New Verham

[Rogue]

Baatrynsentii - In a landslide result, 74% of New Verham voters have approved the adoption of a new constitution that seeks to end democratic backsliding in the country. With a turnout of 62%, the referendum has been determined as valid and all its provisions come into force immediately. The result is seen as a major win for President Berke, who had attached his own position to the results. But even as the new constitution comes into force, it is still unclear if Berke will capitalize on this victory. 

The new system has already put in motion several major shifts in the political landscape. The Social Democratic Union, having performed relatively well in recent years, announced a merger with five provincial socialist and social democratic parties, forming the New Social Democracy party (SHINA). The new party, led by SDU leader Alexander Mergen, seems to have a real shot at a historic result in early polling, helped by Mergen's personal popularity and their promise to push for an end to Conservative/Progressive rule. 

The conservative KAN of Berke itself benefits from the success of the referendum, being seen by many as the party for democracy. But Berke's own reputation as a stale technocrat is hurting his chances as voters are looking for fresh and inspiring leadership that fits the new constitution. The ADK's chances at victory meanwhile are non-existent as voters still associate the party with Anarba and his failed attempts at autocracy. The party is now polling at a miserable 5%, its worst (polling) result since its creation. 

Smaller parties also seem to have a real shot at representation under the new MMP system. LAN (Liberals and Democrats), a breakaway party formed by disgruntled ADK members, is polling at 4% of the vote as many liberal and centrist voters move from the ADK and KAN to the new party. Such a showing would win them at least six seats in Congress. The new Left Bloc, shortened as Züün by its supporters, also has a real shot at participation. The party, popular with a portion of the youth in the capital and Altaai, was formed by former members of the left-wing faction within the People's Action Party. While left-leaning politics has been out of fashion in New Verham for years, the introduction of Züün could reverse that trend, especially if SHINA performs well. 

With the presidency now a elected position the contest for the palace is also closely being watched. Most pollsters seem to agree that there is one clear favourite for the position: former general and president Bor Khasar. Khasar, the first president of the new republic, had largely left politics after his shaky term in office. After the dissolution of the People's Action Party, he refused to join either one of its successor parties thus becoming a independent. The 68 year old has hinted at a possible return into politics if he could serve in a independent capacity. If Khasar decides to run he is likely to win in a landslide, with voters valueing his independent nature and experience in the office. Without Khasar in the picture, the field would become heavily fragmented and would likely face a four way race. 

The "mega-election" is scheduled to be held in three months time as parties scramble to organize their campaigns. 


The referendum results per province, red indicating a majority against and green a majority in favor

TSAAS is a digital only, publicly funded news outlet reporting on news throughout Dovani