Capuan General Elections, 1571

THE TIMES, 15 December 1571
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Republican citizens march to polls for first time since the Revolution

NEW CAPUA -- This morning, President Antony Lassale announced that, with the Solari War concluded, special general elections would, "barring exceptional circumstances", take place on 25-27 December, with polls in all areas opening at four o'clock local time, closing nine o'clock local time, on each of those days. It should be noted that elections for the occupied Solari territories will take place at "a later date" that has not been discussed by the military.

Though policy provisions suggest holding elections in June to avoid potential winter logistics problems, a special Act of Parliament has provided for "extraordinary" general elections, given the delays caused by the Solari War and the Revolution. Elections will be held for the National Assembly and President simultaneously; from there on in, National Assembly elections will take place a maximum of five years apart, with Presidential elections taking place a maximum of ten years apart.

Due to "serious security threats" posed by monarchist and Communist forces, and the "unique and historical circumstances" surrounding these elections, the government has issued National observers to all polling stations and will be increasing police presences on election week. The military will also be mobilizing select units for an internal security role, though high-ranking general Leon Robespierre has mentioned that he and the President agree "the chance of dissident monarchist or communist attacks are slim" but also agree that "we must be ready for any eventualities".

It has been rumoured that a shoot-on-sight order exists for individuals who, in an organized manner affiliated with any anti-Republican military group, disrupt the democratic process at polling stations, but both the Police Commissioner's Office and President's Office refuse to comment.

Though there are a large number of parties to choose from in the elections, three appear to be contesting polls across the country. These include the Liberal Party, headed by Benjamin Quentin; the Conservative Party, headed by Charles Marais; and the Radical Party, headed by Emile Aubert.

The Liberals, standing for classical liberalism and "the freedom of all individuals", support reduction of economic regulations, the end of official monopoly status, increased protection for individual rights, and the maintenance of the Constitutional status quo. The Conservatives, inspired by the philosophy of one Edmund Burke, believe in a reduced electorate including property owners only, a more hierarchical society, and "government based on solid ideals". The Radicals, disinterested in domestic governance, subscribe to the Conservative platform but also to the "expansion of and defence of Republican ideals on the world stage".

Presidential candidates include incumbent Antony Lassale, who would support "the constitutional role of the presidency, the status quo, and a balanced Senate", pit against Constantin Ferrand, a Presidential aide who would support "a senate biased towards the political and humanitarian concerns we face".

Reactions to the announcement to hold elections have been overwhelmingly positive. Dr. Barnabé Bayol of Actium wrote that the elections "are the best news since the King's demise", urging his fellow citizens to "exercise their right to vote with the utmost regularity and the greatest feeling of pride". Celebrations have been held in all major centers across the country; even particular pro-democracy movements in the occupied Solari territories have joined in under military supervision.

--THE TIMES

December 15th, 1571 - Chronicler Kentou Yubata

Today, although the weather seems to be a bit overcast, the mood of the Capuan people is overwhelmingly joyous. A historical second Political Election has been due for some time here in the Republic, an event not to be passed up as one of their citizens. I don't think even a tsunami would dampen the national spirit here today.

It was my pleasure in being asked to partake in the affair here, though of course I cannot actually get involved being a Kyokan citizen such as I. Those whom I have talked to have openly and proudly shared their respective political stance when coming down to who they would vote for in the polls. Whether it be a liberal, conservative, or radical policy you wish for in leadership, all views seem to matter here (barring on the harmful). In the end, the next President of the Republic for Capua shall be chosen. Truly, this is a country that gives power to the people!

In concern of the liberal party, their policy revolves around the constitutional position that the Presidency stands for of course, as well as individual rights and the like - the current status quo. As one politically involved person might guess, Antony Lassale is running once again to keep his Presidency. For the conservatives, who advocate more for a traditional, hierarchical society, their runner is currently unknown to me. However, the competition against the incumbent President is his prior-termed Aide - Constantin Ferrand.

It should be interesting to see who wins this election in the coming days. The results, of course, shall likely be known across the world in due time - I personally shall make sure Kyokai is the first.

THE TIMES, 31 December 1571.
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Status quo results from elections

NEW CAPUA -- After a marathon week of polling, counting, and mounting frustration, the National Elections Authority has named the winners and the losers of the recent Capuan elections.

Electoral procedures were conducted remarkably peacefully, with security forces reporting only minor public disorder at polling stations, consistent with a politically charged atmosphere. Three arrests were reported, all for minor breaches of the peace. Much to the relief of everyone involved, extremism has not reared its ugly head and no monarchist or communist attacks or disruptions have been reported. The elections were categorized as "free and fair" by National observers.

President Antony Lassale, incumbent, defeated his rival Constantin Ferrand to retain the Presidency for another ten years. During his victory kegger, held in the Great Forum of New Capua, Antony reported that he is "thankful to the Capuan people" for his victory and holds no ill will towards his "close friend and political advisor" Constantin, whom it is reported will remain part of the President's staff.

On the Parliamentary side of things, Prime Minister Jacques Neuvo has also retained his position, holding his victory kegger a few short blocks from Antony's. His Liberal Party swept elections across the country, utilizing the Conservative-Radical vote split to win the majority of the seats in Parliament. The Conservatives have formed the Official Opposition and have pledged to "hold the government accountable" and "oppose government by abstracts and generalities at every turn". The Radicals, for their part, have pledged to "continue to fight for the export of democracy".

The results, made available to the Times just this morning, will be published in detail over the next several days once statistical analysis has been completed.

--THE TIMES