03-02-2019, 01:36 AM
Adapted from an article from Le Laeralien
Laeralsford- With the Lauchenoirian state of Aeluria set to hold a referendum on independence in the coming days, the majority of Laeralian politicians have adopted attitudes of studied ignorance, with few politicians willing to discuss the matter in the excitement of the government-formation process. President Liu Mei-han broke the silence today during a press briefing at Republic House, announcing her personal hope for a no vote in the upcoming referendum.
"At this time, it is my opinion that all of Lauchenoria is stronger and better off united," she said, noting issues including national defense, trade, and economics. "I do not believe that Aeluria can stand on its own, not economically, politically, or militarily, and so I believe that the people of Aeluria should reject full independence in favor of further devolution. This offers the Aelurian people the options to take address their legitimate grievances, while remaining stronger through their union with the mainland."
Liu clarified her comments in response to follow-up questions, saying that her government is "concerned" by the possibility of Kerlian interference in the referendum, and that should Aelurian voters support independence, she would support their decision and "work towards further partnership to ensure the security and prosperity of Aeluria, Lauchenoiria, and the greater Central Hespian region." President Liu also expressed her wishes for a free and fair vote and said that she is "proud of the opportunity granted by the Haven Accords for the Aelurian people to choose their own way forward".
On the campaign trail, Liu rarely mentioned the Aelurian independence movement, despite her background in foreign affairs. Under the terms of the Haven Accords, signed to end the Second Lauchenoirian Civil War, Aeluria would be granted a referendum in which voters in the island province would be offered a choice: to become a further-devolved state of Lauchenoiria, or to seek full independence. The option to remain with the status quo was rejected by Sanctaria and the Lauchenoirian government, headed by known independence supporter and former Aelurian First Minister Keitha Noguera.
With polling showing a close race between supporters of devolution and full independence, national leaders including Zamastanian President Anya Bishop and Conternian Prime Minister Etan Bloomberg have announced their personal support for a 'yes' vote. On the domestic front, Conservative Delegate and former presidential candidate Bernard Errante is among the few Laeralian political leaders to voice their opinion, announcing his support for rejecting independence.
President Liu Expresses Opposition to Aelurian Independence
February 26, 2019Laeralsford- With the Lauchenoirian state of Aeluria set to hold a referendum on independence in the coming days, the majority of Laeralian politicians have adopted attitudes of studied ignorance, with few politicians willing to discuss the matter in the excitement of the government-formation process. President Liu Mei-han broke the silence today during a press briefing at Republic House, announcing her personal hope for a no vote in the upcoming referendum.
"At this time, it is my opinion that all of Lauchenoria is stronger and better off united," she said, noting issues including national defense, trade, and economics. "I do not believe that Aeluria can stand on its own, not economically, politically, or militarily, and so I believe that the people of Aeluria should reject full independence in favor of further devolution. This offers the Aelurian people the options to take address their legitimate grievances, while remaining stronger through their union with the mainland."
Liu clarified her comments in response to follow-up questions, saying that her government is "concerned" by the possibility of Kerlian interference in the referendum, and that should Aelurian voters support independence, she would support their decision and "work towards further partnership to ensure the security and prosperity of Aeluria, Lauchenoiria, and the greater Central Hespian region." President Liu also expressed her wishes for a free and fair vote and said that she is "proud of the opportunity granted by the Haven Accords for the Aelurian people to choose their own way forward".
On the campaign trail, Liu rarely mentioned the Aelurian independence movement, despite her background in foreign affairs. Under the terms of the Haven Accords, signed to end the Second Lauchenoirian Civil War, Aeluria would be granted a referendum in which voters in the island province would be offered a choice: to become a further-devolved state of Lauchenoiria, or to seek full independence. The option to remain with the status quo was rejected by Sanctaria and the Lauchenoirian government, headed by known independence supporter and former Aelurian First Minister Keitha Noguera.
With polling showing a close race between supporters of devolution and full independence, national leaders including Zamastanian President Anya Bishop and Conternian Prime Minister Etan Bloomberg have announced their personal support for a 'yes' vote. On the domestic front, Conservative Delegate and former presidential candidate Bernard Errante is among the few Laeralian political leaders to voice their opinion, announcing his support for rejecting independence.

