Luthori

[Ligbruderkrieg]

Luthorian Prime Minister to make first state visit in Etxea, cementing ties existing between both states.

October 5630

Fort William, Luthori - Communications from the Office of the Prime Minister alongside those of the Office of the President of Kundrati are both confirming that the first state visit that the new Luthorian Prime Minister, Olivia Hall would be in Etxea, also known as the Kundrati Union. Prime Minister Hall's decision about her first diplomatic steps as Prime Minister seems to have been carefully prepared by the Foreign Office and her Government.

With Kundrati being the first country that she will visit in her tenure, it seems that the nation hold a special place for the Luthorians - who only two decades before, were dying in droves to liberate this piece of land frol fascist oppression. Ever since Etxea's liberation, the Kundrati Government-in-Exile on the island repeatedly stated that the Liberation of Kundrati was only "within an arm's reach", as the illegitimate fascist regime was crumbling before its catastrophic defeat at the hands of the Luthorians.

The Prime Minister will be travelling in Etxea to reassure the existing bonds between the two states and create a "...new, beneficial security and economic partnership..." between Luthori and Etxea. It seems that Hall's vision for an increased partnership under the guise and motto of "co-prosperity", where Luthori and Etxea would cooperate together to work towards a more prosperous future between the two states comes with an increased militarisation effort by both states, by increasing the number of Luthorian troops present on the territory through a defence agreement and by extending collaboration between the Kundrati Armed Forces and their Luthorian counterparts.

Of course, all of these measures should be enacted in face of a resurgent, although still crippled illegitimate state at the north of the island. Prime Minister Hall has repeatedly called for an "increase" in the "...anti-fascist struggle..." of the Luthorian Empire and these should come through the form of an "escalation" of the already abhorrent relations between Etxea and Continental Kundrati through a emphasis on the defence of the island, Mrs. Hall defending this argument stating that "...those who think that the fascists in the Continent aren't going to attack Etxea in any date are fools, the fascists, with their rescent emphasis on military buildup seems more than eager at reconquering the Island, and it is Luthori's duty at defending the Free Zone, regardless of the cost that this may bring to our fair nation...".

Luthori's invasion of Etxea culminated in the deaths of 31.254 Luthorian and Commonwealth troops, while 84.215 troops were injured, or incapacitated in some form, bringing the total number of casualties at 115.469 troops. The Prime Minister's hawkish view on the conflict with Kundrati has been surprisingly backed by most if not all, even by pacifist organisations, with the "World Organisation for the End of War" (WOEW), a non-government organisation aiming at stopping the outbreak of wars around the world and focusing on humanitarian relief missions calling a war against the "Legionary State of Kundrati", "...completely unfortunate, although inevitable in view of the suffering of the people of Kundrati under their oppressive government..."

In Parliament, the acting Shadow Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Pat Holmes stated that "...the Official Opposition stand with His Majesty's Government on the matter of Etxean relations and defence strengthening...", also adding that the "disease" known as fascism wasn't rooted out of the Artanian continent, allowing other nations such as Rutania to fall under its grip. Prime Minister Hall has expressed "great hopes" about her meeting with Kundrati President Nero, whom she is going to meet during her visit on the island. Discussions between the head of government and the head of state is likely going to focus on an increased partnership in economic and military matters, with Fort William pushing for the organisation of joint military exercises between the two states.

The signature of future contracts on military equipment and industrial products hasn't been ruled out by either parties, with an increase in bilateral economic relations being welcomed by both sides as a net positive that could come up from this visit. Luthori's Pan-Artanian policies might be up to discussion with the Etxeans, as the Foreign Secretary seems to have increased efforts towards creating a "...pan-Artanian platform where trade and economic ties between nations in the continent would be normalised and harmonised...", in other terms, another wider, continent-spanning economic partnership.

Mrs. Hall's visit to the island is expected to be followed up by a visit to both the Kingdom of Hutori and the Commonwealth of Mordusia, where ties with both Commonwealth states are expected to be strengthened, especially in light of the recent Kundrati ICBM incident.

@TheWeeklyTelegraph

[Ligbruderkrieg]

Foreign Office condemns attempted coup in Deltaria; calls for restraint from all sides.
October 5630



Fort William - Following reports from Deltarian media that rogue military forces of the Deltarian Armed Forces had attempted to force a change of governance through force, the Luthorian Foreign Office had released a small statement "..encouraging all sides to come to a peaceful solution..", as fears appeared about Deltaria's possible collapse in the next years. After relative silence from Luthori and the international community, the Luthorian Foreign Office has followed its previous statement on the question with a more sharp and intense condemnation of the attempted coup d'état.

Foreign office officials stated to the Evening Post that "...the attempted coup comes at a great risk of disturbing Deltaria's governance..." and that the Luthorian Government had "...as of now, no confidence at all at Deltarian official statement that 'order had been restored in the capital'...". A Foreign Office spokesperson stated that Luthori "...was carefully monitoring the situation..." and had already notified the Commonwealth of the "...impending worrying situation in the Augustan Empire of Deltaria..." and has advised the tenure of an emergency meeting of the Commonwealth's heads of governments to deal with the threat.

While Fort William has been cautious with this statement, the Luthorian Government could hide its contempt for Deltarian absolutist rule, with the Foreign Secretary himself stating to his entourage that the Deltarian situation "...was a powerdkeg claiming to be a giant, but whose artificial national sentiment around its monarch will surely doom...", in the Foreign Office, while passing short of condemning the Deltarian Government, some Foreign Office officials came to our newspaper stating that "...Deltarian autocracy will bring the southern half of Majatra into chaos, if allowed to continue ruling as if nothing happened...". State Secretary for Majatra denied allegations that Luthori would be planning on sanctionning the Deltarian regime stating that "...a continuation of the pre-coup diplomatic relations..." was the favourable outcome favoured here in Fort William.

The Prime Minister's Office only hinted towards a mild condemnation of the coup attempt and a hope towards a "restoration of an effective stable situation" in the nation. Meanwhile, faced with the deteriorating security situation in the nation, Bismarck Palace has indicated withdrawing 25 % of Luthorian consulate staffs operating in Deltaria. The Government also proceeded to announce that travels from Luthori to Deltaria would be, until further announcement, discouraged by the Foreign Office under the principle of the "Orange Protocols", a ranked list of nations deemed "unsafe" for the average Luthorian. Deltaria was among the lowest ranked in the list, due to its relative stability, but the Government raised the alert to the minimum "Level 4", in which the Foreign Office discouraged, but didn't forbid travels between the two countries, it also allowed embassy and consulate staffs to take on, more effectively, demands for repatriation from Luthorians.

In Fort William, tonight, the Government continues to vow for peace in Deltaria, although, anyone can safely ask, will it last?

@TheLuthorianGuardian

[Ligbruderkrieg]

Luthori blacklists KLF and IDF as terrorist groups; Prime Minister to meet with New Englian Premier.
January 5631

Fort William - Two months after the disastrous operation against the Inglian Defence Force, the New Englian Defence Forces have been put through a serious test of their resillience and combat abilities, as independent reports from the New Englian-based Public Record and the Luthorian-based International Press Corps states that combats between government forces and the IDF forces have been more common, with the New Englian capital of Lonmouth being targeted by either terrorist attacks or sparse fighting between the militia and the Government. Here in Fort William, the Luthorian Government under the new policy of the Rodgers administration has stated its "...unwavering support for the legitimate and democratically-elected New Englian Government...", a policy expected to continue under the Hall administration.

Today, Prime Minister Hall and her government seems to have confirmed these expectations, with the Luthorian Government communicating on the "deteriorating security issues in New Englia". The announcements from the Luthorian Government were focused around the security of Luthorians in New Englia and the stability of the nation, which seems to be slipping further away from the its once-enjoyed stability. Home Secretary Theodore McGil stated that the "...terrorist groups rampaging New Englia have been labelled as such...", announcing that both groups have been classified as terrorist groups by Luthori.

This announcement from the Luthorian Government, recognising the terrorist nature of both of these groups, further solidfy Luthori's already long support for the New Englian Government, a position that is expected to be even more pointed out as with the New Englian Prime Minister's visit of Luthori. Prime Minister Hall has officially invited "..in the Emperor's name..", the New Englian statesman to a "...friendly visit..." of the Luthorian Empire. The Prime Minister's Office states that the visit from the New Englian Premier is meant to "...reassure the ties existing between Luthori and New Englia and foster a new, developing and truthful relationship from now on...", Mr. MacGannon will be received by the Emperor in the Orange Palace and will then meet with Luthorian politicians, military commanders at the Citadel and finally, meet with the Luthorian Prime Minister to discuss terms.

One key component of the meeting according to sources will be Luthori's support for the New Englian Defence Forces, that is expected to rise to new levels due to the ongoing deteriorating military situation in the nation. The Luthorian Government stated its willingness to give away weapons which could be then used by the New Englians as a mean to strengthen their armed forces and help defeat the insurgency. Prime Minister Hall, through her office, also stated Luthori's willingness to "...intervene more directly in the conflict...", stating Luthori's "...moral duty..." to defend "...all Luthorian-speaking states from instability...". This increased intervention is likely going to come through the means of the "Legion of Dove", a volunteer force aimed at helping the New Englians to defend their nation. This "Legion of Volonteers" has been trained and formed by the Imperial Luthorian Army and is currently "...ready...", according to the Citadel to come at New Englia's rescue, alongside 3 regiments of the Luthorian Marines and Army.

Other than these announcements, the Luthorians also announced that the security level of New Englia would be raised at "Level 2", with Fort William forbidding Luthorian planes to carry Luthorian or foreign passengers to New Englia, alongside "advising" commercial planes to avoid the area due to "security fears" from Fort William. By the fact that the security level has been raised to Level 2, Luthori also forbids its nationals from going to New Englia, except if "absolutely necessary" or if they carry a exemption signed by the Foreign Office, such exemptions could be given to journalists covering the conflict or humanitarian workers.

Speaking of humanitarian workers, the Orange Cross announced that humanitarian works are going to begin "immediately" in New Englia, with tons of Luthorian supplies already making their way into the country to "...alleviate..." the New Englian people's suffering. Commonwealth Secretary-General has also stated that an "emergency" meeting of the Council of Ambassadors and the Prime Ministers is going to be held to draw a common response to the New Englian situation. Prime Minister MacGannon should be invited to talk at the meeting, although this hasn't been confirmed yet.

[Ligbruderkrieg]

4 years ago; Empress Katherine died at 94 years old and Richard became Emperor.

March 5631

Fort William, Luthori - The death and ascension of a monarch isn't something that is widely seen in Luthori, indeed as the nation's last succession was 39 years ago, with Katherine ascending the Throne after her mother, Empress Audrey abdicated the Throne in her favour. Yet, this piece is meant to remember the memory of one of Luthori's most beloved sovereigns and to commemorate the ascension of Emperor Richard II to the Luthorian and Mordusian thrones, so an detailed account of these days that changed Luthori's royal history will be established here.

On October 23rd, 5627, the Palace notified that the Empress was in "constant medical supervision" after having fell from the stairs on the 20th, nailing the elderly monarch to her chambers within the Orange Palace and requiring the Sovereign to be placed under constant medical supervision to oversee her recovery. Of course, this fall was already known of the public, so the announcement haven't sent shockwaves through medias like it did on the 20th. Although, already then, the Luthorian Prime Minister, Matilda Brakenbrooke and the Prince of Orange, Richard, had both been warned that the monarch's health condition was "quickly deteriorating" and that "Operation Silent Rooster should be placed in high alert level". Operation Silent Rooster is the codename for the operation which tackled the monarch's funeral ceremony and succession proceedings.

At 3.29 PM, Parliament was adjourned in an impromptu manner by the Speaker of the Chamber of Representatives, Betty Graham and at 5.32 PM by the Speaker of the Senate, Lord Abraham. The Palace released a statement confirming fears of many in the Luthorian public, the Empress' health was slowly but surely failing her, yet the tone was optimistic about the chances of the 94-year-old monarch to be able to overcome her fall and be able to resume her duties as monarch in the next few days. The media such as the Luthorian Broadcasting Corporation, Channel 7 and other televised news outlets were given instructions to continue broadcasting their programs as usual, with LBC 3 broadcasting a comedy event hosted by Bryan Cramburn, Channel 7 continuing their broadcast of the Athleticism World Championships and so on.

At 4 o'clock, as the Elswith Tower struck the fourth hour of the afternoon, the LBC Radio broadcast of Thomas Phelby, a criminologist inquiring about a grim and fatal rendezvous of a prostitute with her lover, culminating in both lovebirds' murder was suddenly interrupted by a radio broadcast from the news anchor, Tom Burn (who would later appear on all of LBC's broadcasting channels) to state that Her Majesty's health condition had deteriorated and that the Palace stated that the monarch would "temporarily invest the powers of the monarch upon her grandson", with a Regency Proclamation and a Regency Act, if this situation become permanent (as a long-term regency needs to be approved of by Parliament with the passage of a Regency Bill which is introduced by the Prime Minister).

At 4.12 pm, the Prime Minister was informed in complete secrecy that the monarch had died, according to special archives relating to the Empress' death. Her daughter, Princess and Grand Duchess Victoria, mother of Prince Richard, signed the death certificate stating that her mother's death was caused by a "cardio-vascular accident". Prime Minister Brakenbrooke then informed the entire Cabinet of this development through a secret and unplanned cabinet video meeting. At 4.39 PM, the International Press Corps released a dispatch for all world's newspaper to use.

Fort William (IPC) | 26/10/5627 - 16:39:21 (UTC-8) | Empress Katherine has died at 94 years of age, Orange Palace says.

Immediately after this statement, the LBC, as the state-owned television and radio broadcasting organisation was given the go-ahead by the Imperial Government to announce the demise of the Crown on live television, as per with the provisions of Operation Silent Rooster, all programs broadcasted at any LBC broadcasting networks were instantly interrupted with a live address from Fort William announcing that Her Majesty, the Empress had died peacefully after a 36 year-long reign over her realms of Luthori and Mordusia. Prime Minister Brakenbrooke addressed the nation from 10 Crown Street announcing a state of national mourning in Luthori for the next 2 weeks (until 9/11/5627), during which, for the first few days, all non-essential activities would be suspended. The Bank of Luthori, the Fort William Stock Exchange and financial institutions were closed for the remainder of the day and for the following day.

Prince Richard was, as per with the Succession to the Throne (Amendment) Act, 5625, which included his recognition as the heir to the Luthorian throne and his ascension as Prince of Orange, succeeded his grandmother as Emperor. The Emperor's reigning name choice was communicated at 5:04 pm, as it'll be known that the Emperor chose to continue carrying his birth name, Richard as Sovereign, becoming Emperor Richard II.

While respecting imperial traditions about the monarch's name, Prince Richard also broke with a taboo existing within the Luthorian monarchy ever since the death of Richard I, the legendary Emperor who disappeared while reigning, early modern sources state that the Emperor went upon a "noble crusade", although modern historians tend to debate this point of view, pointing out that crusades were not the norm during the 22nd century.

After the proclamation of the mourning period, the late monarch's coffin was laid-in-state at the Orange Palace, remaining there for the next five days before being transferred to Darlington Hall, where a public lying-in-state ceremony would be held for the following 8 days after the monarch's demise. The Emperor, who was remaining in his residence of Hebergton Palace went immediately to the Orange Palace to mourn the death of his grandmother. He met the Prime Minister, Matilda Brakenbrooke, at 6:24 pm and for a 30-minute long audience before she left at 7 pm.

Emperor Richard addressed the nation at 8 pm, where he expressed his "sorrow" and "sadness" at his grandmother's passing, praising her "diligent" service towards the Realm and vowed that his life, as was his grandmother's and great-grandmother's lives will be dedicated at the "service of the Empire and of its many peoples", the monarch's address to the nation was overall well received by the public, with polls stating that Emperor Richard was, at that time, sitting at an 89 % popularity rate. The Emperor, immediately after his speech, attended a church service at the St-Richard Cathedral, alongside members of the Imperial Family.

A few days after the death of Empress Katherine, her coffin was laid-in-state at Darlington Palace's Darlington Hall, where for the next 5 days, the coffin would be available for mourners to mourn the deceased monarch. According to the Fort William Police Department and the Government, over 180.000 people paid their respects to the Empress at Darlington Hall with the waiting line being filled by people during the five days of the event. Foreign representatives and stars were also perceived paying their respects, alongside parliamentary members or Cabinet ministers. The Orange Palace sent out invitations to every state with whom Luthori conducts diplomatic relations to send a representatives to Katherine's funeral, with the notable exception of Legionary Kundrati and Rutania, with whom Luthori broke diplomatic relations ever since their embracement of fascist ideology.

Notable foreign representatives that were present at the Empress' funeral were mostly royal figures, such as the King of Egelion, the King and Kaiser of Dorvik, the Hutorian Prince of Adelia, reprsenting his father and finally, Istalian Crown Prince, representing the Emperor. Alongside these, the Davostager President, Kundrati President, Xsampan Premier and Beluzian President were also present, alongside an envoy of the Emperor of Kalistan. The Mordusian Prime Minister and Governor-General were also present as well.

[Ligbruderkrieg]

Luthorian "Legion of Dove" joined by Kundrati soldiers, aims to be an international fighting force as Commonwealth assembles
April 5631



Fort William - The "Legion of Dove", a name not even known from the wider public until a government spokesperson publicly acknowledged its existence in recent months. But, some in Luthori wonders: "What is the Legion of Dove?", well to answer such interrogation, the Legion of Dove, named after Christopher Dove, the Luthorian navigator who "discovered" Dovani in the 15th century and whose name still named the continent of Dovani to this day, is a volunteer force composed primarily of men and women from the Luthorian-speaking world which aim is to help the New Englian Government to secure victory against the rebels.

Formed in 5628, the Legion's original aim was to protect "...the last breath of democracy..." in Etxea and planning had already begun alongside the Kundrati Government for the deployment of such forces on the island, alongside the announced reinforcements which were confirmed by the Kundrati President during the Prime Minister's visit. While plans were continued to be drafted for such eventuality, the New Englian situation continued to deteriorate, with the Inglian Defence Forces now menacing Lonmouth, New Englia's capital. Due to this, the focus of the Legion has been reshifted, towards Dovani. Where, from 5630, in a limited capacity at first due to Luthori's political crisis under Prime Minister Rodgers, they begun involving themselves in the New Englian conflict.

Today, due to Luthori's ongoing escalation of their support for New Englia, over 1.000 troops affilated with the Legion are serving in New Englia under the command of the New Englian Defence Force (NEDF), New Englia's armed forces. The Luthorian Defence Staff stated that the "objective maintained" was that 20.000 men and women serve under the Legion of Dove and actively takes part into combat or serve in non-combat roles in New Englia. For now, the Legion of Dove is composed of approximately 12.000 servicemen and servicewomen. Their profiles are heterogeneous, as many "soldiers" of the Legion have been civilians in many Commonwealth or Luthorian-speaking states, with a majority of them coming from Luthori, some were even serving in their respective nations' armed forces before retiring and joining the Legion to "fight against fascism worldwide".

Secretary of State for Defence Pamnell stated that the Legion's activities "...would be strictly monitored by the New Englians and Luthorians...", as to avoid any form of incident. Alongside a quarter of the Legion that is going to be sent in New Englia throughout the months of April, May and June, accordingly 3.000 men assembled in 3 batallions of the Legion, under the command of three Lieutenants-Colonel, which were formerly in the Imperial Luthorian Army, but eventually retired from their position within the Luthorian Armed Forces after years of a constant and loyal service to the Crown. Meanwhile, further deployments will be discussed with Commonwealth partners in Bekenial and Randworth, during an emergency Commonwealth conference which has been called by the Secretary-General of the organisation.

The Luthorians, Hutorians and Mordusians have considered, in their own ways, to send official military regiments to New Englia to assist the Government to fight off the insurgents, not unlike the manner that Egelion intervened recently. For now, the Luthorians haven't ruled out the possibility of sending military forces in an official capacity, although they've stated that Luthori would "wait" until "...further confirmation of an increased engagement from the Commonwealth and her allies..." to commit official and active troops to the theatre of operations. Prime Minister Hall stated that "...Luthori's priority is the reaffirmation of the New Englians' right to democratically elect their leader without the fear of ethnic violence at the hands of terrorist organisations such as the IDF and KLF..."

Discussions between heads of governments about what statue to give to the so-called "Legion of Dove" should be, at least from our understanding, tackled. Meanwhile, in an effort to coordinate international efforts towards New Englia, the Luthorian Prime Minister convened her Beluzian counterpart to a meeting in Fort William to engage talks about the way that "...both of the countries' [Luthori and Beluzia] efforts could be integrated into a common framework...", so as to avoid complications in both nations' aid package to the Dovanian nation-state.

Parliament recently passed, under Labour and the Greens' commanding majority in the Chamber, the New Englian (Relief) Act, 5631, streamlining humanitarian support for New Englia to be about the "emergency" deliver of food, medical supplies such as drugs, clothes, hospital material and so on, such as beginning the long reconstruction of the nation. As of now, the Orange Cross, Luthori's largest humanitarian organisation has reported over £578 millions in donations for New Englia coming from Luthori, with the Emperor himself donating £27.4 millions to the charity cause. The Luthorian Government and the Commonwealth are also expected to bring more financial and humanitarian support to New Englia, with the former having blocked over £300 millions in aid and the latter deciding in its conference.

[Ligbruderkrieg]

Premier and military officials confirms 'retaliatory' missile strikes on Kundrati's illegitimate government.

March 5634

Fort William - In the aftermath of the devastating attacks upon Kundrati's soil, the Luthorian Government assembled under the Imperial Defence Committee, a select committee composed of the Prime Minister, the Defence Secretary, the Home Secretary, the heads of Luthori's intelligence agencies, the heads of Luthori's armed forces and, in some extreme cases, the monarch himself, but in most cases he's represented by either a member of the Imperial Family, or in more usual situation, by the Secretary of State for the Imperial Household. Yesterday during the last meeting of the so-called 'Imperial War Cabinet', it was Lord Rockingham, Secretary of State for the Imperial Household that was representing the monarch during this emergency and unprepared meeting.

The Luthorian Government's officials, assembled around the figure of the Prime Minister, Olivia Hall, came to a common decision that was, according to intelligence services, was communicated to the Kundrati Government-in-Exile's authorities in the following hours.

The public would only know of the Imperial Defence Committee's decision on the next morning, with the Prime Minister confirming reports from the Luthorian press that missiles of the Luthorian Armed Forces have been reported to fly off from their respective bases, most media sources pointing out that these missiles were likely going north, towards the Legionary-occupied Kundrati territory. The Prime Minister was summoned to answer to the Chamber of Representatives' interrogations about this unexpected missile takeoff. Mrs. Hall's declaration to assembled House was that "...the full might of the Luthorian Armed Forces was being sent out, in retaliation to the cowardly attacks that Etxea had to face, towards the occupied and unliberated territories north of the island." 

That last part was of course directed towards the Legionary Government with whom Luthori remains in a state of war in the aftermath of the Etxean War in the 5610s, even if the Government continues to consider the government in the formerly Kasaema as illegitimate, and only described its state of war against Kundrati as being an "Emergency" or as "Troubles", even though these "Troubles" could bring devastating effects upon Luthori's soil. The Cabinet assembled today upon request from the Prime Minister discussed potential retaliatory strikes coming from Kundrati upon Fort William or any other Luthorian cities and measures that should be imposed in case of such attack.

Even with this threats, the Prime Minister tried to reassure the Luthorian populace stating that "...we have full confidence upon our security apparatus to defend Luthori from any strikes from the illegitimate state..." The Defence Office has communicated on the strikes that have been observed, mostly towards the region of Jilldrath, close to the Etxean island and to the capital city formerly known as Kasaema, now renamed by the Legionaries as "Legionaria" as a testament to their obvious unacheivable dreams of grandeur and one towards their absolute pitful state as of now. Chief of the Air Staff (Head of the Air Force), Gen. Clark confirmed that "all targets" that were chosen by the Imperial Defence Committee had been "successfully reached".

Radio Free Terra, based in Luthori, communicated through its Kundrati broadcasts that "...a signal of terror was given to the illegimate Legionary Government still sitting in power, and that message was clear, the Free World would not leave you at peace until you release the Kundrati people from your tyrannical yoke, until then, strikes would continue until Kundrati rejoins us all [the international community] as a free nation at last..."

The Conservative opposition's reaction remains muted, which is considered 'normal' as the Hall ministry's policy doesn't differ too much from the Rodgers ministry's policy in regards to Kundrati, in some ways, it even increase dramatically Luthori's commitment towards the defence of Etxea's sovereignty and freedoms. Opposition Leader Weston's only react to the news was a congratulatory statement in the Senate that was carried over through the Shadow Leader of the Senate as he, for his part, remains in the hospital after a car crash that cost the life of Mr. Weston's wife and in which his sister remains in a fight between life and death.

Prime Minister Hall's cabinet also announced 'emergency' humanitarian goods to be sent towards Etxea in the wake of the catastrophe, alongside a emergency aid package of £9 million with Foreign Secretary Lam announcing on social media that she would visit Etxea to "...meet out with the survivors and the victim's families, alongside reaffirming our commitment to Etxea's sovereignty after this shameful and dazzling with cruelty attack..."

[Ligbruderkrieg]

Senate Elections 5634 - Disappointing night for Hall's National Labour but Govt secures Senate majority.
April 5634



Fort William - It was always going to be a disappointing night for Premier Hall's National Labour, after the unexpected Conservative victories in the last Provincial general election in Erneshire and Northriding, producing majorities hostile to Hall's government after polls and pundits predicted a close, yet expected Labour majority in all 5 provinces and in Fort William. Yet, it was not to be, Fort William, Northriding and Erneshire remained firmly aligned with the Tories-aligned political parties in these respective areas and although Orange, Middenriding and Shipleyriding either conserved their existing Labour majorities or their elections produced a working majority for the party; but due to this, the vote for the Senate representatives was already predicted to be far more close than first expected.

Yesterday, the results from the provincial legislatures was declared public, and as expected, while the National Labour Party secured a majority in the Senate, it was still a close call, far from the wild prediction that were made. The National Labour Party secured 214 seats out of the 500 seats in the Senate, and that is counting all members of the Senate, hereditary or not. Labour secured their seats from the votes of the different Senatorial elections held in the provinces, as out of 500 seats, 50 are held by hereditary peers as per with the Senate Act. Prime Minister Hall described the results as being "..disappointing.." for the cabinet, who nonetheless, secured a majority of seats thanks to the Greens' strong performance with their 54 seats won. Senate Majority Leader (Leader of the Senate), Tom Shanks (Greens) is expected to be confirmed in his position by the Prime Minister after a lackluster performance of her own party compared to the Greens' over performing their expected results.

This brings the Labour-Green coalition government to a tenuous situation in the upper house, having only secured a small majority compared to their decent margin in the Chamber of Representatives, the Leader of the Senate described the situation as being "...complicated...", as these eight senators over whom the Government is depend into for passing their agenda are among the right-leaning hereditary senators, more aligned with the doctrine of "Luthorian liberalism", than with the Government's policy. Although, of course, due to the Government's comfortable majority in the First Chamber (Chamber of Representatives), the administration's agenda is still ongoing without much difficulties, except maybe in the Second Chamber (Senate).

The Conservative Party retained a sizeable group in the Senate, securing 159 seats out of the 450 available, this strong performance from the Official Opposition is considered to be a sign of the public's apparent "fatigue" with Hall's leadership of the nation. Opposition Leader Reginald Weston stated that "...while the results is disappointing for us, it is nonetheless a strong message addressed to Mrs. Hall's government. The Luthorian people's message is clear and we at the Conservative Party shall continue to fight for that their message is heard all the way up to Crown Street...", meanwhile other opposition parties such as the Moderates or the Hosian Democratic Alternative or the Liberal Party won 31, 8 and 42 seats respectively, a strong showing from all three parties, except the HDA, when considering their position within the Chamber of Representatives.

After failing to win the Senate by a decent margin, and amid concerns about Luthori's security in the aftermath of rocket attacks from Kundrati, Prime Minister Hall's leadership has been called unto question, with Labour MP Tom Hopes declaring to the LBC that "...the Prime Minister isn't capable of assuring the Luthorian people's safety, now our people live in fear of another attack, I would dare to say that maybe the Party and the Nation needs another captain at its helm to face off threats coming from the exterior and from within..." Mr. Hopes' comments were criticized by his own camp, with the National Labour Party's chairman, Pamela Emery stating that the "...Party remained completely loyal to the Prime Minister and her agenda and that no plans were currently in discussion for a change in leadership...", criticising those who ferment the idea as being "...stupid...".

The Prime Minister's Office released a congratulatory statement in regards to the recent Senate election, with the Imperial Electoral Commission reporting "no frauds at the national level", although also reporting some "irregularities" and "issues" about the poll in some localised areas, although the Commission stated that "local legislatures already took notice of the vote and enacted the necessary measures as such", referring to the Speaker of the Northriding Assembly's decision to recall the election to "combat potential fraud".

[Ligbruderkrieg]

Hall Government pushes for Senate Appointment Reform amid challenges.
August 5634



Fort William - The Prime Minister, in the aftermath of a crippling electoral disappointment seemed to have made the cause of Senate reform her new political battle. Indeed, after losing to effectively secure the upper house for her party, having to rely on the support of the many independent members of the Senate, as is customary for every single government, the Prime Minister's ability to effectively navigate the waters of Senatorial negotiations had been nonetheless greatly reduced due to this election loss. Nevertheless, Mrs. Hall today took to the forefront of the Chamber of Representatives, the so-called "necessity" of Senatorial appointment reform and electoral reform. The Prime Minister, who first campaigned for the either the total abolition or the reform of the Senate, seems to have moderated a lot from her opposition days.

It is, nonetheless, remarked to be mostly a political play by Mrs. Hall's cabinet to remain in office, while disgruntled voices begun to rise within the National Labour Party demanding the PM's resignation before the 5635 election. Mrs. Hall remarked in response to these critics that she was "...a fighter and not a quitter...", signalling her wish to remain as party leader and lead her party towards an electoral victory in August. Hall remains a popular figure among voters, with an approval rating of 41 % and her influence within the Party only increased due to the landslide victory that Labour was able to inflict to former Prime Minister Rodgers' Conservatives back in 5630.

The Prime Minister stated the "...utmost importance [for the Chamber] to look into the possibility of acheiving greater citizens' representation within the upper house...", joining arguments coming from the left-wing of her Party and her coalition partners in the Greens, alongside tatting into the argument of the Radical Democratic Group. Hall's "seduction operation" towards her left flank hasn't gone unnoticed, as political pundits call her move to be "...in desperation...", according to Times analyst Thomas Moore in an editorial, in his think-piece, he remarked that the "greatest threat to the Prime Minister's authority" came from her left, not from her right flank, where lawmakers seems quite pleased with the direction of the Government.

"The State can't be run by an unelected house, or at the very least, the citizens of this nation can't have the power to elect one house of Parliament out of two...", reasoned the Prime Minister, although, it should be noted that the Senate is elected through the legislatures of Luthori's four Grand Duchies (Erneshire, Northriding, Shipleyriding and Middenriding), the Principality of Orange and finally, the Autonomous City of Fort William. Out of the 592 sitting senators, an average of 300 senators have been directly elected by the devolved legislatures. Meaning that, for each provinces of the Empire, 50 Senators are elected through its legislature. Already, in the provincial sphere, Premiers have already criticised the Prime Minister's declaration, with Orange Premier, Mark Tyney stating that the Prime Minister "...would wish to effectively centralise more power in the Fort William administration than it is now...", although, Labour-aligned Premiers, such as the Northriding Premier, Sonja Taku, took a more opened approach, stating that "...negotiations between the Federal government and the provinces would need to happen to come up with an agreeable compromise framework for Senate reform for all..."

The Opposition criticised Mrs. Hall for "...putting the delicate balance of powers of Luthori's institutions under threat...", with Senate Minority Leader, The Lord True of Beaconsfield leading a vote of disapproval of the Prime Minister's statements in the Senate, with many independents rallying to the vote, some Labour Senators even joined the vote in protest, in defiance of the Senate Majority Leader, Tom Shanks and the Government Senate Whip, The Lord Shamfeld of Pottlefield's statements on "breaking party line", with the former threatening censure from the Parliamentary Party and the latter, downright exclusion from the Parliamentary Party. Nonetheless, no Labour senators having voted in favour of the motion came out in favour of it in public. An hopeful sign for the Government, all things considered.

It remains to be seen whether or not the Prime Minister will actually carry on with her controversial Senate plans, as much of the population is currently concerned with other matters than the touchy subject, at least politically, of Senatorial reform.

@TheWeeklyTelegraph

[Ligbruderkrieg]

Luthori announces 'sharp condemnation' of Legionary-Kalistani deal; Hall: "Kalistan chose the road of shameful dishonor..."
September 5634



Fort William - Following announcements from Kalistan that the nation was considering to '..reach a settlement with the Legionary Government..", the Luthorian reaction was that of muted silence, it was considered impossible that an agreement between Kalistan and Kundrati to be reached, but, amid recent proclamations from the Legionary media and subsequent approval of such statements from the Kalistani press, Luthori's reaction shifted towards anger. The Prime Minister, immediately after the announcement from Legionnary state media, convened a meeting of the Imperial Defence Committee to ensure the establishment of a common and swift Luthorian response. After two hours of deliberation, the statement coming from 10 Crown Street was quite clear in its intent.

His Majesty's Government condemns with vigour, the deal reached in Hutori between the Government of Kalistan and the illegitimate authorities representing the Legionary Government.

His Majesty's Government expresses worry that the agreement reached would further jeopardise Artanian and world security by allowing a terrorist regime, such as the one in mainland Kundrati to continue operating.

His Majesty's Government remains committed to the destruction of Kundrati and worldwide fascism and that deal do not change the position of His Majesty's Government.

Immediately after the publication of that statement, the Prime Minister held a press conference to discuss the possible ramifications of the settlement reached between the Mainland Kundrati authorities and the Kalistani Government. Mrs. Hall stated her "...profound disappointment with the road that Kalistan chose to take...", remaining hopeful that this settlement wasn't a "...recognition of Kundrati fascist authorities, hopefully...", she moreover stated that "...the impacts of the end of the embargo and the humanitarian aid towards Kundrati remains to be seen, and while the latter is a noble and recognisable undertaking, it remains a way for the Kundrati regime to solidify its grip upon its population...", the Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary were then interrogated on the possible termination of embargoes around the World, with Mr. Byner, the Foreign Secretary stating that "...further alteration of some countries' relationship in regards to the illegitimate government of the Kundrati mainland are to be expected, especially in the Anantonese Empire..."

Prime Minister Hall meanwhile, reassured the fact that the embargo put on all Luthorian and Commonwealth goods towards Kundrati was still in effect and that "...there was plans for Luthori to drop its embargo or to reach a settlement with the illegitimate Kundrati government...", the Imperial Defence Committee having come to an understanding in that effect. Prime Minister Hall further condemned the Kalistani action, stating that "...pressure on criminal regimes shouldn't be reduced for the sake of 'usefulness' or for 'getting out of Artania', Kalistan had the choice between dishonour and the continuation of their struggle against fascism, they chose dishonour. Consequences will follow...", Fort William also cast doubts on the Kundrati WMDs program, which has been made public by Kundrati state media, the Prime Minister stating that "...the total dismantlement of Kundrati's nuclear, biological and chemical weapons are pure fantasy, and it surprises me that anyone would believe the Legion on this matter..."

The Secretary of State for Defence stated the "...sole fact that Kundrati was purusing development of these types of weapons makes for an obvious breach of international law, and is ground for an intervention, but alas...", he meanwhile reassured on the current position of Luthori's armed forces, which were in full alert since the Kundrati missile attack on Luthorian soil. Regardless, it is a bad day for the Free World as the criminal regime in former Kasaema seems to be given relief from its greatest opponents.

@TheLuthorianGuardian

[Ligbruderkrieg]

Government confirms "likely" completion of Habeck Plan by 5640; a look into Luthori's "New Towns".
September 5634



FORT WILLIAM - Ever since the MacGregor administration announced an ambitious plan for the construction of (at least) 1 million new homes throughout the territory of the Empire, enthusiasm for the scheme was widespread, with both the National Labour Party and the Conservatives commending the Prime Minister for his "...effective and down-to-earth solution..." to the housing crisis, although Labour wanted to announce a freeze in all rents when the plan was announced, nevertheless, the plan, due to its widespread cross-partisan appeal, was continued by the Brakenbrooke, Rodgers and Hall ministries, with each promising to see this plan come to a close during their respective terms.

In another delay from the original timeframe of 5630s pushed by the MacGregor administration, the Hall administration announced, through a declaration from the Secretary of State for Urban Development and Housing, Jack Lang, that the completion of the Habeck Plan would only be, at least, in 5640. The Hall administration had pushed at the beginning of their term for the expansion of the Habeck Plan towards building 300.000 during the span of a decade, while widely attacked for being "unrealistic" by economists and Conservative lawmakers alike, the Plan's expansion was nonetheless passed with relative ease in both the Chamber of Representatives and the Senate. House Leader MacAllister stated that the Bill's passage was a "...effective way to continue the previous administration's work against housing shortage, and our own plan to decrease homelessness...".

Indeed, the Hall administration's wishes through this expansion of the Habeck Plan was to make room for the construction of new low-cost housing facilities to reduce homelessness in Luthori. While since the enactment of the plan, around 54.000 new houses have been built or are currently being built, through incentives towards citizens to build new houses, or by real estate developers trying to accommodate their projects. This bring the number to about 1.114.000 new homes having been built in the span of 17 years, as the original objective of the Habeck Plan was reached some years ago. Secretary for Housing Lang expressed satisfaction with this, stating that the "...Government's main objective of driving growth of local communities has been completed...", and that the Habeck Plan would see its "conclusion" in the 5640s or even before, hopefully.

Yet, to see the effects of the Habeck Plan, we've decided to go to one of the Plan's so-called "New Towns", these towns or district have been completely metamorphosed by the Habeck Plan, with their ancient building making way for more aesthetically beautiful buildings. Let's take a look at the city of Harrington, a city that didn't exist 50 years ago, but was built from scratch by the Habeck Plan, while the plan for the city isn't over yet, with at least 5.000 new housing facilities being planned for the foreseeable future, we can take a look at this New Town of 4.541 inhabitants to see the effects of the Plan upon local communities.

"One of the key consequences of this plan is that it simply built this city that didn't even exist 50 years from now", said Tyler Burn, architect and a key worker in the construction of Harrington, he also added that one of the cities' advantage was its distance from Fort William (approx. 90 miles/144 km), deep in the Orange countryside. While, for now, only retired workers installed themselves in Harrington due to their wish for a "purest lifestyle", far from the Fort William uproar and pollution, it is the wish for the local authories to draw more active workers to the town, through increasing transportation links to Fort William and other Orange cities, through the passage of some local railway lines through the town and the M-41 (Fort William - Narikaton & Darnussia) passing close to the town.

"The importance of public transportation and adequate public infrastructure is going to be paramount to the Plan's overall long-term success, while building houses and cities far from the large cities with the aim of reducing C0² emissions is commendable, the fact is that these new cities will not survive without a link towards large cities such as Alchester, Fort William and so on, the Habeck Plan can also be the start of a long process of decentralisation of essential services from large cities such as Fort William towards small communities such as here in Harrington. Nevertheless, before that, it's important to ensure that transportation links are created to connect these areas to urban centres.", Mr. Burn stated to our journalist, indeed, the importance of transportation links aren't too explored, but the long-term viability and success of such projects, the Minister-President of Orange, Thomas Finckley stated to the Prime Minister during a meeting in Fort William that the Principality's Government would like a "...long-term infrastructure upgrade and construction plan to be discussed between the Federal government and the Provinces' government...", a call which was echoed by numerous Minister-Presidents impacted by the Habeck Plan.

Mrs. Hall's Government stated that a "...process of collective discussions onto the proposition to Parliament for an infrastructure investment package between the Imperial government and local representatives..." was to be organised at "...a date agreed between local representatives and His Majesty's Government...", meanwhile the Provincial Governments stated having not "received anything" as of now. As our journalist continues his tour of Harrington, the old style dominating the town's architecture is a nice breath of fresh air linked with the typical environment of the Luthorian countryside. Mr. Burn seemed pretty proud of his achievements, as he stated to our journalist the overall "...nice atmosphere that dominates the city, you have people being nice to each other, most of them know each other as of now...". Small businesses and shops dominates the city centre, where a statue of the deceased Empress Katherine stands in front of the small church.

You can find an image of Harrington here. This concludes our little voyage in Harrington.