Best posts made by North Diessen

28th January 2022. Het Goor, North Diessen

"She's here, Ekrem."

President of the Confederacy of North Diessen Ekrem Mueller sighed. For weeks, even months, his new and orderly reign had been undisturbed by attempts to oust him, or uncover the ways in which he had gained power. Surprisingly to him, no one had openly challenged why he should have been the one to follow in former President Inge Pekcan's footsteps when she had oh-so-inconveniently been injured during civil hostilities earlier this year. No one had questioned why units from the Inimician armed forces had cut communication lines to and from military compounds and had prevented anyone in military high command from communicating with one another.

All things considered, the ruse had gone perfectly, and Ekrem had the Inimicians to thank. He had even been slightly frightened by their immense efficiency. Within a matter of days they had completely quashed the rebellion Ekrem had instigated in Reuland -- always the odd State out in this country. At the same time, they had organised themselves entirely according to the discussed plan and positioned units at crucial junctions and infrastructure checkpoints. Within an hour or two, it had all been done. Pekcan was out, and Mueller was in.

He hadn't killed her. For some reason, there was still a sense of loyalty towards his former employer that had prevented him from, as it were, finishing the job. The Inimicians had insisted she be 'taken away' to their country, which Ekrem knew full well was one of the most gruesome euphemisms one could use. Instead, he had insisted Pekcan be kept under guard here, in the cellars of the Presidential Palace. She had not seen anything other than the four walls surrounding her since her ousting last autumn.

Until now. The head of Pekcan's security detail had informed Ekrem last week that Pekcan had found a way of getting in touch with a journalist, perhaps through a less-than-perfectly loyal guard, and was threatening to leak the whole saga to the Hilverbode unless she were granted an audience with him. Naturally, he had 'dismissed' all guards at her cell immediately and had had new detachments take their place, but one could never be too careful. That, if anything, was the lesson the Inimician Emperor had taught him. Cover your corners, pay attention to the details, and you will always outsmart those who threaten to bring you down.

"Inge", he said as the former President sat down in front of him, "Good to see you again." She was quite literally a shadow of her former self. Her face was pale, devoid of exposure to sunlight. Her incarceration diet had reduced her body to bones and skin, and her hair to thin, textile-like strands dotted around her scalp. Her voice, which clearly had not been used like it once had been, was hoarse, rough, and weirdly horrifying.

"The more humane result would've been to put a bullet in my head and be done with it, Ekrem. You see what a life I live. All day, every day, for four months, I have done nothing but think about what I'd do to you if I had the chance."

"And now, you have your chance."

"My chance came and went a long time ago, Ekrem. You know, I pity you, in many ways. If you had waited for a few years, you would have risen to the top of the ladder by yourself. But you didn't have the patience. And now, you will suffer the consequences of your mistake."

Ekrem saw Inge sigh. He would not have been surprised if she had dropped dead right there, right then, but she kept going. She appeared to gaze at her surroundings, the office which she had occupied herself until last October. It was a sentimental type of gaze, the sort of look one gives one's holiday apartment on the day of a return journey home.

"I just wanted to see you in person before your demise, Ekrem. It's all been done, the press are aware. They'll be verifying their sources by now. You've left it too late."

Ekrem frowned. He wanted to interrupt, but Pekcan continued: "Loyalists in the government will see through your lies and deceit, and at a moment's notice, they'll stand up to fight for what is right."

He stood up, walked over to Inge's chair, and slapped her across the face. She grinned. "You should've listened to your puppet master, Ekrem. Leave no stone unturned, or it may come back to bite you. Or spit at you."

A glottal sound, a wet splash on Ekrem's face. The guards in the corners intervened and began to drag Pekcan back down into the bowels of the Presidential Palace. "Take care of it", Ekrem shouted after them as he wiped his face, "And get my crisis team here at once." Artabanos had once said, nip crises in the bud, resolve them before they emerge. Perhaps, however, this crisis had already emerged further than he could possibly have imagined.

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Bundesaußenbeauftragte/Dışişleri Bakanlığı) Arnum Blauberg

STATEMENT ON REITZMIC REPEAL OF TREATY OF BUCKINGHAM

Legislative authorities in the Kingdom of Reitzmag this morning announced the unilateral repeal of the Treaty of Buckingham, putting the lives of hundreds of thousands of Nicolezians, Haaneans, and Copalans in jeopardy. The Confederal Government of North Diessen recognises the right of Reitzmic authorities to have sovereignty over its own territory, but sees the backtracking on its promises as an incredibly worrying sign.

The Confederal government is currently engaged in negotiations with Reitzmag, the United Duchies, and Pravoslaviya, on the organisation of the Caspian Sea and the fate of artificial islands Reitzmag built illegally. Although it is far from certain an agreement will be reached, given the stubbornness and demanding nature of Reitzmag's position, the Confederal government is now less than enthusiastic about making any sort of agreement with Reitzmag.

Simon Bridges and his government have now demonstrated that international treaties are worth not a shred more to them than the paper they are written on. The Confederacy of North Diessen is therefore reluctant to agree to a treaty concerning the Caspian Sea without formal, written reassurance of the Kingdom of Reitzmag that they will not simply repeal any agreeements within weeks or months of signing.

The Confederal Government also would like to stress that if the Kingdom of Reitzmag rescinds on any clause of any agreement concerning the Caspian, the entirety of such agreements would be seen as null and void in the eyes of North Diessen. If Reitzmag refuses to agree to any Caspian Treaty, or fails to give proper reassurance about its conduct, the Confederal Government intends to lodge a formal Sanction Request with the European Commission.

Sanctions packages against Reitzmag, announced in the Confederal Gazette on 3rd March 2021, shall remain in force until the signing of any Caspian agreement, and may further be reinforced with the expulsion of Reitzmic citizens resident in North Diessen and a complete ban on aircraft and vehicles originating from Reitzmag if Simon Bridges's government does not commit to a peaceful solution to the Caspian issue.

Joint Statement of the Confederal President of North Diessen and the Emperor of Inimicus

To all whom these presents may reach, greetings.

The governments of North Diessen and Inimicus, united in an eternal bond of friendship and collaboration, note with horror the events taking place on our doorstep. Troops from the Kingdom of Reitzmag and United Duchies, supported by the United Kingdom and Gadalland and Aspern, have assailed a sovereign nation on the Caspian Sea.

No matter our differences, force can never be the answer unless as a last resort. An unclear situation at sea cannot be the grounds for full-scale military intervention. Standing together as one, we condemn the assault on sovereignty that has transpired over the last few days. We cannot and will not support the side of Reitzmic aggression and Imperialism through any means.

It is with this in mind that we have determined and decreed, by the powers vested in us through the mechanisms of Presidential and Imperial Decrees, to close the national borders of the Confederacy of North Diessen and the Empire of Inimicus to all nationals from the Kingdom of Reitzmag, the United Duchies, Gadalland and Aspern, and Svarna Surya without exception. Nationals of the aforementioned states currently present in the territory of the Empire of Inimicus and/or the Confederacy of North Diessen are mandated to report to local or national law enforcement for processing by the Inimician Imperial Guard Anti-Terrorism Command.

Financial, material, or other assets held by nationals from any of the aforementioned states in the Confederacy of North Diessen or the Empire of Inimicus, or any of its subject states or individuals, are hereby seized. This includes holdings by the Roscoes conglomerate of the United Duchies.

Any naval vessels, whether military or civilian, which enter the territorial waters of the Confederacy of North Diessen are now subject to internment until, at least, the end of the conflict. Assets held on such vessels may, by Presidential Decree, be transported to the custody of officials from the Inimician Imperial Guard.

SIGNED,

ARTABANOS, Centuriorum, Legatorum, Quaestoriorum, Imperatorum, Rosarorum, Praestoriorum, Diutiorum Imperator Maximus; Dominus Noster, Βασιλεύς Πολεμιων, Αύτοκράτορ Πρώτος; Pontifex Maximus Religio Inimiciis; Dux Districti Teli; Caesar Legioni Inimici; Crux Maximus Ordinem Imperatoris; Dominus Ordene Supremus Nicolesii; LAUDATE!

Nestor KARAMAN, President of the Confederacy of North Diessen, Grand Cross of the Order of the Empire.

PRESIDENT PEKCAN SILENT AS INIMICIAN MILITARY MAKES SHORT WORK OF REBELS

Reuland commanders survey the Goirke Valley (left) as an exhausted Reuland paramilitary rests (center) and Inimician soldiers prepare to infiltrate a village near Wollek (right).

Reuland, 22nd October 2021 -- Reports from the Diessenian Defence Force (DDF) and Imperial Armed Forces (IAF) of Inimicus suggest strong headway has been made against the separatist rebels in Reuland State. IAF Force Commander Major General Ettore Stuart announced this morning the only remaining rebel stronghols are bases in and around the Reuland capital city of Goirke, and the major cities of Beek and Berdao. A significant military presence has assembled near Goirke, possible awaiting a full-scale offensive to retake the city. Similarly, elements of the Inimician fleet have been spotted off the coast near Berdao, where they are expected to launch attacks against rebel positions in the city. "I continue to advise anyone and everyone in rebel-held territory to stay indoors, switch off gas and electricity as much as possible, and await rescue by the Imperial Armed Forces", General Stuart further announced.

Inimician operations in North Diessen followed a formal request by Confederal Minister for National Defence Ekrem Mueller, who responded to an armed insurgency by Reuland State forces under the leadership of Reuland State President Erin Malih. This followed weeks of high tensions between the Reuland State government and the Confederal administration, amplified by the refusal of the Confederacy to work with the governments of Reitzmag and the United Duchies to combat piracy in the Caspian Sea. General Stuart also commented on the apparent origins of the conflict: "The pure silence on behalf of Reitzmag and cautious, non-committing statement of support from the United Duchies are telling. It is poignant to remember their conduct in the Caspian is one of the root causes of the present situation."

Inimician-led operations in the last few days have been met with support in the Grand National Assembly, the North Diessenian Confederal Parliament, and in the office of the Minister for National Defence. However, rumours emerged that President Inge Pekcan is skeptical towards IAF deployment in North Diessen. President Pekcan has not been seen in public since her joint press conference with Emperor Artabanos of Inimicus, and official channels indicate nothing more than that she is supposedly somewhere in Het Goor's government quarter, against advice from DDF authorities: "Het Goor remains a high-level target for terrorist activity", claims DDF General-In-Chief Lyndah Barhame, "And we advised Her Excellency to vacate the area accordingly. Given that she has not done so, our primary duty remains to protect Her Excellency and the government quarter. We find ourselves helped significantly by the presence of Inimician Imperial Guard troops in our capital."

The most significant fighting of the conflict has so far centred on the Goirke Valley, a mountainous region just west of the Reuland capital. Advancing DDF columns came under heavy bombardment from Reuland separatists yesterday. After calling in support from the Inimician Imperial Air Force, whose ground attack aircraft arrived within minutes, DDF troops proceeded to clear the valley. In sections of the terrain where air support was limited, requests for Inimician ground and artillery support became more frequent, and as of this morning the valley has mostly been cleared of Reuland presence. "At the end of the valley", General Stuart announced, "Lies Goirke, and the restoration of Diessenian state integrity." It is expected the final assault on Goirke will commence sometime today, 22nd October.

A Message From the Board of Trustees for the Artabanos Canal Project

Confederal President of North Diessen Nestor Karaman; His Imperial Majesty Emperor Artabanos of Inimicus; Chief Engineer Layla Marini; Chief Accountant Hugo Bercow; Head of Resources Dahle Uguz; Head of Personnel Johannes Tagu; and Six Other Unnamed Trustees

Today is a joyous day.

After a record €12 billion invested in the future of our region, tens of thousands of workers putting millions of manpower hours into the destiny of the Confederacy and Empire, hundreds of thousands of train deliveries of materials and equipment, and above all, a limitless spirit of optimism and determination, the Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the opening of the Artabanos Canal for commercial traffic from 1st August 2022.

A grand celebration, hosted by the President of the Confederacy of North Diessen and the Emperor of Inimicus, shall be held on Saturday 18th June, and the Board invites all friendly heads of state and equivalent statespeople to attend. Formal invitations are to be sent out in due course.

To further celebrate the opening of this vital second link between the Caspian Sea and Persian Gulf, all vessels registered under the flags of any member state of the European Union shall enjoy free transit through the canal in the first three weeks of operation (exceptions apply**). This offer has been made possible by a further €200m grant from the Artabanos Foundation, for which the Board of Trustees is eternally grateful.

**This promotion shall not apply to vessels registered under the flags of the Kingdom of Reitzmag or the Clan Democracy of Strathae.

CANAL CONSTRUCTION BEGINS WITH FESTIVE OPENING CEREMONY

Inimician and Diessenian leaders at the Artabanos Canal Opening Ceremony. From left to right: Inimician Emperor Artabanos, Diessenian Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Arnum Blauberg, Inimician Imperial Foreign Officer Sarah Gladwell, Confederal President Ekrem Mueller, and Minister for Agriculture and Forestry Pamut Ebbi.

Fatima, 8th December 2021 - Works on the Artabanos Canal Project have officially begun with a gathering of spectators, funders, and politicians at the canal's northern end at Fatima, in the State of Hammikeln. The first shovels of dirt were moved by Emperor Artabanos of Inimicus and Confederal President Ekrem Mueller, who lauded this moment as "the start of a new era of friendship between our two nations, and the opening of North Diessen to the world." Also in attendance were representatives from the European Development Agency, who have pledged half a billion Euros to the project. Emperor Artabanos, whose Foundation is another major funding source for what is the largest infrastructure undertaking in Diessenian history, thanked the EU's funders for "showing us all how the European Union can work."

An army of construction workers, diggers, engineers, wagons, and freight trains, has now begun the immense task of excavating a small stream to a cargo-size trans-national canal. While celebrations were ongoing in Fatima, excavation started just east of Waspik, where the proposed canal emerges into North Diessen's largest river, and on into the Persian Gulf. The majority of equipment used appears to have come from the Confederacy's southern neighbour Inimicus, with truckloads of small equipment and heavy excavators making their way across the border in the last few weeks. Foreign Affairs Minister Arnun Blauberg, speaking at the opening ceremony, celebrated the "immense commitment of the Empire to our joint prosperity". He further commented that "Inimicus has a great deal to gain by this project, naturally -- but so have we, and it is us who will hold all the cards."

Inimician Emperor Artabanos, arriving at the site by Imperial Air Force helicopter and dressed in rural leather and hiking boots, gave a short address to all those gathered, in which he praised Confederal President Ekrem Mueller's "resolve in Diessen's recent struggles". He further pledged another forty million Euros' worth of humanitarian aid to the State of Reuland, whose government initiated a brief civil conflict last autumn that was swiftly put down by Inimician armed forces. This money, Artabanos commented, "is solely to be used for the rebuilding of key infrastructure, for providing food and water, for rebuilding the Reuland state apparatus; in short, for construction works that are at least as important as the ones we are celebrating today."

The Emperor and President were cheered as they began digging together, laughing and joking.

"De Hilverbode, the Diessenian Guardian, the Voice of Wollek, all of them. Chase whoever has access to the government quarter, anyone."

Panic had struck in the Office of the President of the Confederacy of North Diessen. With her final breaths, the walking skeleton once called President Inge Pekcan had delivered a potential hammer blow to the administration of Ekrem Mueller. "And get the Inimicians on the line, we may need their help." The dozen or so people present busily typed away on tablets, shouted down landlines and mobiles, and ordered aides in and out of the room. Inge had been chatting. And, more seriously, she had been chatting to a journalist, from inside her prison cell. The fact she had used one of her final moments on this earth to spit in Ekrem's face was nothing compared to the harm this might to do him.

What did she tell them? How much of the whole story might appear in the press? Just his opportunism, or his years of planning the whole operation? Just his internal connections, or the Inimician involvement with his plans as well?

As he wandered off into thought, a shout from one of his aides brought him back to earth. "We've got a Hilverbode staffer leaving the compound on CCTV."

When? Where? How? Was his security so lax that pesky journalists -- not just that, a mere staffer -- were allowed into the governmental complex without any sort of check? "Do we know who exactly this is? Get people out to the Hilverbode headquarters. Find them -- enter every room."

"Surely", a quiet voice spoke up, and the raucous of the room instantly died down, "Surely it would be prudent to exercise a discreet sense of caution at this point?"

Albert Rosenfield, Commander of the Inimician Imperial Guard Investigation Unit, rose from his seat in the corner opposite Ekrem's desk. Rosenfield had been appointed Special Envoy to North Diessen following Ekrem's rise to power. Everyone knew, everyone accepted, that the eyes and ears of Emperor Artabanos were present deep in the Diessenian structure of state. Rosenfield was famed for bringing the late great Augustus Barrington to justice in his own country -- it was known he would not hesitate to bring anyone else to justice the Emperor felt needed it.

"With all humility", Rosenfield continued, with no humility whatsoever, "May I offer a suggestion? I thought so. I think you will find that when your men arrive at the Hilverbode's headquarters, they will find a suspicious package there. A very suspicious package indeed, suspicious enough to lock down the whole building for several hours. Suspicious enough to let no one in or out for a day or more. Suspicious enough, even, to cut all communication lines to the inside."

Ekrem hesitated. "A suspicious package? I mean, well, OK -- "

Rosenfield rose and proceeded across the room. The grand fireplace in Ekrem's office had traditionally played host to a range of historical artefacts from the Confederacy's history. A 12th-century drinking cup gifted to the rules of Reuland at the time. A framed copy of the first Diessenian constitution of 1801. A rectangular box containing the chess set of the Confederacy's first president. It was this rectangular box that Rosenfield picked up. Looks from across the chamber at the apparent sacrilege occuring before everyone's eyes. Muffled hushes.

The Imperial Guardsman, in his usual sense of flair and efficiency, proceeded to wrap the priceless box in newspapers from Ekrem's paper bin, Just moments later, he handed the suspicious package to Ekrem. "Go wild."

Artabanos Canal Project

Aims

The aim of the Artabanos Canal Project is to realise the plans drafted by the Confederal Government of North Diessen on request of the government of the Kingdom of Reitzmag in summer 2020. These plans were fully developed, but never realised due to diplomatic tensions. The Artabanos Canal Project's mission is to construct the second vital link between Caspian and Persian to benefit the Diessenian state.

Development

The Artabanos Canal will be constructed using already existing waterways and infrastructure as guidelines. As seen in the map below, two main river arteries, the Kızılırmak river in the north and the river Sakarya in the south, are connected by the small stream called Veleka, which is currently non-navigable to vessels over 3,000 tonnes. The Artabanos Canal Project aims to develop coastal and navigation infrastructure in the parts of the Kızılırmak and Sarkaya rivers designated as part of the sea link, and excavate the Veleka stream to allow major vessels to pass. The Veleka will be deepened to 15 metres at a minimum, with deeper stretches at several points where drydocks and military yards are to be constructed,

Plans call for the construction of four locks, each with a two-way transit system. This is a relatively small amount for the length of the canal, however, the Veleka is not subject to major elevation changes, running through the flat Plains of Linnich, a Confederal Nature Reserve. No locks are required at the Saraya or Kızılırmak stretches of the water link.

A railway runs from the mouth of the Saraya at Waspik in the south to Piushaove, in the northwest, at the point where the Kızılırmak opens into the Caspian. This railway will also be developed as part of the Artabanos Canal Project and used extensively to carry materials, excavated earth, and personnel. Confederal President Ekrem Mueller has used an emergency ordinance to designate this railway as crucial to government interests, meaning the government can use the railway exclusively for construction efforts.

Funding structure:

• Total projected cost: €11.6bn
• Confederal Government contribution: €3.0bn
• Artabanos Foundation contribution: €4.1bn
• Imperial Government of Inimicus contribution: €600m
• Private contributions: €2.3bn

Key Employees:

• Board of Trustees, including Confederal President Ekrem Mueller and Emperor Artabanos of Inimicus
• Chief Engineer, Layla Marini
• Chief Accountant, Hugo Bercow
• Head of Resources, Dahle Uguz
• Head of Personnel, Johannes Tagu

Estimated Completion Date: Summer 2022

INIMICIAN SOLDIERS TO COMBAT REULAND SEPARATISTS AS MORE BOMBS EXPLODE IN MAJOR CITIES

Three separate bombings occurred across the Confederacy overnight, the largest in Piushaove and Jerusalem, the capitals of Hammikeln and Linnich State, respectively.

19th Oct 2021 == The Confederal Government in Het Goor announced this morning that military contingents from Inimicus's Imperial Armed Forces (hereafter IAF) have been deployed against increasingly worrying troop numbers in Reuland State. IAF forces crossed the border between Inimicus and North Diessen last night, 18th Oct, and have immediately begun securing key Diessenian sites against potential attack by separatists, and have begun an offensive against paramilitaries in the east of the Confederacy. President Inge Pekcan, in her first statement following the escalation of the Reuland conflict, lauded the Inimician response as "evidence of the impeccably strong bond between our two nations." Pekcan further uttered strong condemnations of Reuland State President Erin Malih, whose statement yesterday she termed an "intolerable unilateral declaration of secession".

Deployment of Inimician military units in North Diessen follows renewed terrorist attacks, claimed by Reuland paramilitaries, in the capitals of the two other Diessenian States, as well as on a commuter train running between Het Goor and Piushaove. Casualty numbers are as yet unknown, but local response spokespeople declared "multiple fatalities at each incident". It is not known whether foreign nationals are among those killed or injured. Shortly after the blast on the 19:04 departure from Het Goor to Piushaove, Inimician armed forces appeared on scene, providing first aid, handing out thermal blankets, food and water, and liasing with local law enforcement. Similar scenes emerged in the locations of other explosions, leading some locals to take to the streets brandishing images of Inimician Emperor Artabanos, hailing him as "the hero we have wanted for so long".

Early reports suggest IAF aircraft have attacked known Reuland military depots and military bases, although no statements from Reuland's secessionist government have been released so far. IAF Force Commander Major General Ettore Stuart (pictured), who co-ordinates operations against Reuland in tandem with the Diessenian Defence Force (DDF), announced this morning: "At the request of the Confederal Government of North Diessen, which the Empire of Inimicus continues to recognise as the only national-level authority in the State of Reuland, the Imperial Armed Forces were deployed against secessionist rebels in the State of Reuland. The IAF further secured key Diessenian government sites and continues to protect these against rebel and terrorist attack. IAF first response units have been called to sites of recent bomb attacks across the Confederacy of North Diessen, and have been hard at work relieving the pains of the Diessenian people."

The Confederal Presidency announced a joint press conference with President Inge Pekcan and Inimician Imperial Consul Christopher Strathclyde for later on today, 19th October. Preceding the press conference, the Confederal Office for Prosecution is expected to issue arrest warrants for all the signatories of the Reuland Declaration -- it is further expected that Imperial Armed Forces units will assist in bringing the signatories to Het Goor.

"Well, he's across. So... what now?"

Ekrem had just witnessed Nestor Karaman, in possession of inflammatory testimony about the President's eventful rise to power, cross the now open border into the Empire of Inimicus. Karaman was taking former President Inge Pekcan's secrets, potentially rather disclosing information about Ekrem, into a foreign country.

Moments before, Albert Rosenfield, the Inimician representative (read: colonial lordship) to North Diessen had whispered to Ekrem to allow Karaman to cross unhindered. It was clear to him that the Inimicians wanted the prestige of catching Karaman. Or perhaps even the first rights of interrogation, and before they could hand him over, stashing him away in some Imperial compound.

More so than anything, Ekrem felt ashamed. This meant he would have to ring Emperor Artabanos and tell Him of his failure to contain a single, unremarkable man. He already knew what His reply would be. Oh yes, of course, Ekrem, we've already got him. That was very silly of you, yes. Now, I can of course give him to you, but perhaps you would like to give me something in return first?

And so, the mineral rights of North Diessen would be surrendered. Or its exclusive fishing rights in its territorial waters. Or the control over its airspace. Or the training of its soldiers. Or all of those at once. In any case, Ekrem's hold over his country would be damaged once more, as it had time and time again since he started colluding with the Inimicians. He had begun to realise what he had sacrificed, what his nation had sacrificed, in order to be rid of Inge Pekcan's ineffective and pacifist governance. In a sense, North Diessen had sacrificed its nationhood.

"All right", he said, sighing. "Get me a line to Telum. The Inimicians were already aware, I assume?"

Having received a confirmatory nod from the Special Envoy and Imperial Guard Investigation Unit Commander, he sat down at his desk and, with the telephone to his ear, awaited the Emperor's familiar voice.

"Helloooooooooo? Ekrem? Ah! Yes, hi, I'm the car. No, no, just heading up to Praestoris to meet your famous Nestor. I saw the photo of him you sent over - is this intentional? You picked quite the guy, so thank you for that. No, no, I thought I wouldn't wear my pink tie, I didn't want things to be too obvious, you know. So uh, what is it you rang for?"

Ekrem never really understood Artabanos. One moment, He would be as He was now, joking, light-hearted, and slightly uncaring. From one moment to the next, however, He could turn completely and utterly ruthless. Artabanos had told Ekrem the story of how He had had to smother His former lover with a pillow. At any moment, He might do the same to Ekrem -- at the very least figuratively. The President breathed deeply before speaking: "I was hoping to arrange extradition of this Karaman, Your Imperial Majesty. He is, as You'll be aware, in possession of some sensitive information."

"Oh yes of course, Ekrem. I'm fully aware. If anything, him twittering and tweeting away would be more damaging to Me than to you -- just think of what Jean-Claude would say, or Mikaela, or even Simon. It'd be quite the thing. We'll make sure to get him back to you of course, but I'm sure you won't mind if I have My way with him first. Perhaps in more ways than one."

"W-- well, yes, of course, but I'd just like to stress---"

"Oh, got to go, Ekrem. So sorry. I've got Christopher on the other line, and you know what these Imperial Consuls are like. Speak soon!"

And just like that, the line broke up. Ekrem was left with the vague sense he was being played, while playing others himself.

Name of the state: Confederacy of North Diessen
Intended use for the subsidy: Accellerate the construction of the vital Artabanos Canal Project, linking the Caspian and Persian waters
Requested form of subsidy: low-interest loan, cash payments to the Confederal Government of North Diessen
Amount of money requested (In Euros): 850 000 000
Proposed time-frame in which the loan will be payed back (filled out only if the requested form of subsidy is a interest-free loan or a low-interest loan): 25-30 years (earlier repayment possible depending on Canal's profitability)
Proposed interest per annum (filled out only if the requested form of subsidy is a low-interest loan): 0.1%
Justification for the request: the Artabanos Canal Project is the largest construction effort in the history of North Diessen. On the prompting of Confederal President Ekrem Mueller, plans originally designed in tandem with Reitzmic engineers are now being put into motion with support from the government of Inimicus. This large infrastructure project involves the excavation of hundreds of tonnes of soil, construction of several drydocks, quays, and waterways, and temporarily damming and then releasing several major Diessenian streams. The economic benefits both of construction and future use of the canal are projected to be unparallelled, and as such the government of North Diessen is willing to offer faster repayment than scheduled shoud the canal's profits be larger than anticipated.

Exclusive Nestor Karaman Interview Accuses President of Illegal Power Grab -- Claims Pekcan "Rotted In Dungeon" while Mueller "Partied In Office"

QUICK READ:

• Political refugee and former journalist Nestor Karaman accuses President Ekrem Mueller of a 'silent but violent' coup in the wake of last year's Reuland Rebellion.
• Mueller 'deceived his own people and the Inimician military leadership', Karaman claims, and took power in as little as thirty minutes, following months of extensive planning.
• Former President Pekcan was allegedly 'murdered only this winter' after months in confinement, countering official claims of her being severely wounded during the rebellion.
• Karaman calls for 'mass protests' against Mueller's government and 'immediate reprisals by allied powers'.

"Ekrem Mueller exploited everyone's good intentions. Those of the Diessenar people, but also those of our faithful allies in Inimicus", claims Nestor Karaman, self-defined political refugee and accused terrorist, from his temporary residence in North Diessen's southern neighbour.

Hilverbode journalists spoke at length to their former colleague Karaman, who was forced to flee North Diessen after the Confederal Government accused him of planting explosives at the Hilverbode's headquarters. "Why would I bomb my own place of work?", asks Karaman, "Why would I attempt to destroy what I worked a decade to establish? A free Diessenar press."

The Diessenar government claims it has footage of Karaman "infiltrating" the Confederal Presidential Palace just moments before planting his explosive device. "Yes", responds Nestor, "I was there. I was there to speak to Inge Pekcan - or what was left of her. A link between me and the dungeon Inge was being kept in invited me to speak to her, one final time. Obviously this had to be done in secret."

Former Confederal President Inge Pekcan disappeared from the political stage after reportedly being wounded in an attack on the governmental compound during the Reuland Rebellion. Karaman, however, reveals differently: "Pekcan was not wounded by rebels. Pekcan was shot, dragged to the cellars, and confined to a life of squalor and deformity by Ekrem Mueller and his cronies."

According to Karaman, the Reuland Rebellion, in which one of North Diessen's three States attempted to secede following a dispute over anti-piracy measures in the Caspian, was "completely and entirely orchestrated" by Ekrem Mueller, who served as Defence Minister at the time. "And how convenient that it was Mueller who stood up to the plate during that crisis, who orchestrated Inimician involvement to put down the rebellion, and who took the credit when things were resolved swiftly."

Asked whether anything Pekcan claimed could be corroborated by evidence, Karaman responded: "Everything I have just related to you makes far more empirical and logical sense than the explanations offered by Mueller." Temporary power cuts at Diessenar Defence Force bases in the wake of the rebellion were ascribed to Reuland's cyberwarfare by the government, but Karaman suggests it was Mueller's supporters who "took their chance to take power in the absence of military protection."

During the thirty or so minutes that communications between Diessenar armed forces, law enforcement, and government agencies were impaired, Karaman claims then-President Pekcan was "dragged downstairs" in the Presidential Palace, where Ekrem Mueller "told her who was now in charge, tortured her, shot her at least once, and confined her to a mould-infested dungeon for the rest of her life." Mueller allegedly installed allies in key positions of power, ensured the military full immunity from prosecution to ensure their loyalty, and arrested several high-ranking journalists and media editors. "The whole thing took months if not years of planning, but was finally executed perfectly within half an hour."

All of this, Karaman claims, occured while Inimician Imperial Armed Forces were deployed against rebellious elements in Reuland, while Inimician advisers were present in the givernmental compound, and while Imperial Special Envoy Albert Rosenfield was in the Presidential Palace itself. "It is therefore not surprising", Karaman told the Hilverbode, "That Rosenfield was literally thrown out the building when he became too vocal. He undoubtedly saw too much and threatened to go public."

Following what Karaman terms "the worst possible betrayal of our allies in the south", he called for "neighbouring nations to put pressure on this illegitimate administration, to remove him from power immediately, and restore proper democratic order." He further encouraged Diessenar citizens to "think for themselves, rise up, and strike down this autocrat."

The Confederal Presidential Palace has been contacted for comment.

"Make a formal request for extradition. Publicise it, let the world know about it. And let them know, especially, about their refusal, should that happen."

Ekrem knew Artabanos would not surrender his criminal to him. Nestor Karaman, perhaps the most dangerous person Ekrem had ever witnessed, was in the Inimician Emperor's custody. And there was little, very little, that Diessenar authorities could do about it, except protest as much as they could. Or, well, as much as the Inimicians would allow them to. Ekrem became painfully aware of Imperial Guard Commander Rosenfield in the corner of the room, a blank expression on his face, as though he had known all along what would happen and was watching everything unfold exactly as he had anticipated. Though not a violent man, Ekrem felt like throwing the priceless Early Diessenar vase on his desk at Rosenfield's face. He felt like strangling Emperor Artabanos, who was showing how little He could be relied on when things really came down to it.

But this would all be for later. "Do we have any means of getting Nestor out of there?", Ekrem asked the room, which remained deathly silent. "Great. Just great. So now we have a runaway with violently dangerous information on our regime in the hands of the Inimicians. And not just the Inimicians, of Artabanos personally. This is... this is worse than bad."

"We could... Uh, we could do something", spoke General-in-Chief Victor Imam, overall commander of the Diessenar Defence Force, before eyeing the Imperial Guard commander, the Emperor's eyes in Het Goor. "I'm afraid Mr Rosenfield would have to leave us, this is sensitive information." Ah, so it was that sort of 'something', though Ekrem. Would North Diessen really organise a raid on Inimician territory, just months after the Imperial Armed Forces had shown their total and unrelenting military dominance? Perhaps that played in favour of Diessen. Perhaps the IAF was too cocky to expect such a thing. An interesting notion.

"I have been party to far more sensitive information than you could think of, General Imam. I think I'll stay", said Rosenfield, calmly.

Ekrem's face flashed red. "Leave us. Or be escorted out."

A moment of silence. Rosenfield stood up, hands on hips. Was he carrying a sidearm? Who else in the room would show loyalty to him rather than Ekrem?

Time to find out.

President Mueller Suspends Grand National Assembly as Protestors Flock to Streets Demanding Change of Leadership

Left: protests outside the Grand National Assembly buildings in Het Goor. Right: police took violent action against protestors last night.

Het Goor, 18th March 2022 -- Following an evening and night of mass protest around the Confederacy, President Ekrem Mueller issued an edict immediately suspending the Grand National Assembly, Diessen's unicameral legislature, and authorising the Diessenian Defence Forces to assist law enforcement in suppressing protests. Across the nation groups gathered to demand the President's resignation after the Hilverbode published a conversation with Nestor Karaman, a political refugee now housed in Inimicus. Karaman alleged President Mueller violently and illegally took power in the wake of the Reuland Rebellion last year, behind the backs of the Diessenar establishment and the Inimician military.

Demonstrations were generally met with armed suppression from police forces. Curfews have been announced in most major Diessenar cities and gatherings of more than five people in public spaces have been prohibited until further notice. Despite these restrictions, mass crowds of demonstrators have occupied major city centres since yesterday afternoon, with law enforcement seemingly powerless to stop them.

Chairwoman of the Grand National Assembly Maaike Wolum, a key ally of former -- and allegedly murdered -- President Inge Pekcan, called out what she considers an "illegal suspension" of North Diessen's confederal legislature. She announced she and "the majority of my colleagues in the Assembly" would be joining protests in Het Goor this afternoon, fuelling concerns that this evening's civil disruption could be of a far greater scale than that seen yesterday night.

The legal basis for President Mueller's suspension of Parliament is not immediately apparent, and the decision has already come under severe scrutiny from legal experts. "This move was clearly and simply a way for Mueller to avoid parliamentary scrutiny", comments Professor of Diessenar Law Bahar Boustel, "There is no constitutional or legal ground for the President's actions." Others have accused Mueller of "confirming his autocratic tendencies" and "spitting in the face of democracy."

A delegation from the Grand National Assembly made a formal request to Emperor Artabanos of Inimicus this afternoon to "remove by whatever means necessary" President Mueller and his cabinet. The Inimicians have not responded to the request as yet, and it is unclear whether they will treat it in any official way or, indeed, what the Inimician government could do to remove President Mueller from power.

Government of the Confederacy of North Diessen

Report on the Use of European Development Agency Funds for the Artabanos Canal Project

Preamble

Pursuant to Section VI.I of the European Development Agency Act 2021 (herafter EDA act), the Government of the Confederacy of North Diessen received a request from the Office of the Internal Affairs Commissioner for a report on the use of European Development Agency funds for the construction of the Artabanos canal in the territory of the Confederacy.

Section VI.I of the EDA Act grants the Internal Affairs Commissioner the power to request reports on the use of EDA funds "from the member states which received subsidies". The Artabanos Canal subsidy was requested by, negotiated by, and granted to the Confederacy of North Diessen, and while the Internal Affairs Commissioner requested this report from both the Confederal Government and the Imperial Government of the Empire of Inimicus, only the former agency is empowered and, indeed, legally required, to answer this call.

While the Imperial Government of Inimicus has pledged a significant sum towards the accellerated construction of the Artabanos Canal, the Imperial Government will not own the Canal, it will not regulate the Canal, and will not enjoy the direct, economic rewards the Canal will offer. The Confederacy of North Diessen stresses to the Internal Affairs Commissioner that North Diessen is a proud nation, capable of conducting its affairs on its own, and alledging that the Imperial Government of Inimicus is at least partially responsible for the Artabanos Canal we take as a grave insult.

Nevertheless, the Confederal Government of North Diessen will fulfill its legal obligation for a report, answering each point raised by the Internal Affairs Commissioner in his request in order.

1. Detailed Overview of the Project

The Artabanos Canal Project is the largest construction effort in the history of North Diessen. On the prompting of Confederal President Ekrem Mueller, plans originally designed in tandem with Reitzmic engineers are now being put into motion with support from the government of Inimicus. This large infrastructure project involves the excavation of hundreds of tonnes of soil, construction of several drydocks, quays, and waterways, and temporarily damming and then releasing several major Diessenian streams. The economic benefits both of construction and future use of the canal are projected to be unparallelled, and as such the government of North Diessen is willing to offer faster repayment than scheduled shoud the canal's profits be larger than anticipated.

(Sourced from North Diessenian application to the European Development Agency, 9th Nov 2021)

2. Detailed feasibility report (benefits and consequences of the project)

The Confederal Government previously emphasised the economic and employment benefits of the Artabanos Canal, which is its primary purpose. Several thousand new job posts have already been filled for construction alone, a short-term benefit, but it is anticipated that at least as many long-term, permanent posts will need filling as trade and economic activity around the canal starts to flourish. These positions will include dockworkers, maritime personnel, ship construction workers, dockyard employees, engineers, administrative staff, and many others. The Confederal government estimates at least 9,000 full-time employees in the long term, with an additional 15,000 for the duration of construction efforts.

The opening of a second link between the Caspian and Persian waters will drive competition between the Baltic Canal of the United Duchies and the Artabanos Canal, improving quality of service, transit times, and the exchange of logistical knowledge. The levying of transit fees by the Artabanos Canal Authority is further projected to bring major benefit to the state treasury of the Confederacy, as these fees, once costs are taken off, will be deposited directly into the Confederal Government's budget.

As detailed in the North Diessenian application to the European Development Agency, given that the Artabanos Canal Project makes use of already existing waterways, the government of North Diessen expects the environmental impact of the project to be minor to moderate. The area of most severe impact comprises the Great Plains of Linnich, a steppe-like landscape along the confederacy's western border with the United Duchies. This is where the to-be-excavated river Veleka is at its narrowest and where the most land will need to be excavated. Given that the Great Plains are a protected natural reserve, construction efforts must legally abide by rigid emissions, noise, and soil fouling standards, which are enforced by the State Government of Linnich.

3. Detailed overview of the project's purposes and background

Purposes and background of the Artabanos Canal Project may be found in preceding sections, as well as in the North Diessenian application to the European Development Agency and the Artabanos Canal Authority's Information Page.

4. Report on progress of the project

Construction of the Artabanos Canal has been proceeding according to schedule. Surveying and initial excavation works have taken place thus far, with construction of quays and drydocks due to begin in the next few weeks. Water flow into the River Veleka has been completely shut off, allowing for speedier excavation than anticipated.

5. Detailed targeted timeline of project

The Artabanos Canal Project's intended completion date is Summer 2022. Initial excavation works, the most labour-intensive part of the project, is scheduled to be completed by the end of February 2022. Additional excavation and landscaping will then take place until the Summer. At the same time, construction of additional infrastructure, including drydocks, maintenance buildings, checkpoints, staff quarters, &c. is due to take place. Foundation works for these structures have already commenced. The Confederal Government of North Diessen foresees no additional hurdles to the reaching of the intended deadline.

"Weekend of Reckoning" for President Mueller as Pressure Mounts --- Defence Force Placed on High Alert

Diessenar Defence Force personnel moving equipment (left) while a seemingly distressed President Ekrem Mueller (right) addresses government aides on Saturday

Across the Confederacy, 19th March 2022 -- Confederal President Ekrem Mueller has issued orders for the Diessenar Defence Force to move to the "highest and most serious level of alertness", following widespread anti-regime protests and civil resistance against law enforcement in the last few days. At least twelve people have died and hundreds more were injured in what analysts have termed "the largest and most widespread nation-wide civil protest in Diessenar history", which further shows no sign of abating. Protests took shape last week after revalations by Nestor Karaman, a former Hilverbode journalist now expelled from North Diessen, alleged Mueller took power in a violent yet undercover coup late last year.

Mueller's orders were met with more intense violence from protestors against police and Confederal Guard units on the streets. Demonstrators chanted "lock him up" in front of the Presidential Palace in Het Goor; in the southern city of , on the Diessenar-Inimician border, protestors appealed to Inimician Emperor Artabanos to "strike the feind", in apparent reference to the suggestion made by a delegation from the now-suspended Grand National Assembly that North Diessen's southern neighbour should intervene to eliminate Mueller's government. The Empire of Inimicus has not responded to this request as yet, with Imperial Palace sources claiming Emperor Artabanos is "enjoying His weekend and will discuss the matter with the National Imperial Council first thing Monday morning".

Mueller told civil service staff this morning that any intervention by foreign powers would be met with "rocks, bullets, and missiles", warning the Inimicians not to "exceed their diplomatic mandate". Suggestions that persecuted citizens could be temporarily housed in the United Duchies were further met with scepticism by the Presidential Palace, calling any attempt to "criminalise being Diessenar" completely unacceptable.

North Diessen braces itself for what promises to be another tough night, with social media buzzing with plans for mass protest once again. Diessenar Defence Force elements have appeared on the streets as of this afternoon, with protestors gearing up in balaclavas in reponse.

MESSAGE FROM THE REULAND STATE ADMINISTRATION

Comrades,

Today, our struggle for freedom begins. For too long, Reuland has been oppressed. Our people have been stripped bare, robbed of its riches, its culture, its heritage, by a foreign elite in Het Goor. Our relations with our neighbours, in Linnich, in Inimicus, in Dromund Kaas, soured by petty politics.

This oppression by the Confederal administration went so far as to deny Reuland the defence of its own borders. To act against pirates menacing our shores. To work constructively with other nations in combatting this illegal scourge. As of today, no more.

The international community recognises the right of self-determination for all peoples. Nevertheless, the people of Reuland have never consented to inclusion in the ineffective, bureaucratic, disgusting Confederacy. They want true self-determination, and they will get it.

We particularly address this declaration to Confederal President Inge Pekcan and Minister for National Defence Ekrem Mueller, whose shameful, dictatorial conduct caused military units to be stationed in our lands. Our lands. A foreign power, invading a much smaller, much weaker subject.

But we will fight back. We will struggle until the likes of Pekcan and Mueller are silenced, for good. Our infiltrants roam free in the territory of the Confederacy, and will continue to hack away at the root of the North Diessenian state, bit by bit, operation by operation, car bomb by car bomb. Our law enforcement units, now organised under the Reuland People's Front, will drive out the oppressors' invading force, which has stolen, raped, and plundered on its way into our heartland.

To all Reuland citizens, we say: stand up. To those who love their country, we say: join us. To our comrades abroad, who have similarly struggled against oppressive regimes, we ask: aid us. We appeal to the governments of the United Nicolezian Socialist Republics, Neo-Venetia, Istkalen, Czech Slavia, and Dromund Kaas: send what you can, and what will aid us in defeating this incoming storm.

Reuland will stand as a beacon of democracy, willpower, and effectiveness. We will have our say at the international table. We will be free.

Erin Malih
State President of the Free Republic of Reuland

Also signed by
Dale Wickam, Speaker of the Reuland Assembly
Recep Yavash, Commander of the Reuland People's Front
Ayaz Eren, Secretary to the State President
Hamza Ruyter, Mayor of Goirke
Miray Smither, Member of the Reuland Assembly
Yara Benedict, Member of the Reuland Assembly
Zeynep Artabanoglu, Foreign Liason of the Reuland Assembly

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY CHAIR DECLARES MUELLER PRESIDENCY OVER, CALLS FOR ARREST OF FORMER PRESIDENT AND NEW ELECTIONS SUPERVISED BY INIMICIAN PEACEKEEPERS --//-- KARAMAN DECLARES CANDIDACY

Now ex-President Mueller (left) and GNA Chair Maaike Wolum (right)

Highlights:

- President Ekrem Mueller deposed and charged by Grand National Assembly

- New Presidential elections scheduled for April 30th -- to be supervised by Inimician military

- Administration of National Unity to head interim government

- Controversial journalist Nestor Karaman first to announce presidential candidacy

Het Goor, 8th April 2022 -- With the words "the Mueller Presidency is at an end", Grand National Assembly Chairwoman Maaike Wolum declared the long-awaited end of Ekrem Mueller's Confederal reign. Speaking to crowds gathered outside the Presidential compound, Wolum's words were met with great enthusiasm from protestors, who had been calling for Mueller's resignation for several weeks. The Defence Minister turned President stands accused of gross crimes against the Diessenar state, several individuals including former President Inge Pekcan, as asll as of illegally seizing power in the wake of civil unrest late last year.

Wolum, who declared she spoke with "the authority of the vast majority of the Grand National Assembly and the backing of the Imperial Government of Inimicus", later released a press statement detailing formal criminal charges to be served to former President Mueller, including high treason, armed insurgency, and murder. Sources confirm to the Hilverbode that Mueller has fled the capital and is currently being chased by Diessenar law enforcement. In the meantime, new Presidential elections have been scheduled for April 30th, and until such time an "administration of national unity" is to respond to any urgent governmental matters.

Some critics of Wolum's statement have suggested the Grand National Assembly lacks the capacity to declare the President deposed, to prescribe new elections without government approval, or to issue criminal charges. Moreover, the Assembly was formally dissolved by Mueller himself not three weeks ago, putting the legality of any decisions in doubt. Wolum's statement quoted the "unprecedented historicity" of the current situation, and the "clear and united calls for change" eminating from all States of North Diessen over the last few weeks.

Public opinion appears to have swayed in favour of Mueller's deposition, however, further evidenced by the great enthusiasm for the first declared Presidential candidate, Nestor Karaman. The former Hilverbode reporter, who is currently a refugee at the Imperial Palace in Telum, Inimicus, was the subject of a major controversy in which he claimed to be in possession of documents and testimony suggesting a violent and illegal takeover of power by Ekrem Mueller. Karaman fled Het Goor for the Inimician border several weeks ago, and the Inimicians refused multiple extradition requests filed by Mueller's administration. Maaike Wolum, whose Administration of National Unity formally invited Karaman back to North Diessen, has further appealed to the Inimician leadership to supervise and ensure the democratic legitimacy of the April 30th elections.

The Inimician government was swift to agree to this proposal, and offered to send at least 3,000 peacekeeping troops to various population centres across North Diessen around polling day.

The Hilverbode will keep up a rolling coverage of events as they unfold further.

Marking a New Era of Friendship

Confederal President Ekrem Mueller
3rd November 2021

My fellow Diessenians, today it is my pleasure to officially announce the full re-integration of the State of Reuland into the Confederacy of North Diessen. Although the wounds left by the disgraceful rebellious elite that formerly ruled the State will take a long, long time to heal, and our rebuilding works have only just begun, the peoples of Reuland and North Diessen, as well as those of our neighbouring states, can rest peacefully in the knowledge that the crisis is over, and the danger has passed. I have today used my emergency powers to appoint new executors and legislators in Reuland, headed by new State President Hubert Stiglitz, who I am sure will do the State and the Confederacy proud.

This New Diessenian Era would not have been made possible if not for the unwavering support of our friends and allies to the south. His Imperial Majesty Emperor Artabanos was gracious enough to award me with the Grand Cross of the Order of the Empire, and make me an Associate Member of the Imperial Defence Council and an Honourary Citizen of the Empire of Inimicus, but what is more, His military assistance prevented our nation and our region from spiralling into nothingness and bloodshed. We, as Diessenians and Europeans, have Him to thank for the maintenance of peace, the saving of countless innocent lives, and the creation of a Special Bond of Friendship between North Diessen and Inimicus.

To further the economic and military co-operation between our two states, I have used the powers given to me to order the start of construction works on a new canal linking the Caspian Sea to the Persian Gulf. Too long have North Diessen and Inimicus been at the whim of the Duchian administration, one of the main instigators of the civil conflict we found ourselves in, but no longer. My predecessor was inclined to allow Reitzmic engineers to construct a second canal and was even in receipt of Reitzmic plans for a build, plans we will now use for our own benefit. I am happy to confirm that Emperor Artabanos has agreed to fund a large proportion of the construction works Himself, through the Artabanos Foundation, bringing wealth, prosperity, and economic success to hundreds of thousands at a record pace. Inimicus has also pledged its full cohort of engineers and labourers to help speed up construction.

This new administration will work tirelessly alongside His Imperial Majesty and His government for the benefit of our peoples. And soon, without shame, any North Diessenian may be proud of their state, of their country, of their confederacy.

Presidential Candidate Line-Up Finalised as Registration Period Ends --//-- Ex-President Mueller "Still at Large" - Law Enforcement

All certified Presidential candidates for the 2022 election. From left to right (in order of registration date): Nestor Karaman, independent; Emma Artabanoglu, Radical Centrists; Pamnut Ebbi, Social Democratic Appeal; Devlet Schrerer, Conservative/National Worker; Don Benjamin, Communist League.

Highlights

- Major Diessenar political parties put forward Presidential candidates;

- Former journalist and political refugee Nestor Karaman remains the only indepedent candidate with sufficient support for electoral registration;

- Campaign season begins in earnest: major themes include corruption, confederal state structure, and the benefits of the Artabanos Canal

The Diessenar Confederal Electoral Commission has ratified the candidacies of five nominees for the Presidential election of April 30th. The snap poll, called by a council of high-ranking Grand National Assembly members, will replace now-deposed President Ekrem Mueller, who Diessenar law enforcement sources confirm is still on the run from arrest.

Nestor Karaman, whose revelations about former President Mueller's illegal rise to power sparked mass protests and revolts across the country, travelled to the Diessenar capital of Het Goor tonight for his first campaign rally. Flanked by Inimician Imperial Guard troops who were invited by the Grand National Assembly to supervise the democratic conduct of the election, Karaman called for a "complete renewal" of Diessenar politics as well as "intense accelleration" of the Artabanos canal project.

A joint candidate was put forward by the Conservative and National Worker's Party, whose party leaderships released a press communique on Saturday suggesting the "odds of a victory for common sense" were "significantly less slim" with a combined candidate for both lists. The right-wing coalition calls for increased centralisation of the Diessenar state and the elimination of the confederal structure, something which would require a large amount of constitutional amendments.

Two currently serving members of the Cabinet registered as candidates on behalf of their parties: Finance and Economic Affairs Minister Emma Artabanoglu is to campaign on behalf of the Diessen Radical Centrists (who came out victorious in the 2018 elections, propelling the late Inge Pekcan to the Presidency). Pamnut Ebbi, whose involvement with the construction of the Artabanos Canal filled most of her brief as Agriculture and Forestry Minister over the last year or so, was nominated on behalf of the Social Democratic Appeal. Termed by analysts as the "continuity candidates", Artabanoglu and Ebbi are largely considered mainstream, and can count on the support of large swathes of moderate Diessenar voters.

Several multi-party debates are scheduled for the coming two weeks as Diessenar citizens make up their mind. The April 30th election is constitutionally mandated to use the Alternative Vote system, meaning candidates are also marketing for second, third, and even fourth preference votes to improve their chances in later voting rounds.