Welcome Guest [Log In] [Register]
This forum is used with the NationStates web-game designed and run by Max Barry. While not officially affiliated, this serves as the regional forum for the regions: Middle East, African Continent, American Continent, Asian Continent, and European Continent.

You're currently viewing our forum as a guest. This means you are limited to certain areas of the board and can "read only".

In order to get the most out of these forums, please become a member and read this guide - http://z3.invisionfree.com/nationstates/index.php?showtopic=3060


If you're already a member please log in to your account to access all of our features:

Username:   Password:
Add Reply
Res Publica
Topic Started: Dec 19 2008, 03:42 PM (3,452 Views)
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

HIS MAJESTY MARCUS DECIMUS TO ASSUME CONTROL OF THE MONARCHY

Posted Image

Ariminae, Porcu - Queen Dowager Aglaea Helvia presided over the funeral services of her husband, the late King of Porcu Julius Decimus Maxentius IV, in a small, intimate service with her children, including the soon-to-be King of Porcu, and a handful of invited guests.

Succession in Porcu has always followed absolute primogeniture and so the eldest child of the late King and Queen Aglaea Helvia is set to succeed his father. When he is crowned in one week's time he will be the ninth 'Marcus Decimus Maxentius', a full 207 years after the last King Marcus Decimus Maxentius died.

The relative intimacy of the funeral services for the late King Julius Decimus Maxentius may come in stark contrast to the rumored opulence of the planned crowning ceremony. A senior spokesman for the Royal House tried to allay concerns over the cost of the ceremony, but his appearance on several television talk shows only seemed to add fuel to the discussion.

Additionally, there is a growing number of Porcuians who wish to see the monarchy abolished. Publius Vibius Pansa, General-Secretary of the Communist Party, has already made it clear that he will not be attending the crowning ceremony or the festivities afterward. Despite his promises, the young communist has yet to advance legislation in Parliament that would serve to formally abolish the Porcuian monarchy, of which the House of Maxentius has reigned for over 800 years.
Edited by Porcu, Jul 29 2014, 12:42 AM.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

COMMUNIST LEAGUE CRUISES TO MASSIVE PARLIAMENTARY VICTORY

Posted Image

Capua, Porcu - With over 98% of votes counted amid an incredible 92% turnout, the far-Left parliamentary group rolled to a decisive victory in midterm parliamentary elections.

Celebrations began late yesterday night and will continue through today, as Chairman of the Communist League and General Secretary of the Communist Party of Porcu Publius Vibius Pansa called for a day of rest.

"Take tomorrow to relax and celebrate the victory we have worked together to achieve!" Publius Vibius Pansa said to a large crowd gathered in the spacious commons area of Capua's main city park. "Work is still ahead of us, but now the workers of our great Republic shall be in a position to demand economic, political, and social justice...The justice that has been denied them from the cronied interest of wealthy politicians and their corporate sponsors!"

The midterm parliamentary elections were contested by a large number of political parties, several of which voted recently to join the larger party coalitions. For example, the Revolutionary Workers' Party, based in the overseas province of Hong Kong & Macau, voted last year to join the party list of the Communist League. Further to the center, the Democratic Union of the Left, a new political party based in the overseas province of Carolina-Georgia and maintaining sister parties in the provinces of Polynesium and Viroconium, voted last month to join the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats.

In the end, however, the larger coalitions of the centre-left and centre-right were no match for the organized "get out the vote" campaign devised by the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Porcu. All through the night, political analysts pointed to the communists' concentrated effort at making sure that communities which normally sat out midterm elections got to the polls - not only within Porcu proper, but throughout the numerous overseas provincial territories of the Republic. Indeed, exit polls point to a staggering amount of support given to the Communist Party in underdeveloped provinces such as Avaricum and Quinaranum. In Avaricum, for example, the Communist Party decisively won every age demographic by double digits, except for those over 65 years.

The election is the first to utilize the novel electoral law first devised by former President Tarquinius Atratinus in which the top polling party or party coalition automatically receives 45% of the total seats in Parliament, equal to 330 seats out of 732. Legislation would still require a majority of 55% of Parliament to be passed. Additionally, the newly implemented law spaces out the crowded electoral season - metropolitan elections will not immediately follow parliamentary elections.

The results of the election are as follows:

Communist League - 42,3%
Liberal and Democratic Reformist Bloc - 25,6%
Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats - 20,9%
Conservative Union - 7,2%
Federation of the Greens - 2,0%
Republican Party of Porcu - 1,0%
Independents - 1,0%

The distribution of seats is as follows:

Communist League - 330
Liberal and Democratic Reformist Bloc - 178
Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats - 146
Conservative Union - 50
Federation of the Greens - 14
Republican Party of Porcu - 7
Independents - 7

The results are a particular blow to the current administration of President Ardea Gularis, whose leadership within the Socialist Party has been severely questioned. However, the main organizational and operational impetus fell squarely on the shoulders of the new socialist leader and senior Consul Aemilius Cesca.

"I take full responsibility for the disastrous results our party and coalition faced..." the General Secretary of the Socialist Party said in a morning press conference. "The Porcuian electorate is perceptive and intelligent - my party and leading socialist figures lost their voice and strayed from the path provided to us by our constituents...We were punished and we deserved it."

Other leading political figures from the centre and far-right have yet to provide any official commentary with regard to their underwhelming performance.

Clearly, socialists and leftist democrats are searching for a way to stave off future electoral catastrophes. Rumors are already abound that various Metropolitan Assemblies controlled or dominated by the Communist Party will push for special elections - hoping to capitalize on their national success by capturing the mayorships of several key cities in the lead up to metropolitan election a couple of years from now.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

PAPERS REVEAL MASSIVE UPGRADE FOR ARMED FORCES UNDERWAY

Posted Image

Ariminae, Porcu - Just days after the Austrian daily Die Presse reported on the expanded defense expenditure of the newly minted Empire, Res Publica was able to obtain documents from an anonymous source within the Armed Forces which details the Republic's own military plans.

The Parliamentary Commission on Defense, analogous to the Defense Ministry in other nations, has been hard at work in recent years. Indeed, the Directorate-General has been hard at work detailing the various improvements needed for the Armed Forces of the Republic to maintain its strength relative to other great powers. Papers obtained from an official deep within the Directorate-General who wished to remain anonymous show that several major shakeups are already underway and/or planned for the near future. For example, since the end of the Papal Crusade orders for the prioritization for the upgrade of the Manlius Vulso Class close support aircraft, the Junius Brutus Class strategic bomber, and the Julius Argentarius Class of interceptor aircraft have been given, among other upgrades across the branches.

Praetor Gaius Julius Caesar, Chairman of the Parliamentary Commission on Defense, did not reply to requests made by Res Public for an interview or comments. Neither did any members of the Directorate-General's Secretariat, including President Canae Ardea Gularis.

Sextus Octavius Maior, Professor of Foreign Affairs and Defense Strategy at the City University of Juvavum located in the overseas province of Viroconium, does not believe the papers are revealing in any particular way. "The ugly conflict that was the Papal Crusade was really the last in a series of engagements by the Republic that really began to force the Parliamentary Commission on Defense and the Directorate-General to look at serious investments in defense...Already we're starting to see the Russians, the Austrians, and even the U.A.E. move forward with plans to modernize and expand the capabilities of their respected armed forces."

Publius Cornelius Scipio, Professor of Economics at the Metropolitan University of Ariminae, agrees. "Well, the demands of the modern battlefield require improvements in the experienced, but aged portions of the armed forces...The findings made available by these papers shows that Parliament has also come to realize that substantial investments are necessary should the Republic not wish to lose its precious few outright advantages."

The papers reveal that several technologies will be decommissioned as funds are diverted to the research of new military software and hardware. Such new projects seem to include the 'MVA-12c' superiority fighter jet and a replacement for the aging Venetian supercarrier, codenamed 'CPM-4k'.

"It's difficult to see how such projects might be funded, especially for production and eventual replacement of current military equipment, in the first place." Communist Party General Secretary Publius Vibius Pansa said recently. "These funds could go towards real problems the Republic faces, instead of towards a general military standoff."

Many liberals and centrists are also voicing their concerns that funds appropriated by the Parliamentary Commission on Defense could have been used more effectively elsewhere. "Why not simply first upgrade the hardware that we have?" Quaestor Quintus Publilius Philo, a member of the Centrist Party, asked rhetorically to reporters during an interview. "We'd be much better off by fully incorporating the advances we've made with various technologies into our present stocks of tanks, aircraft, and ships...Much of this will be a colossal waste."

The general plan does have its supporters across the spectrum, however, and, more importantly, there doesn't seem to be any movement in Parliament to rescind planned funding for the upcoming year for the Armed Forces, which these papers show would include research and development for new projects as well as general upgrades to current hardware.
Edited by Porcu, Aug 11 2014, 07:51 AM.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

COMMUNISTS PASS SWEEPING LEGISLATION IN OVERSEAS PROVINCE, ATTEMPT TO BE MADE IN PARLIAMENT

Posted Image

Avaricum, Porcu - Utilizing their unprecedented success in the last provincial and metropolitan elections, with a massive 57% hold on seats in the Avaricum Provincial Assembly, the Communist Party voted in concert with other leftists to pass reforms which would see fully one-fourth (1/4) of the seats in the Provincial Assembly held by average citizens.

"These package of reforms, of which the seat distribution in the Assembly is the main feature, are directed at halting the undue influence of monied interests on our politics and political process." Regional Head of the Communist Party of Porcu Gnaeus Khamirus Batenga said in a press conference after the key vote. "Our General Secretary [the Honorable Publius Vibius Pansa] has been extremely vocal in his concern for the integrity of the political process and his desire to see radical changes made in order to combat the purchasing of political power by the elite of the Republic...This is a victory for the people of Avaricum and we will do whatever we can to bring about similar victories in the other provinces, as well as Porcu proper."

Despite their dominance in the Provincial Assembly, the Avaricum branch of the Communist Party of Porcu chose to seek support from socialists, leftist democrats, and even some members of the centre-right. Remarkably, the communist leadership was willing to make an amendment to its proposal in order to keep much of their support - dropping the seats distributed from one-third (1/3) to one-fourth (1/4). In the end, however, the package of legislation was passed overwhelmingly. A full 64% of the Assembly voted in favor.

"This harkens back to the ancient Greeks." Sextus Nkundus Banyikwa, a Professor of History at the State University of Avaricum, said in a recent TV interview. "The Athenians practiced direct democracy and would also come to draft their landed male citizens into government...In a sense, the Provincial Assembly has moved us back in time!"

In future elections for the provincial assembly, three-fourths (3/4) of the Assembly's seats will be distributed as before, along party-list proportional representation. However, now the remaining seats will be given to average citizens, chosen at random by lottery. The passed reforms stipulate that a chosen citizen must serve in the Assembly if chosen. Additionally, term lengths have been decreased in order to lessen the sudden disruption one might face when called upon to serve in the Provincial Assembly.

The reform package has wide support throughout the Province, but not all are welcoming the changes. "How is this body supposed to function effectively if a fourth of its members are not well versed in the details of political law?...What if they are not interested in participating in the legislative process?" Republican Party branch Press Secretary Marcus Masungius Ceyyo commented during a TV appearance.

"That is precisely the point..." Socialist Party member Julia Ndahanius Haji said when asked to comment on the same TV program. "These reforms bring a vital diversity of thought and experience to our political arena. Now, the needs of real, average Porcuians in Avaricum can be discussed openly, without the threat of decreased political donations...Utilizing average, working class Porcuians will simplify our legislation and make it so that our laws are truly a reflection of the people's will."

In the Republic proper, Communist Party General Secretary Publius Vibius Pansa was visibly ecstatic. "I am overjoyed at the victory our colleagues in Avaricum were able to provide the people of Avaricum. Too many are struggling with basic needs, while an entrenched political and economic class continue to make unbelievable advances and these reforms will help bring those individuals in line...The Communist Party of Porcu will continue to support such legislation, whether or not it is advanced by member parties of the Communist League, and will push for such reforms here in Porcu."

Yet, the Honorable Vibus Pansa may find gathering support in Parliament harder to come by. Just last week a proposal to forcefully shift several categories of businesses and firms to worker cooperatives nearly did not pass, despite a heavy lobbying effort by the communists. Several CEOs of major Porcuian industrial firms have openly decried such legislative proposals, saying it would destroy the competitive advantage Porcuian businesses currently enjoy. Furthermore, there are rumblings in the financial world that suggest many Porcuian corporations are actively preparing to decouple themselves from the Republic - making themselves subject to the laws of other nations rather than the Republic, despite their workers, shareholders, and senior administrative staff being Porcuian citizens.

Nonetheless, the road ahead is bright for the different provincial branches of the Communist Party, who hold great sway in other provincial and metropolitan assemblies.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

BASIC INCOME GUARANTEE PASSED BY PARLIAMENT, NATIONALIZATION OF INDUSTRIES NEXT ON AGENDA

Posted Image

Ariminae, Porcu - Utilizing their powerful, unprecedented position of influence and power within Parliament the Communist Party led the charge in the successful passage of legislation that will see an unconditional basic income phased in over a period of three years, starting next year.

The fight within Parliament was remarkable: on the day of the legislation's scheduled vote an initial filibuster attempt by members of the Conservative Union only managed to delay the vote by three hours, yet it was just enough time to bring a natural suspension of parliamentary activity for the morning session. When Parliament's afternoon session began, the communists had gathered enough support to cease debate, but lacked the full support of the socialists and leftist democrats and so decided against putting the bill up for an immediate vote. Upon the start of the next day's morning session, those of the Right were not all present when the motion for an immediate vote was submitted by Mr. Vibius Pansa. The legislation was passed with an overwhelming percentage of parliamentarians present, which now included all members of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats and most of the Federation of the Greens.

In addition to commenting on the nature of the legislation's passage, the chief spokesperson for the Conservative Union Ms. Antonia Tertulla Marcanus expressed her party's and coalition's concerns regarding an unconditional basic income. "...Without a doubt this will destroy and erode all incentive to work...This is more than just a matter of assisting those at the bottom of the economic ladder. Yes, there are individuals who require assistance in improving their condition and the Conservative Party is for common sense proposals that will help bring about that outcome, but this legislation - brought about in extremely questionable circumstances - is not the solution...The Republic will suffer for this."

General Secretary for the Porcuian Republic Party Mr. Spurius Julius Cethegus agrees. "Who is to pay for this? Well, those well-off individuals who are stressed enough under our punitive tax environment for one, but also ordinary Porcuians who do not wish to see their hard earned tax money spent on individuals who do nothing more than to slouch around, who are not productive members of society, who are insistent on taking what they have not worked for from those who have..."

Naturally, the legislation and its effects are depicted in entirely different terms by the respective leaders of the communist and socialist camps. Today, in a rare joint appearance, both General Secretary Publius Vibius Pansa and President Canae Ardea Gularis spoke to reporters regarding the successful passage of the unconditional basic income.

"Within three years a great stress will be lifted from the millions and millions of Porcuians across this Republic who have worked themselves to the bone, yet have received little in terms of proper compensation. Starting next year, and fully within three years, Porcuians who have obtained civitas durus will be eligible for an unconditional monthly stipend from the state, amounting to ₤25.000 annually." Mr. Vibius Pansa said.

"Despite the heavy resistance from corporate interests in Parliament, I am proud to echo the sentiments of the Honorable General Secretary of the Communist Party." President Ardea Gularis stated soon after. "This legislation extends to all Porcuians and will be viewed in the years and generations to come as a moment of triumph for the people."

While a majority of welfare programs are expected to continue being funded, there are a small number which were specifically targeted in order to assist in the funding of this new citizen dividend. Additionally, the legislation will increase the top rate of income tax to 90%, affecting those with personal incomes of ₤500.000 or more. None of the other tax rates will be affected at present, but an anonymous source within the Communist Party shared with Res Public that future increases are likely. Still, the legislation is extremely popular amongst the electorate. Approximately 64% were in favor of a unconditional basic income.

Hinting at what is next to come, Mr. Vibius Pansa mentioned during a television interview that the nationalization of several major industries, including various energy industries and large parts of the financial industry, are on the agenda. Considering the financial resources of these corporations and the power they possess many analysts do not see the communists mirroring their success as very likely. Nonetheless, perhaps the fight is enough; perhaps having already smelled victory with this recent legislation the communists will be able to galvanize enough popular support to at least send a clear and unequivocal message.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

NEW KING CROWNED IN SMALL, PRIVATE AFFAIR

Posted Image

Ariminae, Porcu - Seeking to distance himself and his family from rumors of an opulent and pricey coronation and subsequent celebration, the newly crowned King Marcus Decimus Maxentius IX held the festivities in his honor to a minimum.

The guest list, while small was impressive. Several influential political figures and foreign dignitaries attended, as did members of the social elite. The coronation itself, held in the magnificent St. John Cathedral in central Ariminae, was a relatively short affair, while the festivities afterward went long into the night. Moreover, while the coronation was televised, viewership was extremely low - only an estimated 7% of Porcuians watched the coronation live. Still, the occasion was momentous, as any changing of the guard among royals is.

The middle-aged King finds the monarchy at a difficult crossroads: many Porcuians increasingly view the monarchy as an antiquated institution at the same time that the monarchy is also viewed as second-class, if not irrelevant, by the other royal families of Europe. The newly crowned King could follow in his father's footsteps and formally enter politics as a way of injecting relevancy back into the House of Maxentii, but His Majesty Marcus Decimus Maxentius IX seems much less interested than his brother, let alone his father, when it comes to the political arena. This apparent apathy is of great concern to the small percentage of Porcuians who label themselves as 'monarchists', generally finding a political home within the larger parliamentary group the Conservative Union. On the other hand, many more Porcuians seem almost entirely uninterested in the Royal House.

The King's first public appearance will come next week, when he will attend a fundraiser for cancer research, particularly those whose prevalence is highest among children. There is no word as of yet on whether His Majesty will be accompanied by other members of his family.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

PARTY CONFERENCES SET STAGE FOR PRESIDENTIAL AND PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS

Posted Image

Arretium, Porcu - Over the past week there have been numerous, annual party conferences and conventions all across the Republic which have definitively opened the general electoral season.

Many results are not surprising: Publius Vibius Pansa, General Secretary of the Communist Party and Chairman of the Communist League, easily secured his party's nomination for the Presidency, as did senior Consul and General Secretary of the Socialist Party Servius Aemilius Cesca. Additionally, Marcus Holo Benedictus, longtime patriarch of the Porcuian Federation of the Greens, ran unopposed at his party's convention in Pavia. Still, there were some notable exceptions.

General discontentment is an issue, however, even for the major political parties which have come to dominate the political landscape of the Republic in recent years. For example, despite calls from prominent communists and leftists against such a move, the United Progressive Party and the Revolutionary Workers Party both elected to convene their own party conferences to choose their own nominees. While no date has been set, it is believed that the member parties of the Communist League will push for the vote of a single candidate to represent the far-Left as a representative whole.

"The far-Left cannot be divided among its constituent parties, or else we will give free room for the socialists to maneuver and outflank us." a junior parliamentarian from the Communist Party explained.

The General Secretary of the Communist Party agrees: "Of course, we want to provide the opportunity for internal debate, which only serves to refine our message, but we cannot risk appearing divided when, really, no such division exists, especially as it pertains to the progress we wish to see for the Republic and the progress for which we will continue to fight for in Parliament."

While largely straightforward on the Left, matters on the Right are far less clear. Take for instance the recent Republican Party convention, hosted by the city of Civitas Alacer, where events were temporarily stopped when it became clear that multiple factions would not lend their support to Spurius Julius Cathegus and his nomination. In fact, the convention was cut short by a day when a total impasse became reality. The republicans are still officially without a nominee for the presidency, but a couple of key figures have emerged. The first is the current Aedile Marcus Claudius Marcellus - a fierce debater and vocal opponent of the President and the second is the present provincial governor of Viroconium Publius Valerius Cato, who has surprisingly remained personally popular in his province despite his temper and known tendency for outbursts.

The situation in the center is less combative, but equally foggy. Despite five separate votes a nominee for the Liberal and Democratic Reformist Bloc remains elusive, though much could be explained by the fact that the centre-Right coalition chooses to have a single, collective nomination convention instead of one for each separate member party. Furthermore, the current Chairman and General Secretary of the Centrist Party Manius Tricostus Priscus has decided that he will not seek the nomination. Even more unsettling for rank-and-file liberal democrats and centrists was that not a single candidate managed to win more than one plurality - five candidates representing four political parties. Still, to many political commentators, the likely victor to emerge from this nomination battle will be current junior Consul Marcus Aurelius Cotta, though there is an outside chance for Mayor Marcus Julius Silanus to surprise many.

Undoubtedly, the surprise of this general election cycle thus far has been the emergence of a member of the royal family. Prince Oppius Decimus Maxentius secured the nomination of the Conservative Party late yesterday afternoon in Ariminae and it is largely expected that the other member parties of the Conservative Union will lend their support to the young man. A curious interest from the general public greeted the unexpected news; however, it is still far too early to decide whether or not the public considers the junior parliamentarian a candidate worth their serious attention.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

TARQUINIUS ATRATINUS DECLARES PRESIDENTIAL RUN FOLLOWING HIS ACQUITTAL

Posted Image

Ariminae, Porcu - Returning home after a sudden and surprising cancellation of his trial in Vienna, former President Vopiscus Tarquinius Atratinus official declared his candidacy for the presidency at an event with a small, intimate gathering of supporters.

"'That the charges leveled against your client are indeed baseless'...Well," Mr. Tarquinius Atratinus said with a shrug, "I applaud the Archduke for the fortitude, blindness, and hope he had to run with his charade for as long as he did, but even he came to realize that he had to give it up."

In a small pub located in the Osso District of Ariminae the former President was noticeably, uncharacteristically more animated than usual, which gave his stories considerable more weight. His reception couldn't have been more positive. Without introduction, Mr. Tarquinius Atratinus spoke for nearly an hour on his recent ordeal in Austria, eventually broadening his speech to include pressing domestic and foreign issues. The former president outlined his agreement with several recent legislative measures, including for example the passage of the Basic Income Guarantee, as well as his disagreement with several others, notably on the most recent fiscal budget passed by Parliament which made major cuts to defense spending.

"...It is, regrettably, still necessary for the Republic to maintain a large defense budget and to occasionally exercise our military in defense of our interests abroad. Of course, when it is possible and feasible the Republic should work with our allies and international partners to reach a desirable outcome, but the Republic must also maintain the ability to exert its strength abroad."

Although he was pressed on a couple of occasions, the former president would not comment on the general state of the political field, stating that to comment on the internal nomination processes of the various parties and parliamentary groups would be a gross overstep. Additionally, the former president also had little to say regarding the current state of Parliament, specifically as it regards a huge advantage to the Communist Party and the Communist League.

Despite such evasions, the evening was a complete success and Mr. Tarquinius Atratinus has already dramatically shaken the battlefield. Also, despite his less than optimal physical state - the former president is still recovering from injuries received while in detention in Austria - Mr. Tarquinius Atratinus is already scheduled to premier on a host of television and radio shows starting next week.
Edited by Porcu, Oct 9 2014, 07:12 AM.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

UNPRECEDENTED; TARQUINIUS ATRATINUS CLAIMS PRESIDENCY WITH LANDSLIDE

Posted Image

Ariminae, Porcu With an unbelievable and unprecedented percentage of the vote, Vopiscus Tarquinius Atratinus will return to the Presidential residence in one month's time, seeing outgoing socialist Canae Ardea Gularis.

Presidential Election Result:

ATRATINUS, Vopiscus Tarquinius (Independent/Non-Partisan) - 80,0%
CESCA, Servius Aemilius (Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats) - 20,0%

...

Parliamentary Election Result:

Communist League - 28,2% ; (330/732)
Conservative Union - 28,1% ; (157/732)
Liberal and Democratic Reformist Bloc - 28,0% ; (156/732)
Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats - 14,0% ; (78/732)
Independent - 1,8% ; (11/732)
Federation of the Greens - <1,0% ; (0/732)
Republican Party of Porcu - <1,0% ; (0/732)


Having secured 80,0% of the votes cast, President-elect Tarquinius Atratinus has broken new ground and landed the highest vote total in the Republic's history, both in terms of percentage and number of ballots cast, beating the previous record of 75,4% set by Nixon the Younger during his reelection. Despite the lower than usual voter turnout (89,3% compared to an average of 94,7% over the past five general elections) Mr. Tarquinius Atratinus was able to capture a victory few could have even imagined at the beginning of the campaign season.

"Tonight, we celebrate a hard-fought victory secured by Porcuians from every walk of life...Unlike previous campaigns, no gulf of animosity lay between myself and the Honorable Aemilius Cesca, no desire to see the other fall, no relish in the misfortune of an opponent; Porcuians were presented with two visions for the future of the Republic and were able to make their decision with comfort and without fear or intimidation...I am eager to work with the Honorable Aemilius Cesca and his colleagues, as well as the Honorable Vibius Pansa, who together will form the governing majority for the new parliamentary term." President-elect Tarquinius Atratinus said during his victory speech.

Socialist Secretary-General Servius Aemilius Cesca struck a decidedly somber note in his concession speech.

"The path ahead will remain the same, the fights for workers and all oppressed groups have not changed...I cannot lead the Republic, but I am confident that the Honorable Tarquinius Atratinus will uphold the values of liberty, equality, freedom, democracy, and fraternity with just as much conviction..."

Compared to recent elections there were far fewer numbers of individuals celebrating the victory of their preferred candidate. Perhaps, it was because many already had the sense what the outcome would be. Whereas, several polls suggested a close race in the runoff election, word of mouth seemed to indicate something quite different.

"Everyone that I know voted for Tarquinius Atratinus." a young student told Res Publica during an interview. "He's served before, sure, but he [Tarquinius Atratinus] isn't tied down by petty interparty politics...I think that many Porcuians wanted a clear and decisive voice in Ariminae that would tame Parliament and focus on solving what are truly pressing issues for the Republic."

The new Parliament to be tamed will remain in control of the Left - only by a whisker. Rumors abound that the member parties of the Conservative Union will push for a recount of votes in order to verify their current position of second-place and while conservatives consider that, communist and socialist party leaders are to meet in two days time to discuss a powersharing deal. Many political analysts predict that the consulships will be split between the two parties and that the opening position of the cursus honorum, Quaestor, will likely be dominated by socialists as an incentive to keep them permanently part of the Governing Coalition.

The likelihood of Chairman Aemilius Cesca and the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats defecting is marginal, if not entirely out of the question, due to the strong showing of the Conservative Union, whose success is largely attributed to Prince Oppius Decimus Maxentius. While his presidential ambitions were dashed early, it seems that the young Prince was able to energize the Conservative Party and drive up voter participation, when it had been previously declining steadily. It remains to be seen if the party can count on that increase, but initial estimations say so - the Conservative Party newspaper declared the election results as a stunning victory in the fight against "atheism, communism, socialism, and the gradual dismantling of the Republic."

Absent from the new Parliament are representatives of the Greens and the Republican Party, whose vote totals did not reach the minimum require to obtain seats in Parliament. Of the seats secured by independent, third-parties a majority will be held by the leftist Worker's Party of Porcu.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

BALKANS SITUATION GROWS MORE TENSE, ANOTHER LEGION FORMED

Posted Image

Ariminae, Porcu - In the backdrop of increasing violence and the possibility of war between the Grand Duchy of Marslava and the Austrian Empire, President Tarquinius Atratinus announced the formation of an additional legion of the Army.

Legio IX Caelestis, formed from current reserve forces, will be stationed in Syracusae. It is widely expected that should war be declared between Austria and Marslava that the newly raised legion will act as an immediate support force for the Grand Duchy. However, in his short press conference this morning President Tarquinius Atratinus did state that he was hopeful that war between the two regional powers could be avoided.

"War over the Balkans is simply not in the interests of the Republic." Senior Foreign Policy Analyst for the Institute for Global Studies Manius Junius Albinus said during an interview. "[President Tarquinius Atratinus] would be reading past the mandate provided to him by the voters...While foreign policy was a factor for many voters, there were huge domestic concerns as well. President Tarquinius Atratinus has to be careful here."

In a scathing and protracted speech in Parliament, Communist Party General Secretary Publius Vibius Pansa outlined possibly repercussions of an outbreak of war in the Balkans. "My colleagues on the Right believe that only through military force can a settlement be reached in Illyria...that powers such as the Russian Empire do not mind if another major European war breaks out. I urge the Honorable President Tarquinius Atratinus to consider the likelihood of an acceleration of death and devastation in the case of war...The Byzantines will watch with glee as their targets in Illyria are softened and made ripe for imperialist conquest. The Russians will contend themselves with a bloodbath in the knowledge that while blood Slavic will be difficult to wash clean from their conscious, it is made much easier with fantastic sums of money pouring into the Imperial Treasury from the export of Russian oil to Vienna and Prague...This is not even speaking of what may occur to the populations of Austria and Marslava."

Many analysts believe that by publicly announcing the formation of a new legion (a new fleet is rumored to be in consideration) the President hopes to check Austrian and Marslavan aggression via the pressure brought on by the Republic's military. Nonetheless, the situation may have already devolved past that point. Several independent news sources have reported a massive increase in extrajudicial killings by Austrian forces and there are many civilians who speak of wanton murders from traveling armed gangs. The cracks within the Balkan landscape already present prior to the conflict are now truly beginning to be ripped open.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

117 DEAD IN STADIUM DISASTER

Posted Image

Ariminae, Porcu - Scores of visiting Panariminaikos fans fell to their deaths, and many more died from suffocation, when a metal support frame gave way in the south-eastern portion of the home stadium of S.A. Ariminae, located just outside the city centre, the Forum, in the Phaleron district.

The horrific events unfolded late into the game, always a tense affair between the competitive clubs, after a dense fog had descended over the capital, generally, and the stadium, specifically. Video footage shows many hundreds of fans moving and attempting to move from their seats located at the top ends of the stadium towards lower levels. There eventually came a point when most sections simply could not fit any more supporters, turning those sections with seats into a standing room only part of the stadium. Tragically, this would lead to pressure being applied to a support frame running the length of the one of the sections, bordering Gate 8, so much so that the frame eventually gave way.

"Despite the nature of our ongoing investigation," Police Commissioner Marcus Junius Brutus of the Metropolitan Police said during a press conference scheduled earlier today, "there are two general facts known to us. First, the metal frame that lined Section 107 was already structurally compromised prior to the tragic unfolding of events two days before. That is to say, the frame was not properly secured through normal aging of the stadium and its infrastructure. I wish to emphasize that the frame was not purposefully compromised. Second, a preliminary medical examination has determined that suffocation, and not an injury sustained during the fall, is the primary cause of death for a large majority."

The Police Commissioner also stated that no criminal charges are being considered at this time, though a chorus is growing which calls for official charges of criminal negligence to be leveled against S.A. Ariminae and its ownership.

"I think it's a perfectly legitimate thing to ask: How much money did those ***** save by not replacing those frames?" a elderly gentleman and lifelong Panariminaikos fan stated while picketing outside the main administrative offices of S.A. Ariminae. "Surely, they would have noticed something was amiss during their regular inspections."

The club, a giant within the Porcuian and European football community, is under growing pressure to admit fault.

"This is a tragedy, plain and simple." S.A. Ariminae owner Lucius Manilius Capitolanius said in response to demands that the club take responsibility for the deaths. "There are grieving parents, families, and friends...We owe them our unconditional love and support. Instead, you have some opportunists who are trying to tie this tragedy to the club, as if to say that this was planned, a coordinated effort to purposefully cause harm to supporters of our best, most cherished rival...Nothing could be further from the truth."

Football commentator Manius Sempronius Merenda says that the hostility is understandable. "One has to understand the importance of this rivalry and its place within Porcuian football. These are two clubs whose players, fans, and administrative staffs hate each other - I'm not joking...There's a reason it's called "The Derby of the Eternal Enemies". It's very eery, but if you watch the CCTV footage and have audio with it you'll hear the home supporters chanting while those poor people were dieing..."

"I honestly...I swear to God...I honestly had no idea what was happening. I was still following the play when my buddy grabbed me and pointed out what was happening on the opposite end of the stadium." a S.A. Ariminae supporter, who wishes to remain anonymous, commented. "It was horrific to watch."

President Tarquinius Atratinus has declared a mourning period of 117 hours, one for each of the victims, and the Football Federation of Porcu has canceled the remaining matches for the month, essentially suspending league play until the conclusion of its own, separate investigation into the tragedy.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

RIOTS ERUPT, CONFUSION AND FEAR GRIP CITIES

Posted Image

Ariminae, Porcu - Following last week's tragedy in Servilius Axilla Stadium, home to S.A. Ariminae, which resulted in the death of 117 people, tensions within urban centers heightened until they boiled over following the death of 19 yr old Lucius Genucius Augurinus at the hands of a gang.

Despite a semblance of calm and reassurance coming as a result of the ongoing investigations into the recent tragedy, one being led by the Metropolitan Police and the other by the Football Federation of Porcu, there was also an increase in the number of gang-related acts, including beatings, stabbings, vandalism, property destruction, and theft. Most of these incidents have occurred between hooligans, or ultras, of each respective team - stemming from the accusation that the death of the Panariminaikos fans during the derby were deliberate and planned.

Some districts within the Greater Metropolitan Area of Ariminae have seen less activity, but most districts have witnessed a sharp rise in both petty and serious violence. However, over the past week, and especially following yesterday's death of young Lucius Genucius Augurinus, public anger has increasingly been tied to the discrepancy in the response of the police and the gendarmerie, which had been called in by the Metropolitan Assembly three days ago, between the richer and poorer districts of the capital. Compared to other major industrialized nations and city-centres, Porcuians enjoy relative social and economic equality, but longstanding history magnifies even small differences in education, income, and now football affiliation.

"I'd like to know why it takes the police 3 hours to show up here, while it takes them less than 30 minutes to make it [to the Phaleron district]." a local resident of the Picenum Urbicarium district asked with annoyance and a touch of hostility. "Oh, I'm sure it has nothing to do with the fact that [individuals living in the Phaleron district] have expensive apartments and cars and shops...What do we have here? Just a few complexes and playgrounds...Not much to concern yourself with, really."

The Metropolitan Police has not made the situation better and has often made it even worse. After a couple of incidents of police over-reaction to the outbreak of violence, many local residents are now unsure of whether or not to call the police.

"Either you try and deal with these thugs yourself or you put yourself in a virtual prison where you can't even go to the store because the mass of police in the streets."

Some groups have turned to organizing protests and marches as their own response. Yet, this too has brought out the police and gendarmerie, who frequently intervene following an attack on themselves or between opposing protesters. A march three days ago saw 40 people arrested, while another earlier today saw 84 arrested. The unsteady growth of tension and violence made the death of 19 yr old Lucius Genucius Augurinus all the more tragic.

Having gone out in order to buy bread for his grandmother, the young man was mistaken by police as part of a large group of anarchists which had rapidly cornered a unit of Metropolitan riot police and begun to pelt them with rocks and glass bottles. The young Genucius Augurinus was shot in the head with a rubber bullet during the police's advance towards the protesters and died as a result of a hemorrhage. He died on the street and within hours photos and videos of his body had made their way onto social media, prompting a frenzy of activity and a sharp spike in riotous activity.

Initial statements by the Metropolitan Police did little to clarify the situation and circumstances surrounding the young man's death. Furthermore, there was no acceptance of guilt by the police. A whole host of political figures have jumped into the scene, most notably the Communist Party general secretary Publius Vibius Pansa, who called for a "wave of protest" to engulf the Republic and draw attention to real concerns with several institutions.

The young communist leader may not have expected this. For the last 32 hours most major metropolitan areas within Porcu, including several overseas provinces, have seen a near complete breakdown in the social order, prompting the full deployment of the gendarmerie and portions of the First Legion, Legio I Quirinius, into the troubled areas. Police offices around the country have been bombarded with molotov cocktails and even some public utilities have suffered from the unrest. Most consequential, however, was the storming of the Forum by several hundred protestors and rioters. While not officially in session, the parliamentary complex and surrounding offices held many parliamentarians and their staff, and were forced into a lockdown. It has been made public that the President of the Republic was visiting with foreign dignitaries from the newly established Republic of the Greater Cape, located in the southern tip of Africa, and was safely evacuated by security personnel. It took gendarmes several hours to fully clear the Forum of rioters and the area has since been declared a safe point for civilians hoping to escape the violence and unrest in their area.

The explosion of disorder and chaos comes as major international attention is already focused on the civil unrest in the Emirate of Al Whaladya and the continuing conflict in the Balkans. Deeply embarrassing, if put lightly, the Republic now stands in a precarious position where it has lost any ground on which to comment on the internal affairs of others, yet may still be required to act in either conflict area.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

PRESIDENT IN RECOVERY AMID CONTINUED PROTESTS, PARLIAMENT DISSOLVED

Posted Image

Ariminae, Porcu - Only a week after surviving an assassination attempt, President Tarquinius Atratinus returned to the streets, as well as the Forum, accepting the decision by Censors Gaius Vibius Pansa Caetronianus and Lucius Aemilius Paullus to dissolve Parliament and call for new elections.

President Tarquinius Atratinus returned to the streets of the capital in a moment pregnant with symbolism. Visiting a local park where a great number of individuals, many of them students, have gathered and encamped, the President made an impassioned plea for calmness and levelheadedness.

"A great number of our fellow Porcuians have suffered in the past weeks." the President said even more slowly and more softly than usual. "Your voices have been heard against the screams of those who wish to silence you...Your bravery and tenacity is to be applauded, but so should be your commitment to the Republic."

The President took the opportunity to praise the park occupiers while simultaneously diminishing the tensions which had built up again after the attempt on the President's life. Not all were receptive, however.

"[The President] does not realize that the institutions of the State are, fundamentally, not within the control of the people." a young organizer who wished to remain anonymous said. "Certain things have to change here in Porcu, but it is telling that the only way to get the process moving is to shock the system."

Many others share in the general frustration with the system, though some set their anger at the state of Porcuian politics rather than the institutions themselves. Marcus Lepidus Marcaninus, a local baker and longtime supporter of the Socialist Party, has finally had enough.

"[The leadership] is only concerned with winning elections." the scruffy shop owner complained. "I was optimistic with Aemilius Cesca, and he certainly has been better than Canae Gularis, but they've stopped working to legislate social and economic progress...It's tiring to vote for words. Action has to follow."

This feeling is increasingly shared on both sides of the political spectrum, with many self-identified centrists and liberals increasingly frustrated with a political establishment that merely uses the public to cushion their careers. This has translated, at least for now, in a short boost in popularity for the far-right Republican Party, whose leadership and party line have at least been seen to be consistent, and therefore genuine. What remains to be seen is whether such a boost will translate into votes come election day.

In a decision that was greeted as welcome equally on both sides of the political divide, the Censors of the Republic have formally dissolved Parliament and set new elections to be held in three months time. In a point of commonality between protests organized by leftists and by rightists there has been a call to dissolve Parliament. From the Left, the call is marked by frustration with the Communist Party, in particular, though the socialists have also received plenty of criticism. From the Right, the call for new elections is characterized by a motion to "curb the Red tide" and to combat a force that is increasingly viewed with hostility by segments of the population. Marcus Claudius Marcellus, for instance, a preeminent figure in the Republican Party, described several marches organized by conservative groups as "the first salvo in a campaign to reverse the manipulative social engineering of the communists and the socialists".

From the Left, not enough has been done; from the Right, too much has been done.

Protests and marches, which have become a daily occurrence all across the Republic, have mostly been a peaceful exercise in political speech and activism; however, there have been occasions when the police have not been able to contain groups of protesters from mixing and subsequently harming each other. Fortunately, instances of violence have been low. Extra vigilance will be required of police moving forward to the general election.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

COMMUNISTS EKE OUT VICTORY, SYRIZA LEFT OUT OF GOVERNING COALITION

Posted Image

Civitas Alacer, Porcu - Supporters of the recently born and emergent SYRIZA coalition could not hold back their disappointment as the final votes were tallied and the far-left, radical collection of smaller political parties finished second in the general election and were subsequently left out of the governing coalition.

"We were simply at an impasse." SYRIZA General Secretary Aulus Sempronius Crassus said during some brief remarks following the announcement by Communist Party leader Publius Vibius Pansa that a government had been formed without SYRIZA. "The people had spoken quite clearly about the need for a change in direction, but the entrenched political class has once again shown itself resistant to any type of reform."

The Communist Party finished first once again, although their poll numbers dropped dramatically. In press releases following the general election and again after the news of the formation of a governing coalition, the communist leadership made clear that they had won the election, and therefore were rightfully doing their best to bring stability back to Parliament and the country.

"The Republic requires leadership." one of the press releases stated recently. "We of the Communist League approached SYRIZA openly and honestly, but diverged over proposals on how best to carry the Republic forward."

Many supporters of SYRIZA, however, feel different. "Vibius Pansa and the communists felt betrayed and so they purposefully left SYRIZA out of government." one SYRIZA volunteer and supporter explained. "Instead of strengthening the Left, the communists have only deepened the divide through petty actions."

The notable results of this election are obviously the fact that the two novel political parties, SYRIZA on the one hand and the National Coalition on the other, garnered nearly half of the total vote.

Manius Laminius Opans, Professor of History at the University of Narvik, says that the political polarization this election uncovered will only deepen for the foreseeable future. "It truly is a curious time in the political history of the Republic, as even the President seems to have increasingly little sway over the politics of the country...What this election has made clear is that the public is very divided, almost evenly, on the best course for the future. Furthermore, it appears that we've entered a period of intense populism, where the historically dominant political forces are no longer seen as viable options."

Indeed, the PASD and the LDRB together did not reach 15%. Less than a generation ago they controlled roughly 92-97% of the seats in Parliament between the two of them.

The situation at home seems to be calming, while affairs abroad seem destined for a slow descent into heated tension. The communists, along with the other members comprising the governing coalition, appear confident as the first session of Parliament is due to meet next week. However, that confidence seems to be divorced from the general attitude of the public, whose skepticism has cooled but not abated.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

ELECTORAL SEASON BEGINS AMID RECALIBRATIONS

Posted Image Posted Image Posted Image

Ariminae, Porcu - The newest general election season has commenced with official approval and blessing from the Censors and the Constitutional Court of the Republic, and has already produced a new political star, while there also remain other more familiar names and faces.

That new face belongs to recently elected leader of the Federation of the Greens Nicé Sempronia Gracchus (pictured left), who forced out long-time Chairman Holo Benedictus in a rather fiery party congress.

"[M. Holo Benedictus'] had ceased to represent the members of this coalition and the interests of environmentalists across the Republic." Party Chairwoman Sempronia Gracchus stated in a televised interview shortly after accepting the position of General Secretary of the parliamentary/electoral coalition of the Republic's various green parties. "The decision to oppose the Chairman was not originally my idea, but I was convinced of forwarding that opposition and becoming the face of it."

When asked about the tasks ahead of the Greens, Chairwoman Sempronia Gracchus replied, "[The Greens] need to rebuild our base; while our electoral results have fluctuated in recent years, that has been entirely due to votes from without. Indeed, party membership has actually decreased and it is actually perfectly understandable - I hold no grudges against those who believed the party lost its way and failed to take its frontline position to stop environmental degradation...Our rebirth begins and I see it as my duty to have the Greens, once again, show the path forward to equality, peace, and justice."

Although not as seismic as the Greens, there was movement within the socialist camp as well. General Secretary Servius Aemilius Cesca survived his opposition but not without losing two minor parties, largely confined to the provinces, from the parliamentary/electoral coalition. Both the Socialist Workers Congress and the Democratic Union of the Left have tentatively joined in partnership with SYRIZA, though it remains to be seen if that coalition remains intact until election day.

Contrarily, two figures whose positions were solidified, rather than weakened, were Communist General Secretary Publius Vibius Pansa (pictured middle) and ultra-conservative Spurius Tricostus Caeliomontanus (pictured right) of the National Coalition for the Defense of the Republic. Both gentlemen garnered near unanimous approval during their respective party congresses and are well positioned to get their presidential campaigns started. However, some commentators have already noticed (and coined a term for) the radicalizing effect that Chairwoman Sempronia Gracchus has had.

During an interview with the popular weekly periodical Hodie Chairman Tricostus Caeliomontanus was asked about the origins of his party and replied, "[The National Coalition] is a party of, by, and for the people of this fair Republic, to borrow an unfortunately dead phrase from America...Our party is often criticized for not being inclusive, but I can tell you that is a complete lie. It's a total distortion. So too, by the way, is this nonsense coming from the Chairwoman of the Greens, Ms. Sempronia Gracchus, who implies that I am the benefactor of gangs and thugs, which is actually rather ironic considering how this provincial usurped the wooden throne of the Greens."

Politicians were quick to distance themselves from the ultra-conservative Chairman, such as Marcus Claudius Marcellus, Chairman of the Republican Party, "The Chairman is not going to win any support from average, hardworking Porcuians with that kind of demeaning talk. Whether from the provinces or not, an individual is still Porcuian and a full member of our democracy...There are enough differences in policy and ideology from which to make a decision and needlessly debasing discussion in this way only serves to divide rather than unite."

On the other end of the political spectrum, General Secretary Vibius Pansa has seemingly found his radical roots, at times echoing his boisterous and volcanic predecessor. In his first major televised speech of the campaign season, tellingly in front of a crowd of industrial, unionized workers, Publius Vibius Pansa tried to capture the historical mission and glory of the Communist Party. "Your trust in me and the Communist Party, evidenced by your enthusiastic support and your votes, has not always been reciprocated. There have been numerous times in which your trust has been taken for granted, times in which comfort in electoral victory has superseded the obligation to fight for workers and average Porcuian families...I ask for your forgiveness and am well aware that you will not be swayed with a poetic apology...Here, this very evening, I proudly rededicate myself to you and to eliminating the injustices wrought by capitalism and to the destruction of that system itself."

Noted Professor of History and Anthropology Sextus Nkundus Banyikwa at the City University of Avaricum remarked during an appearance on the popular Sunday morning political talkshow on N-2 (Nuntium-2, or News Channel-2) that the current electoral cycle is easily one of the most polarized in the history of the Republic.

"There is a natural tendency to exaggerate the past." Professor Nkundus Banyikwa said. "Approximately 70 years ago there was a major battle over the regulation of new, emerging businesses and while it is true that the particular parliamentary election was toughly contested, it is not appropriate to draw parallels between that electoral fight and the current political landscape...The emergence of new political forces, by this I mean the entrance of an independent, organized party on the ultra-right and the formation of a «middle way» on the Left in SYRIZA, has dramatically changed the electoral calculus...This election is entirely unpredictable."
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

GREENS DOMINATE EARLY POLLING, OTHER PARTIES STRUGGLE FOR ATTENTION

Posted Image

Capua, Porcu - In the largest crowd yet for this election cycle, and the largest political rally in a generation, Nicé Sempronia Gracchus worked Green supporters and party members into a fever and showed how she and her party have captured the imagination of the Porcuian electorate.

Other political festivities have been relatively tame, though a major showing by the Communists the previous week in Mediolanum had temporarily stood as the largest event up to that point. Most of the other parties have struggled to keep pace with the Greens, whose rallies, demonstrations, and events have drawn increasing numbers.

"A scale of mobilization of this size has not been seen in a long time. Certainly not within a generation, at least." said Tiberius Nigilus Photius Professor of Political Economy at the Metropolitan University of Norges Septentriones. "There are important regional differences, however, that we shouldn't discount or avoid. Here in Narvik, for example, the swing has been to the opposite end of the political spectrum, with the National Coalition [for the Defense of the Republic] drawing a seemingly endless amount of local support."

While the trends are provocative, others look to deeper data sets with longer records in order to provide a context for the sudden shift in voter preferences.

"There is no question that this election has provided an amount of novelty not seen in some time." a polling analyst for the Porcuian World News Service said. "However, some skepticism is merited...There is no compelling reason to believe that the sudden swing in preference will remain where it is. It is just as likely that future polls will show another major shift."

The conservative argument stems from historical voting data, showing that Porcuians have consistently divided their votes to the largest, most well-established political parties, and that they have rarely withdrawn their traditional support and abandoned their usual party. Nonetheless, major shifts have occurred in the past - the rise and recent domination of the Communists is a case in point.

"This should be viewed as a test." Professor Tiberius Nigilus Photius again. "The populace is intrigued by the change in tone and the message being forwarded...It has happened before that a political party's meteoric rise is followed by a hard crash. Furthermore, support has quickly evaporated for a party, once elected, if they were not capable of fulfilling their campaign promises...Porcuian politics is exceptionally dynamic."

Certainly, Nicé Sempronia Gracchus and the Greens have sought to take advantage of their privileged position by scaling-up their events, seeking to mobilize increasing numbers. Many commentators, however, are quick to point out that public signs of support do not always translate to votes in the ballot box.

Contrarily, the other parties have struggled to fill seats and public spaces, with the exception of the National Coalition, whose support does not seem to be as localized as other parties. Present discussion is firmly rooted to the Greens and the seeming lack of a response by the other parties. Rumors have circulated that high-level negotiations are scheduled between Nicé Sempronia Gracchus, Publius Vibius Pansa, and Servius Aemilius Cesca. Sources close to all three party leaders have strongly rejected such a possibility, though all three, separately, have stated that they would be open to the creation of a «Left Front». With support for the centre and centre-right still at historic lows, the only reason for such a broad coalition would be to halt additional electoral advances by the far-right, ultraconservative National Coalition for the Defense of the Republic.

For now, no deals have been struck and if the general election were held today it may be that the Greens would control both Parliament and the Consilium. It, therefore, remains the highest priority for the other campaigns to begin to chip away at the Greens in the weeks ahead.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

VIBIUS PANSA AND AEMILIUS CESCA JOIN FORCES; ROYAL HOUSE ANNOUNCES WEDDING

Posted Image Posted Image

Ariminae, Porcu - Announcements in the political and cultural spheres have sent the nation head over heels - emotions running the full spectrum.

The leaders of the two major parties of the Left, Publius Vibius Pansa and Servius Aemilius Cesca, made a joint announcement in the historic Domitius Ahenobarbus Square that may have secured the election in their favor. Standing beside one another, each taking a turn to speak to the gigantic audience, the Communist and Socialist party leaders attempted to convincingly forward their rational for the decision to join forces.

"This decision has already been decried by enemies of the working class to be an opportunistic gamble!" Chairman Vibius Pansa said. "Well, yes, we admit that it is opportunistic...It is an opportunity FOR the working class! It is an opportunity to bridge ideological divisions and to forge a path ahead that will see the Republic, ALL OF US, stronger than ever before!"

While the communist party leader struck a tone aimed at conveying strength and power, the socialist chairman struck a much more conciliatory tone, even pleading at times.

"I understand that distrust in the party and, especially, the leadership of the party has grown to unprecedented levels. I cannot say in good conscious that it is not merited...This announcement, while scouting a united path forward, is also meant to address long-standing concerns by the rank-and-file members of socialists and communists upon whose support, hope, and energy we are able to carry on."

The announcement was carried by many broadcasters and seemed to be largely well-received. However, there were also some substantial rebukes.

"I cannot help but notice this announcement coming on the heels of the recent round of polling data, with the socialists and communists combined obtaining little over 20%." Nicè Sempronia Gracchus, leader of the Greens, said in response on an evening panel show. "It highlights for all to see the desperation of the current ruling class of politicians...They are frightened by the movement of the Greens, which is a movement of the people, and figure that their survival depends upon sticking together."

"Undoubtedly, Ms. Sempronia Gracchus is correct." Gnaeus Domitius Calvinus Professor of Political Science at the University of Arretium. "But only superficially...This announcement should also be seen as an attempt to recapture voters, not to the Greens but to SYRIZA, as well as those who have be thinking about noting voting altogether.Additionally, I suspect this is also meant to redraw the ideological boundaries of the parties, rewriting exactly what it means to be a socialist or a communist in our contemporary Republic."

Indeed, a joint statement from the Communist Party and the Socialist Party detailed the addition of several new items to their, now united, platform. These include an end to the private ownership of business and the distribution of and access to housing as a social right - items which the Greens have yet to comment on. Few are willing to comment on whether this decision by Vibius Pansa and Aemilius Cesca portends success in the general election.

...

In additional news, the Royal Family was pleased to announce that Princess Cornelia Decima Maxentius is to be wedded to Crown Prince Hamed Alsaeed of the United Amirati Emirates.

Intrigue and excitement surrounded the announcement from Regia Accalia - the official residence of the Royal Family - but so too did some negative feelings. Messages on social media suggested that were it not for the oil present in the UAE and the enormous sums of money at the disposal of the Emir the wedding would never have happened. The showering of luxurious gifts on the Maxentii by the Alsaeed Family has certainly been viewed extremely negatively here in the Republic, and, as if to curb any accusations, King Marcus Maxentius IX stated that all the gifts will be sold off, with the sums raised to benefit charities both within the Republic and the UAE and without.

The wedding ceremony itself is scheduled to take place in the capital of Assad, while a second, less formal event is subsequently scheduled to be held here in Ariminae.
Edited by Porcu, Feb 18 2016, 09:19 PM.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

UNREST GRIPS PORCU, DELAYS VALIDATION OF ELECTION RESULT

Posted Image Posted Image

Ariminae, Porcu - All across the Republic, including overseas provinces, riots, protests, demonstrations, and general civil unrest has shaken the Republic to its core and paralyzed it.

The first of a series of planned demonstrations "went bad", according to official statements released by the Gendarmerie of the Republic, earlier today after polls had opened for the general parliamentary and presidential election. The exact trigger for the violence remains unknown and the Gendarmerie is investigating in close cooperation with the various departments of the Metropolitan Police.

Within Porcu, specifically, the initial outbreak of violence in the capital seemed to have a wildfire effect, spreading rapidly to one metropolitan area after another. Police and eyewitnesses describe numerous clashes: those between recognizable opposing gangs, such as anarchists and ultra-conservatives, and those between police and unknown, unidentifiable groups. Several reports seem to indicate that these unknown groups are well-organized, but there is no information as of yet detailing who constitutes these groups or how they are connected, if at all.

Additionally, the Forum has been locked down, with entry or egress strictly prohibited. There has been no communication from the President's Office, although a statement from Consul Aemilius Cesca on behalf of Parliament states that most MPs have been accounted for and that law enforcement is working to bring the situation under control.

The current casualty count is estimated to be in the hundreds, but exact figures are unverifiable.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

AEMILIUS CESCA DECLARED PRESIDENTIAL WINNER, GREENS LOSE BY RAZOR MARGIN

Posted Image

Ariminae, Porcu - Although not by a comfortable margin, Consul Servius Aemilius Cesca has won the presidential run-off. In a similar fashion, the Union of the Left parliamentary alliance chiefly comprised of the Communist and Socialist parties barely won the general election over the Greens.


Presidential Election Result:

CESCA, Servius Aemilius (Union of the Left, Socialist Party) - 52,3%
GRACCHUS, Nicé Sempronia (Federation of the Greens) - 47,7%[/b]

+ + +

Union of the Left - 26,55%
Federation of the Greens - 26,54%
National Coalition - 21,81%
Liberal, Democratic, and Reformist Bloc - 15,2%
Conservative Party - 5,0%
Republican Party - 4,9%



The extremely narrow victory does give the communists and socialists a bonus under current parliamentary law, but both President Aemilius Cesca and Party Secretary Vibius Pansa have declared their intention of scuttling that law and to restore proportional representation, with no ceiling for minor parties to hit in order to be seated in Parliament. However, it is widely expected that discussions surrounding the formation and possible integration of the new Scandinavian state will dominate political debates for the foreseeable future. In a single poll of Porcuians regarding their opinion of unification with the rest of Scandinavia, only 36% of respondents were in favor of equal standing between Porcu and the Scandiavian state, whereas another 54% were in favor should the Scandinavian state be integrated within the Republic.

Whatever the topic of discussion in Ariminae, it is overwhelmingly clear that peace and quiet is most desired by Porcuians at this time. The two largest labor unions in the Republic have already threatened to resume labor strikes should the government not begin to rebuild damaged infrastructure and to restore basic ammenities, such as water and electricity.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

VOTE SET FOR NORWEGIAN INTEGRATION

Posted Image

Christiania, Norway - Following the successful integration of Denmark, Sweden, Iceland, and Southern Greenland into the Republic, a vote has finally been decided in which the Norwegians are able to choose if they are to join as well.

In one month's time it will be decided whether or not the Republic's western borders shall extend to the northern Atlantic coastline of Norway. The original vote was scheduled to coincide with the respective referenda of the other Nordic territories. That vote was delayed by the Norwegian assembly in Christiania amid concerns that Norwegian independence on such matters as energy exploration, fishing laws, and taxation would be void.

"[The Norwegians'] concerns are perfectly legitimate." noted Manus Caesennius Lento, distinguished Professor of Scandinavian History at the University of Ariminae. "The Norwegians have for centuries maintained a certain degree of independence with regard to their internal affairs, dating back all the way to the Kalmar Union of old. . .They should feel confident that Ariminae will listen to their demands, especially with the vote coming fast."

Similar concerns were addressed with regard to the Danes and Swedes, especially. The current Porcuian administration has repeatedly voiced its desire to see an "united Scandinavia held together by bonds of trust". Soon enough, it will be seen if the Norwegians take up that call to brotherhood.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

H.E.A.R.T. TO SEND MISSION TO FINLAND; NORWEGIAN REFERENDUM PASSES BY WIDE MARGIN

Posted Image

Oslo, Norway - High-level diplomatic meetings were announced between Ariminae and Moscow with the result being the mobilization of the international humanitarian aid organization H.E.A.R.T. on behalf of the peoples of Finland, formerly Yshurak.

A very public affair was put on early yesterday, unusual for discussions between the Republic and Imperial Russia. The Porcuian Ambassador to Russia Appius Claudius Marcellus was quite jovial.

"This was a wonderful meeting." the Ambassador began when speaking to reporters. "The collapse of the Yshurakan state has created a vacuum of debilitating poverty and misery...I am very proud of our discussions and am confident that necessary aid can be promptly forwarded to the Finnish people...Let it not be said that the Republic and the Russian Empire cannot join together in solidarity on behalf of a people very much in need of assistance."

Official paperwork was jointly filed by Porcuian and Russian representatives to H.E.A.R.T. late yesterday, and a vote to approve the humanitarian mission (code named: JIHSMF, Joint International Humanitarian and Stabilization Mission in Finland) is fully expected to pass in the coming days.

. . .

In other news, Norwegians went to the polls over the course of two days and solidly sided with integration into the Scandinavian realm and the greater Porcuian Republic. The referendum passed with 93% turnout and a firm 71% FOR integration and annexation. King Decimus Maxentius IX praised the vote result stating that "together we can now begin to move forward as a single nation, with a common purpose and a common desire to build upon the academic, scientific, economic, and political successes we have fought for thus far."

Sources close to the King have stated that a grand noble council is expected to convene and finalize the administrative and organizational details of each of the new Scandinavian provinces, of which the King will remain as the governor in perpetuo. No official date has been set.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

OOC: Holy shit, making this graph and uploading it was waaaaay more complicated than it otherwise had to be :lol:

IC:
MAJOR CHANGE TO ELECTORAL LAWS AS PARLIAMENT VOTES FOR PROPORTIONAL REPRESENTATION

Posted Image

Ariminae, Porcu - A massive reshuffling is underway in Parliament and marks an historic moment for President Servius Aemilius Cesca as the first major legislative effort of his presidency and this present administration.

The changes take place immediately and retroactively reapportion the delegated seats in Parliament. The full breakdown is included below:

Electoral Results:
» Federation of the Greens - 26,1%
» Communist Party - 20,7%
National Coalition - 20,0%
Liberal Democratic Party - 9,88%
» Socialist Party - 5,85%
Centrist Party - 5,32%
Conservative Party - 5,0%
Republican Party - 4,9%
All Others - 2,75%


Seat Distribution:
» Federation of the Greens - 191
» Communist Party - 152
National Coalition - 145
Liberal Democratic Party - 72
» Socialist Party - 42
Centrist Party - 39
Conservative Party - 36
Republican Party - 36
All Others - 19


The change in the electoral laws is a departure from the changes advanced by the late President Vopiscus Tarquinius Atratinus. The early administrations of the late president were marked by severe instability, so he was instrumental in pushing through changes which granted the largest vote-getting party a seat "bonus". This made obtaining a governing majority much easier and drastically decreased turnover in the Consilium, as members of a president's administration would likely enjoy higher confidence from Parliament.

Some, such as Marcus Linnus Linneaus, Professor of History at the University of Pavia, have noted the double-edged nature of the legislation. "Undoubtedly, the President is now in a situation of his own making and is locked into collaboration with the Greens, which as we all remember were bitter rivals during the campaign...Despite the instability this could cause him, this piece of legislation satisfies a major campaign promise made by Ms. Sempronia Gracchus and effectively solidifies the President's standing among the voting public who were vocal in their calls for electoral law changes."

The legislation also has far-reaching implications for a staple of the Porcuian political landscape for many years: the parliamentary group. The recent election results make an historic low for the centre-right, with the Liberal Democratic Party in particular receiving just shy of 10%. Two days ago an extraordinary congress of the Centrist Party voted to dissolve their parliamentary alliance with the liberal democrats, and official party congresses for the Social Democratic Party and the Labour Party are scheduled for next week. A majority of Labour voters support merging their party with the Socialist Party, while the social democrats seem to be leaning toward independent electoral efforts.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

PARLIAMENT PASSES CONTROVERSIAL «INCOME CEILING» LEGISLATION

Posted Image

Ariminae, Porcu - Only with the support of every last member of the governing coalition was Senior Consul Gaius Julius Caesar (pictured above) able to avoid procedural delays and vote through sweeping new tax legislation.

In short, the new law specifies an effective ceiling to one's personal income by taxing all income above ₤1.000.000 at 100%; earned interest and other financial forms of accumulated wealth are included in the legislation. The yearly sum to be gained from taxation is expected to be in the tens of billions of denarii.

"This is absolutely disgraceful and [members of the National Coalition] will do everything in our power to delay the implementation of this legislation as we work to dismantle it." party chairman Spurius Tricostus Caeliomontanus stated in a press conference after the parliamentary vote.

Mr. Tricostus Caeliomontanus was the most vocal opponent of the newly passed legislation and had large support from centre and right of centre. "I would challenge the assumption that [the Liberal Democratic Party] sat aside and allowed Tricostus Caeliomontanus to take leadership on this issue..." Manius Tricostus Priscus, chairman of the Liberal Democratic Party, stated to reporters. "However, I am in agreement that this legislation will prove disastrous to economic growth...We have to address a general decline in the State's finances but this move is not the solution."

The Senior Consul was instrumental in advancing the legislation through open debate in Parliament and kept his address during a marathon session brief. "This Parliament, this governing coalition, the current administration, and the President were all elected to advance certain political and economic issues and that is, partly, what this legislation serves to do...Today we can take a meaningful step towards a more just and equitable society."

Communist Party Chairman Publius Vibius Pansa was much more forceful. "This is an historic piece of legislation that shows the world, an more importantly the citizens of the Republic, that Porcu is serious when it comes to upholding certain values...For too long this assembly has been at the mercy of monied interests and now, with courage and determination, and the cries of the public behind us, we begin to remedy a terribly long injustice."

Porcuians themselves are divided, but not evenly: 53% support the legislation in full. When asked about whether they would have supported heavier taxation in general on the wealthiest Porcuians support for that hypothetical legislation rose to nearly 88%.

Nonetheless, the legislation is likely to face legal challenges and it will ultimately rest in the hands of the Constitutional Court to either uphold or turn down the legislation.

+ + +

In other news, the Porcuian mens national football team suffered a stunning defeat at the hands of a pan-Nordic squad. The friendly match was organized by the various national football associations as a means to gather the best football players from within the Republic and to make putting together a new national team list easier. Porcu lost 2-0 and struggled to contain the opposition midfielders, who at times waltzed across the field at will. Still, since a grand re-organization of Porcuian football is underway to accommodate club teams from Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, and Iceland the exposure the Nordic players received should prove fruitful for both club and international play.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

11TH LEGION TO BE CREATED; VIOLENCE SURGES IN MELITA

Posted Image

Copenhagen, Province of Scandinavia, Porcu - A new legion to be based in Southern Denmark has been funded and is expected to be operational within a couple of months.

The new legion, Legio XI Aquilo, is to be mainly comprised of Porcuian veterans from a number of different, already established legions. Newly trained Nordic soldiers are to fill in and supplement the pool of available servicemen and women, and over a period of months those legions which gave troops to build Legio XI will be brought back to full size.

The creation of the new legion marks an additional sign of integration between the Nordic states and the Republic. There was debate between Porcuian military officials and the Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish noble military officers as to the degree of their own integration within the command structure of the Republic. The final decision reached by the Directorate-General, signed off by the General Secretary and the Chairman of the Parliamentary Commission on Defense, is that all soldiers must go through re-training, senior officers included. The decision largely only affects longtime serving officers of each previously independent territory's militia or standing defense force.

The new legion is expected to be stationed in Denmark, dissuading any potential aggressors from a southern invasion route of the Republic.

+ + +

New scuffles between protestors and police has turned Melita into an unusual site of violence. Almost daily marches and demonstrations, largely calling for independence for the small territory, have been entirely peaceful until yesterday when a large demonstration in Floriana soured. Protestors directly attacked local police and it was not long before looters and rioters took over. The Chief of Police in Melita quickly called on the few units of National Gendarme at his disposal to assist in restoring order. It is now known that the Provincial Prefect, Samuel Rizzi, provided the clearance for the Chief of Police. At present a curfew remains in effect.

"These measures are temporary and solely designed to reign in the chaos that has erupted on the isles." Provincial Prefect Samuel Rizzi stated during an interview with Res Publica. "We are also working to address the illegitimacy of the shadow government."

The Provincial Prefect would not clarify further. The situation remains tense and parliamentarians in Ariminae hope that this distraction resolves quickly.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
Porcu
Member Avatar
"Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

WAR, TIME FOR RESISTANCE

Posted Image

Olissippo, Iberia Occidentis

Dear Readers,

We of Res Publica note with heavy sadness the losses sustained in the ongoing struggle against Servius Tricostus Caeliomontanus and the military forces of Nationalist Porcu. As many of you have lost, so too have we. Fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, friends, colleagues, and dedicated readers...Our family has suffered tremendously at the hands of traitors.

We remember those we have lost not so that we may be paralyzed in despair but so that we use their memory to narrow our focus, to strengthen our resolve, and to fuel our victory against hate, demagoguery, and fascism. Our fair Republic was dealt a heavy blow by her own children, but we must resolve to right the mistake of our own brothers and sisters.

Now is the time to unite, to destroy those who seek to cause pain and suffering, to restore and renew our Republic as a model of equality, egalitarianism, freedom, and solidarity. Our triumph, the triumph of love, will best remember those lost in defence of the Republic.

We of Res Publica have established a new office in Lisbon and are resolved to continue providing coverage of the news. However, we also firmly stand against Tricostus Caeliomontanus and Nationalist Porcu and will work tirelessly to see their defeat.

Resist.
Offline Profile Quote Post Goto Top
 
ZetaBoards - Free Forum Hosting
Join the millions that use us for their forum communities. Create your own forum today.
Go to Next Page
« Previous Topic · European Continent · Next Topic »
Add Reply