le Soleil- News from Bourgogne and the World

[Serenierre]

Ministry of Foreign Affairs
GOVERNMENT OF BELMONT

In response to the statement issued by Chagny, we state that the Government of Belmont is well aware of the fact that great brutality occurred in the past in Bourgogne and that republicanism was used by the former ruling class. However, we do believe that by re-establishing a duchy, the people of Bourgogne are forgoing one dictator for another. It would have been preferable if the new system being proposed would have facilitated a democratic set up where feudal titles and offices are not retained. However, as we have said before, we support the will of the people of Bourgogne.

However, our concerns for the validity of the scheduled general elections are legitimate. By any measure, Bourgogne is a new democracy, with all the pitfalls that accompany that condition, as such we believe that it is essential for third party observers to be present during the polling to ensure that no enemy of the democratic process may be able to allege that the results are illegitimate and thus derail the nascent democratic movement in the country.

If the interim government in Chagny does not understand the purpose of our suggestion and denies our request, we do think that the performance of Interim PM Brodeur shall be called into question.

Pierre Plantard MP
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Ministry of Foreign Affairs
GOVERNMENT OF BELMONT

In response to the statement issued by Chagny, we state that the Government of Belmont is well aware of the fact that great brutality occurred in the past in Bourgogne and that republicanism was used by the former ruling class. However, we do believe that by re-establishing a duchy, the people of Bourgogne are forgoing one dictator for another. It would have been preferable if the new system being proposed would have facilitated a democratic set up where feudal titles and offices are not retained. However, as we have said before, we support the will of the people of Bourgogne.

However, our concerns for the validity of the scheduled general elections are legitimate. By any measure, Bourgogne is a new democracy, with all the pitfalls that accompany that condition, as such we believe that it is essential for third party observers to be present during the polling to ensure that no enemy of the democratic process may be able to allege that the results are illegitimate and thus derail the nascent democratic movement in the country.

If the interim government in Chagny does not understand the purpose of our suggestion and denies our request, we do think that the performance of Interim PM Brodeur shall be called into question.

Pierre Plantard MP
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs

Interim Government of Bourgogne


The Burgundian democratic process is retained. What dictator does Belmont speak of? Surely not the Duke who has been a guiding force in destroying the oppressive regime. Furthermore, the Duke has been extremely supportive of true democracy as is evidenced by his writings and speeches while in exile. Under the new constitution, the Duke has few powers. War may not be declared without the Duke's permission, he will retain the right of election affirmation in contested elections, and the ability to appoint ambassadors in the event that the elected executive fails to appoint them. The Duke will have no veto powers. Bourgogne will see a new legislature that rules by law and not fear. Belmont speaks of "enemies of the democratic process". Bourgogne is fully capable of ensuring fair elections. Why should we be called into question? Why the implication that we are unable to conduct our own affairs? We ask for evidence as to why your concerns are legitimate. We thank Belmont for their concern. However, we ask Belmont to evaluate the implications each of their statements has made. You are more than welcome to call into question the performance of acting Prime Minister Brodeur as that is what democracy is about.

 

[Serenierre]

Ministry of Foreign Affairs
GOVERNMENT OF BELMONT

Firstly: In the statement issued by the Bourgogne Government (

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), where we were reminded of the brutality and oppressive nature of the former government, it was said that the former government was a brutal regime and that it wore only a thin veil of republicanism. Thus, if it was only a farce, we must conclude that the democratic institutions in Bourgogne were simply carrying out the predetermined will of the Government of the time.

Secondly: With that point in mind, we must draw attention to fact that we believe the "Republican Government" conducted crimes against the people not only by attacking them but also by weakening the state institutions, such as the election commission and other such bodies. So while, the Republican ministers might have been deposed, can we say the same for the appointments they made in various institutions of the Bourgogne state. We are concerned that actors loyal to that set up are still embedded in the institutions responsible for the elections.

Thirdly: Even if the anti-democratic supporters have been removed from official positions, we wonder, are the replacements that have been appointed in a position to adequately conduct the elections? Bourgogne might have been holding elections during the term of the previous government but it can not say that there is a recent tradition of democratic norms in the country. Thus, we believe that it would be farce for any nation to not be slightly skeptical of the ability of the Bourgogne authorities to conduct a truly democratic election. This lack of ability of the Election Commission should be reflected by the fact that pre-poll estimates for voter participation in the constitutional referendum were overly optimistic.

Fourthly: A greater farce still is the belief that Bourgogne is a democracy, for until the general elections, the country is still undemocratic as far as the government is concerned, which remains an unelected authority. Keeping the history of the country in our minds, we have to look at the situation with a healthy dose of skepticism. How many times did the former "Republican" government assert to the nations of the world that it was democratic?

Our concerns for the need of neutral third party observers are valid. If the Burgandian Government has any particular problem with these observers being Belmontien, we will suggest some other nationality, however it is absolutely essential for neutral third party observers to be present if the international community is to be convinced that these elections are free, fair, and a legitimate exercise by the people.

Pierre Plantard MP
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs

 

[Ivernia]

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Oifig Impiriúil na hÍverniann Gnóthaí Eachtracha agus Trádála
Ivernish Imperial Office of Foreign Affairs and Trade​

10ú Bealtaine 1954


The High Kingdom of Ivernia congratulates good people of Bourgogne on their safe and well commissioned Referendum. It is good to see there is still a Bastion of democracy and the rights of citizens in Germania, and the High Kingdom hopes that Chagny and it's acting Government help keep Bourgogne the peaceful and progressive place Ivernia knows it to be.Ivernia congratulates Acting Prime Minister Brodeur on his well timed election date, allowing his constituents an ability to grasp the situation and make an informed decision.

Signed and Sealed by:

Duke Dathí Mac Suibhne, Prince-Elector of Foreign Affairs and Trade

 

[Saaremaa]

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Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Välisministeerium

10 Mai 1954

We wish to congratulate our colleagues from the Duchy of Bourgogne for their political success and the return of democracy in the Duchy. We are glad that the false republicans have been dealt with and that finally the country can be ruled by a group of people that really care for the well being of the people. Though morally, we in the people of Saaremaa see the meritocracy as the purest system, we are glad that the people of Bourgogne has chosen as head of state a Duke, as he is an apolitical leader, superior, compared with the opportunists that hide behind political party squabbles. We once again congratulate the people of Bourgogne for their success in the return to democracy and we would like to wish them luck for the future. They should know that the people of Saaremaa will forever stand by them.

Signed,
Minister of Foreign Affairs,
Jaak Raud.​

​

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Interim Government of Bourgogne

Our issue is not with the prospect of Belmontien observers, our issue is with the insinuation that we are unable to conduct our own affairs. We will continue with our elections. The lack of faith shown by Belmont is noted. As Belmont is aware, voter turnout can be a very precarious thing. Lastly, perhaps Belmont has not paid attention to events. The National Assembly is comprised of almost entirely elected officials from across the nation. Bourgogne has been holding local elections for over 150 years. These elected officials are continuing to represent their people. If Belmont chooses to consider Burgundian elections unfair or illegitimate (with absolutely NO evidence), it is welcome to.

We consider this matter closed.

 

[Rheinbund]

Aussenministerium
Trier, Eiffelland

We congratulate the people of Bourgogne for setting a decisive step towards a democratic political system. It is time that Bourgogne can turn a page in its history. The current referendum on the new constitution will be the turning act. We follow the events in Bourgogne with interest and hope that our relationships with Burgundy will remain good with the new goverment.

Rudolph Kögler, Demissionary Minister for Foreign Affairs and Demissionary Vice-Chancellor.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

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[Holy Frankish Empire]

Two le Soleil Journalists, General killed in brutal attack. Gunman killed

Dahloa, Green Peninsula

According to reports, two le Soleil journalists- Adam Poher and Pierre Loubet were gunned down outside a restaurant with General Phillipe Bourcet, executive officer of Burgundian forces in the Green Peninsula. The reports indicate that there was a single assassin, likely a member of the communist rebels. General Aucoin, commanding Burgundian Colonial Forces, has promised to investigate fully. The assassin, not yet identified, was shot and killed by local police forces in the area.


Interim government will implement previous government's 200 Million Livre infrastructure project

Chagny

Acting Prime Minister Brodeur announced today that the interim government will pursue the previous government's plan to reinvest in the nation's infrastructure. The plan will rebuild aging bridges, extend power grids, and build or repair Bourgogne's large road system. The program will also build new primary schools. "We have no further plans to spend any further money. This money was already aimed and budgeted for" commented Brodeur. The plan is set to begin at the end of this month and will employ thousands of workers. "This will also employ over 1500 students in engineering, planning, and architecture; giving them practical experience" concluded Brodeur.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Orange Party narrowly wins elections!
Orange Party 39 Seats, Republic Bourgogne 34 Seats, Progress Bourgogne 12 Seats, Republic Coalition 9 Seats

The left-leaning Orange Party narrowly defeated the conservative Republic Bourgogne party. Despite the ways of the old government, the platform still appeared in both Republic Bourgogne and was much more prevalent in the Republic Coalition which received a part of the vote. The radical left Progress Bourgogne secured some of the vote as well. Voter turnout was high, reaching 71.2% of the voting population. The Orange Party's platform of increased social programs, infrastructure, and internal investment resounded with many voters. Despite the heavy campaign run by the Orange Party, Republic Bourgogne won a substantial 34 seats. The platform of restraint from a serious reaction to government change was a major component of Republic Bourgogne. The party refused to discuss matters of the monarchy but party literature states that all power should remain with the people. The Republic Coalition was less vague, calling for the Monarch to be banished again.

It remains unclear when the elected member will take seats within the new national Council. Acting Prime Minister Brodeur stated that he was pleased with the results and hopes to turn the government over slowly over the next few weeks. "It will be a process not a singular action. Anyone with political experience knows that such matters must not be forced" said Brodeur outside a polling station. Most expect that the Council will take full control of the government sometime at the end of the month.

 

[Argyll]

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Owen Lennan, Foreign Minister

On behalf of the Government of the Commonwealth I would like to send my warm congratulations and best wishes to the Orange Party of Bourgogne. Any victory for Social Democracy is one that is worth celebrating and one at the end of a well conducted election in a fledgling democracy especially. We look forward to the programme of reform and investment being implemented and hope that this will open up a new diplomatic channel of co-operation and mutual understanding between our two nations.

 

[Rheinbund]

Aussenministerium
Trier, Eiffelland

We congratulate the winner of the elections. Bourgogne and Eiffelland have always had cordial relationships. We hope that we can continue them with the soon to be new government of Bourgogne.

Rudolph Kögler, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Vice-Chancellor

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

NATIONAL HEADLINES​

Elected National Assembly meets for first time

Chagny


The elected National Assembly met for the first time today behind closed doors. The press was welcome for the initial seating and swearing in ceremonies but was asked to leaved before both the Duke and acting Prime Minister spoke. The 94 seat Assembly me for 4 hours and plans to begin formally meeting on the 30th. "It is a bright day for this nation. We have come a long way. There were naysayers. Belmont could not believe we could conduct a national election ourselves. Soon, I will step down as acting leader of the government. I was asked by a reporter about what it was like being a temporary leader of a nation. I made it clear that I only led a government. The nation is the citizen, not the government" said acting Prime Minister Brodeur.


More on page 3

22 Commandos found crucified!

Dahloa, Green Peninsula

22 commandos are dead and several are missing. Following a reported battle with communist rebels, villagers discovered a grisly scene and discovered 22 commandos crucified to trees. The villagers immediately contacted Colonial authorities. "There was evidence of a prolonged firefight" reads part of an official statement. An investigation is underway. The Duke has personally weighed in on the matter saying that "reprisals will be swift and merciless".

More on page 2

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

HEADLINES​

Claude Marchand named nation's First Consul

Chagny

Dr. Claude Marchand, a former dentist and former mayor of the small town of of St. Armand, was named First Consul Friday by the newly elected National Assembly. The 46 year old Marchand was born in the Burgundian colonies but returned to the mainland at age 8. le Soleil is not familiar with Dr. Marchand, however the Orange Party assemblyman is known to be educated in Twente. Dr. Marchand will be sworn in Tuesday by the National Assembly at which point he will appoint a Second Consul.

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National Hockey team suffers defeat

Ostveg

The national hockey team suffered a loss, losing 3 to nothing in a special summer exhibition. The slightly favored Burgundian team lost in front of a sell out crowd. Several players on either team left with minor injuries. Exhibition organizers stated that the injuries were possibly due to lack of off season practice and conditioning.

 

[Coeurleon]

Ambassade du Royaume de Cœurléon
Chagny, Burgogne
​

Her Majesty would like to express her happiness at the appointment of Messieur Marchand to the post of First Consul. This is proof of a clean and clear transition toward democracy. Her Majesty's Government would like to continue to work and improve relations with our regional partner in the near future.

SIGNED

Mssr. le Marquis Nicolas de la Flouceillière
Her Majesty's Ambassador to Bourgogne
​

 

[Rheinbund]

Kanzleramt
Trier, Eiffelland

We congratulate Mr. Claude Marchand with his appointment as the new First Consul of Bourgogne. We wish him all the wisdom he will need in governing Bourgogne.

Matthias Graf von Seydewitz, Chancellor

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Communist rebels seize regional city


Dahloa, Green Peninsula


Communist rebels, attacking in overwhelming force, seized the northern city of Bavouba. Colonial Forces were quickly overwhelmed despite a short and fierce battle outside the small regional city. A garrison force of 150 was forced to retreat from their main northern garrison. Colonial Forces released a short statement noting that 22 Colonial soldiers had been killed and an aircraft was shot down. The statement did not list rebel casualties. Government officials have pledged to retake the city.

Many are beginning to speculate as to the exact number of rebels. Colonial officials have long maintained that rebels, though tenacious, were few in number. Some members of colonial police forces are speculating the number could be as high as several thousand.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

JOIN THE BURGUNDIAN COLONIAL FORCES!

Have you ever dreamed of seeing the world? Wanted to wear a uniform? Wanted to be a part of something? Join the Colonial Forces today! The Colonial Forces are a Burgundian garrison force in Burgundian Imperial territories. Foreigners may join. For more information, visit your nearest Burgundian embassy.


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[Holy Frankish Empire]

Communist rebels fend off government attack


Dahloa, Green Peninsula


Communist rebels, attacking in overwhelming force, seized the northern city of Bavouba last week. Colonial Forces along with Burgundian army elements have attempted to retake Bavouba. An Army spokesman has stated that it is likely that intelligence reports underestimated rebel strength. A ceasefire agreement was reached which then dissolved as government forces warned the rebels to leave Bavouba. Bavouba, a regional city north of Dahloa, is difficult to reach except by the main government road which the army spokesman has stated is "heavily defended".

First Consul announces passage of sweeping insurance reform

Chagny


Starting as early as November, citizens will be able to opt for modern insurance policies rather than the company style buy in policies. The National Assembly argued for only a short time before passing the law allowing modern policies to be implemented. The new laws will govern the policies in terms of open implementation.

Read more on page 2


Crisis in Sylvania

Charleroi

Anarchy rules the day as militia occupy the streets. With the president out of commission, the police are proving ineffective in a scene reminiscent of recent actions in Chagny. First Consul Marchand has ordered the closure of the Burgundian embassy until "a more secure situation arises". The Burgundian government has also issued a 72 hour travel advisory for Charleroi.

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[Holy Frankish Empire]

Bavouba retaken by government forces!

Rebels put up lengthy fight. Many Burgundian casualties. Rebels armed with Belmontien weapons.

Chagny

Military spokesmen held a press conference today announcing that military and Colonial forces have retaken the regional city of Bavouba in the Green Peninsula's northern region. For about a week, Burgundian military forces engaged the communist rebels in intense and often deadly encounters. "The enemy acted with extreme discipline and will" said one spokesman, administrative commander of Ducal Colonial Forces (FDC). While numbers were not released, spokesmen noted that casualties were high. "The enemy, knowing the terrain and with apparently good planing engaged our forces in numerous surprise attacks" said General Joffre of the Ducal Army. "The enemy appears to be armed fairly well. While many arms appear to have been collected from all walks of weaponry, a fair number of arms are of Belmontien origin" concluded Joffre. First Consul Marchand has attempted to contact his Belmontien counterpart according to inside sources.