[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Concerns over Eddington plane disappearance
18th August 2019

Concerns over the disappearance of the plane carrying convicted murderer Jasmine Eddington, a Kerlian citizen, from Lauchenoiria to Sanctaria have been raised by Feminist Party leader Katherine Wright. The plan vanished over the Gregory Mountains, which was confirmed by the Sanctarian Department of Homeland Security on Friday night – a sign that foul play is expected.

The jet vanished 8 hours after taking off from Buttercity International Airport carrying Eddington, two pilots and three members of the Sanctarian Federal Prison Service. Lauchenoiria had agreed to extradite Eddington to Sanctaria after refusing the request of Kerlile, due to one of Eddington’s victims being a descendant of a Sanctarian citizen. The Matriarchy of Kerlile has yet to comment on the disappearance of the aircraft, in spite of Jasmine Eddington being a Kerlian citizen.

Feminist Party leader Katherine Wright today raised concerns about the plane, asking if the Lauchenoirian government could give assurances that nothing happened to the jet before departing Lauchenoiria. “Aside from during the Chaher regime, Lauchenoiria has had very lenient immigration checks at airports, and it is my concern that this leniency is also being applied to airport security. The government must reassure Lauchenoirians that their airports are secure in light of this incident.”

Prime Minister Josephine Alvarez took to social media to address the concerns, posting that: “There is no evidence that suggests something happened to the aircraft while in Lauchenoiria. Wright is attempting to use this incident to scaremonger where there is no issue. Lauchenoirian airport security is perfectly dependable. The Sanctarian authorities are investigating the incident. There is no reason for Lauchenoirians to be concerned.”

It is unknown what caused the jet to disappear, however the disappearance is being investigated by the Sanctarian authorities. It is expected that more information will be released by Sanctaria at some point.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Eddington plane found with no survivors
19th August 2019

The wreckage of the jet carrying convicted murderer Jasmine Eddington from Lauchenoiria to Sanctaria has been found in the Gregory Mountain range. Five bodies were found in the wreckage, accounting for the entire passenger manifest. Eddington’s body was found locked into her jumpseat and has been identified.

The Sanctarian Air Force, who were conducting the search, have confirmed they have recovered the black box. Preliminary investigation has not suggested foul play. Sanctarian Secretary for Homeland Security Kathryn Stewart gave a statement outside her headquarters, promising that the Sanctarian government would not rest “until [they] discover how and why the plane went down”.

Stewart also apologised to Lauchenoiria, on behalf of the Sanctarian government, for not guaranteeing the safety of the prisoner. Lauchenoirian Foreign Secretary Sandra Pavía has accepted this apology, saying that this was an “unfortunate occurrence, but we understand that accidents happen and trust that Sanctaria did all they could to prevent this.”

Controversial far-right leader of Lauchenoiria First Paul Doberman endorsed an online conspiracy theory suggesting that one or both pilots were Kerlian plants ordered to kill Eddington by their government. On social media, Doberman shared a link to a conspiracy website about the Kerlian ‘Aurora Programme’, an alleged Kerlian sleeper agent training programme, which suggested that the pilots were Auroras.

Feminist Party leader Katherine Wright, who had previously speculated that poor Lauchenoirian airport security measures were responsible, responded to Doberman online calling his theory “absurd” and, in a u-turn from her previous position, claiming that foul play was unlikely to have been involved. This resulted in a brief online spat between the pair in which Doberman repeated earlier accusations that Wright was an Aurora herself.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Xiomeran journalists charged with attempted arson over embassy attack
22nd August 2019

Two Xiomeran journalists, Tlixō and Xōne, were arrested and charged with attempted arson on Wednesday over an attack on the Xiomeran embassy which took place on the 8th August. The two Xiomerans are accused of throwing a Molotov cocktail at the front door of the embassy, and a brick through the window. They were arrested at Buttercity International Airport while attempting to board a flight out of the country.

The two journalists are wanted by Xiomera for running a pirate media outlet critical of the Xiomeran government, and for treason. Lauchenoiria earlier rejected a request by Xiomera for the extradition of the two journalists, on the grounds that the warrants submitted did not meet the requirement for extradition to a country with the death penalty. Foreign Minister Sandra Pavía has also alleged that the Lauchenoirian government considered the charges against the journalists to be political.

It has been reported that the two journalists had boarded a flight to Xiomera when they were taken off the aircraft before departure and detained. It is thought that they were attempting to return due to the Xiomerans having arrested family members and friends of all Huenyan News Network (HNN) journalists operating outside of Xiomera – including the two in Lauchenoiria, and others in Laeral and Zamastan.

Foreign Minister Sandra Pavía is set to meet with Xiomeran Ambassador to Lauchenoiria Chēmā this evening to discuss the situation. It is expected that the ambassador will ask Lauchenoiria to return the two journalists, however it is unlikely that their request will be honoured. Following the extradition of Shuellian national Peter Bloch and the death of Kerlian Jasmine Eddington in a plane crash on her way to Sanctaria, it is unlikely the Lauchenoirian government will be willing to extradite any more individuals, especially in controversial cases.

The two Xiomerans are expected to face trial for attempted arson in a Lauchenoirian court, which can lead to up to 10 years in prison. A date for the trial has not been set, however this is expected to be announced in the coming days.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Alvarez calls Xiomeran trade boycott “childish”, vows not to respond
24th August 2019

Prime Minister Josephine Alvarez today released a statement calling a boycott of Lauchenoirian goods by the Good Citizens’ League of Xiomera “immature and childish”, and stating that Lauchenoiria would not be responding to the boycott. This comes after Lauchenoiria refused another request by Xiomera to extradite two journalists wanted in Xiomera for treason.

A number of Lauchenoirian companies, goods and services have been added to a boycott list by a group called the Good Citizens’ League of Xiomera, a “patriotic citizens’ group” which encourages Xiomerans to support their authoritarian government. The boycott list originally contained only Zamastanian goods, a response to Zamastan sanctioning Xiomera after similar extradition requests were sent to Zamastan for more journalists.

The initial sanctions and boycott began an escalating series of trade disputes, dragging in both Kerlile and Trive, and having a considerable negative impact on the nations involved. Many have called the ongoing conflict a ‘trade war’ – and the participants have been condemned for their actions. The ambassadors from the four nations to Sanctaria were summoned towards the start of the month and told to “get their act together”. The participants were also urged by Alvarez to seek a “peaceful and prompt solution”.

Alvarez said in her statement that she considered the boycott to be a childish act, and accused the Xiomeran government of encouraging the action. She insisted, however, that Lauchenoiria would not respond, claiming that “escalating the situation will do far more harm than good to the people of both Lauchenoiria and Xiomera”. She has asked Lauchenoirians to continue to buy Xiomeran goods as normal.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Protests outside Xiomeran embassy over Manauia Island development plans
28th August 2019

Environmental protestors gathered outside the Xiomeran Embassy in Buttercity today to protest plans by the Xiomeran government to open Manauia Island, a protected nature reserve, to development. Until now, development on the island has been forbidden and the number of visitors to the island per year limited to 2000. The Xiomeran government recently announced plans to change this.

Approximately 200 people gathered today outside the Xiomeran Embassy in Lauchenoiria to protest the decision, claiming it would lead to an unacceptable level of biodiversity loss and have a detrimental impact on the environment, as well as harming the native inhabitants of the island. Organisers of the protest have said they will return “weekly” until the Xiomeran government reverses their decision.

Opponents of development on the island say it is home to a “pristine” environment, and has an incredible biodiversity which would be put at risk with development. They worry that development would lead to massive forest fires and the mass extinction of species only found on the island. They also worry that the culture of the indigenous Teyatia people would be put at risk with the influx of visitors.

When contacted for comment, the Xiomeran Secretariat of International Affairs told the Lauchenoirian Guardian: "The Manauia Island Project will benefit both the residents of the island and the greater international community by bringing infrastructure and development, and increasing economic opportunity. We believe these protests are meant to hold Xiomera back under the guise of 'environmentalism'. Furthermore, as Manauia Island is sovereign Xiomeran territory, we do not recognize or accept foreign interference in what is an internal Xiomeran matter."

Green Party leader Lucie Scott was not present at the protests, however has voiced her support of them, calling on the Xiomeran government to rethink the decision. “At a time when the environment is in such great danger globally, it is important for every government to consider the environmental impact of their policies. The economic opportunities this development would create are not worth the damage that could be done.”

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Élia Agramunt to replace Javier Flynn as leader of the Communist Party
30th August 2019

The Lauchenoirian Communist Party have selected Élia Agramunt as their new leader at the party’s conference held today in Melissa City. Agramunt, who previously led the Communists in the provincial parliament of Butterfly Island, replaces embattled former leader Javier Flynn, who was accused of having an affair with Charissa Clarke during June’s election campaign.

Flynn resigned following the June election, in which the Communist Party fell from second to fourth place. The party also did not make it through to the second round of the presidential election – the first time the Communists have failed to do so since the end of the dictatorship in 1993. With support for the Communists at a post-1952 low, the party hopes Agramunt will change their fortune.

An investigation into Flynn’s alleged affair with Clarke is ongoing, after allegations that Flynn may have inadvertently provided Kerlile with classified information, or been ‘turned’ by the Matriarchy. Flynn has denied that such an affair took place, however his wife Jocelyn has begun divorce proceedings. Flynn was a member of Suleman Chaher’s controversial post-coup cabinet: something which has undoubtedly contributed to his unpopularity.

It was revealed a year ago today, during the peace talks in Haven, Sanctaria, that Charissa Clarke was a member of the “Aurora Programme”, an alleged Kerlian sleeper agent program. The existence of such a program has been denied by Kerlile. Clarke is presently in prison in Sanctaria. In light of these revelations, accusations have been made against multiple women accused of being “Auroras”, including former SDP leader Cassidy Laurens, though no action has been taken against her or others.

Agramunt, who did not voice an opinion in support of Chaher during the civil war, has announced her intention to ‘reform’ the Communist Party in light of the war, in order to ‘break fully with the 1952-93 regime, and the Chaher regime’. In her speech to the conference, she criticised the Alvarez government, claiming Alvarez is “under the thumb of the capitalist powers of the world” and accusing her of planning to “sell Lauchenoiria to the highest bidder”.

With the change in leadership, the Communist Party is clearly planning to attempt to re-enter Lauchenoirian politics as a major force, despite losing half their seats in June. Agramunt is known for being quick to criticise other parties loudly, but is also known for creating popular policies, having managed to successfully increase the Communists share of the vote on Butterfly Island in 2016 despite a general trend in the other direction.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

17 Lauchenoirians among dead in Zamastan earthquake
1st September 2019

Seventeen Lauchenoirians were among those killed by an 8.3 magnitude earthquake which struck Zamastan on Saturday afternoon. The earthquake claimed over 2,800 lives and has caused large amounts of damage to buildings, including many historical landmarks such as Hapson Lake Hosanna Church in Tofino.

Prime Minister Josephine Alvarez joined numerous world leaders in expressing her condolences to Zamastan today, saying: “this is a terrible tragedy that has hit the nation of Zamastan, claiming thousands of lives including seventeen Lauchenoirians. All of Lauchenoiria grieves with Zamastan today, and my thoughts are with the families of the many victims of this tragic disaster.”

It is expected that numerous nations will send assistance to Zamastan following the earthquake, with President Tyagi-Kennedy of United New England stating that UNE would be willing to ‘provide monetary and medical aid wherever it is needed’, and Sanctarian Foreign Secretary Brian Young announced he would meet with SanctariaAid to discuss the deployment of aid workers to Zamastan.

Lauchenoirians in Zamastan who have been affected by the earthquake have been urged to get in contact with the Lauchenoirian embassy in Tofino if they require assistance. The government has also advised Lauchenoirians to temporarily avoid travelling to areas of Zamastan affected by the earthquake for non-essential purposes. A helpline has been set up for those with family and friends in Zamastan looking for information.

Among the Lauchenoirians affected was Nataniel Valencia, whose wife was killed in the earthquake. He had fled Lauchenoiria in July 2018 during the civil war, seeking safety with his wife and 6-year-old son. “My wife Gema was in the café where she works when the earthquake hit, collapsing a wall of the building and killing her. We came here seeking safety from the war, but now she’s dead and our son will grow up without a mother.”

Nataniel is planning to return to Lauchenoiria with his son, claiming there is ‘nothing left’ for them in Zamastan. It is predicted that several Lauchenoirians in Zamastan may seek to return following the catastrophe. Lauchenoirians seeking to return are urged to contact the embassy for assistance in booking flights.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Alvarez welcomes talk of trade with Anglia-Saxia, announcing plans for further trade deals
6th September 2019

Prime Minister Josephine Alvarez has welcomed the idea of trade with Anglia-Saxia, after their President David William announced that the previously isolationist state would be seeking official diplomatic relations with a number of nations, mentioning Lauchenoiria as a priority. Alvarez also mentioned that her government are actively pursuing trade deals with a number of nations, including Libertas Omnium Maximus and Shuell.

President David William of the historically isolationist nation Anglia-Saxia announced in a meeting with the Diplomatic Council that they “will gladly align with [Lauchenoiria] in economic and diplomatic questions”. Their Vice-President Andrew Shiao went on to elaborate that his nation would seek to establish an embassy in Lauchenoiria and for William to meet with Josephine Alvarez to discuss economic treaties.

Alvarez welcomed the comments, saying in a speech during a visit to Annatown that she would be “more than happy to meet with President William of Anglia-Saxia to discuss future relations between our two nations.” She went on to praise the change in policy by the Anglian-Saxian government, and stated that Lauchenoiria is “always open” to improving relationships with other nations.

She further elaborated on her plans for trade deals with a number of nations, including Libertas Omnium Maximus, Gardavasque and Shuell. Alvarez told those gathered in Annatown that it was “a priority for [her] government to improve trade relations with nations across the IDU, especially those who have supported us in the aftermath of the war by providing aid, such as Shuell, Laeral and Zamastan.”

Trade negotiations with Shuell and Libertas Omnium Maximus are set to begin shortly, and a trade deal with Gardavasque is also thought to be in the works. Trade deals have been a priority for the Alvarez administration, aiming to fulfil campaign promises to build the economy and improve the lives of Lauchenoirians after the war. The trade deal with Shuell will also be considered by many to be a snub to the Communist Party, who are strongly opposed to the deal, after their humiliating defeat in June’s elections.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Two week environmental protest begins in Buttercity
8th September 2019

A group calling themselves the Climate Alliance have begun a series of environmental protests in the centre of Buttercity, which aim to draw attention to climate change. They intend to stage protests in the capital every day for two weeks, and have criticised the Lauchenoirian government for “not taking the climate issue seriously”, along with criticising various foreign governments, including those of Xiomera and Zamastan.

The group has also been behind two protests outside the Xiomeran embassy over the Manauia Island development, which are scheduled to take place every Wednesday until the Xiomerans scrap plans to allow development on the island, which was previously a protected nature reserve. The embassy protests were supported by Green Party leader Lucie Scott, who attended and asked the Xiomeran government to rethink their decision.

The group have announced plans to stage a two-week protest in the capital, followed by weekly action until the Lauchenoirian government sets new ambitious climate targets and “prioritises the environment over all other issues”. The group is an alliance of a number of environmental groups, including a group run by high-schoolers called Classrooms for Climate, the student wing of the Green Party, and direct-action group the Watchdogs of Our Earth.

A Zamastanian student, Mylon Sebasti, who is presently doing a year abroad at Buttercity University spoke to the protesters today, who held a minute’s silence for all the lives lost in the earthquake in Zamastan last week. Sebasti, a member of the Extinction Combatants of Zamah St’an who has frequently spoken at protests in Zamastan, called upon the Zamastanian government to prioritise the environment in their efforts to rebuild the areas devastated by the war.

“Zamastan must put the environment first, and focus their efforts on ensuring that the earthquake does not cause irreparable damage to biodiversity in the area,” Sebasti said to the crowd. “The oil spill from the Kelowna facility is just one of the things that need to be addressed in light of this tragedy. The lives lost are tragic, and we must make changes to ensure that more people don’t die from a knock-on effect of the damage caused.”

The protests are set to continue in the capital for two weeks, taking place primarily in Union Square in the centre of the city. Traffic is urged to avoid the vicinity, and those planning to travel through the area are urged to take the subway, which is unaffected, or plan an alternate route. Climate Alliance have stated that the protests will remain completely peaceful, and that they will be disbanded at the first sign of violence. So far, no violent acts have taken place, and there have been no arrests.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Xiomeran Emperor shot and remains in hospital
9th September 2019

Emperor Topilpopoca of Xiomera has been shot in an assassination attempt at the Palace of Flowers. He was transported to the Imperial Military Hospital after the attack, where he remains and is being treated. Xiomeran officials have stated that they expect him to recover.

The would-be assassin is thought to be Cētlalhui, a former Xiomeran Secretary of Justice who left his position in disgrace several months ago. He was apprehended at the scene. It is unknown whether or not he was working alone at this time, as the criminal investigation is ongoing.

Chief Justice of Xiomera, Nopalliztli, has assumed temporary leadership of Xiomera during the Emperor's recovery. An investigation has been launched into the incident, and a curfew has been established in a number of Xiomeran cities following the attempt. Security has also been increased at airports, though the Xiomeran authorities do not believe any terrorist attacks are imminent.

Prime Minister Josephine Alvarez expressed her best wishes for Emperor Topilpopoca in his recovery today, saying: "I hope the Emperor can make a speedy and full recovery following this attempt on his life, and my thoughts are with him and Xiomera at this time."

Lauchenoiria and Xiomera have had uneasy relations in recent months, following the rejection by Lauchenoiria of a request for the extradition of two Xiomeran journalists accused of, among other things, treason for their political activities. Alvarez has, however, expressed a wish that the two nations could improve their relationship in the future.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Two arrests at environmental protests as banner draped across Xiomeran embassy
11th September 2019

Two protesters have been arrested after hanging a banner across the Xiomeran embassy during a weekly protest over the Xiomeran government’s proposed plans to develop the Manauia Island nature reserve. This takes place during two weeks of planned environmental protests in the capital of Buttercity, at which protesters are calling on both the Lauchenoirian and foreign governments to do more to protect the environment and halt climate change.

The banner, which read “Manauia Island: development means death” was hung from the outside of two upstairs windows on the embassy building by two individuals who climbed the side of the building. After ignoring requests by Lauchenoirian police to climb down of their own accord, the two were arrested. The crowd of protesters booed the police officers as the two were taken away.

Two weeks of environmental protests run by Climate Alliance Lauchenoiria – an umbrella group composed of a variety of environmental activist groups – are presently taking place in the capital of Buttercity, with shorter protests expected to take place in a number of other Lauchenoirian cities over the coming weeks. The protests have remained peaceful so far, with no arrests other than those outside the Xiomeran embassy.

A number of speakers from Classrooms for Climate, an organisation of high school students supporting greater environmental action, are set to speak today at the demonstration after school hours. The organisers of the protests are promising a “family-friendly” demonstration this evening in Union Square, and have invited families who support action on the climate to attend.

However, not all in Lauchenoiria are supportive of the protests. None are set to take place in either Costeno or Ecanta provinces, the two areas hardest hit by last year’s civil war. Residents of southern Lauchenoiria see the protests as a distraction from the efforts to rebuild the country, and potentially harmful to those in the south who need an economic boost in order to put their lives back together after losing their homes and livelihoods in the war.

“We need help and support to rebuild the cities that were harmed in the war,” says Dimas Bustillo, a resident of Summersea. “These people want more regulations that will do more damage to the economy. The protests are supported by rich students in the north whose families made it through the war untouched, and they give no consideration to the worst off in our society.”

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Young Liberals at odds with parent party over support for climate protests
13th September 2019

The Young Liberals, the youth wing of the Liberal Party of Lauchenoiria, has officially come out in support of the two weeks of climate protests currently taking place in Buttercity. This is at odds with Josephine Alvarez’s statement last Saturday, in which she called the protests ‘unnecessary’, and reiterated that her government is doing all it can for the environment while ensuring the economy can recover after the war.

The Young Liberals intend to send a delegation to a protest in Usera, due to take place tomorrow, which is to happen in addition to the two-week demonstration in Buttercity. Usera, known for being Lauchenoiria’s most left-wing city, has a high number of students, and was briefly occupied by Kerlile during the war. Despite this, the city suffered less damage than most others which saw fighting.

The protests have continued, with fourteen arrests happening total in the last week. The first two arrests took place outside the Xiomeran Embassy after protesters draped a banner across the building and ignored police instructions to climb down. Twelve further arrests were made after members of direct-action group the Watchdogs of Our Earth attempted to block a road in central Buttercity yesterday evening during rush hour.

The protests are set to continue in the capital for another week, with additional demonstrations due to take place in a number of major cities across Lauchenoiria tomorrow afternoon, including Usera, Melissa City, Seahaven and Liaville. Green Party leader Lucie Scott has supported the protests, though has urged activists to “remain peaceful”.

The arrests of activists have been condemned by organisers Climate Alliance Lauchenoiria, who claim that the police are ‘unfairly targeting’ activists. A spokesperson for the group has said that they fear that a crackdown would be ‘reminiscent of the Chaher regime last year’ and the group have urged the government to let the protests continue unhindered. The Buttercity Police Department responded by saying “our main priority is the safety and security of members of the public at all times, and those who threaten that safety will be arrested.”

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Alvarez to meet with President Brown of LOM during Lauchenoiria visit
18th September 2019

Josephine Alvarez will meet with President Lucas Brown of Libertas Omnium Maximus during his visit to Lauchenoiria in the coming weeks, the Prime Minister’s office confirmed today. Brown has stated that he aims to use the visit to “feel things out with Alvarez and establish a working relationship.”

Alvarez said today that she is looking forward to the meeting, and views it as a chance to “establish stronger relations with our neighbours in Libertas Omnium Maximus and move on from any disputes between the two of us since the war”. She will be looking for something to deflect from the criticism levelled at her over the environmental protests this week.

Libertas Omnium Maximus was involved in last year’s war on the side of the Lauchenoirian Resistance, and was ordered to pay Lauchenoiria 150 million Sanctarian pounds for the use of “excessive force against and the deliberate endangering of civilians”. It is expected that LOM will try and improve their relationship with Lauchenoiria once more following these events, and this visit will be seen as a necessary step.

The exact date of the visit is unknown, but is expected to be announced at some point. It is thought the visit will not take place until after the end of the environmental protests which have been taking place in the capital for over a week, with additional protests in other areas.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Police criticised after multiple arrests at environmental protests
20th September 2019

Activists have criticised the Buttercity Police Department for making ‘excessive arrests’ throughout the two-week environmental protests taking place in the city. Over 30 people were arrested in Buttercity this afternoon after protesters blocked two roads leading to Buttercity International Airport. The protesters stated that their aim was to disrupt traffic to the airport to raise awareness about the pollution caused by both driving and flying.

The arrests happened after protesters refused to move from the road after being asked by police, instead sitting down and linking arms. This was in addition to earlier arrests: two of which took place outside the Xiomeran Embassy on Wednesday 11th, and twelve further arrests after direct action group the Watchdogs of Our Earth attempted to block a road in central Buttercity on the 12th. No other arrests took place until today.

Civil rights and anti-police surveillance activists have criticised the police for their handling of the protests today, claiming that the 30 arrests were ‘excessive’, and that the majority of those arrested were not in fact on the road, but rather nearby offering support to those taking part in the roadblock. The police department have called this ‘untrue’, claiming that “all individuals arrested were playing an active role in obstructing traffic”.

Climate Alliance Lauchenoiria, the group behind the two-week demonstration, released a statement saying “we neither condone nor condemn the actions of the individuals who participated in attempts to disrupt traffic. However, we are concerned that when faced with the destruction of the planet, the reaction of the Lauchenoirian authorities is to arrest individuals attempting to take action to prevent this.”

The Young Liberals, the youth wing of the Liberal Party, have had their affiliation to the Liberal Party ‘temporarily suspended’ pending disciplinary review after they came out in support of the protests, a position at odds with that of their parent party. Josephine Alvarez has previously called the protests ‘unnecessary’ and ‘counterproductive’, a view she reiterated following today’s arrests.

Protests are set to take place tomorrow in every major Lauchenoirian city, ending the two weeks of activity that Climate Alliance Lauchenoiria had announced. Protests will take place in: Buttercity, Lorentonia, Melissa City, Usera, Yervia, Elopolis, Annatown, Summersea, Seahaven, Carville and Liaville. A heavy police presence is expected at those in southern Lauchenoiria, where the protesters have come under heavy criticism. Residents of these cities are advised to avoid the locations where the protests are set to take place.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Mass climate change protests take place across Lauchenoiria
21st September 2019

Climate change protests took place in eleven cities across Lauchenoiria today, marking the end of two weeks of demonstrations by environmental campaign group, Climate Alliance Lauchenoiria. Concerns that violence would erupt on the last days of the demonstrations proved unfounded, with no arrests taking place today in spite of confrontations between demonstrators and police yesterday afternoon.

Around 20,000 individuals are thought to have participated in the protests – more than took part in anti-Chaher protests in May and June 2018, before the crackdown on demonstrations. The highest attendance was in Buttercity, where around 3,000 individuals took part, closely followed by Usera, a city with a high population of students known for producing activists.

In Buttercity, demonstrators were addressed by Green Party leader Lucie Scott, along with individuals from Zamastan and Xiomera, who spoke about the recent actions of their governments, referencing the highly controversial Manauia Island development project which recently gained approval in Xiomera. Speakers from teenage activist group Classrooms for Climate were also present.

The Young Liberals participated in the Usera demonstration, with Campaigns Officer and first year Usera University student Leonie Bennett addressing the crowd. She made only cursory mentions of the dispute with their parent party which led to the suspension of party membership for the entire national committee of the organisation. Other speakers in Usera included a member of the Anarchist Party of Yervia, and several university professors working in the field of climate change.

In Buttercity, Climate Alliance Lauchenoiria ended the demonstration at 5pm, at which time the square began to clear – ending the fear of some that the protests would not end on schedule. In southern Lauchenoiria, where several threats against protesters had been made, leading to a heavy police presence, no trouble materialised.

This marks the end of the two weeks of climate demonstrations in Buttercity – although it is likely that Climate Alliance Lauchenoiria will announce further demonstrations shortly, and protests are still scheduled to take place outside the Xiomeran embassy every Wednesday.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Three Lauchenoirians arrested in Xiomera over climate protests
24th September 2019

Three Lauchenoirian citizens have been arrested in Xiomera for participating in a protest in Tezaltli, the capital of Manauia Island, over the planned development of the island. The three individuals are part of Climate Alliance Lauchenoiria, the group responsible for the two weeks of climate protests in Buttercity. The group have also been holding weekly protests outside the Xiomeran Embassy.

The Xiomeran Justice Secretary, Cuicanan, called the presence of Lauchenoirians “unacceptable”, saying that climate activists should “stay in Lauchenoiria” and “leave Xiomeran issues for Xiomerans to resolve.” He also referenced the incident at the Xiomeran Embassy where two activists were arrested for draping a banner across the building. These two activists have since been released.

Foreign Minister Sandra Pavía denied implications that the activists arrested in Xiomera were acting on the orders of the Lauchenoirian government, saying that “Climate Alliance Lauchenoiria has caused an excessive amount of disruption domestically, and are no friends to the Lauchenoirian government. We are not presently attempting, and will not attempt in the future, to ‘destabilise’ Xiomera or any other nation.”

A spokesperson for Climate Alliance Lauchenoiria called the arrests ‘unjustified’. “The activists in question were participating in a completely peaceful protest against a project which would have a devastating impact on the local population and the world alike. There was no cause to arrest these people, and the Xiomeran government are showing their true colours – they fear change and will stop it at any cost.”

Climate Alliance Lauchenoiria have also confirmed they will be holding another demonstration tomorrow outside the Xiomeran Embassy. The Buttercity Police Department have confirmed that police presence at the demonstration will be increased as a result of both the banner incident two weeks ago, and in anticipation of anger at the recent arrests on Manauia Island itself.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Protesters block entrance to Xiomeran Embassy as attendance at weekly protest doubles
25th September 2019

Four individuals were arrested outside the Xiomeran Embassy in Buttercity this afternoon after chaining themselves to the entrance in an attempt to block passage in and out of the embassy. This action was part of the weekly protest organised by Climate Alliance Lauchenoiria outside of the embassy over the plans by the Xiomeran government to open Manauia Island to development.

This comes only days after three Lauchenoirian citizens were arrested in Xiomera while attending a peaceful demonstration on Manauia Island. These arrests have been widely criticised, with many calling them “completely political” and saying no crime was committed. Civil rights activists have called Xiomera’s actions “totalitarian” and have called on the Lauchenoirian government to ensure the release of their citizens.

Weekly protests have been taking place every Wednesday outside of the Xiomeran Embassy for five weeks over the development plans, but this week’s protest has been the most well-attended by far, with attendance doubling from last week despite last week’s protest taking place during the two weeks of demonstrations by Climate Alliance Lauchenoiria.

Climate activists were joined by civil rights activists calling for the release of those arrested in Xiomera. These activists took the opportunity to also call for the release of Tlixō and Xōne, the two Xiomeran journalists charged with attempted arson, currently being held in pre-trial detention due to being perceived as a flight risk. Their trial is set to begin in two weeks’ time. Lauchenoiria previously refused to extradite these individuals to Xiomera.

Upon the arrest of the individuals who chained themselves to the embassy, protesters booed police and shouted, accusing them of working with dictatorships and comparing them to the Chaher regime. While no further arrests took place, police struggled to move the crowd further from the embassy after the incident occurred. Two protesters were arrested outside the embassy two weeks ago, but the charges were later dropped.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Government issues advisory to citizens travelling to Xiomera
1st October 2019

The Lauchenoirian government has issued a travel advisory, urging Lauchenoirians against all but essential travel to Xiomera. This comes after three Lauchenoirians were deported from Xiomera after attending a protest on Manauia Island over the development planned to take place there. The Xiomeran government has since announced that Lauchenoirians travelling to Xiomera would be subject to additional screening.

Relations with Xiomera have been strained recently as a result of the refusal of Lauchenoiria to extradite two journalists wanted for treason, and then were worsened after a series of environmental protests over the Manauia Island development took place outside the Xiomeran Embassy, leading to a number of arrests. While Alvarez has claimed she wishes to improve relations, they have continued to deteriorate.

Lauchenoirians travelling to Xiomera now will be subjected to questioning about their background and reason for travel. They will also be required to submit electronic devices for scanning and have their social media profiles checked. Kvaskm will also be subjected to these screenings. Anyone refusing to comply will be denied entry to Xiomera. In light of this announcement, the Lauchenoirian government issued a warning.

“Lauchenoirians wishing to travel to Xiomera should be made aware of these screening procedures, and we must advise those who do not strictly need to enter Xiomera to refrain from doing so. Any Lauchenoirian who has booked travel to Xiomera and is now no longer willing to go may be entitled to partial compensation,” a spokesperson for the Lauchenoirian Foreign Office said.

The government is also set to debate banning Lauchenoirian citizens entirely from travelling to Kerlile, after a Lauchenoirian citizen was arrested near the border after crossing illegally into Kerlile. The 14-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has yet to be returned by the Matriarchy. Her friends have told the authorities that she crossed the border on a “dare”. In 2012, two other Lauchenoirians were arrested for similar reasons in Kerlile and have yet to be released.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Emperor Topilpopoca of Xiomera passes away
4th October 2019

Emperor Topilpopoca of Xiomera passed away yesterday at 1:45am local time, as a result of the wounds he had sustained during an attack by an assassin almost a month ago. The Emperor was 70 years old. Xiomera has declared a weeklong period of mourning following the Emperor’s death.

The office of Prime Minister Alvarez released a statement from her following the announcement of the death saying “this is understandably a sad time for those who cared about Emperor Topilpopoca, and my thoughts are with his family at this time.” Alvarez will not be attending the funeral, however Minister for Culture and the Arts, and Pacifist Party leader Samantha Clavell will be in attendance.

Relations between Lauchenoiria and Xiomera have been tense recently, with the Lauchenoirian government recently issuing a travel warning for Xiomera after Xiomera announced plans to increase scrutiny of Lauchenoirian citizens travelling to Xiomera. It is expected that Xiomera will take Alvarez’s absence at the funeral as a shun – but neither of the two main opposition parties in Lauchenoiria, the Greens and the Communists, have criticised her for the decision.

Police were called to a location in Usera to break up an illegal street party “celebrating” the Emperor’s death, organised by three Lauchenoirian citizens who were recently deported from Xiomera for attending a protest, and have been banned from entering the country again. The disturbance caused a stir online, with some supporting the “party” and others calling it offensive to celebrate someone’s death.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Agramunt expels Chaher ministers from Communist Party
8th October 2019

Élia Agramunt, leader of the Communist Party, has expelled five former government ministers who served under the Chaher regime from the Communist Party, following a unanimous decision by the party’s National Executive Committee granting her permission to do so. The party says the move is intended to cut ties with the party’s “undemocratic” past and commit themselves to supporting democracy and due process in the future.

Among those expelled was former leader Javier Flynn, Agramunt’s predecessor, who served in Chaher’s cabinet as Health Minister. Flynn had been leader of the Communist Party before Suleman Chaher’s coup, and returned to the position after the signing of the Haven Accords when Charissa Clarke was revealed to be a Kerlian sleeper agent. When asked for comment on the phone, Flynn responded with “capitalist sell-outs.” It is unclear who he was referring to in this statement.

Critics of the Communist Party have claimed this is a “publicity stunt” aimed at distancing the party from the horrors of both the Chaher regime and the previous Communist regime which ended in 1993. Critics claim that nothing has really changed at the heart of the party, and that large-scale structural change is needed to change the party into one which is “at heart” democratic.

This includes not just pro-capitalist politicians, but also Left Alliance leader Damian Andrés, who claims his party is an alternative for those who support a communist or socialist system, but have become disillusioned with the Communist Party due to their authoritarian tendencies. Lauchenoiria First, in response to the decision, have called for “everyone” to be expelled from the party, and for the party to be disbanded.

The Communist Party in the last month have quietly dropped their official position that the 2017 capitalism referendum was only won as a result of foreign interference, and have instead accepted the legitimacy of the result. They have, however, called for a second referendum in light of the “significant changes” in Lauchenoiria’s government since the first referendum. An advertising campaign calling for a second referendum is set to begin next week.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Trial of Xiomeran journalists for arson begins
25th October 2019

The trial of two Xiomeran journalists, Tlixō and Xōne, for attempted arson following an attack on the Xiomeran Embassy in Buttercity, began today. The two journalists, who are wanted for treason in Xiomera, and who Lauchenoiria refused to extradite as the charges were considered “politically motivated”, were detained in August after attempting to leave Lauchenoiria.

In July, Xiomera requested the extradition of the two journalists, who were wanted for running a media operation critical of the Xiomeran government. The request was denied by Lauchenoiria, with Sandra Pavía saying that “the so-called ‘crimes’ the Xiomerans are accused of have no equivalent under Lauchenoirian law”. After uncertainty following the passage of an updated extradition law, the decision to refuse the extradition was upheld.

However, in early August, the journalists attacked the Xiomeran Embassy by throwing a brick through a window and launching a Molotov cocktail in the building. The pair were later arrested but then released. Following an attempt by the pair to board a plane to Xiomera after the detention of their families, however, the pair were remanded in custody until their trial, which began today.

The trial is expected to attract international attention, as the pair are still wanted in Xiomera, and many consider the charges even in Lauchenoiria, to be politically motivated. Human rights groups have called for the release of the pair, and have also been putting pressure on the Xiomeran government to release their families.

The trial is expected to last around a week.

[Lauchenoiria]

Kerlian News Service

International Edition

Arrest of 13-year-old hidden by ‘illegal cover-up’
28th October 2019

The arrest of a 13-year-old for anti-matriarchal activity was covered up ‘illegally’ by former President Joanna Greenwood, an investigation into the arrest has found. The girl, who organised a placard-making session for an anti-torture protest in April, has spent six months in prison, and is presently on trial – although some expect President Arnott to order her release in the coming days.

The investigation found that, following the initial arrest, the girl was remanded in custody on the orders of then-Councillor Anita Patel, presently in Sanctaria. At the time, this order was reported to, and approved by President Joanna Greenwood. However, the investigation concluded, the paperwork surrounding the arrest was removed from the President’s office before President Arnott took office.

Pre-trial detention of under-16s in Kerlile is regulated, requiring the approval of the President or a majority of the Council to go ahead. While this requirement was initially met under Greenwood’s government, it should have been passed to President Arnott for continued approval – something which did not happen. The investigation into the matter has concluded that Joanna Greenwood acted illegally in not handing over the paperwork.

“It is shocking that a vulnerable young girl could be held in custody for this length of time without the knowledge of those presently in government,” Councillor Carmen Robinson said on the matter. “Joanna Greenwood and Anita Patel, neither of whom are presently involved in government in this country, clearly acted illegally in this matter, prolonging the suffering of this girl to score political points against President Arnott.”

The girl, who cannot be named, is presently on trial for anti-matriarchal activity, though many expect President Arnott to order her release and the dropping of charges before the conclusion of the trial. A spokeswoman from the office of the President has also stated that, should the girl be found guilty before this can happen, she will be pardoned. It is unknown if Joanna Greenwood will face any consequences for her actions in the matter.

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Thousands attend demonstration in Usera over leaked ‘surveillance bill’
29th October 2019

Approximately 2000 people attended a demonstration in the square outside Usera Cathedral after leaked documents appearing to show plans for legislation which would increase the government’s domestic surveillance powers. The demonstration took place at lunchtime, and was attended by a number of student groups. A government spokesperson has since claimed the leaked documents described a plan which has since been scrapped.

The documents were leaked online by a number of anonymous social media accounts simultaneously, and were later picked up by media outlets. They detailed plans for a government bill which would grant the police greater power to watch the online activity of Lauchenoirian citizens if there was “reasonable suspicion” that they intended to commit a crime – and, importantly, the activity of their associates.

A student anti-surveillance group at Usera University was behind the organisation of the last-minute demonstration in the left-leaning city. A statement released by the group said: “we must make our opposition to any authoritarian proposals known as quickly as possible, before we end up on a slippery slope. This government have repeatedly claimed to support democracy, but their actions and the warnings of last year mean we must be careful.”

A government spokesperson claimed the documents referred to a bill proposed by the Conservative Party, which was rejected by their coalition partners. The Conservative Party has also denied that the proposal would have allowed police to watch the families and friends of suspected criminals, claiming that part of the document has been “fabricated” by “those who wish to discredit this government”.

Prime Minister Alvarez, when questioned on the matter this afternoon in Parliament, said the following: “I will not support sweeping surveillance powers, which would unduly infringe on the privacy of Lauchenoirians. We will not always agree with everything our coalition partners propose, but it is only healthy in democracy that a diversity of opinion should be represented. My government remains committed to rebuilding the damage done by the war, safeguarding our democracy and building a better Lauchenoiria.”

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Lauchenoiria set to exchange ambassadors with Shen for first time
1st November 2019

The Lauchenoirian government has agreed to exchange ambassadors with the Empire of Shen for the first time, following discussions. The two nations have previously had no formal diplomatic relations, resulting from hostility during Lauchenoiria’s communist regime. Prime Minister Alvarez has called this a welcome development, however has been quick to note that she does not condone Shen’s lack of democracy.

The development was announced by Foreign Minister Sandra Pavía, who said: “the Lauchenoirian government is always open to improving our relationship with other nations, provided the nation in question wishes the same. This will allow us to develop a better relationship with Shen in the future, should we desire. It will also allow us to better protect Lauchenoirian citizens within Shen.”

At present, there are few Lauchenoirians residing in Shen, although the number has increased in the last year, as many who left the country after the war sought the economic opportunities available in Shen’s rapidly developing economy – despite the government’s general warning against all but essential travel to Shen. This is thought to be a strong motivating factor in the decision to establish embassies with the nation.

Élia Agramunt, leader of the Communist Party, however, has criticised the government for their decision. “Alvarez is a hypocrite,” she says. “Claiming to support democracy and freedom for all, as her number one policy, and yet she is rewarding a totalitarian, oppressive state like Shen. She claims our commitment to democracy is weak, yet between this and the extradition of Peter Bloch to Shuell, her actions do not match her words.”

[Lauchenoiria]

Lauchenoirian Guardian

Alvarez expresses concern over recent action by Zamastanian government
3rd November 2019

Prime Minister Josephine Alvarez has raised concerns over recent actions by the Zamastanian government after the use of lethal force and military personnel against protesters in the Zamastanian capital of Tofino. This comes only days after a ballistic missile test by the Zamastanian government, which Samantha Clavell, leader of the Pacifist Party and a government minister in the coalition, condemned in Parliament on Friday.

Last night’s protest was part of an ongoing series of protests, known as “PoverTea” protests which began in February against the Bishop administration. Demonstrators have accused President Anya Bishop of mismanagement, rampant corruption and wasting public funds. Additionally, wages among working-class citizens have recently hit an all-time low, leading to increased poverty in the country.

For the first time, protests in Tofino turned violent last night. Tear gas was launched into the crowd at 11:30pm local time, causing crowds to flee. Remaining protesters threw bricks and debris at police officers. Over 80 protesters were arrested, upwards of 300 individuals were injured, and four individuals were killed. One police officer was killed by a thrown brick, and three protesters were shot dead by police. After the first death, President Anya Bishop ordered military personnel to the scene, which has caused controversy.

The Zamastanian Ambassador to Lauchenoiria, April Hannity, was summoned to a meeting with Prime Minister Alvarez this morning, in which Alvarez reportedly told the ambassador to give a message to her government that Lauchenoiria “will not sit idly by and watch a government threaten their civilian population with military force”. Alvarez also reportedly hinted that if a repeat of the incident was to occur, that Lauchenoiria would consider sanctions against Zamastan.

Following the meeting with the ambassador, the Zamastanian Congressional Hall passed a resolution condemning President Anya Bishop over her use of military mobilisation against the protesters. This is the first time in over 130 years that a sitting Zamastanian President has been condemned by the legislative branch. A vote of no confidence may follow; however, this is uncertain.