29th March 4553
Inoméni Kalópia Sweep Elections with 70% of Vote
• Government vows to press on with reforming agenda
• Unveils plans for devolved parliament in Wantuni
Prime Minister Kostas Karnezis at a victory rally in Helios
Inoméni Kalópia won a strong second mandate in the 4553 nationwide elections, achieving an absolute majority in all five regions with 70% of the popular vote. The government in Helios vowed to press on with its reforming agenda which it said would secure 'prosperity and progress nationwide'.
Government Unveils Plans for Devolved Parliament in Wantuni
The government has unveiled plans for a devolved legislature in Wantuni, to be known as the Wantuni Barlaman. The parliament, which shall sit in Malah, will have autonomy over select services and tax measures, although macroeconomic policy and the majority of financial decisions shall remain with Helios. The 60 seat chamber shall elect its members using the same proportional system as nationwide general elections.
The Prime Minister today said,
Kalopian Dimokratía is a partnership enriched by its distinct identities and traditions. No more is this true than in Wantuni, which is known for its distinct cultural traditions and Majatran language. We will meet public demands for decentralisation in a way which strengthens our union and enhances democratic accountability. The sovereign Ecclesia in Helios shall therefore consider proposals to devolve powers to a newly created legislature in Wantuni
The Wantuni Democratic Party is a major force within the governing Inoméni Kalópia alliance and is believed to have been pushing for such a move from as early as 4549. Wantuni is known to take great pride its distinct cultural and demographic make up, and there have often been calls for greater autonomy. Political differences between Wantuni and the rest Kalopia were also on show at the last election, with the region returning 9 communist members to the Ecclessia. Whilst Inoméni Kalópia won 55% of the vote, 15% of Wantuni voted for the Communist Party (KK). The communists failed to achieve 1% of the vote in any of other region of Kalopia.