May we begin voting?

Akem Linek
Premier Commissioner

EXCLUSIVE: JUNCKER WANTS TO BE "A TRANSITION PRESIDENT" AND TELLS PARTIDO POPULAR TO SEARCH FOR A REPLACEMENT

Prime Minister Juncker, on a stock photograph

Jean-Claude Juncker does not want to be the Spanish Prime Minister anymore. In fact, he never wanted: he just ran for the position in order to guarantee a calm transition between the Aguilar era and a new era, that he would not be in charge of; and because the former President asked him to do so. The former Premier Commissioner and current Prime Minister and head of the Partido Popular could be now looking for someone to replace him, someone that would receive his endorsement and probably Aguilar's in order to guarantee the transition both have aimed for: calm, non-compromising and achieving a strong leadership that keeps the conservative-liberals in power during the next elections.

This decision has, however, surprised many within the central core of the People's Party, that did not expect Juncker's unwillingness to continue. However, why has he "changed his mind"? The answer to that question is in Germanium, the region Juncker was Chancellor of before becoming the Partido Popular's Commission candidate; and specifically in the position previously mentioned. According to very close sources to the Prime Minister, «Juncker wants to retire in Germanium, and serve until someone receives enough support to remove him from power». His return to Europe is also discarded, even if some members of the European branch of the PP would like to see his return.

With his resignation almost imminent, the question about who his replacement will be arises rapidly: some sources claim that Juncker might have already called Donald Tusk, the current Speaker of the European Council. However, Tusk would have declined the offer, as he considers his Europolis departure would force both a Speaker election that Spain might not win again; and a Councillor election for which the party has no candidate as of yet. Other names over the table are Alberto Núñez Feijóo, current vicepresident of the Government; Isabel Díaz Ayuso, the current President of Madrid; Penny Mourdaunt, Minister of Defence; or else opting for a new face. The leadership race, and jointly, the Presidential race, might have restarted.

Apparel Market

Apparel Retailer Owner Marketshare % Instore Revenue % Instore Revenue Online Sales % Online Revenue Revenue Stores Roscoes Roscoes 10.50% 100.00% €16,560,735,671.68 0.00% €0.00 €16,560,735,671.68 2,248 C&A Retail Brands Duchies 3.78% 78.99% €4,709,300,915.18 21.01% €1,252,563,926.63 €5,961,864,841.81 558 Klauser Schuhe Retail Brands Duchies 1.46% 51.79% €1,192,659,050.18 48.21% €1,110,071,814.64 €2,302,730,864.82 432 KIK Retail Brands Duchies 1.44% 73.12% €1,660,655,408.85 26.88% €610,531,197.55 €2,271,186,606.40 1020 WE Retail Brands Duchies 1.30% 71.20% €1,459,768,351.31 28.80% €590,608,446.14 €2,050,376,797.45 567 Breuninger Retail Brands Duchies 1.24% 67.73% €1,324,574,745.02 32.27% €631,169,277.15 €1,955,744,022.18 94 Suitsupply Retail Brands Duchies 0.45% 94.50% €670,709,794.70 5.50% €39,036,019.80 €709,745,814.50 345 M&S M&S Duchies 3.23% 88.61% €4,514,027,055.14 11.39% €580,370,680.05 €5,094,397,735.19 511 House of Fraser Frasers Group Duchies 1.50% 76.71% €1,814,727,194.04 23.29% €551,092,187.63 €2,365,819,381.67 78 Sports Direct Frasers Group Duchies 1.20% 72.81% €1,378,024,097.06 27.19% €514,631,408.27 €1,892,655,505.33 268 USC Frasers Group Duchies 0.83% 74.37% €973,583,523.83 25.63% €335,503,200.69 €1,309,086,724.52 258 Jack Wills Frasers Group Duchies 0.67% 79.45% €839,574,311.00 20.55% €217,158,346.15 €1,056,732,657.15 224 GAP Inc GAP INC 1.90% 75.38% €2,259,018,184.77 24.62% €737,686,365.34 €2,996,704,550.11 309 Old Navy GAP INC 1.35% 76.19% €1,622,187,790.93 23.81% €507,049,652.57 €2,129,237,443.50 278 Zara Inditex 1.50% 78.30% €1,852,510,743.35 21.70% €513,308,638.32 €2,365,819,381.67 245 Pull and Bear Inditex 0.70% 65.55% €723,749,159.68 34.45% €380,299,885.10 €1,104,049,044.78 87 Bershka Inditex 0.65% 88.61% €908,440,148.97 11.39% €116,748,249.75 €1,025,188,398.72 103 Massimo Dutti Inditex 0.45% 84.44% €599,318,293.64 15.56% €110,427,520.86 €709,745,814.50 59 Stradivarius Inditex 0.34% 83.40% €447,214,293.82 16.60% €89,038,099.36 €536,252,393.18 34 TK Maxx Amalgamated Retail Brands 3.11% 81.79% €4,011,827,670.24 18.21% €893,304,514.42 €4,905,132,184.66 758 Alsterhaus Amalgamated Retail Brands 2.22% 75.35% €2,638,347,379.22 24.65% €863,065,305.65 €3,501,412,684.87 112 De Bijenkorf Amalgamated Retail Brands 0.60% 71.29% €674,656,799.97 28.71% €271,670,952.70 €946,327,752.67 34 Jack Wolfskin Amalgamated Retail Brands 0.67% 69.90% €738,618,879.40 30.10% €318,113,777.75 €1,056,732,657.15 178 Mountain Warehouse Amalgamated Retail Brands 0.80% 87.11% €1,099,162,923.32 12.89% €162,607,413.57 €1,261,770,336.89 278 Deichmann Amalgamated Retail Brands 1.55% 77.82% €1,902,508,425.38 22.18% €542,171,602.34 €2,444,680,027.72 898 Intersport Amalgamated Retail Brands 1.70% 85.26% €2,286,109,995.36 14.74% €395,151,970.54 €2,681,261,965.89 387 Regent Amalgamated Retail Brands 0.65% 100.00% €1,025,188,398.72 0.00% €0.00 €1,025,188,398.72 511 Peek & Cloppenburg Peek and Kloppenburg 3.00% 71.95% €3,404,546,229.97 28.05% €1,327,092,533.37 €4,731,638,763.34 206 Primark Primark Group 2.87% 100.00% €4,526,601,083.59 0.00% €0.00 €4,526,601,083.59 409 Very Very Group 1.70% 0.00% €0.00 100.00% €2,681,261,965.89 €2,681,261,965.89 0 Littlewoods Very Group 1.40% 0.00% €0.00 100.00% €2,208,098,089.56 €2,208,098,089.56 0 Adidas Adidas Inc 2.41% 54.20% €2,060,178,860.29 45.80% €1,740,904,279.59 €3,801,083,139.88 512 John Lewis John Lewis Group 2.34% 78.00% €2,878,729,023.61 22.00% €811,949,211.79 €3,690,678,235.40 211 Adidas Adidas Inc 2.41% 54.20% €2,060,178,860.29 45.80% €1,740,904,279.59 €3,801,083,139.88 512 Spadi Spadi 2.27% 100.00% €3,580,273,330.93 0.00% €0.00 €3,580,273,330.93 535 Tesco Tesco 2.10% 100.00% €3,312,147,134.34 0.00% €0.00 €3,312,147,134.34 409 ASDA Asda 2.05% 100.00% €3,233,286,488.28 0.00% €0.00 €3,233,286,488.28 378 Puma Puma 2.02% 85.86% €2,735,497,945.92 14.14% €450,472,154.73 €3,185,970,100.65 505 Next Next 1.57% 88.97% €2,203,170,597.30 11.03% €273,053,688.85 €2,476,224,286.15 564 Reiss Next 0.29% 90.40% €413,482,139.40 9.60% €43,909,607.72 €457,391,747.12 187 JD Sport JD Sport 1.93% 70.55% €2,147,623,763.53 29.45% €896,397,174.22 €3,044,020,937.75 513 Matalan Matalan 1.90% 77.09% €2,310,259,309.08 22.91% €686,445,241.03 €2,996,704,550.11 467 Levi Strauss & Co. Levis 1.70% 81.29% €2,179,524,343.90 18.71% €501,737,621.99 €2,681,261,965.89 224 Pep&Co Poundland Group 1.63% 100.00% €2,570,857,061.41 0.00% €0.00 €2,570,857,061.41 1,279 Zalando Zalando Group 1.61% 0.00% €0.00 100.00% €2,539,312,802.99 €2,539,312,802.99 0 Reyali Reyali 1.57% 100.00% €2,476,224,286.15 0.00% €0.00 €2,476,224,286.15 400 Clarks Clarks 1.55% 61.04% €1,492,305,845.21 38.96% €952,374,182.51 €2,444,680,027.72 664 Uniqlo Uniqlo 1.42% 76.31% €1,709,115,311.86 23.69% €530,527,036.12 €2,239,642,347.98 278 Skechers Skechers 1.30% 80.90% €1,658,754,829.13 19.10% €391,621,968.31 €2,050,376,797.45 304 About You Otto GmbH 1.11% 0.00% €0.00 100.00% €1,750,706,342.43 €1,750,706,342.43 0 BonPrix Otto GmbH 0.87% 0.00% €0.00 100.00% €1,372,175,241.37 €1,372,175,241.37 0 Grattan Otto GmbH 0.56% 0.00% €0.00 100.00% €883,239,235.82 €883,239,235.82 0 Freemans Otto GmbH 0.45% 0.00% €0.00 100.00% €709,745,814.50 €709,745,814.50 0 SportsCheck Arcandor 1.10% 78.10% €1,354,983,620.53 21.90% €379,950,592.70 €1,734,934,213.22 313 G-Star Raw Arcandor 0.90% 63.24% €897,751,305.93 36.76% €521,740,323.07 €1,419,491,629.00 211 Galeria Karstadt Kaufhof Arcandor 0.99% 74.10% €1,157,038,463.16 25.90% €404,402,328.74 €1,561,440,791.90 66 Shoe Zone Shoezone 1.09% 69.49% €1,194,582,450.16 30.51% €524,579,633.85 €1,719,162,084.01 697 Birkenstock Birkenstock 0.89% 59.14% €830,189,745.88 40.86% €573,529,753.91 €1,403,719,499.79 109 Mango Mango Group 0.87% 83.39% €1,144,255,519.58 16.61% €227,919,721.79 €1,372,175,241.37 567 Superdry Superdry 0.82% 56.71% €733,479,275.54 43.29% €559,835,319.77 €1,293,314,595.31 167 Hugo Boss Hugo Boss 0.74% 83.18% €970,851,939.32 16.82% €196,285,622.30 €1,167,137,561.62 178 Trespass Tresspass 0.70% 88.98% €982,330,887.69 11.02% €121,718,157.09 €1,104,049,044.78 198 Other: - 2.08% 80.79% €2,650,532,469.75 19.21% €630,070,406.16 €3,280,602,875.91 5861 Total: - 100.00% 75.29% €118,755,951,326.52 24.71% €38,965,340,784.73 €157,721,292,111.25 27,798

Banking:

Bank Bank Brands % Foreign Owned: Owner Country Accounts: Deposits LDR % Revenue Roscoes Bank: Roscoe Bank 22.40% N Roscoes United Duchies 43,742,022 €3,991,059,996,721.86 80.00% €28,198,241,840.92 7 Duchies-Duchies Merchant Bank 7 Duchies, Duchies Merchant Bank 16.20% Y Union Bank Fremetia 31,634,855 €3,969,131,095,640.97 85.00% €36,034,032,034.00 TSB TSB 12.65% Y New Chartered Bank Inquista 24,702,526 €2,697,254,832,949.39 77.00% €22,203,452,304.00 Coop Bank Coop Bank 11.85% N Coop Group United Duchies 23,140,311 €2,559,102,756,139.78 70.00% €19,409,853,300.00 CaspiaBank Caspia Bank 10.60% Y Bank of the Commonwealth ,BDO Leagio, Reitzmag 20,699,350 €2,368,321,316,736.05 86.00% €17,390,876,543.00 ING Bank ING Bank 8.10% N ING Group United Duchies 15,817,428 €2,214,819,009,169.82 83.50% €16,865,504,340.00 Commerzbank -Radobank Commerzbank, Radobank 7.57% N Commerzbank -Radobank Group United Duchies 14,782,460 €1,684,139,603,012.30 83.10% €15,719,356,354.00 Lloyds Banking Duchies Lloyds Bank 6.75% Y Lloyds United Duchies 13,181,190 €1,293,805,163,772.47 85.00% €13,986,463,565.00 Wells Fargo Wells Fargo 3.10% Y Wells Fargo California 6,053,583 €701,724,834,588.46 84.00% €11,579,876,508.00 Other: - 0.78% - - - 1,523,160 €449,542,472,158.23 83.00% €2,907,532,908.00 Total: 100.00% - - - 195,276,884 €21,928,901,080,889.30 79.39% €184,295,189,696.92

NIU announces nationwide industrial action, prompting urgent talks

2 Dec 2023

The National Industries Union (NIU) has caused a Bræthean panic after nationwide strikes were announced 'for the near future'.

Tensions are flying high in government today as the NIU, which represents all industrial workers, has announced strike action for future dates this month. The recent legal decision to allow the formation of political parties has sparked anger in the hearts of many, especially due to the nature of the party's representation of Aspernian interests.

The NIU has said in a statement that "the decision of the Brætha to listen to voices of violence and terror is a startling development", especially, they say, "given the recent actions of Aspernian loyalists to counter the priorities of the Kingdom of Sertia, which have included the safety and prosperity of its residents".

It is markedly unusual for the NIU to speak out on political issues, much less to announce strike action for all of its members, but many Sertians believe that it is unwise to allow opinionated groups to lobby the Brætha, particularly a group who believe in Aspernian independence.

The Brætha have said today that their decision to allow the creation of the Aspernian Coalition "is not a statement of our endorsement or affinity to the actions of Aspernian insurrectionists", but rather "a necessary concession to ensure that the needs of all citizens are met to avoid another dissolution of our Union".

An NIU strike would entail a day's long shutdown of most Sertian factories and city shops, provoking extreme economic disruption. The Brætha are due to make a decision tonight.

David Abbott dies aged 87
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David Abbott founder of TUI-Abbott has died aged 87 in his sleep. The 87 year old who appeared healthy is reported to have had a heart attack in his sleep. He is head of the family that owns a majority of TUI-Abbott and CEO of the company. He is well regarded in the industry.

It is expected that a succession plan will be unveiled in the next few days with a reshuffle in management. There are also arrangements for his son Mirum Abbott to be made who is only 16. He is an adult legally and going to college however it is expected he will move in with relatives.

Republic: Orlich announces restoration of National Duty, Public Distribution Service

Prime Minister Orlich has announced that her government, in order to respond to the "social and economic crisis" she says has developed in Istkalen, will be restoring National Duty, as well as the Public Distribution Service (PDS).

"Poverty and degradation," she said at a press conference held yesterday, "now rule in this country. The old mutualities have collapsed; the majority can no longer meet their basic needs. Assistance has dried up completely, and what little there is comes, now, in the form of cash - useless in so much of Istkalen. For us, this is an absolutely unacceptable state of affairs. We must abandon our present course; we must return to the systems that once served us so well, that ensured every child, every working citizen, every retiree a decent and basic standard of living."

National Duty, a form of corvee, and the PDS, a bureaucracy meant to redistribute the products of National Duty among the Istkalenic people as compensation, were previously abolished by the administration of Vistek Rikkalek and gradually replaced with income tax and a series of "living allowances." This decision was meant to bring Istkalen in line with international law and standards; however, the country has since seen profound economic and social instability, as a direct result of these changes, which replaced the direct provision of goods and services with cash transfers and thus left many of the most vulnerable unable to access the essentials that had once simply been given them by the state. Many experts have, then, long been calling for a restoration - and now, at last, the government seems to be acting.

Implementation will be slow by Istkalenic standards. Unlike previous welfare reforms, says Orlich, which made quick and immediate changes to systems of distribution and redistribution, the one she is embarking on will be "methodical and measured."

"We will not rush," she said, "the process. We will not run heedlessly ahead and break everything, as so many other past administrations have. We will work, instead, with the mutualities and workers' associations to see what is possible; we will discuss, negotiate, and come to a good, smart, methodical, and measured solution."

Nevertheless, she stressed the necessity of ensuring the fastest possible relief for the poorest communities in Istkalen.

"But we are, yes, in a crisis - and a crisis demands immediate action. We are not ignoring this when we speak of methodicality. We have already prepared a number of stopgap measures that establish a system of basic public distribution, through the Ministry of Public Distribution and with the assistance of the military and national police, for rural and degraded urban areas to ensure that the worst-off are relieved in these hardest of times. But we insist - a more permanent solution cannot be created, announced, and implemented in a day."

The decision has received harsh criticism from large swathes of the Istkalenic political spectrum.

"We are returning to the past," said Inge Meier, leader of the Social Democratic Party. "We are abandoning modernity in favor of an outdated, inhumane, and authoritarian model of forced labor. Is our aim not modernization? Is our highest aspiration not, as the Prime Minister herself has repeatedly insisted, equality with the rest of Europe? If they are as such, then why are we taking ourselves off the path to both with such a bizarre and disgusting measure?"

"That the abolition of National Duty and the PDS," said Kaisa Malk, co-leader of the National Republican Party, "was a tragedy is something no one denies. We are therefore in support of this measure. We are, however, not in support of its timing, nor its implementors. The Prime Minister ought to remember that hers is a transitional government - that she is not in her position to make ideological decisions, but simply to re-establish order and ensure a smooth return to normalcy and democracy."

"Ursula," said Andrus Liiv, the leading presenter for the Northern Radio and the leader of the far-right National Resurrection Movement, "reveals herself to be a Reitzmo-Vardic agent. Her proposal is an attempt to appeal to and pervert our traditional sentiments and beliefs to enslave us to the hordes in the North and the snakes of the South. Don't be fooled - the continuing J-TAI is making but another attempt to place us under its yoke!"

"Istkalen," said Colonel Kuldar Loime, the leader of the banned "National Union," "is not in need of slow and 'methodical' measures. We are a country on our deathbed; what we need is a shock to bring us back to life, not this diluted solution dripped at snail's pace into our mouths. Now, more than ever, we need immediate and decisive action - and this is absolutely not that. The National Union stands not for tepid prodding but for the immediate restoration of National Duty and the PDS."

Nevertheless, Orlich's decision enjoys broad popularity among the Istkalenic people, and is unlikely to be rejected when it comes to a vote in the National Assembly.

Probe rocket reaches space

Surrey Space Center, November 19 2023 | The KRSA's Probe mars rocket has successfully reached space in its 2nd Integrated Flight Test. The launch was streamed live in various platforms, where various improvements and changes to the craft and the launch structures were observable. A successful hot-stage separation was conducted and all engines were able to operate properly throughout the flight, but with the first stage being detonated a few moments after the separation. A slight communication issue moments after the second stage reached space also prompted speculations that the mission was unsuccessful, but were eventually dismissed once contact was reestablished. A post-mission report showed that failures were mostly observed following the stage separation, but the mission was declared successful by the flight directors. In a subsequent press conference, it was also announced that the rocket will be given a new more name before its' next launch, which would be 'more appropriate to its power'. Because of this mission, the rocket now boasts as the most powerful spacecraft to ever reach space.

Basic fares for use of Sertia Transport

Includes HorseRail and bus services

GENERAL FARES

General weekday SHORT journeys (less than 5 continuous stops): $30

General weekend SHORT journeys (less than 5 continuous stops): $35

General weekday LONG journeys (over 5 continuous stops): $50 or $7 each stop, whichever is less

General weekend LONG journeys (over 5 continuous stops): $35 or $5 each stop, whichever is less

RAIL PASSES AND DISCOUNTED FARE RATES

Senior rail pass: 50% discounted fares for all general fare categories for seniors of or over the pension age

0-15 rail pass: 50% discounted fares for all general fare categories for persons aged 0-15

16-21 rail pass: 50% discounted short journeys and 1/3 discount long journeys

Student rail pass: $20 flat fare for all journeys up to 6 station stops, $3 per station stop after that

Bus and HorseRail pass: Free for over-62s and those with disabilities, proof of pension or benefits receipt required

OlvesPass: Free transport on West Olves railways, 1/3 discount mainland ferry, can be had in simultaneity with mainland passes. Available to full-time West Olves residents only.

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Unveiling the New Government Cabinet: A Diverse Team to Shape the Nation's Future

In a momentous announcement, Chairman Joseph Helmfried, at the helm of the Progressive Party, revealed the composition of the newly formed government cabinet. This diverse and dynamic team brings together individuals from various political backgrounds, promising a collective effort to address the nation's challenges and opportunities.

Chairman of the Government:

Joseph Helmfried (Progressive): A seasoned leader with a vision for progressive governance.

Vice-Chairpersons:

First Vice-Chairwoman: Eva Judith (SD): Bringing experience and expertise from the Social Democrats. Second Vice-Chairman: Jutta Hermann (Alliance): A key figure from the Alliance Party, contributing to the government's leadership. Third Vice-Chairwoman: Mabelle Imogene (PP): A representative from the People's Party, adding a unique perspective to the leadership team.

Key Ministers:

Minister of Foreign Affairs: Euphemia Madelina (Progressive): Steering the nation's diplomatic efforts and international relations. Minister of the Interior: Eva Judith (SD): Overseeing internal affairs and ensuring the nation's stability. Minister of Defense: Jutta Hermann (Alliance): Responsible for the nation's defense strategies and security. Minister of Treasury: Grant Sigi (Progressive): Managing the nation's finances and economic policies. Minister of Justice: Elena Raimondi (Alliance): Ensuring justice and upholding the rule of law. Minister of Industry and Trade: Dulce María Losa (Progressive): Driving industrial growth and trade policies. Minister for Regional Development: Magdalen Parri (Alliance): Focused on balanced regional development. Minister of Health: Connell Garland (PP): Overseeing healthcare policies and initiatives. Minister of Labour and Social Affairs: Juliet Peg (SD): Addressing labor issues and social welfare. Minister of Education & Youth: Hank Hendry (Progressive): Guiding education policies and youth development. Minister of Transport: Jakob Sebastiani (PP): Steering the nation's transportation infrastructure. Minister of the Environment: Febe Presley (SD): Spearheading environmental policies and sustainability. Minister of Culture: Candida Lemmi (PP): Nurturing the nation's cultural heritage and creativity. Minister of Agriculture: Avgusta Derrick (Alliance): Overseeing agricultural policies and rural development. Minister of Regional Affairs: Verónica Cano (Progressive): Focused on regional governance and collaboration. Minister of Science and Research: Loyd Silvia (Progressive): Driving advancements in science and research.

This comprehensive team represents a cross-section of political ideologies, each member bringing unique skills and perspectives to the table. The government aims to leverage this diversity to address the multifaceted challenges faced by the nation and work towards a prosperous and inclusive future.

As the newly appointed ministers assume their roles, citizens eagerly anticipate the impact of their policies on the nation's development, stability, and overall well-being.

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2023 - 2027 Cabinet

Chairman of the Government

Joseph Helmfried (Progressive)

Vice-Chairwomen/Chairmen of the Government

First Vice-Chairwoman Eva Judith (SD) Second Vice-Chairman Jutta Hermann (Alliance) Third Vice-Chairwoman Mabelle Imogene (PP)

Minister of Foreign Affairs

Euphemia Madelina (Progressive)

Minister of the Interior

Eva Judith (SD)

Minister of Defense

Jutta Hermann (Alliance)

Minister of Treasury

Grant Sigi (Progresive)

Minister of Justice

Elena Raimondi (Alliance)

Minister of Industry and Trade

Dulce María Losa (Progressive)

Minister for Regional Development

Magdalen Parri (Alliance)

Ministry of Health

Connell Garland (PP)

Minister of Labour and Social Affairs

Juliet Peg (SD)

Ministry of Education & Youth

Hank Hendry (Progressive)

Minister of Transport

Jakob Sebastiani (PP)

Minister of the Environment

Febe Presley (SD)

Minister of Culture

Candida Lemmi (PP)

Minister of Agriculture

Avgusta Derrick (Alliance)

Minister of Regional Affairs

Verónica Cano (Progressive)

Minister of Science and Research

Loyd Silvia (Progressive)

Changes in immigration requirements for foreign international students

effective 10 November 2023

Previously, all international students studying in the Kingdom of Sertia were required to apply for a visa before they arrived in the Kingdom of Sertia.

Citizens of certain countries will now be able to study in Sertia without any foreign immigration requirements, provided that they can prove on arrival to Sertia they have

proof of intention to study sufficient funding and resources for at least 9 months

The list of eligible nationals is below:

Montenbourg

Fremet

Icholasen

Ineland

Brickston

Czech Slavia

United Duchies

Spain

California

Yosai

Inimicus

Angleter

Leagio

Elthize

Nofoaga

ERE BACHÁIR DÙN

Signed:

Junichi Watanabe
General Secretary of the Federal Republic of Yosai.

Recommendation of the Censorate on Political Reform

The Censorate of Istkalen, in the interests of promoting good governance and stability, has formulated and released a proposal for political reform in Istkalen, focused on preventing rapid changes in government, establishing better checks on government power, and reducing political influence over the bureaucracy. The major points made in the proposal are summarized below:

IN REGARDS TO POLITICAL PARTIES

We view the existence of political parties as an unambiguous negative. They serve, in our eyes, only to divide the nation, distort legitimate political discussion, and promote corruption. While we favor a democratic form of state, we do not believe that it ought to be on the Western-parliamentary style.

We propose that those holding political office be prohibited from holding party-based affiliations, and that parties be banned from endorsing candidates in elections. In order to ensure the equitable representation of coherent interests in Istkalen, we call for a return to the old "corporatist" form of representation in the legislature, where, in place of direct elections as exist in most of Europe, deputies are appointed by state bodies representing the vocations, the regions, and the nationalities.

IN REGARDS TO THE CABINET

We are against a politically based cabinet; ministers should be non-partisan and appointed on a purely technocratic basis, based on merit and neutrality above ideology. The role of the government should be to administer, not to legislate - the latter is an usurpation and an abuse that contributes and has contributed to national disintegration.

IN REGARDS TO THE POWER OF THE HEAD OF STATE

We are in favor of a strong and decisive role for the head of state. We believe that the position must have at its command the power to veto and to freely issue decrees, within a scope defined by some form of constitutional document, in order to ensure a rapid response to crises. Nevertheless, we hold that there must be strict limitations on the ability of decrees in particular to affect political, economic, and social institutions in order to prevent the type of rapid change and vacillation that has been seen in the country up to this point.

IN REGARDS TO CHECKS AND BALANCES

We are for a stronger role for the Council of Examination in approving candidates for political office - we believe that it ought to be given an absolute veto over proposed candidacies to any position at a national level. We also believe in the strengthening of the advisorial role of the High Council of Justice, to the point that it is permitted to freely veto and annul legislation and decrees on the basis of it being unconstitutional.

We are also for the strengthening of our own position so that we become effectively an upper house of parliament, with the full ability to amend and veto legislation on any basis.

We are against any changes to the system of appointments - they should and must remain self-regulated and made.

Ursula Orlich
President of the Censorate

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(NIP - Not in Parliament)

28th of October
Prague Castle

"Can you stop scratching your legs? You will drop the candles and besides, it doesn't look appropriate for a Minister." Reiserová complained, as she and Karel Šín approached the cabinet meeting room in the Castle approximately fifteen minutes after midnight.

"Well I am sorry, but you know, I told you the material is not comfortable." Šín responded in a weak voice. He felt like he was forced to wear a lot of silly outfits, during his active acting career, especially for 'Jersey' where he was forced to sport battered polo-shirts and shorts of various colour. But no outfit he ever wore seemed to him as silly as the white and red tunic, red belt and white pants he had on right now, an exact copy of the clothes Slavomír wore, safe for Šín's expensive formal shoes. If it was up to him, he would never put such clothes on his body, but the President urged him, and he knew better than to try and resist her. Around his neck was also a necklace with a symbol of Veles, god of the underworld and music among other things. The neclace was gifted to the Minister by Reiserová as she claimed that Czech Slavia lost previous Eurovoice contests, due to lacking a blessing from Veles.

"Oh I am so exited Karel, do you think the rest of the Cabinet will be able to see the truth immediately? Imagine how silly they will feel for ignoring the human soul up to now! But I was guilty of that too. Until now." Reiserová chatted exitedly, her still bare feet hitting the ground, "I actually have to use the restroom, would you please enter the room first and set up the candles for me? Thank you!", she waited for Šín to confirm that he will do just that before she left for the restroom.

Šín made sure to put his sunglasses back on, before opening the door to the conference room. Usually, he wore them, because he thought it made him look cool, but in this very moment, he just wanted to hide his eyes to feel a bit less shame about his clothes. Of course as soon as he opened the door, all the eyes of the other members of the Cabinet were on him, as all talk in the room died. Finally, Minister of the Environment Natálie Imberová started speaking, "Were you practicing for a play and forgot to change Karel?" out of the entire Cabinet who usually looked down on Šín, Imberová was perhaps the friendliset to him, safe for the President herself.

Šín simply smirked, "I am afraid our Wise Leader has found faith, you will see." he simply responded as he started putting candles on the table and lighting them up.

"Oh this is horrible!" Minister of Foreign Affairs Jasmína Dlouhá exclaimed after few confused looks, to which Minister of Education Weisser nodded.

"We will have to make sure nobody learns of this." added Minister of Regional Development Lubomír Mejzlík.

"I hope she at least joined the Hussites, and not the Catholics." Minister of Finance Heřman Švestka chuckled.

"I am sure in few minutes, you will be wishing it was the Catholics Heřman." Šín remarked simply as he turned off the electric lights and sat down, to much complaining of the rest of the Cabinet, who did not know why they were summoned, and most of them thought of their comfortable beds, waiting for them.

Then the door opened and in walked Reiserová herself, with Ministers looking puzzled about her dress, which matched the one Šín was wearing. Before she even sat down, she made sure to remove Šín's sunglasses from his eyes, she always hated when he wore them indoors, but now she could not tolerate this accessory to corrupt the outfit of the Rodnovery.

"Comrade President, if I may." Minister of Industry and Trade Květoslav Musil took the floor as soon as Reiserová seated down, feeling that he knew what the meeting was to be about. "Indeed the numbers have been verified and both Škoda and Tatra vehicle manufacturers reported record sales in the third quarter of the year, with the number only expected to increase in the current quarter and in certain location their cars became a favorite affordable alternative to the bigger competitors." Minister of Agriculture Pavel Dohnal slightly sighted at Musil words, considering them an attack on the funding that was dedicated to fishing and agriculture each year in the budget.

"Oh, well, that is wonderful! Thank you Květoslav. But, you know, I did not come to talk about cars, I came to remind us of a more important topic, the human soul!" Excitement did not leave Reiserová's voice as she stood up from her chair, "Comrades, I have realized for how long our administration has ignored the development of people's spirituality, to understanding of the world and I could not be idle any longer, this has to change. I realized that we, as a nation, as Slavs, are the children of the gods and in order to become cosmic beings we have to rediscover the ancient wisdom of our ancestors, to, you know, achieve this, we must..." she could not finish the sentence as she was interrupted.

"Albína... are you feeling... well?" Minister Švestka whispered as the other members of the cabinet looked at their President with eyes wide opened in shock, safe for Karel Šín who was smirking and at least playing with his sunglasses.

"Comrade Minister! Do not interrupt me! The positive aura can not flourish if you keep emitting negative energy, which prevents the growth of the soul!" Reiserová raised her voice, before calming down, "I have had many enlightening talks with an important and knowledgeable person, and he helped me see the truth. I realized that our ancestors understood the world and human spirit better than current society does, due to their connection to the Gods, which was separated by the arrival of Christianity and I have decided to revive this connection with our Gods. Comrades I ask you to join the Rodnovery together with me." now the room was completely silent.

"Rodnovery? Aren't they mostly led by neofascists and antisemites?" the Minister of interion Bohumila Dvořáková finally asked, unsure if she heard the President properly.

"Well, you know, there have been some controversial figures associated with the movement... but those people aren't really interested in the uplifting of the spirit and our connection to the Gods..." Reiserová's voice got a bit more shaky, "But the truly faithful will cleanse the movement of all the snakes, which is why... you will redirect some of the StB agents from the anti-corruption campaign towards the Rodnovery movement to help cleanse it. Find, you know, dirt on these problematic individuals so they can be driven away from the movement so it can become fully focused on the worship of the Goddess." the President received no response.

"Furthermore," she cleared her throat, "Tomorrow apart from the celebration of our independence a festival of the goddess Mokosh will be held and I will have her statue erected in front of the Castle, I expect all of you to attend, I have had suiting outfits made for all of you." she paused for a second, "Except for you comrade Weisser, you are associated with the League of the Militant Godless, you are not Slavic and you will be resigning soon so it would not seem right. But you will inform the League that they have been disbanded. The Party will vote to disband them at around 10 AM today. And all the atheist propaganda will also be stopped from today"

"Disbanded? but Comrade President the League,.." Weisser could not believe his ears, but he got interrupted before he could finish.

"Has served its historic purpose in helping to get the nation from the sway of the foreign god. Now it has no purpose and it will be disbanded." the President for Life raised her voice again, before smiling at her Cabinet, "Comrades, will you join me in the Movement? Will you help me guide the nation towards the light of Dazhbog?"

"Of course Albína we are with you!" shouted Minister of Health Zuzana Saková, always seeking to appease her President. Soon she was joined with shouts of the other Ministers, swearing their loyalty to the Pantheon and thanking Reiserová for "finally allowing us to see the truth!"

Satisfied the President for Life nodded several times, "Excellent, I knew you would understand! Alright people I am a bit tired now, you will find your outfits just outside the door. See you all at 11 AM tomorrow in front of the Castle, I can't wait to see the festival!" with a wide smile, Reiseroáva turned around and finally left the room, leaving her Cabinet alone as she went ot her private room to get some sleep.

"She called us here at this time just to tell us this?" Saková asked once they were alone.

"I am afraid our Genius Leader has unfortunately lost touch with reality." Dohnal remarked.

"And we will all suffer for it, can you imagine us standing in public, dressed in these ridiculous clothes while we give offerings to a statue and dance in circles? Nobody will take us seriously but if we say that our Wise Leader is insane our government will end and counterrevolution will triumph." added Mejzlík.

"Why was she even chosen to be the candidate of the Party in the first place? Well I know that, but why was she entrusted with the Extraordinary Court before that? She always seemed a bit unwell..." asked Musil.

"I heard she was just kind of there, when Šedivý and Vicanová were dividing the country among themselves and they had to assign something to Albína, so they gave her the Court, as they only knew that she was a mother and therefore just. Then they both ended in front of the Court and suddenly Albína was the only eligible candidate for the President left. But I do know she used to be fairly organized in the trade union before all that." Dohnal, as a veteran establishemnt figure shrugged his shoulders, "Regardless, we will overcome."

"Comrades, do you realize what this means? By 11 AM we will need to fill the space before the Castle with people! If nobody shows up it would look really bad for the President and for us. I will quickly contact the heads of the regional Party branches to send some members, but of course we will also have to find the appropriate clothes for them..." Mejzlík reminded the rest as Šín chuckled at the scene, feeling a little less silly about himself now.

Naturally, none of this bothered Reiserová herself, as arrived in her private rooms, took a quick shower and laid her head on a comfortable pillow, full of excitement about the festival and happy thought about the, in her eyes, positive change she just made.