Labour Party nominee for President holds an open question and answer session in her hometown
Bongjing, Neveras District
August 3, 4076
As another election approaches in the United Republic of Kalistan, the Labour Party candidate, Florence Orlando, has dramatically increased her campaign's presence across the nation. Mrs Orlando has succeeded in soothing tensions within her party over recent months following reports of a revolt against leader Luca Curti. Despite achieving moderate success in the National Executive Committee elections, the rebel party members have since almost disappeared altogether, with Marianna Simonedis, who was seen as being Curti's direct challenger, herself admitting that 'now was not the time to turn inwards and allow the Right to take control of Kalistan'.
As well as uniting her own party, Mrs Orlando has reached out to representatives from other parties in Kalistan too. The MPoK confirmed that they would agree to support her run in exchange for inclusion in a future cabinet meanwhile unconfirmed reports from the Socialist Party suggest they will offer their support again. Most recently, Orlando was understood to have gained the backing of the DFA, if their own candidate was unsuccessful on the first ballot. With no Conservative candidate running at this time, all this provides her with a solid foundation going into the campaigning season.
Florence Orlando answers questions in Bongjing, where she spent several years performing voluntary work
This week, the former veterinary physician held an open question and answer forum during which she invited citizens from across the political spectrum to engage with the decision making process. When she finally called the event to an end, she had been answering questions for a total of nine hours- the best of which can be found below:
Martha Petronela, Labour Party member: What do you think of President Rushmoore's decision not to stand in the next election?
F(lorence) O(rlando): Well, it certainly took me by surprise! Although, perhaps we should all have expected it given the torrid time the President has had over the past three years. He must have submitted half a dozen cabinet proposals this term, which isn't ideal under any circumstances but particularly given that the CIP has had no prior experience in national government. That's before we even consider the trouble Mr Rushmoore has faced from within his own party, quite frankly I think he is well deserving of a rest.
Voski Taniel, criminal defence lawyer: Do you support the attempt by the KUP to destroy our legal system?
FO: Thank you for your question, however, I would ask that we try to be more constructive in future. Given the gravity of the legislation you are referencing though, I understand your frustration, Sir. The contents of this so-called 'Justice Reform Bill' are appalling. Firstly the attempt to deny certain citizens the right to free legal defence is not only unfair but has the potential to result in hundreds of people being unable to acquire adequate attornies. To then try and force the nation to submit to a curfew on top of this, it is truly the stuff of dystopian cinema. Rest assured that the Labour Party is doing everything it can to fight against this disgusting proposal.
Edmond Sarkozi, local sports star: What kind of cabinet will you be looking to build if you are as elected President of the Republic?
FO: I couldn't possibly proceed without congratulating you on a magnificent performance this weekend Mr Sarkozi, Racing Club Bongjing look like they could be challenging for the title this year if they keep up this early season form! At this moment, much like in the football season, it is too soon to know. Obviously, my preference would be an entirely left-wing cabinet but whether that is possible is unknowable right now. The current cabinet has been surprisingly successful and I am always looking at ways to work with people who hold different viewpoints to me so I'm definitely not going to rule that out. Overall, however, I think this is a case of 'wait-and-see'.
Oluwafunmilayo Chi, Labour Neveres District Assembly member: Can we hear your opinion on the proposed 'Devolution Act'?
FO: Of course you can and what a pleasant surprise to see a familiar face, Mrs Chi. As for the Devolution Act, I share the view of our party on this one. It is a clear attempt by its proponents to undermine the national government and the legislation which it has created. The District Assemblies, as I'm sure you'll agree, are marvellous institutions but when it comes to issues like education and the police force a line has to be drawn. In whatever capacity we can, Labour will continue to oppose the CIP's quest for a Federal Republic of Kalistan.
Emmanuel Harman, journalist: Is it true that the Labour Party, as part of its planned manifesto, wants to remove the exclusive ability of the President to appoint a cabinet?
FO: My friend, you must be joking to ask such a silly question! Presidential Prerogative has existed longer than I have and- trust me- that is an exceptionally lengthy time period. To my knowledge, there is no plan to remove it yet even if there was, I am willing to bet my hat it wouldn't get through the Assembly.