[Lauchenoiria]

Liaville Times - Referendum Special

Lauchenoiria remains united as independence question is settled
4th March 2019

Following the rejection of independence in yesterday’s referendum by a 12-point margin, people throughout Lauchenoiria have been commenting on the result. Lauchenoiria is united – but many say the divisions formed by the referendum on Aeluria will take longer to heal.

First Minister Nazario Macías issued a full statement this morning on the result:

While the Aelurian Independence Party, and myself, are disappointed in this result, we respect the will of the people in this matter. We are committed to continuing to work representing Aelurian interests in Lauchenoiria, and ensuring that the voice of the Aelurian people is listened to.

I would like to thank everyone who was involved in the referendum campaign on both sides for organising a peaceful, informative campaign which truly allowed the voters to make up their minds. While now is clearly not the time for independence, I’d like to assure all those who voted Yes that the dream of independence is not dead forever. We may need to wait a little longer, but our time will come.

Meanwhile in Buttercity, leaders of various pro-unity political parties have been celebrating the result. Josephine Alvarez, leader of the Liberal Party issued a message to Aelurians, saying:

“I’m thrilled that Aeluria has voted by such a decisive margin to remain part of Lauchenoiria. Aeluria will always hold a special place in Lauchenoirian society, and I look forward to us all building a new future together.”

Her sentiments were echoed by Javier Flynn, interim leader of the Communist Party, the main rivals of Alvarez’s Liberals. “Aeluria holds an important place in the hearts of Lauchenoirians,” he said “and this is why I am so overjoyed they have voted to remain.”

Also in the Lauchenoirian capital, interim Prime Minister Keitha Noguera, herself a former First Minister of Aeluria, made a statement today after staying out of the referendum debate due to her position.

“First I would like to thank everyone who voted in the referendum for participating in the democratic process. I understand some people will be pleased with this result while others will be disappointed. It’s important now that all communities come together so Aeluria can move forward. I give my assurance that further powers will be devolved to the island following the creation of a new constitution and new elections.”

Supporters of independence have been taking to social media to voice their disappointment in the result. Independence campaigner Elijah Yates, who spoke to the Liaville Times several weeks ago posted:

“Sad day for all Aeluria . I won’t give up yet though – we will be independent one day! #YesForever”

Most commentators say that the issue of self-sufficiency was the deciding factor in the referendum. After the Lauchenoirian Civil War, during which the island was blockaded for two months, it became very clear that the island could not support itself, with strict food rationing having to be implemented during the blockade, and shortages in spite of that. This, along with economic issues and defence were consistently listed as the top priorities by people intending to vote No during the campaign.

The issue of religion seemed to have less of an effect than predicted, with turnout amongst worshippers of the Lurian religion considerably lower than anticipated. With Lurites far more likely to have supported independence, it can be argued this low turnout adversely affected the chances of the Yes side winning.

The causes of the rejection of independence aside, however, the result is clear. Now, it is time for Aelurians and Lauchenoirians alike to move forward together, finish rebuilding after last year’s war, and face the future.