NationStates Jolt Archive

-Ottawa-

The results from the election were slowly being recovered from across the vast countryside, but it was obvious from the preliminary results that the best MacNally could hope for was 60 seats out of the 275 in parliament. Although he would likely retain is position as President, he had lost control of parliament.

The Bloc Francophonie had easily swept the francophone provinces of Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia winning 71 seats out of the 85 available. The separatist party held more seats than any other party, which under normal circumstances would allow it to appoint the Prime Minister. But these were not normal circumstances and talk of a separatist Prime Minister did not sit well.

The Conservative Republican Party was taken down from over 200 seats to 59 seats. Its huge majority had evapourated over concerns about the direction it was taking the country. Although it was automatically assumed that the Liberal Democrats would take many seats, they only gained modestly, from 22 to 41.

The People's Party of Hudecia, a new party which based most of its support on asian communities had hit a high winning 56 seats in diverse places ranging from downtown Toronto to Vancouver. Although the majority of the seats were based in British Columbia. The Green party had won 39 seats, amazing, considering that it had previously never won a seat in Hudecian parliament. Even 9 independent candidates were elected.

The President was compelled to ask the 'party which commands the confidence of the House' to appoint the Prime Minister according to the Constitution. Desperate to avoid the stigma of having a separatish PM, MacNally frantically tried to ally the LD and the PPH with his party but to no avail. The party policies of both parties were too varied to agree.

For three long days Hudecia sat without a government while the parties fought desperately to find some common ground.

Ultimately, MacNally called Bloc Francophonie leader Francois Bouchard and asked him to take the position of Prime Minister of Hudecia and to appoint a cabinet with the approval of the House.

The Bloc Francophonie leader Francois Bouchard accepted the position immediately. He knew that the position was largely ceremonial as he could not pass legislation without the approval of Parliament, which still remained outside of his control. So, he met with the other largely regionalist party, the People's Party of Hudecia to sort out an agreement of sorts.

"Bonjour," Bouchard began the conversation in French. Bouchard was overly proud of his french heritage and refused to even consider holding such an important discussion in an 'inferior' language.

"Ni hao," Erin Chen, the leader of the PPH, had been born and raised in Vancouver so she barely knew Mandarin, but she knew that Bouchard could barely contain his disdain of her heritage. She was not going to be pushed around by this frog.

Bouchard stared at Erin for the longest time, sizing up his new adversary.

"Very well, let us dispense with the pleasantries," Bouchard switched to English. "We both know why I am talking to you."

"My party will decide how to vote on an issue by issue basis," Chen said tactfully. "We will not join your cabinet nor will we give you a 'blank cheque'."

Bouchard smiled thinly. "Je dois partir mainenant." With that, he left the room, leaving Chen alone with her associates.

"Well, that went better than I expected," Chen's aide joked.

MacNally was also holding meetings with opposition groups, Chen attended a tete a tete with MacNally.

Chen felt more at ease around MacNally, who was from Edmonton, not far from Vancouver, Chen's hometown. As such, they held similar views on many issues, but were equally passionate about their differences. Chen held her slight figure slightly angled in the chair, her thick black hair obscuring her shoulders from view.

Chen's youthfullness was starkly contrasted by the withered look of MacNally. His once cheerful eyes had drooped down low, his forhead was covered in wrinkles and his cheeks hung down. He had the look of a man who had experienced life and who had overcome many hurdles.

"What has happened in the last week is a tragedy," MacNally bemoaned. "It is as much my fault as everyone else's. However, we must now decide what can be done to repair this situation."

"No doubt Bouchard has spoken to the other parties about forming some sort of formal alliance," Chen mused. "But they'll answer him like I did, that we will decide on an issue by issue basis."

MacNally coughed, he had been sick for 2 weeks, the heavy campaigning taking its toll on him.

"He has no interest in making a government work," MacNally frowned. "His purpose is to expose the system's inherent problems, such as they are, and show our republic as being fundamentally unworkable. As such, I suspect that he will try to make revisions to our constitution."

"Which may not be such a bad idea Michael," Chen used MacNally's first name, trying to soften the blow that she had just struck him. MacNally shuffled back and forth across the room, unable to stand still. For a man who had dedicated his entire life to his country, seeing it altered would be a damaging blow personally.

"I believe that he will attempt to institute some sort of socialistic revision, perhaps he'll even try to alter our government style to something more Strainist," MacNally coughed hard.



Indeed, Bouchard was in the process of contacting Spyr to determine if Strainism was possible to be implemented in Hudecia.

While Russia has largely been ignorant of Canadian affairs, due to their withdrawal from the world scene months ago, these changes in the government have once again spiked Russian interest in their eastern neighbor. Russia has not forgotten those brave Hudecian men who died while fighting to preserve the Russian Republic, and Putin has not forgotten his gratitude to McNally. The Hudecian Conservatives had been the ones who had aided the ailing Russian nation as it hobbled into recovery; now when Russia was strong, and Hudecia weak, it was time to repay the favor.

Of course, the issue was far more important than just one of loyalty. The rise of Socialistic policies in any nation, especially one as economically significant to the global stage as Hudecia, was worrisome. Not only that, but NATO, which remained closely tied with Russia, (with a NATOnic base still residing in Western Russia) could be potentially destabilized if Hudecia took a leftist swing. Socialism was to be tolerated, at most, and Russia could not afford its spread.

The consequences would be disastrous if such a thing were to occur.

Bouchard's party was seen as a high priority political threat, capable of destabilizing the global economy, NATO, and the left-right balance of power. (Hudecia becoming Strainist, as rumors derived from secretly taped conversations with Bouchard indicated, would tie them closely with Spyr, which itself was closely tied to BG. A Bedgellen foothold in North America is deemed) unacceptable.

To combat this, the ROP (Russian Opportunity Party), the Russian centre-right party, has secretly contaced the Conservative Republicans of Hudecia. Offers are made to provide a virtual army of political consultants, truckloads of "private donations", and even Russian policy changes that could be favorable to Hudecia. (Such as a free trade agreement.)

Note on the Hudecian Political System:

After the collapse of the Meech Lake Accord, Prime Minister Brian Mulroney embarked on a second attempt to rewrite the constitution. This time, instead of trying to make cosmetic changes, he set about rewriting the entire constitution and reorganizing the political system to prevent widespread corruption. In the new constitution he enshrined the following roles:

President: Elected directly during general elections. Appoints the Foreign Minister, the Defence Minister and all other positions that do not specifically deal with issues inside the nation. All appointees must be confirmed by the Parliament.

Prime Minister: The leader of the party that has the most Members of Parliament elected. Appoints the Minister of the Interior and all other positions related to internal affairs.

Currently, the Conservative Republican leader, MacNally, holds the positio of President. The Bloc Francophonie leader, Bouchard, holds the position of Prime Minister.

-Hudecian Parliament-

(voice of a translator)
"...and as such, we believe that the only alternative to the current financial mess in this nation is to nationalize the oil and gas industries and harness their financial surpluses in order to restore this nation to profitability." Bouchard sat down in his chair to the rousing applause of his massive caucus.

"The honourable leaders of the opposition have the floor," President MacNally said rasply, losing his voice after a long battle with his cold and with the Parliament.

"We, as the Green Party, are happy to see that the Bloc is finally thinking of the interests of the nation and will support this bill." Matt Watson said quickly before sitting down in his chair. His new and untested caucus was still unsure of themselves in Parliament.

"The People's Party of Hudecia will never allow such a draconian move," Erin Chen stated emphatically rising in her chair. "This bill will cost shareholders in the West millions of dollars... money that this government will not repay..."

"Although I hold great respect for the leaders of the Conservatives and the People's parties, the Liberal Democrats must respectfully disagree. Nationalizing the oil and gas industries, including the profitable Athabascan Tar Sands project will finally put our natural resources back in the hands of the Hudecian people, and out of the hands of religious zealots from Washington DC." LDP leader Lukomski emphasized the last part of his message intentionally.

The bill would pass in a vote of 151-124. And so, the first blow to the Quinntonian efforts in Hudecia was struck.

Washington was floored by the new governments first bill. An immediate phone call went from the Oval Office to the office of the President, PM Jesse Obed's old friend, McNally. Quinntonin plans about the Tasr Sands project included over 20 billion Quinntonian dollars invested so far. It was asked, if this project is going to be nationalised, and thus, Quinntonia is going to lose access to that very vital tar sands, will the money be returned? And what is this talk of a Strainist government!?!
It is made very clear that the reason that Hudecia has been in such a great financial position for all these years, has been the cooperation of our two nations.
What would happen, for instance, if things like fish, soft wood lumber and cattle were barred from import into Quinntonia. What if all Canadaian goods were subject to a new tarrif of say, 20%. What would those in the west say when it is explained to them that the new government is going to take away all of their wealth?
And with new socialist policies coming into the fold, we will have to look at the viability of your continues membership in NATO and WEC.
In short, what will it take to collapse this governemnt? Or to put you back into control and make our relationship as rosy as it once was?
The Hudecian people do not want an economic war with Quinntonia, and we do not want that either, what can we do to stop this?

IN related news, all cargo coming from Hudecia into Quinntonia is subject to a three day waiting period and searches by Customs officials.
WWJD
Amen.

Beth Gellert -swelled by a third of its former size since Hudecia last took a significant role in the world, thanks to the successful application of populace West Bengal and resource-rich Jharkhand to the Igovian Soviet Commonwealth- reacted somewhat more positively to possible changes in the Hudecian economy. Having in that nation's absence from the global stage chosen to halt 'extra-humanitarian aid' (military aid) to Dra-pol and Libya and to cut many trade ties with such authoritarian so-called socialist states, the pre-eminent Indian economy needed more partners if it was to cope with the Commonwealth's consumption of two poor states.

Many Igovians were heading to Hudecia following it's re-opening, some hoping to engage with common people in the climate of possible nationalisation. Having been serious about having a socialist economy since 1989 at least, and having previously spent most of the 80s with state capitalism (after Sopworth nationalised industry, which is quite different from socialising it) many Beddgelens are keen to display progressive ideas in a percieved climate of change.

They will suggest that this is the perfect opportunity for Hudecians to take contol of their lives into their own hands, pointing to the rampant division highlighted by their last elections. A result that gives so much power to so few people and against the wishes of so many can hardly be called highly democratic, Beddgelens will say, and with the possibility of a massive change to the nature of Hudecian economics, the people have a chance to democratise their society further. Igovians are nervous about economic power shifting from a few private citizens loosely regulated by an elected group likely to rule for years on a minority mandate to such a government, which they say will make precious little difference to the workers and consumers themselves.

However, the Commonwealth does appear to be inclined to approach improved trade with Hudecia if it may enable the people to at least get close to the economy they desire rather than the one that their rulers allow foreign rulers to bully them into.

"They what?!?"
"They nationalized the oil industry, sir."
"This...this is brilliant!"

The Economic Secretary, Sienna Brown, stumbled back. She was shocked at Putin's malicious grin, unaware why such an obviously socialist policy would incite such joy.

"I feel it's a good move by the Hudecian people to protect their national interests...but wouldn't you be inclined to disagree, capitalist dog?"

Putin laughed heartily.

"Don't you get it, Commie bastard?", he teased.

Brown had been Putin's token compromise with the ever decreasing opposition in Russia. Leader of the Liberal Alliance, the unified coalition of Russian leftists, she'd managed to wrestle Putin's conservative administration in allowing the left this cabinet post. While vicious political foes, Putin and Brown had managed to forge a friendly relationship, albeit slightly antagonistic, as their constant humorous bickering indicated.

Still, Brown, like most people, had no ability to read Putin, and was stupified as to why he was happy at the leftist policies he had pledged a sizable slush fund to derail in Hudecia. Then the realization dawned...

"You bastard! You f*cking bastard! With Hudecia cutting it's oil ties to Hudecia...And us remaining as Quinntonia's closest oil producing ally..."
"Exactly."
"You...you..."
"Genius?", he grinned.
"Asshole's more like it."

_________________________________________

In a press conference today, Russia has announced its intentions to enter into a Free Trade Agreement with both the Hudecian and Quinntonian governments. Diplomats have already engaged in talks with the Hudecians and Quinntonians.

-Hudecian Parliament-

"... and now the government of Mr. Obed feels that because we are now acting out of our own will and cutting the strings that they have long used to control and manipulate us, that it gives them the right to delay all passage of our goods into their nation." Bouchard was giving another rousing anti-Quinntonian speech in Parliament. "When will Mr. Obed learn that Hudecia is no longer his puppet state! When he is sent a message that he cannot punish us economically with impunity. This latest bill sends precisely that message!"

The bill was a unilateral cut in the amount of oil now being shipped southward to Quinntonia by at least 2 million barrels a day. Although there was still a lot of oil going to Quinntonia, the sudden drop of that much would pose a significant economic threat. As well, the bill set an increased price of oil for Quinntonian exports.

It would again pass with the support of the LDP and Green parties.

-Office of the President-

"Look, as soon as the bill is passed into law I will send an army of lawyers at it, since it is an obvious breach of the constitutionally separate powers. Only the office of the President can deal with international affairs, which this oil cut and price increase obviously is," MacNally was scrambling to try to contain the damage that was being wrought by this new government. "As for the other bill... I'm sorry but I have lost control, the separatists are holding the agenda now and there is nothing I can do. I am working day and night to figure out how to retake the agenda..."

After the call, MacNally took his pills and used his cane to hobble over to his new Foreign Minister's office. Getting there took a tremendous effort and he was huffing and puffing by the time he got there. At his age, he should be retired, but he could not abandon his country now.. not at its time of greatest need.

The talk about Strainism infiltrating Hudecia was merely idle talk, for now. And as long as MacNally was President he would never allow it. Although, many new that it wouldn't take much to send the poor man to his grave, and Bouchard was not beneath taking such drastic measures.

-Bouchard's PMO-

"The President just got off the phone with President Obed," Bouchard's advisor told him. "Our bug is working perfectly."

Bouchard had long waited for this moment. Separatism was merely a means to an end for him, he never really believed that the francophones were better off outside of the Republic... but if you could make the republic more francophone... now there was an idea.

Russian oil firms are agressively marketing their oil to Quinntonia, pointing out their oil's increasingly low price as compared to the Hudecians.

The Russo-Quinntonian and Russo-Hudecian Free Trade Agreements are also being pushed agressively.

-Ottawa-

The Hudecian Prime Minister announced intentions to fully open diplomatic and economic ties with Beth Gellert. More secretly he asked for some help in revising the Hudecian political system to make it more 'democratic'. He said that the image of BG advisors reworking the Hudecian system might create some uneeded tensions so he asked that his request not be made public.

-Edmonton-

The sudden decision to close several oil refineries in Edmonton had created a surge of unemployment in this strong Conservative area. With a Green party loyalist from out east now running the show for the oil industry Albertans and people of the NorthWest Territories braced for large revisions to their principal money making industry.

-Vancouver-

Strangely enough, despite the new socialist wave sweeping the country, the military was undergoing a massive infusion of money and support from the government. An entire division from Quebec City had been transferred out here and stationed at the military docks, which had long ago been abandoned.

Parliament is not at all happy about the rise of a French party in Hudecia, especially a Hudecia furnished with such a capable military, but at the same time is perfectly willing to let the situation resolve itself. According to Parliament, Hindustan has much bigger fish to fry, so to speak, and as the big powers start to squabble over who is in power in Ottawa, Hindustan will, without a doubt continue (possibly even increase, as military expenditures plateau) humanitarian aid and peacekeeping commitments worldwide.

A number of Parliamentarians are quoted criticizing both Quinntonia and Beth Gellert (although not too harshly...and one can guess why) on taking too close an interest in what is deemed an internal Hudecian affair. If there was a war or some other violent strife or humantiarian crisis, the situation would be quite reversed, but it is only natural in a representative democracy for the ruling parties to change, and it is therefore also healthy for allies of that nation to make the appropriate changes in relations in order to healthily co-exist. After all, Hindustan remains close to England even with the Conservative Party in power, and has no intention of forcing a particular political dogma on the English people.

-Ottawa-

At a hastily convened media conference a ever-frail MacNally announced that Hudecia and AC would conclude free trade negotiations soon, opening the way for free trade between the two nations.

Bouchard was on hand immediately afterwards with a detailed critique of the plan for free trade, attacking MacNally for attempting to avoid Parliament on the issue and abuse his powers.

"Free trade will not help our economy, which has become strong now, how can MacNally take such a radical step without the approval of Parliament. He is betraying his economic principles now, ready to do anything to cling to power. Perhaps MacNally should stop scurrying back to President Obed whenever he needs help and should stand up and answer my concerns," Bouchard thundered.

-Quebec City-

Plans to invite the representatives of Elkazor to the capital city of the Quebec were being laid down. Some French support to the Bloc Francophonie would be well appreciated.

(OOC: As a minor quibble, Hudecia, in AMW my nation is simply known as Russia/Divine Russian Empire <recent name change from Divine Russian Republic>)

IC:

The Russian Diplomatic Corps have laid out their offer to the Hudecians, while the heavy PR associations employed by the ROP begin to construct a media campaign designed to propel the Conservatives back to power. Heavy investment is made into new video game campaign ads, which would strike at the very core of the leftist base (young people) and which has been proven effective already in terms of military recruitment. (See: America's Army)

As for the free trade plan, it is very simple. Full reduction of all tariffs and foreign exceptions between Russian and Canadian trade. Essentially, this would mean that all Russian goods/corporations in Canada would be treated under the law in the same way as Canadian goods/corporations, and vice versa. It would, in effect, fully open both consumer and labor markets between both nations. This is seen as a positive growth for both nations, as Canada would gain access to cheap labor and new markets for its cheaper consumer goods, while Russia would gain higher educated labor and new markets for its cheaply made goods.

Plus, Canada, with its high rate of gun ownership, would most likely be overjoyed with the prospect of cheap Russian arms coming into the nation. Even better, this might even encourage the growth of Conservatism, as the promise of hunting Moose with an AK-47 would dangle ever so temptingly...

At the news of the Bloc taking power in the Hudecian parliament reaches Spyr, there is obviously some nervousness: with France now rising as a belligerent and despotic power, and NATO already seeming hesitant to take action, a French-leaning Hudecia might tip the balance in favour of the Holy League.

It is thus with some surprise that the Spyran ambassador in Ottawa, calling Bouchard to offer cordial congratulations on his appointment as Prime Minister, happily found himself expounding for some minutes on the viability of Strainism in Hudecia... market socialism, capitalism without capitalists, the inherent rights to the fruits of production and the universal human bonds of comradeship, and so on... similar perhaps to frequent conversations with Hudecian leftists invited to tea at the embassy, but for the first time with someone in a position to act on it, however unlikely that might be.

The Chinese government has announced its support for the new ruling party. With the Oil Industry Nationalized, much like China, with several regulated companies, there is a bright future for Canada.

The Chinese Socialist Party of China, or most commonly known as the Confederate Chinese Party, will arrive in Canada headed by Chancellor Yeh, who is also the chairman of the party.

"Finally, a system that will know how to deal with foreign countries, and their own people." Yeh Zhao Feng


The Chinese Monarchy, under the great leadership of Emperor Zhang Fu Guo had issued an aggresive, but friendly international commitment which allowed CHina to rebuild relations with neighboring countries, especially the controversial support for Dra-Pol. With Chinese forces almost tripled, CHina easily became the most powerful country in East Asia. The economy was even more appealing. With the Xiannese economic, and governing policy, Taiwan's International and Domestic policies, and the SInoese Military capabilities and technology, CHina was sure to rise, and keep rising.

"The Empire of China cannot be ignored." General Li Li Shan, Advisor of Foreign Policy

-Ottawa-

Erin Chen was under increasing pressures from her supporters to endorse the current government despite some reservations about supporting a francophone party. Erin however, knew more about Bouchard than most Hudecians and knew that beneath that warm smile lay something a little more sinister.

Indeed, her fears were confirmed the next day when the Parliament introduced legislation to compel school boards in non-francophone areas of Hudecia to increase the french course requirements from Grade 10 to Grade 12. The bill also made it mandatory that foreign students attempting to enter Hudecian universities to take both the TOEFL and the new French equivalent test before being allowed to enter.

Chen was about to rise on a point of order when President MacNally unilaterally shot down the legislation, ruling it to be unconstitutional and a violation of the separation of powers between the federal and provincial governments. Invoking this rarely used power infuriated Bouchard who vowed to take legal action against the President.

The LDP and Green parties both expressed dismay at the President's use of 'procedural methods' to overrule Parliament.

-Prime Minister's Office (PMO)-

Bouchard was overjoyed by the Spyran enthusiasm and invited him to join Bouchard for tea the next day to discuss the matters more deeply.

Bouchard was particularly interested in the manner that market socialism could be applied to such an already heavily capitalistic nation. Nationalization of major parts of society would be required, such as the automotive industry, the information technology industry and the health care system.

PM Bouchard is called by the Oval Office and is asked if he plans to continue on his plans to nationalise the oil industry. If so, the previously signed agreements that led to the 20 billion invested in the tar sands and other projects in the Alberta Oil Field needs to be repaid to the Quinntonian investors. Also, the punishing of Alberta is decreid as political terrorism.
However, PM Bouchard s invited to Washington to talks that will, it is hoped, help relations between the two nations.

PM Jesse Obed does go on the air and asks if Bouchard will allow the Quinntonian government to send 3 billion USQ dollars to the governmnent of Alberta to ease the suffering that is being caused by the Ottowa government.


Trade Agreements with Russia are being rushed through, though for right now, it will be a tentative agreement that could turn into full free trade. It is pionted out that Quinntonia is willing to invest billions into the Siberian oilfield in order to get priority oil.

Jesse Obed is also, through very descreet means, contacting the provincial governments in the west, BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba and making some noise that Quinntonia would not only support seperation, but accept the provinces as Quinntonian Protectorates, and eventually, states. Since these provinces have by far the most to lose in a economic showdown with Quinntonia, it is hoped that this talk will begin to show the rest of the nation how foolish it would be to continue to prop up this government.

OOC-BTW, AS a former Saskatchewanee living in Alberta, and having worked in the oil patch for three years, I can tell you, I think you are underestimating the capacit of the west to be belligerant. If you start closing oil refineries and stuff, you might end up having the entire pan-western oil industry close down in protest. With Alberta oil tax money contributing more money to confederation than any other province, this could be disasterous. And what is the reaction of all the business owners that just got screwed out of their multi-billion dollar oil companies?



WWJD
Amen.

OOC: Thank you for reminding me about that.. as an Ontarioan I might underestimate the tolerance levels of Alberatans. But in this case... shutting down the oil industry would only hurt Quinntonia and if they protest too much, the government may simply permanently shut them down.

If things get much worse they likely will call a general strike to protest the government. Until then, moderates like MacNally are trying to keep everyone calm.

Business leaders are hopping mad, but there is precious little they can do. But they will become active once they see what Bouchard is up to next.

IC:

-Ottawa-

Bouchard refuses to visit President Obed (or speak English with him) unless he stops the unreasonable delays at the border.

-Parliament-

For the second day in a row, Bouchard attempts to pass a bill, only to have it unilaterally shot down by President MacNally.

This time, it was a bill to nationalize the health care industry. Again, MacNally vetoed the bill because it violated the separation of powers of provincial-federal governments. (OOC: provincial governments deal with health care, education etc...)

In a move of protest, the LDP, Green Party and Bloc all left the Parliament, forcing its closure as it could not meet quorum. Bouchard, upon leaving, stated that he would not tolerate MacNally unilaterally and undemocratically shooting down his bills and that if he persists, that he would take action against him.

Over tea, Bouchard is treated to a rather animated speech from the Spyran ambassador (in French, though occasionally with a pause to try and think up approximate translations from Lyongese... for once, the Quebecois accent that colours most Spyrans who speak French won't be a mark against them) on 'removal of the exploiting feudal-capitalist hegemony from the market economy'.

"...Consider the function of the capitalist market system... the market is an incredible tool of efficiency for determining the quantities and types of goods produced: this is not inequitable in of itself, as it allows for great development and production. It is not the market that is flawed, but the social assumptions about contribution values. In a capitalist market, the capitalist provides capital, the workers provide productive labour, and the capitalist reaps the majority of the fruits beause his capital 'investment' is deemed more valuable than the commodified production of the workers. Is this system universal truth? No! It is, in fact, a flawed system which bars the workers from the fruits of their own productive forces.

Now, transition from a capitalist market to a socialist market is not an instantaneous process... our own success in Spyr has been aided by favourable cultural factors which may be lacking in the Hudecian environment. But the key factor is that a socialist approach is aimed at the betterment of conditions for workers: the capitalist is removed, and the fruits of production are distributed amongst the workers, increasing their prosperity. Capital investment, especially in transition, can be provided by the apparatus of the state... rather than levying taxes on the salaries of workers, the state then takes revenues back directly, and uses them for further capital investment and to provide services such as health care or education which apply universally, in order to free the individual assets of the workers to further their own development..."

And so on and so forth...

ROP leadership looks in increasingly worrried when looking to Hudecia. Russia did not make any further moves on the issue of an FTA, as it would only further destabilize MacNally's tenuos position to have him act without legislatorial support.

With the Russian government fully dedicated to the Lithuanian-Estonian-Latvian war, cannot afford to aid the Hudecians directly. However, the ROP is increasingly persistent in its offers of consultants and money to the Hudecian conservatives, with political operatives already poised to enter into Hudecia.

Secretly, in what was most likely a highly illegal action, and most likely a breach of the constitution as well, Putin has dispatched a KGB unit into Quebec.

A special KGB unit.
___________________________________________________________

"Dammit, even when we're allies wit da French, we be against dem!"
"Penguins!"
"Shut up Murdock, there be no Penguins in Canada! Enough jibba-jabba!"

Two men, a giant, black man donning a mohawk and a permanent scowl, the other a white man with a mop of brown hair and an eager smile, left the Hudecian airport.

Their first stop would be to drive onto a bumpy road, veering off into the deeper, sleazier parts of Quebec. They would search for the central hub of Hudecian leftist sentiment, the breeding ground for Quebecois secessionists.

The Rowdy Rebel was a blend of a traditional leftist cafe, with the beard stroking, beret donning, latte sipping Communists, and a seedy bar, with vodka being the "secret ingredient" in many of the lattes. This was known as "the place to be" for any one who'se anyone in the leftist arena within Hudecia.

Mr. T strode into the bar, bearing a tricolor mask of the French flag. He ordered a shot of vodka, then rose up, loudly yelling.

"MY BROTHAS! For too long have the Anglos oppressed us wid' their filthy capitalist activideez! For too long has the proletariat been squashed and stomped upon by the dog MacNally and his cronies, who are nothin' more than puppets for the bourgeoise Quinntonian fundamentalist pig dogs! We thought our hour was at hand, with the election of a Prime Minister Bouchard and the ascension of the Francophonie party! But my comrades, we have been betrayed by Bouchard! He is nothin' but yet anoda capitalist phony! Where is our independent Quebec? Why has he rejected da true democracy of Beth Gellert? WHY DOES HE WAIT AS THE CAPITALISTS DEVOUR OUR NATION ALIVE?!? We must fight, my brothers! Fulfill da will of da people, free Quebec! Join the Revolution!"

And so, it came to be that Mr. T would once again don the tri-color ski mask and become....MALCOLM T!

((OOC: I say again, because Mr. T did in fact lead an extensive leftist effort against the French monarchy under the disguise of Malcolm T...))

[OOC: Posting on behalf of the Latvians, in regard to the Eastern-European conflict (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=9040758#post9040758), in case anyone gets confused]

President MacNally's office finds itself the recipient of a telephone call from an unusual source, given that it comes on behalf of the President of Latvia but from one of Hudecia's own citizens: Indra Freiberga, resident of Montreal, and daughter of Latvia's leader Vaira Vike-Freiberga. A tearful Indra relates, should her call be put through to anyone who will listen, that Latvia has been invaded by Russia, that her father (still holding Hudecian citizenship) and older sibling lie dead in the ruins of the Presidential dwelling, and that her mother, a Hudecian citizen until being elected President of Latvia in 1999, remains in the embattled nation to keep up the fight to preserve independance. She implores the President to intercede with NATO and the Russians so that the invasion might be stopped and Latvian freedom preserved.

In a not very surprising announcement, tarrifs on softwood lumber are unilaterally increased and due to BSE concerns, the Quinntonian border is shut to cattle. Also, the wait at the border is increased to five days, meaning that there are long stretches of trucks on the Canadian side of the border.

Also, PM Obed opens the oil reserves that have been built up for the last several years in the Louisiana basin and allows them to be used to lower cost.

PM Obed is disgusted at the tactics of the new PM Bouchard and is really at a loss as to what to do. He will never consider a military solution against Canada, but Canada is by far the most important nation to Quinntonia in the world, bar none. PM Obed has a summer ranch/home in Southern Saskatchewan. He loves Canada. And the relationship has always been great while he has been in office. He was considering offering President McNally some kind of decoration for all he has done for Quinntonia, but now, he uis faced with a madman that seems to be out to destroy his own country, and the best way to destroy Canada, was to hurt Quinntonia. But talks of Strainism, that could not be allowed to happen on North American soil, and not on the largest unprotected border in the world. What was he to do? This all happening as the seconds on what was left in his life ticked away, his cancer ridden brain in living agony.
So, he did the only thing that he could do, he prayed.

WWJD
Amen.

Perhaps as a goodwill gesture, perhaps to take advantage of an emerging opportunity, Spyran interests begin to increase the quantities of Canadian petroleum, livestock, and lumber (the latter of which they have always been eager to obtain) they seek to acquire. Perhaps more importantly, several Spyran incorporated collectives begin to seek Hudecian partnerships based on their 'local expertise', for breaking into the gargantuan market of the Chinese Empire, which will no doubt soon seek to exploit continued Quinntonian intransigence by acquiring Hudecian goods for which it already posesses a ravenous market.

-Ottawa-

President MacNally accepted the phone call from Indra and assured her that he would use whatever influence, power, and time he had left in his life to ensure that Latvia would not be forgotten.

MacNally would quickly call President Putin and would implore him to make this concession on his behalf and would at the very least entertain thoughts of a semi-independent Latvia.

"My friend, Hudecians have long tried to stand for freedom in the world, but our legs are growing tired. If you refuse my request, there is nothing that I could do, and I will not entertain thoughts of having Hudecians die fighting for freedom in Latvia when so many also died fighting in Russia for the same cause." Although MacNally had a good heart and truly felt for Indra and her situation, his reasons were more political than anything. MacNally needed a victory.. any victory to rally his supporters once more.

Parliament would be rough again for MacNally. Bouchard lamblasted him for 'attacking democracy' and for 'ignoring the will of the Hudecian people'. The Hudecian Parliament did however give Bouchard the mandate to renegotiate outstanding loans to major industries which were coming due soon.

-Inside the predominately francophone bar-

"Mais oui!" Came the shouts of disgruntled francophones from all over the room.

"Let us throw out the anglophone pigs from their thrones in Quebec City and declare independence!" One young student shouted. Calls for acts of violence against anglophones were heard in the bar.

Others rapidly dialed their friends on their cells, spreading the words of Malcolm T across the rural areas of Quebec and even into the halls of universities across the francophone Quebec.

Some calls went to the Bloc Francophonie offices. Bouchard smiled thinly as he pondered how to best react to this... and to use this for his benefit. MacNally was also informed of the growing movement and about the potential for violence.

-Toronto-

Business leaders met in a hastily convened conference to attempt to form a united front against the dictats of Bouchard and his supporters. Francophone business boycotted the meeting in protest of the group allowing former oil executives to be present and represented.

It was decided that should the government take further measures against the business community, that a general strike would be called for all of Hudecia. The strike would last as long as is necessary to bring the government to its knees.

-Ottawa-

Bouchard listed to the Spyran with great interest before speaking his mind.

"That change can be painful is a well understood fact. In Hudecia's case, we must make rapid changes to ensure that the workers are guaranteed their due, regardless of the outcome of this government," Bouchard spoke slowly and thoughtfully in French (Quebec version of course). "Throughout history we have seen that only true reforms come when the powers behind those opposing change are shattered by confrontation."

"In this case, it is the business groups that are funding and supporting those political dinosaurs in the Conservative Republican Party and their capitalist ideas. We must draw these forces into a position where we will be justified in breaking their power base and reduce them to the dustbin of history. In this situation, the former capitalist government was quite helpful to our cause. By giving powerful business groups loans they have ensured that the government can unilaterally seize their corporations in payment for their outstanding loans."

"But it is not enough to simply defeat a group. We must destroy them utterly. Destroy their power, their reputations, their friends. Politically, publicly and emotionally they must lose the will and the ability to resist the new socialist revolution. Sometimes the best way to do this, is to turn friends onto one another..."

-President's Office-

MacNally's health continued to deteriorate. He called Erin Chen of the People's Party to speak with her and discuss strategy for the upcoming week. He was dissapointed to learn that she was unavailable at the time.

MacNally would receive another shock when he learned that the Bloc Francophonie had given 48 hour notice that a vote of no-confidence in his leadership would be held. He scoffed at the thought. In order for a no-confidence vote in the leadership of the President to be successful, at least 75% of all MPs, absent ones included, would have to vote in favour of the bill.

And as long as his party and Erin Chen's party stayed the course, they would not get the needed 75%. Still, MacNally thought, it would be embarrasing for his leadership, but it wouldn't be a deathblow.

tag

-24 hours till no confidence vote-

Parliament was abuzz about the upcoming no confidence vote. Media were camping on Parliament Hill and giving up-to-the-minute updates on the situation. Today, Parliament would not dissapoint them.

".. and for too long our farmers have been subject to exploitation from the Grain Board, which unilaterally sets prices for grain so low that only huge corporations can produce grain. Almost gone are the family farms that once dotted the countryside," Bouchard was arguing in favour of his latest bill, a move to place the Grain Board under federal control in response to sinking grain prices. "The federal government will use its powers through this bill to control the prices so to as benefit the Hudecian farmers and guaranteeing that Hudecian farms will be owned by the Hudecian people!"

Again, the Bloc alliance with the Greens and LDP outweighed the People's Party and the Conservative Republicans and the bill passed. However, even the LDP became wary of the Bloc's goals as they nationalized key infrastructure.

-Edmonton-

Signs of discontent were growing although some were slightly mollified by the federal government's move to ensure farmers stood a chance of survival. The Business Bureau of Hudecia saw the move differently and called for a general strike. It was a move that was immediately countered in Ontario by the HAW calling for workers to remain at their jobs.

The result was mixed. In Alberta/BC, most businesses joined the strike. Out east, there were much fewer strikers.

OOC: I'm sorry, Canadian President , when did that happen??
Can someone tell me what the hell is going on? Hudecia, we have not had much contact, and FYI I am the new TBF player, so enlighten me as to the status of the dominion?

Oh and I wouldn't mess with Alberta, I have a few friends there, and my experience is that Albertans make Texans look liberal in comparison, and most of them seem in favour of becoming unified with their Southern neighbour.

OOC-I am living in Edmonton right now, and that paints a pretty broad stereotype. However, I don't know why you would think that nationalising farming would be greeeted happily. My entire family farms in Southern Saskatchewan, and that would be tantamount to inciting revolution. Firstly, every attempt for the federal government to meddle in farming has been met with strikes and road blocks, as recent as this year, when the entire city of Saskatoon was blocked for two days by farmers with their farm machinery, and that was in protest over the BSE crisis. (which has cost the farming community several billion already)
Yeah, the city that I grew up next to was next to the US border, and drew heavily on the oil and agriculture industries, as well as coal mining, and you would have alreday just about put the entire town under.
Farmers want local control of their farms, not further government control, and especially not Ottowa, the only reason that they can be mollified at all is that their provincial governments protect them from the federal government.

As an easterner, it must be pretty hard to understand, I know, but past the Manitoba border, there just is no trust, and there has been a major regional political war going on for decades, the only thing that has kept them mollified has been their multual hatred of Quebec. Now that is gone. But in your Canada, the Green Party won seats, so who knows.

WWJD
Amen.

OOC: I haven't kept up with every word of this thread, being more worried about what's happening elsewhere, but I feel compelled to say, "It's Hudecia, not Canada" and something about how the people of the Ukraine and France wouldn't even put up with things they're in AMW prepared to die for, and I sometimes worry that certain players get more hassle than others just because of RL experiences and prejudices that don't heavily afflict less developed nations. I'm not saying that constructive criticism is out of bounds, just that people have to be careful about putting on pressure that may not be directly applicable.

OOC: I haven't kept up with every word of this thread, being more worried about what's happening elsewhere, but I feel compelled to say, "It's Hudecia, not Canada" and something about how the people of the Ukraine and France wouldn't even put up with things they're in AMW prepared to die for, and I sometimes worry that certain players get more hassle than others just because of RL experiences and prejudices that don't heavily afflict less developed nations. I'm not saying that constructive criticism is out of bounds, just that people have to be careful about putting on pressure that may not be directly applicable.

I realise that, that is why I added the last sentence of the post. I realise it is his Canada, Hudecia, and he can pretty much do as he pleases, it's not as though I was making demands, just suggestions.

WWJD
Amen.

OOC: Okay.. an explanation of the grain board bill.

They nationalized the grain board.. not the individual farms. The grain board controls the prices of grain, buying grain from farmers and selling it to those who would refine it, as well, the grain board sells seed grain. In Hudecia, most small family farmers are being bankrupted by the unreasonably low prices set by the grain board (similar to RL Canada but much much worse). In nationalizing the grain board, they became able to hike prices for grain, meaning that smaller farms are now more profitable.

I do have a small (if perhaps incomplete) understanding of farming as my family is filled with farmers (or was until many of them gave up or died). The biggest problem facing them is the fact that they need to buy more and more land in order to remain profitable since wheat, grain, corn, etc.. prices are all so very low.

By making smaller farms more profitable it ensures their survival and hence, making farmers very happy. When a farmer learns that because of the government intervention his farm is now once again profitable, it helps him forget other unpleasantries (see the Paul Martin Rule: If in doubt, throw money around to make people happy). It is the equivalent of subsidizing farms.

I am RPing a nation that once held a proud position in the world, a position that was lost when the Conservative government went into 3 (maybe 4) wars, each time losing what could be considered catastrophic casualties and sometimes without any real effect on the world. Naturally, people gravitate towards another party.

What Bouchard is banking on is that Hudecians in general (Albertans included) are ultimately all talk and no show when it comes to actual violence. After all, they have had an Albertan Prime Minister (MacNally) for the last 4 years who was running everything to their benefit.

I know that I probably should have been more clear about my meaning but I wanted to avoid rambling on for about 2 pages about the intricacies of farming/health care/etc... in Hudecia and about the full political system. I wanted to try to get my meaning out in as few words as possible to prevent having to write an essay. Sorry for any confusion.

Hudecian Demographics:

Nationally,

28% Caucasian (mostly British or French but with large pockets of Eastern European descendants)

17% Chinese (mostly Hudecian-born)

12% Latin American

11% Korean (up to half are refugees from the war, gathered together in specific locations emphasizing their political power)

9% Asian (not including Chinese or Korean)

6% Indian

4% African

3% Middle Eastern

10% other

Note: it has long been the policy of Statistics Hudecian to record someone who is of two different heritages to record the one to emphasize the smallest minority group. (for example British-Chinese Hudecian is recorded as Chinese, while Chinese-Japanese Hudecian is recorded as Japanese)

OOC: I will post more notes about Hudecian political/economic situation relevant to the current issue once I can stay awake for long enough.

Effect of Demographics on Politics in Hudecia

The large asian population is emphasized in areas such as British Columbia (they thought about changing the name to something more asian a while back since over 50% of the population comes from China, Korea or Japan) and large urban centers.

Cities such as Edmonton, where the economy was booming at the time of the Korean diaspora were forced to absorb a large part of the refugees. Europe became the second most common background after East Asia almost overnight as hundreds of thousands of Koreans fled there.

The Drapoel War and later practices to integrate the refugees into Hudecian society were championed by the LDP, practically assuring their support.

However, the real political winner was the People's Party, an ethnic party. By championing Asian viewpoints and having a Chinese-Hudecian leader they swept British Columbia and major urban areas. Although highly conservative, the People's Party emphasizes improving relations with all asian nations and helping them better themselves through better management of 'soft power'.

Out east, where the demographic changes are much less pronounced changes in the industry have caused greater political change, (to be discussed later) namely the rise of the Green Party as a viable alternative since the NDP party merged with the Liberals to form the LDP. The East remained immune from the changes because of the strong presence of pro-independence forces inside the LDP and Conservative parties which acted to prevent large scale immigration to Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.

Hudecian Political Economy

In many socialistic nations, it is the political scene which controls the economy. Successive conservative regimes emphasized the opposite however that the economy would dictate the political situation. Ultimately, towards the end of the Conservative Republican hammerlock on politics, opponents would refer to Hudecia as having a 'Corporate Democracy'.

Although it was an exaggeration, it was not far off from the truth. Corporations heavily influenced major parties through legal and illegal methods to support initiatives that would be to the benefit of the economy in general, or a particular corporation. The result was a quick series of mergers of medium-sized businesses to gain political power.

Soon, the monopoly laws in Hudecia were all but rolled back and corporations wiped out their smaller competitors. Although liberals warned that this would lead to increased inflation as corporations gouged their customers, this never occured since corporations worried about maintaining political support for their favoured parties.

Still, the huge monopolies enjoyed by several corporations in Hudecia are enormous. And the corporations will do anything to protect their stranglehold.

Hudecian Political System

The Hudecian political system was designed with the idea of two competing levels of power, in the hopes that the two separate branches would keep the other in line. And so, certain powers were embedded in both branches as 'failsafes' in case one branch became too corrupt/dictatorial.

In a general election, Hudecians elect both a President and a Parliamentary Representative separately. The person with the most votes for President wins, even if the person does not win 50% of the popular vote. The party that has the largest number of Parliamentary Representatives can appoint the Prime Minister (the exact wording of the Constititution is 'the party that can obtain the confidence of Parliament, otherwise the largest party').

The President deals with international issues and may appoint, with the consent of Parliament, the positions of ambassadors, Foreign Minister, Minister of Defence and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, etc..

The Prime Minister deals with national affairs and may appoint, with the consent of the President, the Minister of Industry, Immigration Minister, the head of the HMP (Hudecian Mounted Police) and other various positions.

Sometimes, a person can be elected President and appointed Prime Minister by his party. Although this is rare there is a precendent, MacNally was the first person to hold both positions and held them for 4 years.

Should the President by one means or another become unable to fulfill his duties, the Prime Minister will temporarily take on the powers of President but will be unable to appoint new Cabinet ministers. He will hold this position until a new election may be held, which will be determined by the Supreme Court of Hudecia.

Should the Prime Minister become unable to fulfill his duties, the President will temporarily take on the powers of the Prime Minister, but unable to alter Parliament, until such time as an internal party vote is held in the ruling party to decide on a new leader.

OOC: I hope this clarrifies everything about Hudecia... any questions? Comments? Unsatisfied rants?

Hey, that sounds similiar to China's government.

-Ottawa- Day of the Confidence Vote-

"... and for willfully flaunting and attempting to undermine Parliament, the President should resign his position or he should be forced out!" Bloc member Henri Goudin was finishing up his short speech. Because of Conservative fillibustering the vote had been delayed another 24 hours but now, with their time expired, the Bloc could finally bring the issue to a vote.

President MacNally sat in his chair at the front of Parliament and order the pages to begin the countdown for a vote.

MacNally's mind was racing faster and faster. Bouchard was sitting there smugly smiling as if he had just won the lottery, but MacNally believed that there was no way that he could be defeated on this vote. His supporters were standing strong, and they had enough votes to prevent this bill from passing.

So why was Bouchard still smiling? He had lost!

As the countdown ended MacNally came to a startling realization of why Bouchard was still smiling. Then in his chair, he leaned his head down and silently prayed to God.

The leaders and members of the LDP, Green and Bloc Francophonie stood up to express their votes in favour of the bill. None of the Independents stood to support the bill.

With MacNally now sweating profusely and his heart racing faster and faster he turned to Emily Chen and watched in abject horror as she stood to vote IN FAVOUR of the no-confidence bill. As the pages called out the names of each of the members of the People's Party it was as if someone was jabbing knives through MacNally's heart.

His mouth slightly open, his breathing heavy, he leaned forward slightly in his chair, the world beginning to become blurry. Slowly, his right arm began to hurt more and more, like an orchestra building up a creschendo until it was a blinding, searing pain. The old man's brain was still running at a thousand miles a minute when he realized that he was having a heart attack.

He opened his mouth to call for help, but all he could manage was a faint whisper which only the closest page could hear. The page only realized the seriousness of the situation when MacNally's body fell out of his chair and landed on the floor of Parliament with a thud.

Conservative MPs called frantically for help as they dashed towards their striken leader, carrying him out of Parliament and to a waiting ambulance.

The irony of it all was, that MacNally won the vote.

At the very end, when all seemed lost, a single People's Party parliamentarian from Windsor, Ontario broke with her own party and voted against the bill. She stood up to vote against the bill just as MacNally was collapsing out of his chair. With 206 in favour and only 69 opposed, the bill did not secure the necessary 75% of the votes.

But MacNally would never know that. He would not survive the trip to the hospital.

Paramedics would publicly state that the stress and anxiety combined to cause a massive heart attack that would kill the old man, but privately would admit that the true reason for his death was more complicated. His body seemed to shut down like a series of dominos, sometimes without any medical reason, leading many doctors to speculate that he lost the will to live.

The Quinntonian government expresses its deepest sympathies for the President, and declares a national holiday and day of prayer for all of Quinntonia, while mourning for this friend of Quinntonia takes place.

WWJD
Amen.

-Edmonton-

The Supreme Court of Hudecia, being largly regionalist in nature, decided to hold the election for President as soon as possible.

"With such an unstable minority, how can we allow a Prime Minister to hold onto the powers of the President for any longer than absolutely necessary." -Supreme Court Justice Michael Black

-Ottawa-

Parliament is suspended for a week to honour President MacNally. All current bills are delayed. Bloc Francophonie opposed the porougement but were overruled by virtually everyone else.

Major funds are being poured into the Conservative Party of Canada, and especially those members in the west, with the LDP getting major initiatives as well, largely seen as the lesser of the evils.
WWJD
Amen.

-Windsor-(On the border with Detroit)

It was here that former People's Party MP Christine Lau announced her intention to run for the position of President.

Christine Lau was the MP who sided with MacNally in the confidence vote, immediately becoming a conservative darling (some would argue that she is an angel) although angering some of her fellow MPs slightly. However, despite their dislike of her decision, the fact that their betrayal of MacNally caused his heart attack and ultimate death tempered their anger. She remains a member of the People's Party arguing that despite making a mistake the party is the only one that can represent asian interests.

She was a longtime friend of MacNally, and one of his close compatriots (and fellow Windsorite) attended her announcement in support of her.

-Edmonton-

MacNally's son and daughter called President Obed of Quinntonia to personally invite him to the private funeral for MacNally.

"Our father made it clear that his funeral would only be attended by his family. However, he also made it clear to us that he considers you to be his brother, and we would be honoured if you could come to celebrate his life with us."

-Ottawa-

The Presidential campaign came into full swing as 3 other candidates announced their intentions to run for the position.

Erin Chavez was running for the Green Party, Maurice Laporte for the Liberal Democratic Party and the Rhinocerous Party put up a George Stephanopolous.

However, with only 3 weeks in the campaign, Christine Lau had the momentum and the support of conservatives and corporations across the country.

Corporations saw her as their saving hope, as they were under increasing pressure from Parliament and from bureaucrats. The public health care system was undergoing a rejuvenation that threatened the bottom line of private practices nationally.

With the grain board's monopoly obliterated and prices for grain increasing, it had a ripple effect throughout the industry. Processers and grocery stores were under increasing pressure to cut back costs in order to maintain their low prices.

[OOC: A question: what exactly is Hudecian electoral law in regards to foreign and corporate donations?]

OOC: I'm sorry, Canadian President , when did that happen??
Can someone tell me what the hell is going on? Hudecia, we have not had much contact, and FYI I am the new TBF player, so enlighten me as to the status of the dominion?


Can I get an answer to this?

Can I get an answer to this?

I don't know if Hudecia ever was a dominion, it's not Canada, after all, and is in a large part Asian. The British Empire in AMW was never fully what it had been in reality... a local example for me would be that Tanganyika, Zanzibar, and Pemba were never British and that Northern Rhodesia was about half the size of the real one, with the rest being part of Roycelandian East Africa until the revolution of the 70s created the United African Republic of Lusaka.
The former N.Rhodesia is now independent West Zambia, which is heavily associated with the UARL.
I can't tell you for sure about Hudecia, but it is certainly not to be confused with Canada, and generally has looked to the east rather than the west (although confusingly from their perspective that would be looked west rather than east, literally :) ).
But, hey, doesn't Quinntonia have a Prime Minister? I don't think that's out of any relation to HM the Queen, though.

OOC: some housekeeping items:

Since Hudecia is a corporate democracy, corporate donations are heavily encouraged. Foreign corporations/governemnts however are still limited in how much they can 'legally' donate, but 'illegally' parties and local supporters tend to be cooperative. In other words, foreign governments and corporations can donate money, but sometimes you are required to put in a little more effort to get the money to where it was intended.

If you want to donate money to a particular party, just tell me briefly to whom and how much and I'll factor that into my elections.

Yes, Hudecians can be bribed, just like most Canadians.

I sent you a telegram TBF briefly explaining the situation.

We removed the last vestiges of our British heritage in an effort to make the system more democratic (out with the Governor-General and in with a President) but we still have warm fuzzy feelings about her Majesty and her Majesty's government in London.

Jesse Obed will be attanding the funeral, coming to Ottowa in Jesus-1. As for donations, cooperate Quinntonia will be pouring billions into the conservative campaigns in every way that would be legally possible.
WWJD
Amen.

OOC:Hudecia, wouldyoumind sending me a brief description of the parties and candidates via TG? Thank you.

Candidates for President:

Christine Lau

Supported by: Conservative Republican Party and People's Party of Hudecia

Important facts: By far the youngest candidate at the age of 27, publicly she is happily single (privately she is dating someone), and so she has surrounded herself by experienced and smart people including half of MacNally's advisors. She opposing the destruction of the corporate democracy and supports increasing ties with Quinntonia.

A key part of her platform includes expanding commercial links via new bridges to bypass the busy cities of Windsor and Detroit as well as Sudbury. As for the oil sands, she believes them to be of crucial importance to the Quinntonian-Hudecian relations and would place them under federal jurisdiction although she admits that undoing the nationalization program would be impossible.

Erin Chavez

Supported by: Green Party

Viewpoints: A longtime supporter of the environment, Erin has made it her lifelong goal to replace 'bad industries' (ie oil industry) with 'good industries' (ie ethanol industry). Her platform is almost entirely environmentally based and speaks little about foreign affairs. Her comment on that is that Hudecia should come first before any other nation.

Maurice Laporte

Supported by: The Liberal Democrat Party and the Bloc Francophonie

Viewpoints: A native of Montreal, Maurice is bilingual and a strong supporter of rolling back corporate controls on the Hudecian economy and political life. Although he dabbled in communism, strainism and even facsism he asserts that in no way will that he is a staunch democrat and supporter of the rights of Hudecian people and workers.

Maurice has toured many nations as a member of Parliament and worked as a minister under President Matsuda. He is experienced and tough willed, but still finds time to have fun with his 3 children.

George Stephanopolous

Supported by: The Rhinocerous Party and the Independent MPs

Viewpoints: A successful political talk show host for the only liberal media source in Hudecia (the HBC of course), George wants to radically alter the way Hudecia is government by abolishing the 1993 Constituion and replacing it with the 1984 one.

He is fundamentally opposed to the Quintonnian model of government as he fled the country when he realized the depth to which the theocracy ran there.

In an effort to gain access to greater markets as well as gaining more allies for the Empire, Japanese companies soon start donating to Christine Lau's campaign as part of a wider movement against possible Drapoel aggression.

Several Chinese news agencies and many tough rise companies began contributing large sums of money to the running candidate Maurice Laporte. Because his political views, many companies believe he and his administration will be able to secure foreign assets and also improve relations with China.

Spyr attempts to give some finances to the Liberal Democrats, though it is not particularly eager to pour in too much against a frontrunner which can easily play the sympathy card. In private, Spyran officials predict, as usual in the Western 'democracies', votes recieved will directly correlate to campaign finances... and hope that Bouchard can find a way to alter campaign finance law within the next week or so ^_^.

One small use of funds might be subsidies on the comic 'Hellblazer' in local shops... because demons vote Conservative.

-Montreal-

In a campaign stop for Maurice, young francophones mobbed him as he tried to get to the microphone. Hoisting him up on their shoulders they carried him all the way to the stage as if he was a rock star.

Behind the scenes, francophone and anglophone companies whose government loans are coming due are 'encouraged' to make donations the Maurice Laporte's campaign by the ruling Bloc party, or risk being told to pay up the millions that they owe.

-Regina, Saskatchewan-

Standing atop a tractor Christine Lau addressed cheering crowds of farmers and oil workers. Farmers from all over the prairies had come to express their support for Ms. Lau, clogging the roads with tractors in a wierd form of support.

Christine Lau vowed to address the needs of rural areas and to ensure that farmers are treated better by the corporations.

In a move to coincide with Lau's speech, corn and wheat processing companies unilaterally agreed to increase the rate they give for corn and wheat from small farmers. Although the Bloc Francophonie still vowed to nationalize those industries, the Green party was backing off that threat, saying that they were glad that companies were seeing that they must treat farmers equally.

-Yellowknife-

In bitter temperatures, Green Party candidate Erin Chavez spoke of global warming and the need to address it "or this land will be prime farming real estate in a few decades".

-Ottawa-

In a rare defeat for the Bloc party, its bill to nationalize the corn board was voted down by the combined Conservative, People's Party and Green Party members of parliament. Obviously upset with his defeat, Bouchard vowed to redouble his efforts and to bring the issue before parliament once he was assured of victory.

-Vancouver-

In the middle of the largest Chinatown in North America, Lau visited shop after shop rallying supporters in her attempt to become the first ethnic Chinese President. Although she was born and raised in Hudecia, in the minds of many she was still Chinese. This was becoming a problem as Maurice and Chavez portrayed her as 'a pawn of the Chinese government', a characteristic that was unfortunately sticking to her.

Although she still held a clear lead in the polls, thanks to a massive media blitz funded by 'anonymous' sources, opposition to her was solidifying. In an anything-but-Lau mindset, voters were bleeding from Chavez and Stephanopolous to Maurice.

As the tradition of the Chinese Government to announce their support of a candidate, they have not yet done so. Even though most of China's major corporations were beginning to pour money into the Canadian candidate Maurice Laporte. However, many companies, who have ties with Quintonnia and Hudecian companies have began their fundraising for Christine Lau.


Even though having the backing of a foreign government may not change anything in the native land where the election is taking place, it would be significant in gambling for better ties in the future.

Um, so, there is no LDP candidate? Habe the LDP and the Bloc formally merged, otherwise, it is against current Parliamentary procedure, though this could just be one of those Hudecian changes. Just a question for clarifocation. And, if Bouchard is the LDP candidate, you may ignore my statement of Quinntonian donations to that party. Thanx.


Anyhoo, a few things are happening in the ethnic Korean populations, first, the Republic of Korean Prime Minister Sim Il Kim shows up and begins to actively campaign for Christine Lau. This comes with a healthy dose of Korean language adds that begin airing at ROK Conservative expense, and in speeches, the foriegn PM begins to tell of how all other nations have long since pulled out of ROK, and the only nation left between Dra-poel aggression and their freedom, is Quinntonia. He reminds them of the wars, with the Hudecuian Conservative government taking them in and fighting, allowing their young men to die for Korean freedom. But now the LRR have gone, the Hudecians have gone, but the Quinntonians remain. The current government would have the ties to the greatest of Hudecias and ROK's friends broken. A Conservative vote is a vote for home, the old one, and the new.

This comes along with ralleys for the refugees of Dra-poel, staged in most major centers and replete with testimonials from those living in Quinntonian Dra-pol and those living in Hudecia now, having immigrated from Quinntonian Dra-pol. These are spectacular affairs, with many celebrities from Hollywood and elswhere, inclduing pop singers and actors from ROK, Japan, and QDP.

WWJD
Amen.

OCC: Well, in all fairness Quinn, the HDF isn't exactly free to deploy wherever it fancies. I mean, Hindustani troops are in Eritrea, Lusaka, Ethiopia (albeit fewer than 50), and Neo-Anarchos. The HDF has sent ships to Al-Ahzad, Estonia, the Lyong Peninsula (where one was sunk in battle), Nigeria, and Western Sahara. So I hardly think you can say Hindustan is less involved internationally than Quinntionia.

And Parliament promised (in the Cherry Blossom Days thread) that it would its best to support the ROK in the event of a Drapoel invasion.

IC:

Mumbai continues to take only passing interest in what is viewed is a legitimate and internal Canadian problem. While Parliament would very much like to see Hudecia back on the international scene, if only to counterbalance the terribly influential Holy League and Russia, it is up to Hudecians whether they want to or not.

The Republic Of Korea is also reminded that Hindustan continues to support its soveriegnty and will do so, if the resources are available, militarily if need be.

tag (should have done this earlier...)

OOC: *sigh* I thought I was clear, but I guess I wasn't. In Hudecian elections the President is supposed to be separate from any party. He is elected on an individual basis. But of course some parties can throw their support behind them in an effort to get them elected.

There are 4 candidates right now so some candidates are supported by more than one party.

-Edmonton-

The Korean population is heavily swayed by words from the prime minister and in this community it is being played up very significantly in attempts to get votes.

On the other hand, it solidifies fears many have with regards to Lau and her conservative policies. The LDP begins to feature ads focusing on previous wars, and make Lau out to look like a war-monger who would throw Hudecia into yet another war.

In a way, the sides become drawn with Lau representing the sections of society wanting to reach out to the rest of the world, while LaPorte begins to take a more introverted approach, urging Hudecia to look after its own first.

-Ottawa-

In response to the South Korean PM visiting and campaigning for Lau, the Green Party, the LDP and the Bloc Francophonie pass a bill condemning this 'abhorent breach' by foreign powers into Hudecian elections and order Sim Il Kim to leave immediately.

In a move to stem any other nations from trying similar things from occuring again, Parliament passes a bill that makes it illegal for foreign nationals to support openly a candidate in a parliamentary or presidential election with a maximum penalty of 5 years imprisonment.

Conservative lawyers vow to take the bill to court as a violation of constitutionally held rights.

The Chinese government will pass several laws that will limit donations to foreign elections. Before any dumb laws are to be passed in Hudecia, the Chinese government decided to announce their political backing of Christine Lau.

The reasons are unclear, but Maurice Laporte, with his ultra liberal side of things may have contributed in to this change of support. Besides, China may have some political troubles with Quintonnia, but seeing the two great powers ripping each other apart may not be beneficial to China.

-Regina-

With Christine Lau's support holding firm in the high-forties, and LaPorte seemingly stalled in the mid-twenties, the race appears to be almost over. Barring a major shift of events, Lau will be President.

Chavez holds approximately the same amount of support as Laporte and is therefore unwilling to concede defeat, arguing instead that Laporte should drop out of the race to allow her to win. LaPorte dismissed her suggestions out of hand. As well, the ever persistent George, refuses to bow out.

Yet the LDP still had one more trick up their sleeve.

-Montreal- Bombardier Corporation-

Through LaPorte supporters and the corporation gossip line, word began to spread around this primarily francophone that Lau's campaign was planning on destroying corporate subsidies for all francophone corporations should she be elected. There was also talk that she would export many jobs overseas or to the west. All in all, people spoke of Lau's 'secret agenda' that seemingly everyone knew about.

OOC: *sigh* I thought I was clear, but I guess I wasn't. In Hudecian elections the President is supposed to be separate from any party. He is elected on an individual basis. But of course some parties can throw their support behind them in an effort to get them elected.

There are 4 candidates right now so some candidates are supported by more than one party.


OOC- Sorry, I am still wrapped up in the Parliamentary system.
BTW, did Bombardier lose their defense contracts like they did in RL this year, if so, it is a Western Company that now supplies those jobs, just FYI. Darnit, now what was that companies name? AARGH!

IC- PM Sim Il Kim, ceases doing appearances, instaed beginning high level trade talks with provincial and business leaders throughout the nation, and holding fund-raisers for orphans of war in Korea, though at each fundraiser, there is a lot of press, ethnic Koreans and a speach, but he is absolutely not campaigning anymore. *wink* The trade talks focus on the importnace of foriegn trade to Hudecias economy, and calls upon provincial governments to support the candidate that wants to encourage that type of properity.

Throughout the Maratimes, Ontario and the west, rumours start to circulate that the true agenda of the sitting government is to divide the country into two zones of influence, and set up a Bolshevik Communist government in the west, while Quebec breaks and seperates, attempting to crown LaPorte a King, and becoming vassal to France, and member of the Holy League. IT is widely thought that the Maratimes will then become expendable, and be let off the Quebecer bus, so to speak.

Rumours start to circulate in Washington that Quinntonia might be willing to take the west under their protection if it so desired.

Again, the dead-beat nature of the new sitting government is brought up, pionting to the billions and billions that were invested in the Tsar Sands project by Quinntonia, making it worth nationalising. Questions are raised as to whether Hudecia is going to start doing this to other investors, beginning a small swell of panic on the INternational Currency exchange, making the Hudecian dollar drop by almost 10 cents in a single day, as well as start Wall Street and the TSX into a selling frenzy, as everyone wants to get rid of their heavy industry stocks and Hudecian Commodities. Many of the major companies with heavy Hudecian investment in major industry see their values plummet overnight, though accusations of this all being staged at very high levels are thrown around, there is no way to know for sure.

WWJD
Amen.

-Toronto-

The blip on the international markets induces a panic in Hudecia with many investors worried that the Quinntonians found something that they didn't. Investors begin withdrawing their funds from Hudecian companies at such a rate that the federal government steps in and promises to take over the job of investing in Hudecian companies.

"The role of investors is to stabilize Hudecian businesses, not to create instability and worries. If the market continues its erratic path the government will have no choice but to take over completely in this area to ensure stability."
-Finance Minister Bourassa

On the Hudecian commodities market, finding that their sen can now go quite a bit further and a panic seems to have started a bit of a selling frenzy, Spyran traders begin the process of investment and acquisition. With a full trade embargo in Lyong-Sujava on Russian goods, preserving supply lines of Hudecian raw materials across the Pacific increases in importance.

China, with a similiar trade embargo on Russian goods quickly turns to Hudecian trade. Because the Chinese. at first, already have quite an investment in Canadian goods, there can only be a rise to the economic oppurtunities, especially with such a large scale embargo on a trading partner.

-Toronto-

With the Chinese and Spyrans rapidly buying into Hudecian businesses and Hudecian raw materials, the stock markets rebound into more secure territory. Even still, the government makes noises about the need for stability and the Finance Minister was heard bemoaning the fact that the current economical system inherently causes these mini-crises.

Some political analysts speculated that it might be the long term goal of the Hudecian government to nationalize what it sees as 'crucial' industries if it views them as being too 'unstable'. Although the political cost would be higher now that the Spyran and Chinese are investing in them.

-Winnepeg-

On the final day of election campaigning Lau was making a mad dash across the country on her campaign jet. Her stop in Winnepeg was short but she met with a large crowd of supporters who were eagerly awaiting word that she would win the election.

During the election, huge transfers of funds from Russian accounts to "private Hudecian citizens" who were absolutely NOT by any chance AT ALL KGB agents. And these "private Hudecian citizens" DID not attempt to sway the election bvy spreading rumors and publishing tabloids about all candidates opposing Lau. These rumors DID NOT insinuate that LaPorte was having innapropriate relations with his dog, nor that Chavez was a former eco-terrorist.

Also, a case of the finest vodka WAS NOT transported to Lau's doorstep by elite Russian diplomats. It...fell off a truck. Yes...

-Quebec-

Malcolm T's movement continues to grow, as it agitates against all election candidates. They are accused of being traitors to Quebec, who would trade away hopes of Quebecois independence in exchange for a little political power. With fiery rhetoric attracting legions of Francophonie nationalists, they prepare to march on Ottawa.

OOC: Can you tell me how many numbers I can e

-Lau's doorstep-

"A full case of vodka... on my front porch... fell off a truck you say?" Lau was a bit surprised returning home late that day to find the vodka. With her family and advisors sitting there staring at the vodka wondering what to do with it.

"Should we test it for poison?" Her chief advisor asked mockingly.

"Might as well, you never know where these things come from," Lau opened the case slowly and pulled out a bottle. "It is Russian."

"How do you know?"

"It says 'made in Russia'."

"This would be wonderful if I actually drank vodka," Lau's advisor laughed reminding her about his personal vow to abstain from alcohol. Lau herself made no such vow, but only drank on special occasions, being a devout Baptist. "So what do we do with it?"

"Well, we can't get rid of it or give it away... I guess I'll have to keep it... or something."

-Trois Rivieres-

Malcolm T's group swelled but most of the support was moral and not actual boots on the ground. Internet bloggers supporting him estimated that anywhere between 100 000 and 250 000 people supported him but that in any 'March on Ottawa' he might only be able to field 5 000- 10 000 people from across Quebec.

Bouchard finally decided that this radical group posed a threat to his power and immediately declared it a 'terrorist organization'. Meaning that any members of the group would be subject to Hudecia's notorious 'guilt by association' laws. Anglophone military units from Ontario and Alberta were dispatched into the environs of Trois Rivieres to search for Malcolm T supporters and to disrupt any attempts to march on the capital cities, either Quebec City or Ottawa.

-Quebec City-

Provincially, several members of the National Assembly (provincial parliament) were in contact with Malcolm T to try to gain his support in holding a referendum.

"Should LaPorte lose this election the time would be right for us to hold a full fledged referendum on sovereignty. Why do you support the anglophone Lau in her quest to oppress us?" -Member of the National Assembly Henri Trembley

If Lau ever inspected the vodka more closely, she would find that the label would indicate that the vodka was made by "Remove The Trade Embargo On Russia And Both Economies Shall Prosper Vodka Producers".

Oddly enough, there was such a vodka producing plant, located in Siberia, but that was completely unrelated.

-Ottawa-

With the march on Ottawa being chased off and with his group declared illegal, a furious Malcolm T bursted into a marxist bar, seething with rage. A gang of Marxists rushed up to him, only to be smacked away with a "shut up foo!"
He sat down, ordered a round of vodka-laden espressos, and sulked. Murdock quickly ran up to him, attempting to comfort the raging man.

"Damn that crazy foo' Bouchard! Tryin' to mess wit da revolution! Let us fight in the streets! Teach 'em da meanin' of pain!"
"Mr. T" he whispered.
"What?!!"
"Haven't we already won? The conservatives are already gonna' win!"
"So? That's just the President! We need to destabilize the situation enough so that Parliament gets back in da right hands! A special election!" he whispered back.
"Support the referendum then! If Quebec tries to secede, it'll destabilize Hudecia enough to call a special election! And it'll draw of Bouchard's base, since he opposes secession!"
"Enough jibba jabba! Let's get to work!"

Malcolm T has thrown his support behind LaPorte and for a referendum on Quebec's independence.

-Ottawa-

Bouchard waited in his office for the results of the election to come in. His agents in Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia were employing their 'special skills' to induce high voter turnout and large support for LaPorte.

With Malcolm T throwing his weight behind LaPorte at the last minute, it would allow his media to spread the lie that Malcolm T's endorsement of LaPorte has sent francophones across Hudecia into supporting LaPorte. Building up Malcolm T's 'mystique' could prove useful to Bouchard and his movement.

Bouchard was a very pragmatic politician and separatist. He knew that he was not charismatic enough to lead the separatist movement to success, but this Malcolm T... he could be useful... or dangerous but for now he was mostly the former.

-Montreal-

Voter turnout reached unprecedented levels as upwards of 90% of eligible voters were reported to have cast their ballots in francophone regions. As the first results from predominantly francophone regions began to arrive it was obvious that LaPorte had 'swept' the region.

A sample of the results from francophone regions:

Quebec City (turnout: 94%)
Laporte: 70%
Chavez: 11%
Stephanopolous: 10%
Lau: 9%

Montreal (turnout: 97%)
Laporte: 70%
Chavez: 11%
Lau: 11%
Stephanopolous: 8%

From anglophone regions:

St. John's (turnout: 52%)
Lau: 51%
Laporte: 25%
Chavez: 21%
Stephanopolous: 3%

Prince Edward Island (turnout: 49%)
Lau: 44%
Laporte: 31%
Chavez: 24%
Stephanopolous: 1%

The race was going to be close after all.

-Windsor-

With the votes being counted in British Columbia it was clear that the vote was going to be close.

Without British Columbia the vote was as follows:

LaPorte: 43%
Lau: 40%
Chavez: 15%
Stephanopolous: 2%

British Columbia was a asian stronghold however, and it was assumed that it would vote Lau, but turnout was key. With unbelievable turnout levels in Quebec, British Columbians would have to turnout in sufficient levels to give Lau a victory.

OOC; Yikes! Mr. T's plan has backfired! Erm...What does it take to get a special parliamentary election called, and if there was a Qeubecois referendum on independence, would Bouchard oppose it?

OOC: Just wait for the final results though and the aftermath of the election before you get too upset about the preliminary reports.

Bouchard is a separatist, but he cannot initiate a referendum in Quebec until there is a separatist provincial leader or they could petition the courts to try to add on a referendum question onto the ballot. It is legally possible but highly unlikely unless they can provide evidence of a massive separatist movement and that the only way it could be settled is through a vote.

On the other hand... a few well placed bribes could 'persuade' some judges to allow it.

-Vancouver-

Voter turnout in British Columbia was on average 60%, higher than usual but understandable considering the close race.

As votes were being counted, Lau was holding an impressive 60-25 lead over LaPorte. But would it be enough was the true question.

-Windsor-

With the votes fully tallied the result was still a nail biter. The final results were:

Lau: 46.1%
Laporte: 45.6%
Chavez: 15.2%
Stephanopolous: 3.1%

Christine Lau emerged from her home after counting to give a rather interesting victory speech.

"Today, Hudecians from coast to coast have spoken and despite the interference in our electoral process by certain parties, my supporters have been victorious. I say 'my supporters' because this victory belongs to all those who toiled and worked to support me throughout this difficult campaign."

"However, this victory rings very hollow because of the electoral fraud that occured in the provinces of Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Reports indicate that the average voter turnout was 94% and that nearly 75% of those votes went to a single candidate. This result smells of ballot box stuffing and my supporters in Montreal have proof that the Bloc Francophonie and the LDP both were involved in this sordid affair."

OOC: Hudecia presidential elections do not hold run off votes. First ballot, whoever wins the most votes wins, so Lau is now President.

Chancellor Yeh Zhao Feng called the newly elected, President Lau. He congratulated the president, and sucess of the election and has talked about China's committment toward inproving ties with hudecia.

The Japanese government send their best wishes and congratulations to Christine Lau on her victory in the Hudecian Presidential Election, expressing their hope that relations between Hudecia and the Empire can continue to prosper.

In private, the government is simply pleased to see a pro-Quinntonian politican in power in Hudecia, as it may lead to a stronger alliance in the North Pacific Rim.

-Ottawa-

While Lau accused LaPorte of vote-rigging in Quebec, LaPorte responded with accusations of his own. Citing the high amounts of support in BC, Alberta and Saskatchewan as evidence of voter intimidation he called on Parliament to denounce the 'illegal election practices' that Lau was supposedly practising.

Lau produced three election observers who claimed that they witnessed other observers stuffing ballot boxes with votes for LaPorte.

In Parliament, Bloc leader and Prime Minister Bouchard threatened to pass legislation condemning Lau unless she brought forth viable proof that she had not rigged the vote in BC and Alberta. He claimed that he would bring forward legislation within the week otherwise.

Both the People's Party and the Conservative Parties condemned Bouchard for his 'guilty until proven innocent tactics' and demanded that he back down from his threats and launch a full scale investigation into the entire election.

PM Jesse Obed personally phones Lau and congratulates her on her victory, and then asks if there is any way he could help her in the mess she is currently in.
Wih te announcement of the victory, all of the impositions on shipping to Quinntonia are immediately dropped.
WWJD
Amen.

Under an Imperial edict filed by the Parliament, and approved by the National Assembly (Formerly known as Congress). President Lau is summoned to beijing for immediate talks on Dra-Pol.

The Russian Senate has called for international observers and investigators to be sent into Hudecia in order to verify the results. Additionally, it was recommended that a special parliamentary election be called, for if this election was tainted by fraud, the previous parliamentary one may have been victim to manipulation as well.

Malcolm T has released an angry press statement calling ALL politicians and judges who refused to start a Quebecois referendum traitors to Quebec. He has demanded that Bouchard finallly decide if he was aiming for Quebecois independence, or just using the cause for his own ambitions.

The Chinese government warned Russia that interfering in Hudecian matters may prove to be more trouble, and dislikes from both sides in Hudecia.

-Windsor-

Lau agrees to come to Beijing for the discussions on Drapol but makes an odd request considering the circumstances. She asks that Prime Minister Bouchard also be allowed to attend the meeting.

What was odd about this was that Bouchard had worked so hard against Lau during the election and it surprised and shocked political analysts. However, it became obvious what had happened when Bouchard announced in Parliament that he would withdraw his accusations and would respect the result of the election. However and independent organization would investigate the allegations in both BC and Quebec.

-Lau's home-

"Bouchard insisted though that the election was rigged by us against LaPorte," Lau was telling her senior advisor. "He seemed so certain about it that I find it hard to believe that he was lying."

"Well, we know that he rigged the election in Francophone regions, and we had evidence for weeks in advance of the vote of what was going to happen on election day," her aide replied.

"Wait, you're telling me that you knew they were going to try to rig the election?" Lau interrupted him. "And you didn't tell me?"

"I didn't tell you because it hadn't happened yet and no proof would spur the authorities into action because he had bought them. So we had to take our own measures."

"So.. you're telling me that Bouchard is right? That we rigged the elections?" Lau was beside herself with surprise and frustration.

"If LaPorte had won the election it would have spelled the end for Hudecia as we know it," the aide was trying to explain himself quickly. "We had to do something... so I had Bouchard hoisted on his own petard."

"What...?"

"He had stationed Francophone soldiers in British Columbia and paid them to intimidate and to rig the election. I learned of this and diverted twice the amount he paid them to buy them for us. When the election came around, instead of rigging the election in favour of Bouchard they worked for us."

"And they rigged the election so that I would win?"

"They stopped Bouchard from rigging it and they increased the number of votes for you by about 1%."

"But I only won because of that 1%..."

"Exactly. Look, in Montreal they were having 90% turnout or higher. Of which up to half were illegal ballots. Protesting their actions after the fact will do us no good because they would hold absolute power and would simply ignore us."

"But they will find out that you rigged the election in BC and that'll make me a criminal."

"Hardly, the money came from Quinntonian and Japanese businesses and was not even part of our campaign, they might find out where the money came from, but I highly doubt that they'll even get that far. This 'independent investigation' has been bought off by the Bloc who'll make sure it doesn't find anything at all. Nothing on you or them."

"Why would they do that?"

"Because they've already lost and they know it. They have more important things, like the provincial election coming soon that they need to focus on."

Lau stood silently staring out her window.

"I'm sorry Christine..." the aide said quietly as he moved towards the door.

"No. You did what you felt was right, and I respect that. Your loyalty to me is.... comforting," Lau said as the aide was about to exit. "But if you ever do that again .... don't tell me."

"Agreed."

-Quebec City-

A popular member of the provincial legislature announced his intention to cross the floor and join the Parti Quebecois, the opposition separatist party. His move was spurred he said, by the defeat in the Presidential election of LaPorte.

"Quebec has no place in Hudecia today... we should immediately call a referendum on the issue," he said standing on the steps to the so called 'national assembly'.

The Premier of Quebec, his position now daily undermined by opposition attacks and by the federal government decided that instead of stonewalling he would hold a referendum and turn the use the machineries of the provincial government in the election. Naturally he hoped that the Bloc Francophonie in the federal level would be blocked in their efforts to interfere with the election by the other federal parties.

Just in time. Japanese officials are on a state visit to Beijing on a possible, Pacific Rim Union.

OOC: I will be gone for a week so plz do not expect any movement on this issue for a while.

-Quebec City-

Provincial legislature is dissolved after a vote of no confidence passes in the LDP government. Elections will be held within the month.

OOC: that's your cue AC