooperate in designing and deploying regional centers starting enrollment for new students in the 9th grade. The regional centers will have autonomy in deciding admissions criteria and whether or not to enroll girls. The ciriculum will be provided as standard by the Ministry of Education, and school fees will be set by respective duchies.

In the realm of foreign affairs I am please to report that no new initiatives or change in direction is planned. This year has been a milestone for the Principality. Accession to the Northwest Mutual Assistance Agreement has cemented our close relationship to our neighbors on the continent, and provided an opening to the wider region at large. The Principality has navigated the recent unpleasentness between The Golden Throne and the FRPC, and friendship with both nations remains solid. Along with accession to the agreement, the Principality has added a channel to regional finance with the establishment of the Western Inland Bank, providing growth opportunities and capital funding for new ventures and modernization of Agarese enterprise. Looking to the future, Foreign Minister Count Abravanel has brought to my attention a treatise from Bratislava University, written with several foreign policy scholars in neighboring countries. I bring it to Your Majesty’s attention on the Foreign Minister’s recommendation. Title “A Tripolar World?” it notes several recent developments. Current thought for some while has focused on the dominance of The Golden Throne as Greater Dienstad’s superpower. This is not challenged, and in practical terms is not disputable. It’s financial, industrial, technological and military prowess is foremost among all states, giving it the ability to act boldly and in a sustained manned that cannot be matched. At the same time it’s network of alliances through The Triumvirate and the NMAA allows it great discretion in distribution of forces. But the paper notes the relative positions of the Holy Marsh Matriarchy and the Ordenite Reich in global affairs. This has become more evident in the west recently, given the situation in the Shartourn Sea. For the consideration of Your Highness, The Principality remains in a fairly secure position, with close landward relations and passage from The Great Inland Sea to Libete Bay under the firm Amanite control. In the west, expansion of Golden Throne power along the River Dikk littoral in Potthan expands Emperor Fedors ability to control events in the upriver north. The Matriarchy, somewhat complimentary to The Golden Throne has expanded it’s reach through it’s recent agreement with Phibeta, and with the tripartate naval pact with Aman and Samarasta. The Reich contines to pursue it’s interests in the west in Fustera and through overtures to Istoloa. At this point it appears that The Reich’s interests in the west remain commercial in nature and given the magnitude of Golden Throne and Matriarchy military involvement it appears to be a wise choice in Berlina.

May the new year continue to bring health and wisdom to Your Majesty and contentment to your subjects

Your obedient servant

Leos Shapira, Prime Minister.

by **Tangatarehua** » Sat Dec 24, 2022 9:12 pm

COMMUNICATIONS DISRUPTED AFTER TWIN CYCLONES BATTER TANGATAREHUA

25th December 2022

Tangatarehua has been slammed by two separate, highly destructive, cyclone systems which has killed hundreds of people and crippled communications with the outside world.

_{Tangatarehua has been struck by two large cyclones - Cyclone Max struck the south of the country and Cyclone Barry has struck the north.}

Cyclone Max struck the southern coast of Motumakariri on the evening December 23rd while a second cyclone, Cyclone Barry, has struck near Tamaki, travelling through the Whangakawa Strait.

The death toll from both events is currently estimated to be around 112, while thousands are homeless. Large swarths of Tangatarehua, including the nation's largest city, are currently without power as emergency services desperately try to restore the national grid.

The storms have also crippled Tangatarehua's ability to communicate with the outside world, leaving internet services down and phone lines not responding.

"We have managed to obtain emergency communications with other parts of Greater Dienstad through emergency back channels, but it's unlikely that internet users in Tangatarehua will have full connectivity again until the end of the year," said Hine Patariki of the National Emergency Response Co-ordination Corporation.

Most users in Tangatarehua report seeing an image of a cartoon dog and the legend "Technical Difficulties" whenever they try to get online, which has led to some speculation that a major cyber attack could have taken place alongside the destruction of Cyclones Max and Barry.

The storm could not have come at a worse time, with many Rehuans preparing to go on holiday for the annual Hakari o te Raumati [Summer Solstice] festival.

There has currently been little response from national leaders regarding the crisis, although it's likely that this is due to communications being down.

It however fully possible that they are drunk or on holiday as the author of this article is quite happy to admit to being rather inebriated himself at the time of publication. That damn cyclone has really killed my vibe, ya know?

Anyway, best of luck to anyone reading this, hopefully we'll be back online in time for Her Sacred Majesty's New Years Eve address.

by **Free Kolechia** » Fri Dec 30, 2022 7:40 pm

Voice of Kashgar
Republic of Kolechia

Foreign Ministry Announces Rare Meetings With Colonial Government in New Imperiosa

The head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Timur Eldarkhanov, has revealed that over the last few weeks our government has conducted meetings with the Belhorizon colonial government based in the city of New Cedresville, New Imperiosa. According to his statement, discussions over different topics one of the largest being security, with Belhorizon have been unsuccessful as the homeland appears to further sink into disarray. The rule of Emperor Tony Adaimi has been criticized for quite some time as at worst, simply being pure tyranny. The Voice of Kashgar and other outlets both here and abroad have already previously covered this. The situation on the ground in the Capital of Palmiersville, remains somewhat uncertain as to whether events there can be classified as a rare but heated rebellion, or the beginnings of a Civil War. In fact, it is becoming more uncertain as to the location and safety of Tony Adaimi himself, as both government sources who support him, and outside critics claims are difficult to verify.

However, the Foreign Ministry has had better (and rare) success in speaking with the colonial Governor Orwell, appointed by Adaimi and considered by many to be a supporter. Minister Eldarkhanov has prefaced information about the discussions by stating that a good portion of the meetings covered sensitive security issues and cannot yet be revealed. "With the security situation also worsening in New Imperiosa, I believe as a direct result of what is occurring in Belhorizon, both our governments (that being us and Governor Orwell) conducted limited dialogue, ultimately with Governor Orwell's agreeing to host diplomatic meetings. After agreements were made on the details of such meetings, our government dispatched diplomatic representatives to New Cedresville. They were kindly received by Governor Orwell and his staff, and substantial progress has been made between us. Both ours, and the Wellovian government don't wish to see the New Imperiosan administration collapse, regardless of what happens in Belhorizon, it would have a large effect here in this part of the region. So, we have agreed to assist them in dealing with their security issues. Additionally, this has also been tied to some mutually beneficial economic agreements. Governor Orwell has been fighting hard to preserve law and order, has shown good leadership, and I believe is the only current real force that can keep New Imperiosa together while Belhorizon goes through a difficult time."

Minister Eldarkhanov wasn't able to comment in any great detail about what the security assistance might look like but speculated there could be some surplus military equipment and vehicles sold or donated to them. He stated he was "uncertain" about the possibility of military deployments to deal with some of the armed groups in New Imperiosa, but if it appeared necessary there would be an appropriate update. Lastly, the only other major announcement from these meetings, specifically concerning economic matters, was the New Imperiosan government had agreed to allow our small merchant fleet port of call. This major development will at the very least, finally provide an easier path of docking, and increase efficiency. However, it could also be the start of greater economic growth not just within Kolechia, but between our nation and trading partners.

by **Tangatarehua** » Sun Jan 01, 2023 1:52 am

EMPRESS STRESSES IMPORTANCE OF 'UTU' IN NEW YEAR'S ADDRESS

1st January 2023

WHAKAARA
Her Sacred Majesty the Empress has delivered her New Years day address to the nation from the Imperial Palace, in which she stressed the importance of loyalty, compassion and honour.

_{Te Kuia o Whenua/The Empress [official portrait].}

Te Kuia o Whenua [The Empress] reflected upon Tangatarehua's post-pandemic reopening to the outside world in 2022 and the international prestige and friendships that have been created since then.

She also stressed the importance of the ancient traditional concept of "utu" which is often mistranslated in English as "revenge", stating that utu challenges people to right what is wrong, to remain loyal to friends and to be compassionate to those who are suffering or in need.

"A wise man once said that an eye for eye will make the world blind. Well I posit, therefore, that a helping hand for a helping hand will make the world a kinder and more peaceful place," she said. "I therefore encourage all of my subjects, in the coming year, to act with integrity and moral correctness; to practice kindness and compassion at all opportunities and to reach out your hand to those who are suffering."

Her Worship's voice was recorded and broadcast on radio as well as television and the internet, the latter accompanied by her official portrait as it remains illegal to photograph or film a reigning Empress, although sources within the Imperial Household Agency have hinted that Her Sacred Majesty may be considering loosening the rules on film and photography in the near future.

"The beginning of a new year is an opportune time to reflect on where one has come from and use this reflection to better orient oneself in the direction of where one seeks to go.

"The year 2022 brought both triumph and tragedy to our island empire as the cycle of life and death rolls on unabated. I acknowledge that many of my beloved subjects will be at this time mourning the loss of loved ones who are no longer with them to usher in the new year. I also acknowledge that for many of my subjects, this will be a time of new life and joy as new babies see in their first new year's day and summer solstice festival.

"The last year has seen the great tsunami that was the Covid-19 pandemic finally crest and wane, allowing Tangatarehua to reconnect with the outside world and host tourists and foreign visitors within our shores once again.

"I myself was delighted in November to personally host the Supreme Leader of Crossoveria, Waldemar Rochester, marking the first visit of a foreign head of state since the end of the war.

"I also acknowledge the work of the Most Honourable Rangatira and the Department of State, who have ensured that Tangatarehua's international standing and notoriety have risen, allowing for more trade and the free flow of information with other cultures, in order to facilitate peace and understanding among the peoples of the world.

"In 2022 we were honoured to deepen our diplomatic ties and friendship with nations far and wide and with a diversity of ideologies, cultures and political systems, ranging from nations such as Kjalaara and Marchland to nations such as Drongonia and Phibeta. Indeed it is on that note that I must also acknowledge our important relationship with Cartoonia, a former foe that we are now honoured to refer to as a friend.

"In our culture there is an important but often misunderstood concept called "utu", which I believe holds the key to a better future for ourselves and for the world.

"Utu is often incorrectly translated as 'revenge', when in reality Utu calls for the balancing of the scales, the righting of wrongs and to repay kindness with kindness and loyalty with loyalty. This principle underlies all aspects of how relationships ought to work, from diplomatic relations between nations to personal relationships between people.

"Utu also challenges us to put rights the wrongs that we ourselves may have committed and as such Tangatarehua must remain committed to peace to atone for the sins of our ancestors who once wrought terror upon the world.

"But most importantly Utu encourages us to reward those who are kind and compassionate toward ourselves so that such attritubes may be multiplied throughout the world.

"A wise man once said that an eye for eye will make the world blind. Well I posit, therefore, that a helping hand for a helping hand will make the world a kinder and more peaceful place and I therefore encourage all of my subjects, in the coming year, to act with integrity and moral correctness; to practice kindness and compassion at all opportunities and to reach out your hand to those who are suffering.

"It remains my sincere wish that peace and prosperity may be bestowed upon all of my beloved subjects and indeed upon all peoples of the earth. I send my love and good wishes to you all.

"Tena koutou, tena koutou, tena koutou katoa."

Meanwhile, celebrations kicked off across the nation to usher in the western new year, with fireworks displays in Tamaki, Whakaara and Wharekorana, all of whom were able to successfully keep the summer monsoon rains at bay for the night.

Last year's cucumber shortage seems to have been averted through better planning by greengrocers, with Rehuans from all walks of life arming themselves with their traditional new years cucumber.

Eating a cucumber on New Years Day for good luck is one of Tangatarehua's oldest traditions, and references the legend of Kua Ngaro te Kapene, a Polynesian explorer who was shipwrecked following a storm but survived an entire year on a desert island eating nothing but cucumbers.

by **Phibeta** » Mon Jan 02, 2023 5:23 pm

Charlie Winters, The Man That People Will Recognize As They Pass By Supermarkets

The Cardinal Society of Peace begins a holiday food drive in multiple cities in Phibeta to help alleviate the food shortages in Xofrautan in the wake of another crop failure. The Cardinal Society of Peace is a non-profit charity founded by followers of the Cardinal faith who follow true and help those less fortunate. News from Xofrautan announced the worst crop failures in history and an impending food shortage. Just recently, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment worked with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to begin a program of foreign food aid. “We have planned on sending 40 million tones of food supplies,” says Mr. Brice Bullion, MP for Goldenshire and the Minister of Agriculture and Environment. “The last thing we want is for Xofrautan to starve. We have a good amount of surplus food stocks, the least we can do is send some over there”. The ambassador of Xofrautan in Weston however following the orders of President Om Mandalik and refused the help. The president’s reply was that there is nothing wrong and foreigners should stop peeping their noses into their business.

Meanwhile, the Cardinal Society of Peace, led by Father Eric Charleston who saw the situation with his own eyes back in 2019, is going against the wishes of the Xofrautan President and began collecting nonperishable foods to send to poor families and peoples in Xofrautan so that they may not starve during the winter months.

“We just want to make sure no one has to live through the bleak midwinter hungry,” says Father Eric Charleston. “The president may have declined food aid, but we Cardinal believers have a duty that no one starves. May they be here or outside our country”. He has encouraged everyone to spare some non-perishables when they pass by Charlie Winters* by the supermarkets around the country.

The ambassador of Xofrautan has not commented on this charity drive, but President Om Mandalik, though not recently, has made it clear in the past that any unwanted foreign aid will be sent back. It’s a cause of frustration with many leaders of the world who want to help the developing nation. Whatever happens, Father Eric will do what he can to deliver food aid to the country in need.

Richard Boston, head editor for The Weston Mail

OPINION COLUMN: When Can Their Glory Fade?

Submitted by: Cpt. Harold Dellwood, 45th Weston Regiment

In May of 1899, decades following the Meridional War of 1861, Prime Minister Emily Grey introduced the Veterans Welfare Act to Parliament. This was introduced following reports of men and women who fought gallantly against Abetton and Wellovia, the survivors of the most horrific action, living in poverty and destitution. It was all highlighted in Curtis McLloyd’s poem “The Last of The Light Brigade” which was a play on the old poem written by Poet Laurate, Charles Duke Tallyran called “The Charge of The Light Brigade”. As Tallyran’s poem recounted the greatest military blunder carried out by Lady McNiel, Countess of Oysterfield, Curt’s poem recounts the many ladies formally of the 12th Dragoons, out on the streets waiting for handouts from local churches. Many of them that were not from wealthy families to begin with, and they never got any more help from the government.

Today, we revere our veterans of the wars fondly, and we try our best to help these souls who have given everything for our Queen and country. These are the soldiers of the queen we Phitons sing about. But with a modern perspective of war being atrocious, we begin to question our veterans and the duty of the nation.

Today, wars of the past are becoming a distant memory as more veterans of the Second Great War pass on. The history we are taught in schools are both poignant and becoming more and more irrelevant with each passing generation. We have a duty to honour our veterans, those brave men and women that have given all that they could to defend our rights, our liberties in the service of Her Majesty and this Grand Kingdom.

Let us remember the words of Tallyran, “when can their glory fade… honour the light brigade, honour the charge they made, noble six hundred”.

RMS Worthington Hall, The Ship Chartered by The Weston Royal Opera Company Travelling to Nadeshiko in Katase

Bucherss of Sauville To Continue Tour in Katase At The Nadeshiko Opera House

The Weston Royal Opera Company’s production of The Butcheress of Sauville has seen continued great success abroad. The two-month tour of Cartoonia concluded. The next stop for the tour will be heading to Katase, particularly most of the major cities, including the first stop, the capital Nadeshiko. The opera company has chartered the RMS Worthington Hall to bring all the sets, instruments, costumes, cast, crew, and directors to the Port of Nadeshiko.

This marks the first time the Weston Royal Opera Company sets foot on the Meridional Continent, following a tradition of performers traveling the region to perform for different audiences. The last time any trope performed in the continent was the Eric Chapman Flying Circus, a comedy trope that travelled around performing comedic sketches.

“This marks the greatest adventure The WROC has ever embarked on,” says Director Alexander Karinsky, “I am so happy to share these stories with everyone! And I am sure that everyone will appreciate it!” There are people that do not appreciate the stories told by the company. This opera that was created in the year of 1862 following the Medriole War had in itself, not-so-subtle references to the former Queen of Abetton, Beatrix I and what many Phibetans of the day thought was the tyranny of the queen. In many of Cartoonian cities during the tour, many Abetton nationals, expats or tourists have been seen protesting the opera, holding down controversies of the old stereotypes.

“I have said it many times, but this opera is not to demean the Kingdom of Abetton in anyway of which our governments continue to uphold great relations,” says Mr. Karinsky. “This story is a warning to all nations, no matter what, that slavery, is indeed a disgusting practice, relevant to some of the recent attempts at a nation invading our friends a few years back”.

RMS Worthington Hall is expected to arrive in Nadeshiko later this month. There have been rumors that the children of the Grand Prince of Katase are on the roster of attendees for the opening night. We wish the WROC the best of luck on this adventure!

Elenna Harding, culture editor for The Weston Mail

Other headlines

Power Outage Affects Mountain Villages In The Midlands. Power Restored After Sir Nathaniel’s Day

RMS Dukedom of Appleby Re-Routed To Help Passengers of The SS Alizeo To Return Home

Universities Seeing A Surge of New Spring Transfers and Applicants! New Housing Projects Are In The Works

*OOC: Charlie Winters is the IC stand-in for Santa Claus

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