Kalistan

[jamescfm]

Census Data Published
Three years since conducted, the 4128 census data has been released by the government
Kaliburg, Ananto
June 9th, 4131


Members of two different interpretations of Brethrenism discuss their faith

The Kalistani government has this week released a vast array of information collected through the census conducted by the Fabian Government in 4128. For many decades, Kalistan has refrained from tracking ethnic, religious and linguistic data but in 4128 the Premier took the decision to authorise the collection of such data, on a voluntary basis. It is unknown how many citizens did not complete or return the census form but unofficial estimates claim that over 95% of the population complied. Following extensive amalgamation and analysis, the Ministry of Internal Affairs made the full document available free of charge.

Unsurprisingly, the vast majority (91%) of respondents described themselves as 'Kalistani' although there are still notable Asli and Gao-Showan populations present, as well as a number of other ethnicities primarily composed of first-generation immigrants from further afield. Recently, the 'Cultural Quantum' was re-assessed for the first time in several years too; the term was coined by academics to describe the relative makeup of the Kalistani identity. Pensios is now the most dominant influence on what we call a 'Kalistani', with the Asali and Asli groups close behind. Interestingly, the impact of the Kalkali culture has waned despite some reports that individuals were embracing this aspect of their identity once again.

Linguistically, Kalistan remains one of the most diverse nations in Terra. Although the two Kalistani dialects of Luthori (Vrassan and Odufar) and Egelian account for 99% of citizens first languages, the official census records over three hundred discrete languages spoken by Kalistani nationals. An eighty-year-old resident from Neveras claimed to be able to communicate in a total of twenty-one different ones! Egelian, however, remains the most popular second language and the Kalistani Workers Liberation Army, the militia of the Labour Party, recently stipulated that new recruits must be able to speak it fluently.

When it comes to faith, the Society of Brethren persists as the dominant group, accounting for around 61% of the total population. Otherwise, Akalism retains a strong presence- as does Yazdism. The results also suggest that a record number of citizens profess no faith at all, more than those who belong to the Aurorian Patriarchal Church or any form of Ahmadism. Nonetheless, even with successive governments committing to a secular state, 95% of people hold religious beliefs of some kind.

[jamescfm]

The People's Press
Persson Exclusive
The People's Press meets SDP leader and former President Hans Persson ahead of elections in twelve months
Kaliburg, Ananto
Decemebr 6th 4131


Hans Persson has been leader of the Social Democratic Party since its creation

As campaigning gets under way for the general election of January 4133, The People's Press was able to contact former President of the Republic Hans Persson, who leads the Social Democratic Party. Persson and the SDP have endorsed the Labour Party's Franklin Foster in the Presidential election, with the expectation that he would lead a Foster government as Premier. As a young man, Persson studied Law at Kaliburg District University- taking a summer job in a nearby factory in order to sustain himself. Following his graduation and national service, he began working there full-time and became popular for his idealistic views about Kalistani society, even meeting his wife during his time at the factory.

Eventually, Persson became involved in Trade Union activities due to what he saw as workplace injustice, including punitive sanctions against employees and dishonest reasons for redundancy. By the age of thirty, Persson was the leader of the Industrial, Mining and Oil Workers Union, retaining that role for almost fifteen years. Ultimately, he was able to force the CEO of the factory he had worked in to resign in disgrace. Persson made the transition into politics following the merger of the Labour Party and Socialist Party into Left Kalistan. While regularly voting for LK, and Labour before then, he felt that the party did not accurately represent his own views as a centre-left, liberal, social democrat. He founded the Social Democratic Party and has been leader throughout its history, serving as President from 4127 until being defeated in 4130. Hermenegildo Silva's interview follows below.

(Hermenegildo Silva, reporter): Greetings Mr Persson, it is an honour to be with you. Let's get started right away, shall we? What do you say to people who argue you now lack credibility as a leader following your defeat to Randell Ross in the last Presidential election?

(Hans Persson, leader of the Social Democratic Party): Well, thank you too. We analysed this loss extensively and came to the simple conclusion that the parties on the left were not united behind a single presidential candidate. In contrast to the parties on the extreme right, which were. There is no shame in losing an election: the people spoke and, while I don't agree with Mr Ross- in fact I severely dislike the man- they picked him. Regardless, it's something I will do everything in my power to prevent happening a second time and that is why the Social Democratic party fully supports the Labour Party's Franklin Foster for the Presidency, while I will run for Premier of the Republic. The parties on the left must unite against these ugly fascist winds.

S: If you were to find yourself as the Premier, what would be your immediate agenda after taking power?

P: Reversing the fascist and anti-worker agenda that the current administration has pushed through. Of course, I would bring back the commitment to the Dual Economy destroyed by the radicals.

S: What about internationally, how would you ensure that Kalistan is able to rebuild its, admittedly strained, relationships?

P: I can promise voters that one of my first actions would be to instruct my Minister of Foreign Affairs, whoever that might be, to reach out to every country that we have long considered friends and begin to mend relations and build bridges again. I also will vow to them that the export of oil, through the Kalistani National Petroleum Company, will continue no matter the government in charge. But most of all, I'll ensure that we rebuild trust, which is the most important thing between Kalistan and our many allies.

S: A number of prominent members of the Society of Brethren, including Sherman Noteman from the Labour Party's Central Committee, have spoken of their dismay at the passing of Nuclear Initiative bill. The Social Democratic Party voted in favour of this bill, what do you say to those critics?

P: The SDP has always been a party that supports our armed forces. If we are to have a credible neutrality it means that we must be able to defend ourselves without any other nation's help. I don't condone the use of chemical weapons but it is a deterrent.

S: With respect Mr Persson, the bill authorised the use of such weaponry where it had previously been prohibited, does this not raise questions about your principles when combined with the fact that you have governed with right wing parties before?

P: Sir, I want to be very clear with you. The proposals from the Kalistan Radical Front supporting slavery and such came after we sat in government with them. Don't forget, too, I proposed another cabinet dumping them. As I have already said, we are proud of our military and believe in defending our nation. I will not apologise for supporting our armed forces and making this nation just a little bit safer.

S: One last question, a short answer if you please, will you be leader of the SDP in eighteen months time?

P: Of course. The party still has full confidence in me and as long as that's true, it would be wrong for me to resign as leader.

S: Thank you for meeting me Mr Persson.

[Phillip DaPotty]

The Official PEP Newsletter
BREAKING: Michael Bergmann Pulls Off Stunning Primary Victory!


Michael Bergmann Holds Victory Party in Kluptoon, Odufaray

- The first PEP Presidential Primary proved to be one of the closest elections in Kalistan history. It illustrated the clash of ideologies amid the PEP with Bergmann drawing more moderate voters and Hutcher drawing the slightly more radical. Voting for the final ballot, open to all voters, began early this afternoon and ended at 6 PM. With the vote count being so close, it took an unprecedented amount of time for voting stations to count them. Overall, 17,500,000 voters cast ballots in the third round with an especially significant turnout among PEP voters, amounting to a turnout rate of over 90% of all registered PEP voters. Labour Party turnout came close to equalling that of the PEP, mostly in support of Michael Bergmann. Many Peoples' Party and KNLF voters came out to the polls as well. Nearly half of all votes came from unaffiliated voters. Overall, Michael Bergmann claimed 50.2% of the vote to Darius Hutcher's 49.8%. Many supporters of Hutcher are outraged that voters of other parties were allowed to participate, citing a rather high turnout amid Labour Party voters, whose turnout most likely swung the election in Bergmann's favor. Still, Hutcher has officially ceded the primary to Bergmann. The following represents voting totals by district. Red indicates districts that Bergmann won and blue indicates those that Hutcher won. Districts with an asterisk indicate that the winning candidate was endorsed by that district's PEP Chairman.

Odufaray*
-------------------
1) Bergmann - 59%
2) Hutcher - 41%
Total: 4,000,000 votes

Vrassa*
------------------
1) Bergmann - 54%
2) Hutcher - 46%
Total: 1,500,000 votes

Ananto*
------------------
1) Hutcher - 52%
2) Bergmann - 48%
Total: 6,000,000 votes

Suldanor*
-------------------
1) Hutcher - 56%
2) Bergmann - 44%
Total: 1,000,000 votes

Neveras
--------------------
1) Hutcher - 54%
2) Bergmann - 46%
Total: 5,000,000 votes

- Michael Bergmann is expected to deliver his victory speech sometime tomorrow. Jacob Knapp, the Chairman of the PEP, will reportedly speak as well. Knapp didn't endorse a candidate during the primary.

[JamesPeters]

The Conservative Press
The CPK is back
August, 4132

After a shock resign from National Assembly services no one knew why the CPK had left and where they went until today during a national launch to renter the National Assembly.

It first starts out with former party leader James Peters addressing the nation about why the CPK made the radical choice to leave.

Former leader Jame peters during the national conference with emotions hiding away during his address.

During what was a shocking and surprising made by Mr Peters we found out the truth of the party-

I would like to firstly apologise to the people of Kalistan who placed there trust in the CPK and today you will hear the truth. During a night in September 4131 over a large state of frustration and anger because of failing bills and dis-unified government, I took the worst decision of my life to take recreational drugs. Later that'p evening I was passed out on the floor and was saved by my wife. We decided to resign all cabinet members and National Assembly members and address the party. Next few months the party would create new candidates and new policy's. I am truely ashamed of what I have done and will now leave the office of public service.

After Mr. Peters emotional speech emotions were saddened and quite for a period of time with people not knowing what to do with themselves. Within the next 10m to men who are known to the party headquarters but not the nation, Malcolm Abbott and Tony Turnbull both heads of the CPK board walk out and make the following announcement.

Our fellow Kalistanians, After a deeply saddened time for us over the past few months we have came together as a team to develop new party policies, candidates and mission, but as I'm sure you are all wondering but who are these candidates well I'm here to tell you today.

President- Malcolm Abbott

Head of Government- Tony Turnbull

Foreign Affairs- Julia Bishop

Internal Affairs- Pru Howard

Finance- William Griffiths

Defence- Joe Choibo

Justice- Grace Ahrens

Infrastructure & Transport- Scott Hockey

Health & Social Services- Steve Thompson

Education & Culture- Karen Howard

Science & Technology- Rosa Ambrose

Food & Agriculture- Barnaby Morrison

Environment- Tors Webster

Trade & Industry- Pauline Joyce

Meaning. We are your new candidates.

Right: Canidate for President- Malcolm Abbott Left: Canidate for Head of Government- Tony Turnbull


As the crowd goes wild in cheers and excitement the two men unvale the parties new slogan- "Advance Kalistan". We hope to be seeing more of the gentlemen over the next few years as they will advance Kalistan.

[jamescfm]

The People's Press
Ending Discrimination
Former President pushed onto the defensive as HRF begins letter-writing campaign
Kaliburg, Ananto
November 11th 4132


Human Rights Foundation Secretary-General Sophia Conti says she 'won't be bullied'

Former Kalistani President and Labour leader Sophia Conti, now the Secretary-General of the Human Rights Foundation, has been forced to defend her leadership of the non-governmental, non-profit organisation in recent months. Conti resigned from the Labour Party in order to pursue the cause of justice and freedom on an international level, free from any partisan bias. In January, the HRF published its first 'blacklist' of nations which have not yet abolished capital punishment (twenty-nine in total) and notified the governments of every country on the list. In response, the Trigunian Chairman of the Committee of Ministers attempted to condone the willful slaughter of his own citizens by suggesting that only individuals from certain parts of the country are murdered. Meanwhile, the Kazulian government suggested Conti should pursue a 'mediation process' instead of trying to save human lives.

Conti has hit back, though, saying that she 'won't allow the Human Rights Foundation to be bullied into whitewashing its reports and findings by governments who seek to protect their interests alone. Where nations are in contravention of our standards,' she continued 'we will absolutely call them out and put pressure on them, however possible, to address their shortcomings. No amount of harshly worded statements from press secretaries and official spokespersons will shake our determination to change the world'. Conti served as the President of the Republic from 4120 to 4123 and later as the Foreign Affairs Minister during the Persson Presidency.

In their most recent campaign, the Human Rights Foundation has targetted nations which permit discrimination in the military. Endralon, Jelbania and Beiteynu all have legislation banning women from fighting for their country, while Saridan, Indrala and Vorona have banned homosexuals on top of that. The HRF has asked supporters from across Terra to write letters to the leaders of these countries calling for change, the postage cost being covered by the Foundation where required. In particular, they want women and gays who serve in their own national armed forces to recount their experience- in an attempt to personalise the legislation and help lawmakers empathise with their population.

[jamescfm]

McCrae's Kalistani Values
Labour Education Minister outlines plans for 'promoting cohesion and diversity'
Kaliburg, Ananto
December 27th, 4132


Education and Culture Minister David McCrae speaks about the new programme

Starting next year, all Kalistani students between the ages of six and eighteen will be expected to study a second language, so says Education and Culture Minister David McCrae. In his department's annual report and plan for the future, McCrae delineated plans to promote multi-linguality among the general population by mandating that all school pupils show some attempt to learn a language other than their first. Though the report was not specific about which language this should be, it highlighted Egelian, Rodshya and Istalian as those which could be most beneficial when finding employment in addition to Rajavanshi and Ananti, which have a cultural significance.

On top of this, some subjects, like history and religious studies, will see their scheme of learning drastically changed to incorporate more 'diverse' aspects of society. Rather than focusing primarily on Kalistan, the civil wars and world war, history students will be permitted to choose from nearly a hundred different areas of study including some as recent as the Triguno-Deltarian War. Those behind the programme argue that a greater flexibility of study helps engage students with the subject and develop a genuine passion for their work although other says it will make comparing students more difficult. Meanwhile, in religious studies the focus has shifted from Kalistan and Terra's most popular religions (Hosianism, Ahmadism etc.) to a wider array of belief systems.

Furthermore, the new National Curriculum will require teachers of older students to allocate time for discussion of contentious moral and ethical issues, with a focus on Kalistan's role in the world following successive elections to the World Congress Security Council and this, in particular, has created some controversy. Opposition figures have accused the government of indoctrinating students but McCrae rebuffed such accusations, saying;

As Minister for Education and Culture, I am committed to creating a national curriculum which allows every student to fulfill their full potential and provides them with the opportunity to pursue avenues they would not otherwise be able to. I take my responsibility extremely seriously and I believe in this most recent curriculum we have achieved a tremendous balance between encouraging and promoting healthy discourse while not pushing the views of the state or educators upon students. During the time when there was no national curriculum, a small group of schools piloted a similar scheme and we found some quite remarkable results. My faith in this programme is absolute.

[jamescfm]

The People's Press
Presidential Rapprochement
Foster attempts to ease tensions in a special, one-off speech in Kaliburg
Kaliburg, Ananto
April 23rd 4133


President of the Republic Franklin Foster appeared to criticise the Human Rights Foundation

President of the Republic Franklin Foster delivered a unique speech in the centre of Kaliburg this morning, aimed at reducing the tension between Kalistan and nations across Terra. In his most significant engagement since his election last year, Foster seemed to take aim at his former colleague Sophia Conti and her Human Rights Foundation. Attached is a transcript.

In the twelve months since I was elected President, we have a seen a great deal of pressure and strain placed on the relations between Kalistan and her allies. No sooner had we regained control of the National Assembly and, in doing so, eliminated the internal politic threat to those relationships, a new threat seems to have appeared. Many, internally and internationally, have tried to establish some kind of link between the Human Rights Foundation and the government of Kalistan. They suggest that, simply because Mrs Conti has been involved with both, the two entities must be one and the same: that is utterly false. Tainting Kalistan's name based on the actions of an NGO is wrong and I will not stand for it.

Nevertheless, it seems that some damage has already been done. Beiteynu has requested we extradite Mrs Conti, insisting that she is a terrorist and showing a complete disregard for our national laws. It seems hypocritical to me that the nations who rail against the HRF on the basis that it undermines the sovereignty of national governments are often the same nations who believe their own national laws should override those of other countries! At any rate, there is no chance whatsoever that Kalistan will extradite any citizen of the state, especially not to a nation which has repeatedly shown a complete disregard for the lives of ethnic minorities, as Beitynu has.

With such turbulence and bitterness permeating throughout our international discourse, it is important that we do not allow ourselves to be whipped into a frenzy of self-righteous jingoism, as the Kalistan Radical Front would like us to. For that reason, I have asked Foreign Minister Fabian to promptly contact the Kazulian and Vanukean governments to determine their own positions and establish a strategy for the future. No positive outcome can be reached without direct communication between senior figures on both sides. If those nations feel that previous behaviour has had such a negative impact on their view of Kalistan, that they no longer want to deal with us, at least that can be made clear. If they decide, as I sincerely hope that they will, that it is mutually beneficial that we retain a relationship, we can discuss the next steps.

Kalistan has always been a nation which prides itself on being open to anyone, that includes foreign leaders and diplomats. Any government who wants to establish a relationship need only contact us and we will do everything in our power to facilitate a fruitful discussion. We do not and will never desire conflict, that is helpful to nobody.

[Buccismo]

Buccismo Genesis Takes to the Campaign Trails
Mr. Genesis Resigns as Peoples Party Spokesman
Vrassa City, Vrassa
May 7th, 4133


As Buccismo Genesis left the Headquarters building of the Peoples Party - a small two story dwelling - he was met by several reporters. This one got in the first question: You have been in an executive meeting for some time. Is there any news you can report out?

Buccismo Genesis said this:

I have been with the Peoples Party since its creation in 4123. That's ten years. Our Party needs to take the next step in working for the people of Kalistan. That is why, with the support of my wife, son, and the Peoples Party, I am announcing my plan to run for the Premiership in the next election of 4135. I want to unite our sometimes divided parties. We have done many great things in the Assembly and I hope to keep those who have done fabulous jobs where they are. But there is more to be done.

Buccismo Genesis gives a few remarks about his new ambition.

After Mr. Genesis answered three more questions regarding other minor details, he left to spend time with his family. To fill his position as spokesperson of the Peoples Party, former Financial Manager, Lola Corie, stepped up. Anita Rigora took Ms. Corie's position. The Peoples Party's large switch up of positions leads some to question their foundations, but new Spokeswoman Lola Corie said this:

We are still a fairly new party in Kalistan when it comes to the grand scheme of things. Ten years ago, several of us were citizens who felt that not a singular party fit our ideals. So we formed the Peoples Party, because we are a bunch of people. Now, after finding support amongst our countrymen and women, the Peoples Party would like to head forward towards the future.

Other party members added their support of the new heading for the Party. Buccismo Genesis hits the streets next month to see about garnering enough support to gain the Premier of the Republic position.

[Phillip DaPotty]

The Official PEP Newsletter
Michael Bergmann - A Political Legacy


Michael Bergmann, Minister of Internal Affairs

- In last year's pivotal elections, we saw the PEP go from one of the lesser parties of Kalistan to the second largest in the Assembly; and at the head of it all was Michael Bergmann. Whilst he didn't win the Presidential Elections, Bergmann managed to generate a new enthusiasm which had been lacking in the PEP for quite some time. He didn't do that by ranting about the right-wing, in fact, just the opposite; Bergmann extended a hand of compromise over the aisle. His message of unification and taking on the status quo garnered him nearly 20% of the vote on election day; far more than pundits had originally predicted. However, to disappointed supporters of Bergmann: Don't worry, he's not going anywhere anytime soon. In fact, Bergmann has almost overshadowed Party Chairman, Jacob Knapp, as the figurehead of the PEP. Not wanting to lose the spark that Bergmann created, the PEP officially named him its candidate for the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Just after this decision, President Franklin Foster appointed Bergmann to his cabinet. Giving up his seat as Party Chair at Odufaray, Bergmann managed to find a way into Foster's government.

- However, once you look beneath the surface, Bergmann isn't really a fresh new face in Kalistani politics at all. His father, Stephen Bergmann, was inundated in politics all his life, first serving as a councilman in Odufaray and then making his way into the Assembly by means of the now disbanded SOPK. From all indications, Bergmann Sr. was a radical liberal. Surprisingly enough, Michael Bergmann ended up being much more moderate, using his talent for public speaking to win over a number of compromises with rival parties during his tenure as a councilman in Odufaray. After the formation of the PEP, Bergmann went from being an Independent to the PEP's Chair at Odufaray, and then eventually, to its Presidential candidate.

- Now, Bergmann is the PEP's minister of Internal Affairs and seems promised to make a big name for himself in Kalistani politics. There are questions as to whether Chairman Knapp will step down and Bergmann will take the position of Party Chair, but that seems highly unlikely at this point. Even if Knapp were to step down, the fanatical progressive and spokesman of the Alt.- Left, Lyle Peters, would be next in line as Knapp's Vice Chairman. Reports have come across that Bergmann and Peters both had some tense feuding after the primary, as they both appear to be the heads of the two unofficial, ideological factions of the PEP.

[Buccismo]

Peoples Party Guard
A new militia is formed
Vrassa City, Vrassa
May 25th, 4133

By: Kal Groggi
Formed in late May of 4133 to offer protection of high value candidates and Party regional offices, the Guard was placed under the control of Lieutenant Joshua Chambers. Initially, the Guard consisted of only a platoon- 60 men and women. They are still in training, expected to enter official service in October of 4133. 1st Platoon shall be the core of what the Peoples Party plans on creating. I was given an exclusive interview with Lieutenant Joshua Chambers.

Lt. Joshua Chambers, Commander of the Party Guard

Groggi: What should the citizens expect the size of the Guard to be?

Chambers: The Party Guard is estimated to recruit no more than a battalion-sized force to ensure protection of Party members. The battalion will be made up of five companies, each located in a region of Kalistan.

Groggi: This comes at a time where Buccismo Genesis has announced his running for Premier of the Republic. Is this militia intended primarily for protection services?

Chambers: Mr. Groggi, the Guard is intended to provide protection for all Peoples Party members. It doesn't matter if you are a Minister in the Cabinet or a family in Ananto; we shall protect you from anything. In addition, we are willing to assist local police forces if requested.

Groggi: A battalion seems like a large force. Can you explain the necessity of it?

Chambers: It has been ten years since the Peoples Party was founded. We haven't found any reason to be insecure, but it is best to be proactive. The battalion is the largest we are going to be. Our goal is not to intimidate others or damage relations, but we hope to be able to ensure that people feel safe.

Groggi: Could you explain the organization a bit more?

Chambers: Absolutely. The battalion is commanded by a Major, who has a staff that handles several areas. These might include Administration, such as paychecks, promotions, demotions, etc. There is the Training and Operations, Provisions and Requisitions, and other departments as well. Each Company is commanded by a 1st Captain, with a 2nd Captain if the 1st is unable to do his duties. Companies are separated into platoons, commanded by Lieutenants like myself. Squads are commanded by sergeants, and a section is led by a corporal.

Lt. Chambers illustrated both the structure and equipment of this militia, constantly reminding me that this was a defensive force only. The Lieutenant told me that a battalion may be formed by 4140. For the reader's informational needs, I've included a detailed analysis of what to expect when the Peoples Party Guard is completely outfitted and formed up.

Battalion Combat Troops-750
Battalion Command Staff- Major
Administration- 50, led by a 2nd Captain
Training and Operations- 75, led by a 2nd Captain
Provisions and Requisitions- 150, led by a 1st Captain
Public Information Office- 30, led by a 2nd Captain
Headquarters Security- 75, led by a Lieutenant

Company Combat Troops-150
Company Command Staff- 1st Captain, 2nd Captain
Communications- 5, led by a Sergeant
Medical Personnel- 30, led by a Lieutenant

Platoon Combat Troops- 50
Platoon Command Staff- Lieutenant
Communications- 5, led by a Sergeant

Squad Combat Troops- 25
Squad Command Staff- Sergeant

Section Combat Troops- 10-15
Section Command Staff- Sergeant

Combat troops are issued a pistol and bullet proof vest for on and off-duty. On duty, they may carry combat rifles, shotguns, or high-rate-of-fire weapons.

A support Company is in the works, but isn't expected to be operational for some time. It would consist solely of AWD vehicles to provide quick transportation for troops.