Kalistani Major History

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President Betta Announces work on District Government
Prospects are "good" for new District Assemblies
Kaliburg, Ananto District
October 1, 4054


President of the Republic Orenthall Betta discusses development of District Governments

In an effort to update Kalistani Government for the new Millennium, The Government of Kalistan, working with the two main opposition Parties, has forwarded a bill for debate and discussion which aims at the development of District Governments.  President Betta held a short press conference on the District Government Act of 4054 (which is expected to become law before the 4056 elections) and then sat down to discuss the bill with The Republic.

In the bill, which greatly updates the seven hundred year old District Government Act, the National Assembly proposes to create District Assemblies.  Seats in the District Assemblies will reflect District results in the National Assembly, and the winner of Plurality in the Districts will be awarded the Title of Speaker of the District Assembly.  The Speaker will set the Agenda for the District Assembly, and for all practical purposes, control legislation within the District.  The Plurality Party in the District shall also name the Governor of the District, who will represent the District at the National Level, and will also serve as Commander in Chief of the District Units of the Regular Armed Forces of Kalistan, which are also to be devolved to the Districts.

President Betta said of the Act:

"There is some legitimate interest within Kalistani Politics for a degree of regional autonomy.  With this act, we are making explicit the concept that there are some things that the National Government does, and some things which should be handled by the Districts.  It is only a matter of time before the proponents of Ananto autonomy gain seats in the Assembly and force the issue.  And so I have asked the Premier, to begin working with the presumptive Speakers of the Opposition Parties to begin to update the District Government Act.  We think this update addresses many of the interests of those who seek to increase regional autonomy, without yielding power from the National Government.  We stress:  this does not establish Federalism.  But it does provide a method for regional Parties to actually hold power which is separate from National Power."

With regard to the slowly growing calls among some groups within the larger Anantanese population for Autonomy and Independence, the President of the Republic was emphatic:  "Kalistan is Five Districts.  It is indivisible.  Ananto is not going anywhere.  The SP has long called Ananto home, and I can assure you no Socialist will be supporting any effort to separate Ananto from the Republic.  Now.  That's it."  When asked whether the Militia was mobilizing in Ananto, the President answered simply "Look-  No comment on that.  You would have to talk to [Captain Joyce] Mark.  She'd be able to tell you about all that."  The President added that he is a lifelong Birthright Brethren, and doesn't have anything to do with the Militia.  Artillery Captain Mark is currently the commander of RSMoK forces in Ananto, and was unavailable for comment before this article went to press.

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The Kalistani Free People's Press
Omobo: We Work With, Not Against
Leader of the Kalistani Free People's Movement explains why they are the clear choice for voters
by Karen Omobo
Vrassa City, Vrassa
November 5th, 4054


Karen Omobo addresses the KFPM annual conference following her election as leader in August 4050, she won a massive 91% of membership votes

My party, the Kalistani Free People's Movement, hasn't got a single seat in the National Assembly. To most people that would mean that passing legislation is impossible, not us. In the short time that we have been in existence, we have passed the Intelligence Reform Act, the Freedom for Missionaries Act and most significantly the Healthcare Reform Act (this is in addition to the bills we are still waiting to reach the voting deadline). How have we done this? Have we initiated a violent coup? Have we been bribing the Socialists? Obviously not. We've been co-operating. One of the key principles of the KFPM is to work with, and not against, other parties.

Obviously, we don't agree with the Socialist Party on everything- after all we aren't Socialists- but we know that there are many things which we agree on. Furthermore, we understand that it is beneficial to the people of Kalistan to have parties which work for them, not to arbitrarily oppose each other and this is one of the key reasons why we have decided to form an alliance with the Ananto National Party. We don't want an independent Ananto, we love Kalistan for the diversity of its five regions, yet we are working together because it is the best thing for Kalistan. Separately we would have little power in the National Assembly, but the government can't reasonably oppose two parties for too long: certainly not after the next election.

I will be standing for President. It was proposed that I should back one of the other two candidates in the race, I know both reasonably well and whilst I can reach compromises with them, there is no chance whatsoever that this will happen. The KFPM is optimistic of our chances in January. We are the clear and obvious choice for anybody in Kalistan who favours personal freedom, a robust market economy and the rule of law. Life in Kalistan is good at the present moment, but it can still get better. If you elect me as President in 4056, I guarantee it will...

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Bennots begins Campaign for President
Ananto Governor signals support for Dual Economy and Internationalism
Dahriel, Ananto District
December 8, 4054

Ananto Governor Victor Bennots began his efforts to win the Office of President of the Republic last Tuesday with an official speech and press conference.  The former Dahriel farmer turned ODEN exporter, and member of the Bennots political dynasty entered Kalistani Politics nearly 15 years ago, serving first as mayor of Dahriel and then as governor of Ananto.  During his tenure, Bennots increased his District's exports by 15% and lowered District personal taxes.  He recently worked with Deputies in the National Assembly to help craft the National Ferry Service which became law in October.  Bennots has reportedly described himself as "... not a member of any Brethrenist Meeting, though my Parents are."


Ananto Governor and now Presidential candidate Victor Bennots, speaking at Dahriel Polytechnic School on Tuesday

Bennots gave a brief message Tuesday, formally announcing his candidacy.  Below is the transcript of his speech:

"For the first time in decades, Kalistan will have a contested election.  The Socialist Party welcomes that development, and has tapped me to represent the Party in the Presidential Election.  I would welcome the endorsement of the other Parties, but I also believe we will have a good contest regardless.  If I am elected, I plan to continue the trajectory that I have started here in Ananto, but you must understand that it is rather difficult to promise better times ahead, when things really are quite good now.  In Kalistan, we have a stable rate of growth which allows us to keep up with our fairly stable population rate.  Some people would demand 3, 4 and 5 percent growth yearly.  Others would say we have been a failure unless we turn in 15%.  But Kalistani economics has always suggested a different approach:  We see growth in certain fields, as demanded by the people, and none in others.  The result is that Kalistani economic growth always hovers right around zero percent economy wide, and we are satisfied. 

"The benefits of zero growth, as the 150 years of Socialist Party rule have demonstrated is that national needs can be taken care of without massive displacement in the Private Sector.  We can encourage robust participation in both Sectors, and promote policies which yield excellent jobforce participation, while at the same time, being able to offer a generous social safety net.  Under Kalistani economics, which some call the Dual Economy, the Private Sector does not ever get large enough so that boom and bust cycles which are inherent in Capitalism can affect the lives of average citizens in any way:  The population is insulated from the speculative decisions of finance and investment.  And yet the Private Sector is large enough to entirely meet the consumer demands of fickle tastes of the People of the Republic.  Meanwhile, critical national services, such as health, drug export and pharmaceutical development, infrastructure and electricity, phone and food, and so on are guaranteed to Kalistan's citizens regardless of their ability to buy these things:  Universalizing social spending gives ALL people a stake in the system and works against resent created by means-testing.  Besides:  Kalistan has the money to universalize social services.  We save money by having a military just large enough to defend the Society with the help of the Militias, we have abolished the prison system, and we maintain a massive budget surplus each year which allows the government flexibility to deal with temporary downturns in the private sector's markets.

"We have protected consumer choice as well:  If we, as consumers want to work and save and so forth, and desire a nice television or a nice automobile or whatever, that is an option for us.  But if we need to get to work and cannot afford our own vehicle, we never have to worry about whether that will be possible.  We never have to choose between rent and food, or electricity and medicine for our kids.  We are freed, through the twin pillars of Kalistan's Labor Market, the National Service Program and the Minimum Basic Income, of both labor shortages and labor gluts which put workers at the mercy of employers who chase the bottom line, or which deny producers the opportunity to produce things that consumers want to buy at an affordable price, while making a nice living for themselves in the process.  Kalistan is doing well, and I do not intend to run away from that.

"But one thing I do think we could be doing better at is our foreign Affairs.  Quite often, it is desirable for Kalistani politicians to get complacent.  We have things good here, they may say.  Why rock the boat in international waters?  This complacency is the result of having complete security at home and on the Sea.  We haven't experienced a single international event since the end of the War two generations ago.  Our people have decided to generally stay put, and let others come visit us.  But-  it has been 50 years, and now we are seeing signs that the world has more or less took us off their Holiday card list:  Fewer and fewer people are visiting what is becoming a darkened corner of the World.  Kalistanis stay home, and foreigners go elsewhere.  I would like to work on changing that.  I would like the spotlight to shine again on this beautiful country of ours:  Where are people are well fed, highly educated, and at nearly complete liberty, the industrious among us are well compensated, and the lazy among us are at least content.  Kalistan is a remarkable country, full of natural beauty and modern convenience.  But unless we begin engaging the world again, we are in danger of returning to the cultural stagnation of the 39s, where the only real cultural innovation was the development of the Brethrenist faith which has since attained ubiquity among the religious in Kalistan and has since replaced all other religions.  Therefore, I would like to turn Kalistan back toward the world, and if I am elected President, I will promote policy along those lines within the Government. 

"I wish my political opponents good luck in their bid for the Presidency.  I am sure that each of these candidates will serve as competent an administrator as I will strive to be, and I trust that whoever the Kalistani People elect as their President, they will make the choice which is best for them.  For my part, I welcome the opportunity to stand for election and wish you all a wonderful day."   

The assembled crowd, which is by now used to seeing the Governor give speeches, politely applauded.  The Governor, though extremely popular and well-liked in this part of Ananto, stopped for few photographs before heading back across the street to his home.  As this is his home town crowd, most of the people know him personally, and consider him one of their own.  Said one man, "Well, it was a pretty good speech, all in all, but you know, the speech was for folks who ain't here."  Then he wryly added with a smile, "And you all..." meaning the Press.

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The Kalistani Free People's Press

The KFPM Holds Annual Party Conference
A 2% tax cut and a rewriting of the constitution among bold announcements by Omobo
by Romoaldo De Vincenzi
Kaliburg, Ananto
17th December 4054


Newly elected President of Terra Union and former KFPM Deputy Leader James Harrison announcing his industry reform plans

The Kalistani Free People's Movement's annual conference, which was held later than usual this year, concluded today in the capital city of Kaliburg on Ananto Island. Many had predicted a somewhat unsurprising affair but there were plenty of unexpected announcements in all departments, from a reshuffle of the Shadow Cabinet to the radical new proposal for constitutional reform. Commentators and party members alike where said to be swept away by Party Leader Karen Omobo's brilliant final speech in which she called on people from around Kalistan to;

come together, work together so that every single person living in Kalistan and around Terra can be guaranteed a safe and secure future free from poverty, economic uncertainty, persecution, tyranny and the threat of violence. It is to fight against these issues that the Kalistani Free People's Movement was formed and it is against these issues that we will fight in government.

The first shock of the conference- which began on Friday afternoon and concluded late Sunday night- was the announcement of the party's candidate for each Ministerial position in the upcoming National and District elections. Most significant was the removal of, former Deputy Leader and close friend of Leader Karen Omobo, James Harrison from candidate for Head of Government; he became the new candidate for Trade and Industry. Harrison was a distinguished lawyer prior to joining the KFPM and has been elected as the President of Terra Union, a cross-party organisation which also contains Kalistan's other opposition party the Ananto National Party. This experience will certainly prove useful in the trade aspect of his potential new role but it is the industry part which could be the most intriguing. In the past, Harrison has been a prominent proponent of free market economics and says that he favours minimal regulation of industries other than education; this is in contrast to many within the KFPM and official party policy which promotes heavy regulation.

The person to replace Harrison as candidate for Head of Government was former Finance candidate and newly appointed Deputy Leader Francesca Totti. She's the youngest candidate in the party at just 24 years old but has already developed a reputation for captivating crowds. Many members, particularly those on the left of the party, believe that she would be the ideal replacement for Karen Omobo when she eventually steps down. Finally, ex-economist Manuele Provenza was moved from Trade and Industry to Finance to replace her.

With the new party cabinet announced, Saturday and Sunday gave each candidate the opportunity to showcase their policy ideas and it was once again James Harrison who hit the headlines. Each new candidate was given a questions and answer session in which members could query them on a variety of issues, culminating in the Leader Omobo's at 8pm Sunday evening. Saturday's sessions went much down the road they were expected: Vitalico Viviani, Health and Social Services spokesperson spoke of his pledge to protect healthcare spending and Leo Ferrando, Shadow Food and Agriculture Minister, expressed his desire to promote private farming. The only slight stir caused was when Debora Ambrsino, Infrastructure and Transport Candidate, was asked whether the Party had dropped the proposal of an underground rail link. Her response was:

We definitely haven't given up on the idea. We understand that it might be difficult but we aren't shutting off any options just yet.

Debora Ambrsino refused to rule out controversial underground rail plans

Sunday began with an element of foreshadowing Shadow Foreign Affairs Minister, Elanora Raneri was resolute on the parties commitment to redraft the Organisation of Drug Exporting Nations despite the fear-mongering campaign of the government. It was not the only occasion that the KFPM would appear to undermine the Socialist Party. The next remarkable announcement came when Manuele Provenza announced his first policy if he was to enter government would be a 2% tax cut; it soon became apparent that the KFPM were pitching themselves as an anti-Socialist party for this election. By the time James Harrison took his seat, an air of anticipation had developed. This was in part due to the fact that so many party members wanted to hear him speak that he had to relocate to a more spacious venue but also because of the sheer unpredictability of the conference so far. He didn't disappoint.

Harrison's plans were extensive and detailed: the way in which Provenza's 2% tax cut would be paid for was the sale of failing industries in public ownership to competitive private investors. He explained how this would make them more successful, drive up standards and create more choice for consumers. He made sure to note that schools and hospitals would not be initially involved and neither would the transport sector but the charismatic Trade and Industry Spokesman was clear that nationalisation had failed to serve those who needed government support most.

Finally came the Leader's opportunity. Miss Omobo was going to have to do a lot in order to steal the spotlight from the various other ambitious plans submitted by her team, luckily for her she did just that. Rather than simply recommending a change in economic policy or promoting a new transport programme, Omobo explained how she would submit a bill at the next session of the National Assembly to fundamentally change the constitution of Kalistan, she wanted shorter terms, an end to coalition cabinets and paramilitaries plus a new motto. By the time she had finished speaking, the entire room had risen to their feet to applaud Miss Omobo. After the last elections there were rumours she had lost the support of the party membership, that certainly wasn't the case anymore; if this conference is anything to go by, we'll have a Kalistani Free People's Movement government by January 4056...

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The Kalistani Free People's Press
If Bennots Wins Today Will The Last Person To Leave Kalistan Please Turn Out The Lights
Yet another Socialist Party government would be the final nail in the coffin of Kalistani society
by Romoaldo De Vincenzi
Vrassa City, Vrassa
January 18th, 4056


Victor Bonnets: the man who ruined Kalistan?

As Kalistani citizens headed out to the polls today, there was a final warning from the Kalistani Free People’s Movement that Kalistani society could not cope with another consecutive Socialist government. Various key figures in the KFPM campaign were extremely critical of the party who’ve been in the majority for a number of years now; with many confident that the KFPM would gain a significant number of seats in the National Assembly due to the severe failings of the incumbent government. The most scathing remarks came in a spell-binding speech by Deputy Leader Francesca Totti at the opening of new hospital unit in her hometown, when she stated:

This constant suggestion- or rather insistence- by the government that the so-called 'dual economy' works, is just wrong! It might be true that it works for some people. Yet those people are the same people who ensure that it never changes: the Socialist Party itself. It is they who benefit from this outdated and inefficient system, not the citizens of Ananto and Kalistan. Whilst those at the bottom struggle to find employment because of the massive monopolies of nationalised industries, the SPoK is free to appoint its ministers into whatever government role they take a fancy to. I ask the citizens of our great nation to consider this, can the Republic survive yet another Socialist majority?

The speech came just hours after a top financial institution produced a report* which provided a damning verdict of Victor Bennots’ economic plan. It rubbished the Socialist Party candidate’s claims that ‘zero growth rate’ was sustainable, instead promoting the KFPM’s, KFLP's and ANP’s platforms of further expansion the private sector. Furthermore, it specifically warned that the government-controlled companies which operate gas and electricity services were on the brink of collapse if emergency measures were not introduced.

It is not just on the economy that the Socialist Party are failing though. The KFPM Spokesperson for Infrastructure and Transport, Debora Ambrsino, was insistent that the ground-breaking plans for an underground railway line should go ahead. She stated that the Socialists disparaging remarks of the proposals were flawed and that further research would be required before the plans could be dismissed. The idea was proposed in addition to the National Ferry Service, which the KFPM recently supported in its passage into law, to link mainland Kalistan to the island of Ananto.

Additionally, the Health and Social Services Spokesperson- Vitalico Viviani- accused the government of causing an addiction epidemic on their refusal to restrict alcohol and cigarettes to adults only. In his view, allowing children to smoke and drink was a direct cause of not only health problems (such as lung cancer and cirrhosis of the liver) but also causing a spike in anti-social behaviour in many urban areas across the country. His comments were supported by recent police reports which showed that the situation was continuing to worsen.

Finally, the KFPM has reaffirmed their friendship with the two other opposition parties: the Ananto National Party and the Kalistan Libertarian Party. Chair of the NEC and Party Leader Karen Omobo, who is also the KFPM’s Presidential candidate, expressed her desire to work with the ANP and KLP to achieve their shared goals and bring an end to the one-party state that currently grips Kalistan.

On your way to the polling booth remember this:
-only the KFPM can provide a return to economic stability to our country…
-only the KFPM can provide the Kalistani people with the prosperity they deserve...

*report commissioned by the Kalistani Free People’s Movement

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reprinted from
IZQUIERDA-  The Voice of the Kalistani Left
Socialist Party wins Presidency and Plurality in AssemblyODEN will be placed on temporary Hiatus while FPM Dominates Agenda
Kaliburg, Ananto District
February 4, 4056


President of the Republic Bennots is greeted with hostility upon entering Office; May form opposition Government

A legislative coup of sorts has occurred in Kalistan over the last election.  While Socialist Party officers and members of the Assembly are cheering their victory, the incoming President has been essentially kneecapped by Parties hostile to leftism in Kalistan.  The so called "Free People's Movement", though eeking out a 4th place out of 4 showing in the recent elections, has nonetheless moved forward a bill which signals a temporary setback for Kalistan's economy. Their efforts to abolish the Organization of Drug Exporting Nations, supported by their associates in the Ananto Independence Party will mean alteration of the freedoms enjoyed by millions of Kalistanis-  For their aim is not only to abolish the Cartel, but also to dramatically limit the freedom to use drugs in Kalistan.  And it would appear that they definitely have the votes to do so, assuming the new Kalistan Libertarian Party gets on board with their abolition efforts as well.  The only hope for consumers in Kalistan proper and the drug exporters in Kalistan comes in the possibility that the Libertarians will continue to support efforts to prevent government intervention into the private lives of ordinary citizens.  Time will tell, but at least for the present moment, it appears that in Kalistan, ODEN's days are numbered.


Socialist Party Leader Fredricka Carrangus-Howard has only harsh words toward the Opposition

The Leader of the Socialist Party of Kalistan, Fredricka Carrangus Howard, has declared that whatever happens, Kalistan's industries and citizens will be protected from unwanted interference by the "Free" People's Movement's rightist policies.

"We have already spoken to our growers and exporters, and have ensured them that we will support them in their continued operation.  If Kalistani History is any indication, this interlude is likely to be very short, and it will only be a matter of time before the SP turns in legislative numbers to reverse whatever damage the People's Movement has in mind, or until the movement declares victory and then dissolves.  We will continue to operate as if the law remains in existence, whatever happens to it in the Assembly."

The efforts for revenge on Leftism and the Government of Kalistan do not stop at ODEN, of course.  The FPM-AIP axis also threatens to makechanges to the Constitution to strip the Presidency of all his Power. Said Carrangus Howard,

"It is, of course, in the interest of the Rightists in this country to remove all protections of the People from their rightwing policies.  The President of the Republic doesn't have much power as it is.  And the People's Movement wants to abolish the office all together to put all power into the hands of an unelected Prime Minister. At the end of the day-  this is what it amounts to.  Kalistan's Prime Minister is elected by 4 Parties right now.  We have 750 Deputies in the National Assembly.  A slim majority of them have to vote for the Prime Minister.  So, essentially 376 people cast their votes for Prime Minister, who will then have the power both of Head of State and Head of Government. not the majority of the Hundred MILLION people living in Kalistan."

And now, we also read-  the Independence Party wants to privatize Kalistan's industries so they can be sold off to foreign owners.  Their stated goal is to "increase prosperity" but the result will be fewer Kalistani Owners and lower Kalistani prosperity, while increasing offshoring of profits and wealth to foreign capitalists.  This is the move many foreign conglomerates have been waiting for.  And it would appear that the Independence Party is about to hand them their deepest darkest wishes, to the detriment of Kalistan's economy and population.

The Socialist Party, however urged calm.

"Anyone who has bothered to learn anything about Kalistani History beyond what they have read on Wikipedia, would know that periodically, we go through these changes, where new Parties rise, like zombies from the grave, win a few elections by running on the same failed and discredited policies, change some very fundamental things in Kalistan, one time our commitment to a nuclear free world, another time our participation in ODEN, and another time our commitment to civil liberties in Kalistan and our abhorrence of a police state.  They stick around for a little while, and when they have disrupted Kalistan sufficiently they fade into the breeze and leave the Socialists behind to clean up the mess.  So-  " Carrangus said with a shrug, "we should have seen this coming.  It usually helps the SP re-make the case for socialism in Kalistan every other generation.  So, this might not be as bad for the Party as it may seem, and in the long run, it will not change the trajectory of Kalistan one bit."

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Outbound Government Launches Delegation to Indrala
"Time for a new Orienation", says Foreign Minister
Sulari, Suldanor District
March 20, 4056


Foreign Minister Oda-Mae Edwards leaves Kalistan for an Official Visit to Indrala

Foreign Minister departed this week on what is likely her last voyage as Foreign Minister of Kalistan.  She was enroute to The Empire of Indrala to open discussions about increasing commerce.  She reportedly was also slated to speak about other strategic matters, specifically a review of affairs in the Anantonese Ocean.  Kalistan and Indrala have enjoyed improving ties in the last half century since the end of the war, even as Kalistan has drifted from its formerly close association with Trigunia.  When asked "Why Indrala?"  the Foreign Minister explained

"Well, their north-south strategic route runs right through Kalistan.  If we decide to try to stop them, as we did in the 90s, we go to war.  It seems much better that we enjoy decent relations with Indrala rather than cold ones.  They are closer to us, we have a long standing affinity agreement with Indrala, we do have traces of Indralan culture woven through Kalistan, and we stand to gain more as a nation from closer association with the Dragon.  This is not a hard and fast alliance-  We Kowtow to no emperor.  But, it might be the first step in something more positive in the future, as Kalistan transitions, yet again, from single Party rule to a more outward looking approach.  It is time for a new orientation, and it is possible that this orientation should be south rather than north."

Said to be on the Foreign Minister's Agenda:  The resolution of outstanding claims between the two nations, an offer for a trade fair to be held in either country, several cultural showcases in Indrala, and medium level strategic discussions over the affairs of East Selaya.  The Minister will remain in Indrala for two weeks, and depending on the actions of the National Assembly, could end her official career in Indrala.  This sunset visit is the highest profile activity of the Foreign Minister's career.  She looks forward to ending "on a high note."

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reprinted from
IZQUIERDA- The Voice of the Kalistani Left
Socialist Party assumes Opposition Status
New Party Leader steps into unfamiliar Role
SPoK National Headquearters, Kaliburg, Ananto
March 17, 4056


The General Secretary of the Socialist Party of Kalistan, Fredricka Carrangus-Howard, sits down with Izquierda Feature Reporter Burt Larson.

IZQUIERDA sat down with Fredricka Carrangus-Howard, the incoming leader and Shadow Premier of the Socialist Party of Kalistan.  Carrangus is a young socialist lawyer from Neveras District, where her family has dominated politics for centuries.  She was elected General Secretary of the Socialist Party of Kalistan December of last year.  But the Government looks much different now than it did a few short months ago.  The Socialist Party is now prepared to hand over the Government to a coalition of hostile Parties, all unwilling to sit with the SP in Government, despite the fact that the SP controls the Presidency, 37% of the seats of the Assembly and three District Governments.  The new Leader therefore faces a number of challenges associated with divided government.  This is IZQUIERDA's exclusive interview with the General Secretary of the Socialist Party, current leader of the Opposition, and designated Shadow Premier when the Majority Coalition finally takes over.

I[zquierda]:  Comrade Speaker, first question:  Why does the President feel the need to send a Government Bill forward?  The Opposition doesn't have the power to put a bill of their own forward, and there is still a government in place which would legally be entitled to keep power.  So why is it important for the President to do this?

C[arrangus]:  Well, the suggestion that the President wouldn't put forward a Government bill is really radical.  I know Izquierda is known for its yellow journalism every once in a while, but really, this is too much.  Can you imagine the precedent this would set?  We are committed to the rule of law in Kalistan, whatever the election outcomes...

I:  Apologies, Comrade Secretary.  Of course, your point is taken.  So let's leave this topic.  What will the Party do while in the opposition?  What will your role be as the first Opposition Speaker from the SP in decades? 

C:  Well, the job of the opposition to to do what it can to slow down the agenda of the Government.  We naturally won't be giving the Government any votes.  The one legislative power we still do posses is the ability to prevent all constitutional amendments from passing.  As long as we maintain more than 250 seats, we can prevent the Majority from dramatically altering the constitutional arrangements that govern the country.  The laws will be changed, as the majority sees fit, and we will change them back when we have a legislative majority, but for the time being, at least the fundamental aspects of the regime are safe.  Our second role is to generate bills designed to alter the legislative positions of the majority.  By forcing votes, the Majority Parties will be on the record supporting bills which the majority of the population is against.  The voting record will reduce support for the Majority coalition.  And if they opt not to vote on those bills, their visibility on those issues is reduced.  Either way, voters return to the SP.  Its a pretty worn playbook that the SP has to run occasionally.

I: Do you have a comment on the slanderous comments made against the Government by the People's Movement before the election?

C:  We are convinced that their spokesperson has no idea what they are talking about.  They attribute some rising crime to the Government's policies.  I think they said something like drug and alcohol use is contributing directly to the recent uptick in youth crime.  Well, I'm not a social scientist, but even I know that you can't explain change with non change.  The Government's policies on drugs and alcohol have been unchanged for centuries, and if there is a causal relationship between the two things, youth crime should be rampant across Kalistan.  But Ministry of Justice statistics show that the crime rate is unchanged, within the 3% plus or minus over the last 100 years.  We periodically have movements who rise in Kalistan saying "Oh, there's so much more crime now."  or "Oh, the economy is collapsing recently..."  The Government's policies have remained unchanged for the most part, and so its not the government's policy which caused any changes, if those changes are real.  If we track the rise of new Parties, who terrorize voters by claiming there is some crisis when there is none, we find that the rise of new Parties corresponds directly with the rise of reports of societal decay.  If I was guessing, I would say that there is a direct causal relationship between the arrival of new Parties and the false reports of mass unemployment, crime and starvation in a country which puts liberty, full employment industrial development and social security at the front of its policy efforts.

I:  Do you see any possibility of working with the Government when the Party sits in Opposition?

C:  Well, we are trying to save ODEN.  There has been some forward movement on that, and some things may have to be compromised to keep it from being totally abolished.  If the Free People's Movement is willing to move toward the status quo there may be some opportunity to work with the Government.  But otherwise-  their entire goal is to undo the Kalistani economy and hand it over to capitalists, regardless of who is hurt by the policies.  Economic dislocation associated with liberalism is always painful, and the pain is always disproportionately born by the lower classes.  As we eliminate the equitable economic arrangement in Kalistan in favor of unlimited personal wealth, that wealth has to come from somewhere.  It always comes from those least able to defend what they have from the powerful.  This is what the Majority wants-  to take the money from the poor and give it to their wealthy clients.  The Socialist Party opposes that arrangement.  We have fought for centuries to prevent that sort of arrangement.  And our job is no different when we are in the Opposition-  We will still oppose the mass transfer of wealth upward that is inherent in liberalism.  The Dual economy is a good compromise between State communism and liberalism-  Ensuring there is no person who does with out, and all who want have plenty.  Liberalism ensures that some people have and some people do not have, that wealth is not evenly spread across the society, and that the society feels no responsibility whatsoever to the health of the society.  As the Right's reforms deepen, they will begin dismantling every protection the people have against rampant sink or swim Laissez Faire  capitalism which is perfectly happy to starve the poor out of existence.  How could we possibly work with Parties who support such a demonic economic system as this?

I:  You recently dispatched the outgoing Foreign Minister to Indrala.  Would you care to brief us on this trip?

C:  Put quickly, Minister Edwards flew to Indrala to begin talks with the Government of the Celestial Empire concerning trade, culture and security in East Selaya.  Over the past century, Kalistan aligned itself with the interests of Trigunia, but in the last few decades, this relationship has faded to nothing.  Indrala makes more sense, given their geographical proximity, commercial and cultural relationship with Kalistan, and mutual security interests in the region.  This is just a preliminary meeting of course.  We will continue to discuss matters of mutual interest.  The President's priorities are to open Kalistan once more.  This is the beginning.  But ultimately, it will be up to the new Government, when they are finally seated, to carry on the mission.

I:  We have heard rumors that the SP will be strengthening the KRSB.  Is there any truth to this?

C:  I have no comment on the KRSB.  We would have more to say on that if the SP was to control the Foreign Ministry when the new government is seated, but we can neither confirm nor deny any rumors.

I:  What about the rumors that the SP intends to run the KRSB under the aegis of the RSMoK?

C:  We have no comment on the KRSB.

The Opposition Leader politely excused herself soon afterward following some pleasantries. 

DISCLAIMER:  This interview has been reviewed by the Office of the Opposition Leader.  Her office opted to redact one question our interviewer asked concerning The President's attitude toward the incoming Majority coalition.  The comment that came with the redaction was "The President aims to remain above the politics of the partisan fight in the Assembly.  We should not presume to speak on the President's behalf, nor should anything we have said be seen as reflecting the President's opinions."

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The Kalistani Free People's Press
Government? What Government?
Turmoil in the National Assembly following the January elctions
by Romoaldo De Vincenzi
Vrassa City, Vrassa
20th June 4056


New KFPM leader James Harrison shakes hands with a foreign delegate during his time as Terra Union President

As people across Kalistan and Ananto turned on their television and radio sets on the morning of the 18th January, the day after the national elections, nobody could possibly have predicted the events that were to follow. Five months later and the previous cabinet still remains in place, with the current proposed government composed entirely of non-Plurality politicians and unlikely to pass through the Assembly. The Socialist Party- by far the oldest party contesting the elections- retained the Presidency and their position as the party with the highest number of seats but with only 276, they were well off the 356 they needed to ensure they could pass normal legislation. The Kalistan Libertarian Party finished second followed closely by the newly renamed Ananto and Kalistan Independence Party and the Kalistani Free People's Movement in a disappointing fourth.

This resulted in an extremely peculiar situation: the KFPM immediately made it clear that they weren't willing to become part of coalition, on the basis that the smallest party shouldn't be involved in the government. The AKIP and KLP were similarly hostile to the Socialists and it soon became apparent a four party cabinet was never going to happen. In response, the new President proposed a coalition of the three non-Communist parties in order to create a cabinet as soon as possible; the KFPM reaffirmed their decision that this was not the democratic will of the Kalistani people. As it stands, the situation is increasingly confusing for all parties.

Meanwhile, all three of the new parties have proposed legislation to liberalise the economy, reform the democratic process and create more accountable governments. Some of this looks likely to pass, whilst some require constitutional change and looks set to be blocked of achieving two-thirds approval by the SPoK. In the midst of this turbulent time for Kalistan, the KFPM has elected its next Leader in James Harrison and he has appointed a new National Executive Committee, containing many of the previous team and a few fresh faces too. We caught up with the new Leader to discuss his party, the current situation in Kalistan and more:

Q(uestioner): The election didn’t go as well as you were hoping for the KFPM, do you think you would have been made leader if it hadn’t been so disappointing?

M(cCafferty): Well firstly, a gain of over 100 seats is good by any standards but I’d be being dishonest if I didn’t admit that I thought we’d be more successful. Would I still be leader if we had done better? I think so, yes. Nobody forced Karen to resign as leader it was a decision she took on her own, she was extremely crucial in helping us make that breakthrough in seats during her time as leader and I thank her for that. Ultimately though, that’s in the past now and I am focused on the future.

Q: Okay, on that note then, why has the KFPM taken the decision not to accept seats in the cabinet?

M: There are a number of reasons and it took a lot of consideration. It’s no secret that we don’t exactly see eye-to-eye with the Socialist Party but there’s also a more fundamental principle behind it too: the party who wins the election should be the party to govern. On top of that, the current constitution states that only the President may propose a cabinet to the Assembly. Obviously we think this is not a fair way of governing, any party should be able to put forward their proposal so part of our objection can be seen as a minor protest against that particular ruling.

Q: You mention the SPoK, recent months have seen a rift develop between the KFPM and the Socialists; what do you put this down to?

M: As you know, elections can often be difficult times for inter-party relations. This wasn’t helped by the Socialist Party’s refusal to support constitutional reform but it comes down to this: when all is said and done the only thing that matters is how each party votes on legislation. Now there are many, many policies of the SPoK which we can never support, but there enormously more that we can support or that we can compromise on. The work we did prior to January proves this. They can dream about the KFPM floating up into the sky and talk about how we’ll never last all they like but it’s just that- talk. We’re here to stay.

Q: What do you make of their claim that the KFPM ‘have no idea what they are talking about’ and that you ‘terrorize voters’?

M: [Laughs]. I believe they accused us of slander in that article too, slightly ironic I suppose. That’s the way that the political game works, we give as good as we get but we’re focused on the issues that face Kalistan. Issues that the SPoK refuses to even accept the existence of.

Q: There have been rumours and mutterings that you were looking to call an early election to increase your seat count in the Assembly, can you comment on this?

M: Something tells me you’re going to make sure I do!

Q: Is that a yes?

M: It’s an option. The way things are at the moment isn’t ideal in terms of seats distribution so the easiest way to fix that is call an early election. At the same time, we don’t want to burden the general public with another vote and even if we were to succeed there's no guarantee we'll end up any better off afterwards. We’ve not made any decision either way yet.

Q: Our last question is about your team. You reshuffled the National Executive Committee almost immediately after becoming leader, can you explain some of the decisions you made?

M: I’ve got a lot of talented, hardworking people around me and I’m confident they can do the job that I brought them in to do.

Q: That's a politicians answer for sure. I'll be specific: what about the choice of Luca Curti- who some have accused of being on the hard left- as Deputy Leader?

M: Luca is a marvelous guy who I have known since my university days.

Q: I sense that is the only answer we're getting. Thank you for your time, Mr Harrison.

M: No problem, I look forward to catching up with you again soon.

Mr Harrison's early time as leader has proven to be a baptism of fire so far and it certainly does show any signs of slowing up just yet.

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Foreign and Trade Ministers Meet Trigunian Envoy in Sulari
Signs important Bilateral Trade and Investment Agreement
Sulari, Suldanor District
May 5, 4056


Foreign Minister Edwards sits down with Trigunian envoys to discuss bilateral economic relations

Despite ongoing internal disagreements about seating a new Government, the Outgoing Foreign and Trade Ministers met with a high level Trigunian legation at Port Elga, in Sulari last week.  The delegation was headed by envoy Kadtsyn Ivanovich, who represented the Trigunian Foreign Ministry.  The Foreign Minister follows up her successful visit to Indrala with this Visit. 

The Ministers and the Representatives of the Trigunian Government held meetings over three days in the tropical port and home to KALNAPECO to discuss various initiatives meant to maintain some of the ties between the two former associates.  The Foreign Minister's Office issued an executive summary of the talks which included:  Discussions on Kalistan's access to international petroleum markets with the aim toward liberalizing policies that currently prevent successful KALNAPECO competition, an increased degree of direct investment by Trigunian investors in Kalistani industry and services, and easing on restrictions of travel, finance and commerce between the two countries.  Many of these issues have served as blocks to Kalistani development and commerce in the Northern Latitudes, and as these restrictions are eased bilaterally, Kalistan can expect a new influx of direct investment in both Kalistani National Firms as well as the Private Sector.

The Foreign Minister added: 

"We appreciate the visit by our Trigunian friends, and especially were quite satisfied to meet the notable Kadtsyn Ivanovich, whose conduct exceeded his reputation, and are happy for this warming in relations.  But we wish to stress:  The package of initiatives offered by the Trigunians in our discussions were meant to strengthen and liberalize economic relations.  The representatives were very sensitive to our efforts to deepen our new relationship with Indrala, and were careful not to suggest restoration of the geo-political association which once dominated Kalistan-Trigunia relations.  We welcome the offers of the Trigunians, and we certainly welcome their willingness to liberalize our economic relationship.  It is a step in a positive direction and will mean new prosperity for both countries."

The foreign Minister expressed interest in returning the visit to Trigunia at some point, but added a bit of a sardonic jab at the President's inability to form a new government, "I will likely be a private citizen before this happens."