Kalistani Major History

[Doc]

Former President Maria Reina-Rodriguez Dies at 71Influential Socialist Leader leaves a mixed legacy
Sulari, Suldanor
October 2, 4466


Reina, affectionately referred to as "Queen Maria" served in Kalistani Politics for more than five decades

First elected to the Assembly at the age of 19, Maria Reina-Rodriguez has led the Socialist Party for 40 years.  But her powerful, heavily accented voice is now silenced.  Her family has confirmed that Comrade Reina, former President of the Republic and Speaker of the Socialist Party died in her sleep last night.  Her Grandson, Jorge Delgado, made the announcement in a brief news conference, saying that Reina had been diagnosed five years with congestive heart failure, and had undergone two outpatient surgeries to attempt to remove plaque from various arteries.  The President had kept a low profile since leaving office, and tried to reduce her work load, but neither wanted to give up her leadership position, nor was asked to by the Party.  "Last night, my grandmother lost her battle with heart congestion, and suffered a massive heart attack which took her life instantly.  We request privacy while my family grieves the loss, and will have news at some point in the future concerning a public memorial, where those who loved her may say good bye to her."

Reina-Rodriguez was especially skilled in economic theory, and moved into the position of Leader of the Party with the fall of Comrade Al-Khali.  During the 4430, Reina served as Premier of the Republic, following Al-Khali's downfall, and then moved into the Presidency when Al-Khali was assassinated.  Comrade Reina served as President of the Republic for 17 years, including the period of One Party Rule, which saw the collapse and recovery of the Kalistani Economy, not once but twice.  Comrade Reina was responsible for Kalistan's part in improving relations between our Republic and the Kingdom of Lourenne, and general prosperity of the Republic.  But her administration was not without controversy.  Under Reina, Kalistan's commitment to democracy was seriously questioned, as the SP under Reina instituted measures from preventing ephemeral Parties from participating in Kalistan.  Those restrictions were eventually rolled back, and the restoration of democracy led to successive Rightist Administrations, though Reina has ensured that SP ministers remain in the Government.

Reina leaves behind a Kalistan in the firm grips of an inexplicable Rightist Majority.  Her lasting legacy will be the dramatic development of Kalistan's Private Sector, especially in the technology, automotive, and financial sectors.  She is survived by her husband, Jorge Jones, one daughter, Denise Delgado-Reina, and three grandchildren.  Reina will be buried in Sulari, where she has made her home in the past decade.