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Post by RWU on Aug 2, 2015 18:32:20 GMT -6
Journal of Oriya Janov, 1st Federal People's Militia
Entry 1:
Got assigned to units today. Officer elections for platoon were good, got a kickass Wuxianese as Captain, Fa Zhi. She's an older type, fellow veteran, and she doesn't take anyone's bullshit. Too bad the other captains weren't so good, together they voted for a pushover Major, some Hauthkajan drone who only speaks in Communist Party slogans. Fucking ingrates, it was the ASF that paid for their damn weapons. But hey, as long as my immediate superior is cool I think things will go alright. Better a good leader on a shitty assignment than the other way around.
Rest of the day was factory work. Old-style assembly line in Arcology 12 canning meat for emergency relief in districts hit by storms and fires. Nice to know our hard work is going somewhere good, and it was actually kinda fun using the old equipment. Apparently it's still the most efficient way to can food, but maybe they just couldn't bring in a full auto system in time. Either way, feels good to work. Better than the old days, lying around in foxholes for hours just cleaning weapons and digging. Best part was watching Zhi at it, canning like some sort of industrial goddess, the rest of us kept complaining how unfair it was she could be best shooter, brawler, commander, and now even canner! Gotta leave something for the rest of us!
Entry 2:
Well, no more canning for me. Took a fucking bullet in the arm yesterday from some asshole who forgot to turn the fucking safety off. What's this, a kids' rifle camp? Hurts like hell, but at least it's not my main arm. And Zhi gave him what was coming, took his equipment and kicked him out of the platoon. Major Commie even did something helpful, throwing him out of the entire army. Doctors got the bullet out and say I should be better in five days. Good news, but still means I have to loaf around in the medical tent alone most of the day. Not like we're getting any other wounded, gods willing.
Entry 3:
First assignment today. Heading to a village out in South-Center Awodej, couple hunded-thousand Asterans who apparently didn't get the memo that their damn patriarchy is done for. Fucking humans, as if racism and capitalism and slavery weren't enough. Who the hell turns beating and imprisoning mothers into a "tradition"? Thank the gods some of the women are politically conscious enough to call us in. Captain Zhi thinks we can resolve this peacefully once we're there, but I'm not so hopeful.
Entry 4:
Well I'll be damned. Zhi pulled it off. We were there on the road, fifty of us facing fifty of them with guns pointing everywhere. Then she just asked them if they needed some help in the warehouse. The fuckers didn't know what to do, but an older guy went ahead and accepted her offer for help. Don't know if the guy was serious because of some old hospitality code, or if he just wanted to keep his young ones from getting torn to pieces in a firefight. Heck, maybe he'd just had enough of fighting for their corrupt "traditions" and was ready to give up. Two hours later we're sorting crops in the warehouse and the village agrees to do their elections proper, allow an armed self-organized women's org with a social support branch and an armed branch, each with a special rep on their Takudar. Later tonight we'll give them their weapons and let them form their constituent coops in the village square.
Entry 5:
Still at the village. The elders are still cooperating, and their new takudars have the special women's reps. They didn't elect any women for the normal seats, but I guess it'll take some time before the women get over their trauma and the men get over their egos enough so they can have balanced councils.
Not everyone is cooperating though. Funny how it's the young men who are the die-hard reactionaries. Six of them tried to jump one of our patrols, but they're such shitty shooters they didn't even hit one of us. Our return fire cut them down, four wounded one dead. The last guy tried to run but I got the privilege of catching up to the fucker and beating the shit out of him. Feels good. Also hear some dude tried to confront the new women's militia and order them to disband, but one woman shot him and ended it. Good for her.
This village probably doesn't need us much longer. The women have their guns and their seats, they can take care of themselves, and now we're just crowding everyone. We came tail-end of harvest, and the warehouse work isn't so heavy anymore. No reason for us armed federals to stay here meddling in their lives anymore.
Entry 6:
Hardly got back to VC before we got our second assignment. No talk about settling this one peacefully: It's a damn royalist hideout. They're flying us over to North Hauthkaj to help the local garrisons root them out. We got assigned extra coats with heat lining. Not looking forward to the tundra, but hey it's my job. Time to kill some royalist pigs.
Entry 7:
Mission complete. Going back to base.
Entry 8:
Can't fall asleep. Can't manage to crack a good joke at the factory. I think I need a week off. Or maybe I just need some drugs.
Entry 9:
Fuck it. I'm writing this shit down, maybe this will get it out of my mind. The royalists were using kids. Some with guns, some with bombs strapped to them. Sure we fought some real young types in the old wars, but these kids couldn't have been older than eight. They were drugged-up and yelling royalist slogans at us while they shot and charged. Maybe they thought they didn't need to take cover because we wouldn't shoot back. Poor little shits. I was the first to fire. Didn't even realize just how small they were till we inspected what was left of the bodies. Our bullets blew their little bones to shreds. Some didn't even have all their fur, grenade blasts burned it clean off.
Worst part is we didn't find their commanders. We broke into nine underground bunkers, all empty. I swore out loud today that the first Royalist officer I find, I'll stuff a grenade down his throat. Zhi says I'm free to go on leave, but fuck that. So instead she's teaching me meditation and breathing techniques from the Yuyan. It's cheaper than drugs, and she says it should keep me calm enough to operate. Gods bless that woman.
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Post by Admin on Aug 28, 2015 19:07:08 GMT -6
Election Day is Coming
"My esteemed colleague would have use throw the lives of our people away by assaulting a heavily fortified enemy planet populated by voracious beasts which, it should be noted, have shown the capability to eat people and turn their biomass into raw materials. Not only would invading the Hive homeworld be near suicidal - attacking could very well give them the resources they need to continue their war against Asteron!" The handsome Ayar, regaled in professional dress, glared intently at the cameras as the crowd listened.
"Now I'm going to say what everyone's been thinking but no one's been willing to say outright: we should never have gone to help Asteron in the first place. Everyone knows that for all their claims of being a 'revolutionary state' Asteron is nothing more than a military dictatorship dressed up in pageantry. We should have demanded democratic concessions from the chairman and the army before setting even one pair of boots on Asteron soil!" A portion of the watching crowd clapped enthusiastically. Ayar and other races waved about posters for the Anarcho-Syndicalist Front with trendy slogans such as "No Panzers Without Polls," "Free Kwazan," and "Can't Stop the Revolution."
"Thank you Councilor. And thank you for keeping your speech within the allotted time limit this time as well. I will now repeat the question: Should the RWU continue to support Asteron in its war against the Hive Unity, now that the Hive's main force has been driven back? Your answer, Congresswoman Twazi."
"Asteron is a vital ally to the RWU's interests both domestically and abroad." The Kwazan woman replied. "The Revolution has made great strides throughout the galaxy, but it is worth remembering that the forces of oppression are not defeated, nor do they rest easily. I do not support unconditional military assistance to the Union of Asteron, but we should work with the Asteran leadership to achieve a more free and open society while maintaining our current alliance. Rather than military assistance, domestic and industrial aid is desperately needed by our allies to alleviate the suffering and destruction this war has caused and help their people rebuild their lives." Congresswoman Twazi's crowd was larger than her rival's, but perhaps less enthusiastic than her rival's. Their signs for the Social Reformist Federation were no less well done though: "Life. Freedom. Dignity." Said one, while another depicted a black-and-white image of a starving Asteran child among the destroyed wreckage of his home.
"And thank you for that response Congresswoman. Now for our next question: Many have expressed doubt over the Union Communist Party's veto of Article 1172, which would have blocked all trade with any foreign power considered to be, and I quote 'hostile to the spirit of the revolution.' In your opinion, Councilor and Congresswoman, should the bill have been passed, and why or why not? Congresswoman Twazi, you may answer first."
"While Article 1172 had many flaws, I absolutely believe that..."
-------------------------------------------------------------------- ELECTION DAY APPROACHES As election day approaches candidates from across the RWU jockey for position in one of three major parties. Current polls show that the ruling Union Communist Party (UCP) likely to win control of the Union Council but likely to lose ground in local Takudar elections. Two rival parties have lined out their platforms and are campaigning heavily to change RWU policy in key areas.
ANARCHO-SYNDICALIST FRONT (ASF) - Foreign Policy: Advocates a "hawkish" foreign policy approach including such stipulations as using political and military leverage to force Asteron's government to step down and hold elections, expanding the RWU's military, and pressuring the Kwazan Conglomerate to make internal concessions. - Economic Policy: The ASF advocates the expansion of the military, development of orbital and system projects, and competitive trade.
Social Reformist Federation (SRF) - Foreign Policy: "Soft" foreign policy, including sending aid to Asteron and using diplomacy and agents to pressure other nations to make accommodations without violent revolution if possible. - Economic Policy: The SRF advocates expanding to new systems and opening the development of new land and new Takudars. They believe that this will provide more equality and opportunity to the average citizen. They also advocate strict limits on trade and protectionist policies.
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Post by RWU on Sept 1, 2015 13:31:14 GMT -6
Revolutionary Workers' Congress, Victory City -- Televised Address
President-Premier Briyandawas Karad was nearing the end of her years, a fact made clear by her distinctly arched back and the growing black and greyish blotches on her fur. Yet, her famous confidence and energy seemed unshaken as she spoke into the mic.
"It is about time I respond to some of the allegations brought against the Union Communist Party by our Social Reformist and Anarchist comrades. While some of their concerns have some substance, most are misguided if not ludicrous.
"Over and over again, we have heard criticism for sending aid to our comrades in the Union of Asteron. Some say we would have done better to force them to make concessions to the cause of Worker's Democracy as an ultimatum. To them I say, you are making a fatal confusion. The Asteran government does not represent the masses, and Revolution can only come from the latter. My Anarchist comrades ought to know this better than anyone! If we had withheld our intervention, every minute of delay would have sacrificed millions of Asteran common folk at the altar of formal concessions from their government. Preposterous! First we must ensure the masses are saved from total destruction, and only then should we even consider pressuring our comrade Asteran generals and admirals to accept revolutionary progress. The proof is before your eyes: With the home planet now saved from apocalypse, millions upon millions of Asteran soldiers, aided by organizers and staff from New Sovereignty, are pursuing Leneru's doctrine of the One Big Union.
"A more reasonable concern I've heard is about the form of aid we send to Asteron. Ending starvation and poverty ought to be our first priorities, they say, and I can't help but agree. But I have to point out that the work of organizing, armed support of the revolutionary masses, and economic relief are all tied together. Just like sending troops means nothing to Asterans who die anyways of starvation, aid means nothing if they die at the hands of the Hive invaders. And, I'll have you all know from my experience in the Revolution, food and money aid mean almost nothing if we don't also work to end the oppression of the working masses. That's why the Union Communist Party has guided our campaign in Asteron along three points: Absolute military victory over the Hive so that it never threatens us or our allies again, organizing on the ground in solidarity with still-oppressed segments of the Asteran masses for necessary internal change, and building trade connections to uplift the Asteran economy. Of course, now that the military governors of Asteron have made it clear they prefer the distant Denovans to their revolutionary comrades as commercial partners, the UCP will turn to direct aid starting next cycle.
"Finally, there's been a lot of talk about economic development in the RWU. Some say we ought to focus on orbital development, others say we need new lands and resources. The Union Communist Party doesn't see why we can't have both, and the completion of the Union Planning Commission Orbital Project Phase 1 and the first settlements on New Dawn should prove our point. The dockworkers and spacefarers who look for more infrastructure in orbit are not enemies, but comrades with the peasants and factory workers who seek new Takudars in new lands. The UCP has always, does, and will always stand for comprehensive economic development!
"Now if any of my esteemed comrades in the Congress or the Council or the high Takudars still take issue with Communist policy, I ask that you include us in your debates and discussions, instead of holding events just for Anarchists and Social Reformists. I think we'll find a lot more common ground than you might expect. When it comes down to it, we are all comrades and coworkers: We can all say together, Long Live the Revolution! Long Live Syndicalist Democracy! Long Live the One Big Union!"
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Post by Admin on Sept 6, 2015 16:34:54 GMT -6
Modmark
The conclusion seemed forgone long before election day, but the ballot always held surprises. The UCP had swept the field as expected, pulling in an even bigger majority than they had held before. This was in large part thanks to the growing prosperity of the RWU and the UCP's handling of the Hive War and Asteron issue, as well as the canny political decision to take up several policies that were traditionally more in line with the SRF. Moderate voters had abandoned the Reformists in droves, severely weakening the party.
Post election the anarchists stood almost alone as the opposition party to the UCP. They had also gained electorate share by positioning themselves as the primary opposition party to UCP policies. Reactionaries and anyone who disliked the current regime found themselves pulled in that direction. The anarchists had failed to take either the Council or Congress, but held a decent minority and had done exceptionally well in various local Takudar elections.
SUMMARY UCP wins TOTAL MAJORITY, no limitations on actions for the next 5 turns ASF party wins a minority. Has enough power to obstruct domestic legislation (but not foreign) if it choses. SRF loses a large number of seats.
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Post by RWU on Sept 11, 2015 21:04:59 GMT -6
Transcript of Foreign Secretary Sebastiyan Kniov's Speech, Delivered for Press at the RWU Embassy in Asteron
Today is a solemn day. Today the forces of reaction have stolen the Asteran government from the people. Today is a day long feared, when the bourgeoisie has retaken the apparatus of repression. And make no mistake, they will use it! They will try to crush the unions of self-organized Asteran workers with police and soldiers. They will try, like their military predecessors, to kill and imprison the people's Red Guards until the revolutionary vanguard has been wiped out. Naturally, the RWU sees this blatant coup against the people's will for what it is, and refuses to recognize the so-called Asteran National Front government as legitimate. [Emphasis Added]
[Pause - Silence]
But today is also an opportunity. The enemy has won the battle, but they have not won the war! Today the Asteran people have the chance to unite and say "No more!" No more to technocrats imposing their will on the workers and peasants and common soldiers! No more to wage slavery in the deathly heat of the underground factories! No more to farmers starving because they are forced to part with their own produce! No more to the careless sacrifice of conscripts and poor volunteers on the altar of elite interests! Whether it's Generals or a Bosses, no parasite class has a right to the lives and labor of the masses! The Asteran people must, and the Asteran people will take on this struggle for their dignity and freedom!
[Pause - Cheers from audience.]
As a representative of the Revolutionary Workers' Union, it is not my place to lead such a struggle. The initiative must and will come from the Asteran workers and peasants, who refuse to be trodden over by bloodthirsty dictators and capitalists! But I can promise that any organization committed to the People's War need only step inside this embassy and present to us their needs, and we will do all in our power to help. [Emphasis Added] The Asteran Revolution once lent its helping hand to New Sovereignty to overthrow the Antoviyan System -- Now our Revolution extends its hand to Asteron to overthrow this new generation of exploiters! Workers of Asteron in the factories and mines and ports and warehouses, Peasants of Asteron in the fields, Soldiers of Asteron in the barracks, your ally the RWU will abandon you under no condition whatsoever! Long Live the Revolution! Long Live the One Big Union!
[Applause and cheers - Asteran organizers start local union chants]
__________
Union Council Missive to the International Organizing Commission -- CLASSIFIED
We regret to inform the International Organizing Committee that Comrade Petrov has been captured by Kwazan authorities, and that her network is compromised. The Discretionary Budget funds she had access to prior must be redirected to a new organizer. We leave it to the IOC to select her successor. Send the new agent to the Union Council for briefing by the end of next month.
We grieve the violence that has and will be inflicted on our dear comrade, but we must also be proud. She knew the risks and stepped into battle valiantly, and she already knew what to expect in the event of her capture. Do justice to her memory by refusing to falter in the ongoing struggle.
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Post by RWU on Sept 19, 2015 14:45:38 GMT -6
POLICY UPDATE BRIEFING: FOR ASTERAN EMBASSY PERSONNEL
Despite the success of negotiations hosted by Wuxian, the RWU cannot fully support the capitalist ANF government. The vote to ratify disaffiliation of the Asteran Branch unions from the RWU did not succeed, and therefore we must continue to directly represent their interests. As such, continued cooperation with the PUF is necessary. This naturally poses a difficult situation for diplomatic personnel in Asteron. Below are guiding points for expressing RWU policy: To Asteran military officers and ANF representatives: - The RWU recognizes President Sidow's government and does not demand a recount or investigation.
- The RWU agreed to disaffiliate from the Asteran branches only if they voted in favor, which they did not, so no agreement has been broken.
- The RWU does not encourage or condone armed struggle for Syndicalist Revolution in Asteron.
- The RWU still insists that Syndicalist political prisoners must be released. We believe the Yuyan would support us in this demand, and we are willing to call upon This One directly if the situation does not change.
To PUF officials: - The invitation for representatives of the People's Struggle to speak with RWU representatives remains open, but the embassy cannot be assumed to be secure. All potentially subversive talks are to be held in Victory City.
- While justified ethically, armed struggle on Asteron is unviable strategically. The forces arrayed in the ANF's favor, both foreign and domestic, are too strong compared to the forces available to the People's War. Furthermore, the ANF government has shown itself willing to make concessions, which suggests that a non-violent route could yield further victories for the workers and peasants.
- The RWU cannot openly provide material support to the PUF, for to do so would risk throwing away all the concessions made by the ANF government to the Asteran masses. The fact that the Asteran Branch unions have chosen to remain tied to the RWU already makes the situation precarious.
To Asteran Branch union delegates: - The proposal for disaffiliation was not an act of abandonment, but rather an act of strategic advance for the Asteran workers. If it had passed, they would not have lost union representation and would actually have more security in their right to organize publicly. That being said, now that they have made their vote, the RWU will respect it and will do everything in its ability to protect the Branch workers specifically and the Asteran proletariat generally.
- As long as the Branch unions remain affiliated with the RWU, open organizing is dangerous and could be prosecuted as espionage or treason. The RWU may not be able to defend workers who attempt to expand the unions. However, it should be a perfectly valid strategy to organize non-union workers to form their own unions, independent of the Branch and the RWU, so long as no agents from New Sovereignty are involved.
To organizations of the People's War seeking refuge or aid: - The RWU unconditionally offers asylum to Syndicalists of the galaxy who need to flee their current situation.
- The RWU will not consider any proposals for open cooperation. [But if they insist, direct them to a shuttle to Victory City for secret negotiations.]
- The situation in Asteron is not ripe for armed revolt, for the peasants and workers are not unified enough. If possible, switching to legal or at least non-violent means of struggle could yield better results at this time. The RWU is more than willing to help in this transition.
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Post by Admin on Oct 2, 2015 18:14:49 GMT -6
The catchy, intense little theme tune played to stock graphics as big, blocky letters spun into place, then faded away to reveal a finely dressed Ayar sitting in front of an expensive-looking desk. "Welcome back to RPNN. I'm your anchor Talhur Skoplyk, and this is the Political Corner." Another catchy tune played with a brief montage of different politicians.
"First up in the Political Corner: The Anarcho-Syndicalist Front continues to press its offense against the ruling Union Communist Party. ASF Chairman Graz Dohal recently tweeted in response to the Tusi Peace Accord, calling the UCP 'Weak' and 'Cowardly' for accepting the agreement and 'kowtowing to the Yuyan and capitalist interests.' When pressed for clarification Chairman Dohal retracted his statement about the Yuyan and stated that he had "great respect for the benevolent Yuyan," but nevertheless stood by his stance that the UCP has failed to bring the revolution to the masses and has "bungled" foreign policy in Asteron and Kwazan."
"The Social Reformist Federation seems to be making a comeback after disastrous results last election. Their popularity has risen somewhat in recent polls thanks to their new platform of detente and engagement, best explained by new chairman Sakhile Nguni Okunye at the SRF rally in Antoviya City:" The screen switched to an ancient, windy city-square where a large crowd stood, listening intently to the sharply dressed IsiKwazan male who spoke on a massive platform.
The image switched back to Skoplyk behind his desk.
"Despite a rise in polls the SRF is not out of danger yet. Any drop in numbers during the next general election would push them below the threshold line for representation in Congress."
"Speaking of passing thresholds, the New Unity Party is polling just above the line in recent surveys. The controversial party advocates a return to the principle of the "One Big Union" and a strong central government run by a charismatic leader who can "follow in Leneru's footsteps." Political analysts have largely dismissed the party's chances of taking any seats in Congress, noting that the newest poll puts them within the margin of error."
"Finally, followers of the Rightful Reverence continue to come out in support of the UCP following the announcement of the Yuyan's upcoming visit to the capital. Current polls give the UCP a significant lead among practicing members of the path. UCP leaders have yet to acknowledge the trend, but our analysts suggest that if capitalized on support from the religious bloc might be just the thing to keep the ruling party in power.
That's all for now. Tune in next week for the Political Corner. I'm Talhur Skoplyk, signing off.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ELECTION DAY APPROACHES As election day approaches candidates from across the RWU jockey for position . Current polls show that the ruling Union Communist Party (UCP) down from last election and unlikely to win an absolute majority, but with good odds of achieving a plurality. The ASF has gained a small amount from hardliners but continues to do better in Takudar elections than the general Congress. The SRF has returned with a vengeance, polling in the double digits. The new NUP party is polling just about the threshold line, and may or may not actually win seats in the coming election.
Followers of the Wuxian Enlightened Path have drawn closer to the ruling UCP party due to its deference for the Yuyan. Pandering to this demographic could push the UCP into a majority, but could also end up obligating them to a large constituency bloc.
ANARCHO-SYNDICALIST FRONT (ASF) - Platform: Hawkish approach to foreign policy. Wants to "go to the wall" in Asteron and Kwazan to force those nations to adopt Syndicalism. Advocates increased military spending, focus on domestic development to support foreign policy goals.
Social Reformist Federation (SRF) - Platform: Advocates detente with foreign powers, forging of new friendships/alliances to support revolutionary goals. Emphasizes spreading Syndicalism through interaction and example rather than force or subversion. Wants to expand trade with neighbors to bring domestic prosperity, even "imperialist" neighbors.
New Unity Party (NUP) - Platform: Advocates a stronger and more coordinated central government with a single executive position. Banks on nostalgia for Leneru, "One Big Union" propaganda, and desire for a charismatic leader to help direct the RWU.
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Post by RWU on Oct 6, 2015 18:42:52 GMT -6
UNITED WILL NEWS SERVICE -- AN ORGAN OF THE UNION COMMUNIST PARTY
PARTY CONGRESS RELEASES PLATFORM FOR UPCOMING ELECTION Today at an hour past noon in Victory City, the week-long special assembly of UCP takudaris, congressfolk, and councilors came to a close. Speaking for the assembly, President-Premier Briyandawas Karad outlined the Party's points of theory and action in response to the arguments of opposing parties. The following is a summary the United Will has written for easy reference. 1) Foreign Policy: The UCP remains committed to Galactic Revolution, but in a calculated and realistic way. Calls to intervene by force in Asteron and Kwazan show a total disregard for correct revolutionary strategy. Union organizing and the securing of short-term reforms is the first step to building a united front of the peasants and workers, without which any revolution is fragile and meaningless. In this regard the UCP has been successful, helping the self-organized masses to force concessions from bourgeois governments in Asteron and Kwazan. If the Union Council had chosen instead to force a war, not only might we have faced an unfavorable balance of forces, but also we would have alienated the vast majority of the very workers and peasants we claim solidarity with. However, this does not mean the UCP is categorically opposed to war. Calls for such pacifist policy are no less idealist than their war-mongering counterparts. The Revolution will always have enemies as long as capitalist accumulation remains, and the doves' attempts to deny this threatens to convert our hard-won People's Democracy into another bourgeois-imperialist state. Though well-intentioned, plans to engineer a situation through diplomacy where we have no opponents on the galactic stage can only end with the following chain of events. First we will make peace with the imperialists, then we will trade with the imperialists, and finally the market forces of Galactic Capitalism will force our cooperatives to become agents of imperialism themselves, by participating in the extraction of surplus value from oppressed under-classes in nations like Kwazan and the Viscarri Empire. Such extreme, pacifistic "proof by example" does not change or overthrow Galactic Capitalism, but rather allows Galactic Capitalism to change us by molding us to its own image.Therefore, the UCP will neither start senseless wars nor remove the option of force from the table. As in all matters of Revolution, policy must be guided by the particular conditions on the ground, not by bone-headed dogmatism. In most cases, this means a balanced approach to our international solidarity work, emphasizing social investigation and organizing with force in the background, but not at the forefront. Only with correct, well-calculated strategy can Syndicalism be brought to all the Stars. 2) Domestic Development and Reform: The UCP is shocked to hear criticism from the SRF and ASF on domestic matters when, in fact, their platforms describe exactly what the UCP has already been doing! Orbital development has continued on both New Sovereignty and New Dawn without cease, expanding the number of Takudars in the Union and strengthening RWU industrial strength. Although no new agreements have been signed, trade volume has steadily increased, bringing a more diverse array of resources to the Work Exchanges. Until there is true reason to doubt the economic and social progress of the RWU, the UCP cannot take criticism on these topics seriously. 3) Concerning the New Unity Party: First, we must recognize and applaud the elements of the NUP whose forward thinking has brought them to the conclusion that the One Big Union must be continually advanced and realized anew, with measures to integrate the various elements of the Union more and more closely over time. We welcome these souls to help us as allies in the ongoing quest for a more perfect Union. However, the majority of the NUP has catastophically misinterpreted the finely-considered historical and political work of the late Jawalir Leneru, to whom they pledge allegiance. Leneru, as singular and irreplaceable a guide as he was, never sought to concentrate executive power in himself or any other one official. He and his party, the ULP, were the primary designers of the balanced system of Council, Congress, and Takudars that has served the Union so well. He and the ULP were also known always for their careful negotiation among factions, wisely balancing plurality of thought and unity in action. Sadly, the majority of the NUF seems intent on a program inextricably opposed to Leneru's teachings. In fact, in his historical work, Leneru pointed to the very danger presented by the dominant current of the NUP: Syndical-Fascism, the total concentration of power into an individual leader and their bureaucracy. Leneru carefully pointed out that such an arrangement, though still Syndicalist on paper, can only recreate the evils of Royalism and Capitalism, turning the State itself into a new, terrifyingly efficient Bourgeoisie. We of the UCP are confident that our comrades in the ASF and SRF will reach a similar judgment in this regard, forming a crucial point of unity among the Big Parties of the Union. Whatever our differences on the issues mentioned earlier, we must not allow the current of Syndical Fascism even a single representative in the Central Organs. As for the Takudars, though we must oppose their election all the same, the harm they can cause is at least limited by the extent of their geographical influence. UCP TAKUDARS DISCUSS PLANS FOR EXPANSION OF GREATER COMMUNE SYSTEM The indisputable success of the Greater Communes in facilitating equality and increasing the efficiency of the Work Exchange has prompted UCP takudaris from across the Union to begin discussing next steps. These talks remain in their early stages, but one proposal has been a system of Sister Communes, by which geographically disparate Communes would partner and make use of their comparative advantages to complement one another, ultimately resulting in either greater production or less strenuous workdays, depending on the industry in question and the will of the constituent cooperatives. Others have brought up the possibility...
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Post by Admin on Oct 11, 2015 12:57:33 GMT -6
Modmark This election was both divisive and easily predictable. The UCP's domestic record was spotless and their position as the majority party almost assured. It was on the foreign policy front that their critics had the most traction, and it was here that the UCP's performance would be evaluated. At stake: whether the UCP would maintain an absolute majority, allowing them the impunity to act as they wished for the next five years, or whether they would be forced to form a coalition with one of the runners-up. Yet shock after shock hit the UCP's campaign. The last-minute Union-busting in Asteron and the UCP's tepid reaction to the event gave the ASF yet more ammunition to deride the ruling party as "weak" and "ineffectual." The Yuyan also issued an impassioned plea from his seat, urging the people of the RWU to seek peace and coexistence. This, along with the UCP's hands-off approach to the Rightful Reverent bloc, allowed the SRF to swell its ranks and challenge the UCP. As the polls came in politicians began to sweat, seeing so many "undetermined" locations in what should have been comfortable wins. In the end the UCP squeaked by with a plurality. Barely. Their offense against the NUP had stripped the other party of any chance it had of winning votes and boosted the UCP. That, along with the comfortable domestic situation, had kept them as the ruling party. The SRF had come in just behind them, with the ASF trailing a bit further back. The question now was which party to form a coalition with. No doubt both parties would have demands. SUMMARY UCP wins a Plurality and has the privilege of choosing the coalition for the next government. They have four options: - Coalition with the SRF: Within the next term the ruling government must pursue Detente with either the Union of Asteron or the Kwazan Conglomerate, and must establish at least 1 new trade route. - Coalition with the ASF: Within the next term the ruling government must force "meaningful" concessions for the working class from either the Union of Asteron or the Kwazan conglomerate, and must construct 2 additional military sectors. - Coalition with both parties: Would require pursuit of both requirements, but one party could later be "ejected" without forcing elections. Would also provide an appearance of unity. - Force a Runoff: If a coalition is not made within the next year, runoff elections will happen. This could allow the UCP a second shot at winning a majority, but might also cause a great deal of anger. SRF takes second place, just behind the UCP ASF has a respectable third place The NUP does not pass the election threshold
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Post by killer spork on Oct 14, 2015 13:05:26 GMT -6
Moderation Mark The probes and drones sent by the RWU towards the anomaly would reveal a destroyer lurking in the darkness of the asteroids. Yet it was clear that the vessel had seen extreme signs of recent fighting. Its hull was cracked by beam cannons and mag rounds, it was listing heavily to its port side. Yet the interior still showed signs of life. A marine force quickly gained entry to the vessel and found the legendary Captain of the Red Scourge, Mognosh Krugg and a few dozen members of his crew. After a brief firefight, they surrendered. It was unclear exactly what had happened, Krugg was refusing to cooperate but it seemed that after a battle, the crew of the Deathdealer had turned on one another. Signs of cannibalism were evident as the Graal had begun to very quickly run out of supplies after being chased. After days of interrogation, Mognosh Krugg would reveal that he had been involved in a battle with the Retaren Empire. They had defeated his forces and drove him from his base. It seemed that the old Admiral was intent on revenge. The Mognosh wasn’t the only thing found by the RWU search team. An old encrypted data slate with a map with references to old human colony ships…alongside mysterious devices that were onboad them. The word EVE and references to the terraforming of worlds repeatedly appeared before the corrupted drive went on into gibberish. Krugg boasted that he was the only one capable of understanding the slate. What would the RWU do? Arm Comrade Krugg: Let us arm these pirates and turn them against the bourgeoisie! The country doesn’t have the time or effort to invest in finding these old human ships! We need to focus on the here and now by bleeding the capitalist’s trade routes! COST: 30 Industry, 12 Credits RWU will gain Krugg as an ally who can receive orders in exchange for RWU protection and access to its ports. RWU aid will go towards boosting Krugg’s fleet so that he can then turn them on the Retarens. Search for EVE devices:If the data slate is true, then these EVE devices (lost aboard human colony ships) hold great power to terraform worlds. Of course, it could all be a wild goose chase… The only way that we’ll find out is if Krugg accompanies us. COST: 12 credits and TWO intelligence agents for the search effort (for two turns). Information will be gained on the EVE devices
Teach Comrade Krugg the way of Revolution!:The RWU of old was formed of pirates and smugglers, why stop that now? Krugg can be reformed and used as a tool to fight the capitalist dogs. Gain free ADMIRAL character with one positive trait. Execute Krugg:
The RWU of old is not the RWU today, executing Krugg will serve as a message that piracy within the RWU will not be tolerated. President Premier Karad will gain the trait Law Bringer: +2 order wherever she is stationed.
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Post by RWU on Oct 15, 2015 18:44:14 GMT -6
Chapter 2: A Healthy Balance of Swords and Olive BranchesUNION COUNCIL POST-ELECTION MEETING TRANSCRIPT
ATTENDANCE: All members present. President-Premier Briyandawas Karad (UCP), Councilor-Marshal Kazamar Qoma Busisiwe Okunye (UCP), Councilor Fa Zhi (SRF), Councilor Jaira Devikar (SRF), Councilor-Admiral Alagh Walayad (ASF).
AGENDA: (1) Announcements, (2) Proposals, (3) Discussion, (4) Voting
KARAD: It's good to see so many cherished comrades here today. Whatever our political differences, I am confident that every one of us is truly committed to the advancement of the Revolution. And, since I already know most of you very well, I have no doubt this Council will be able to function effectively. Already we have something to celebrate: Crushing the NUP revisionist-reactionaries!
*nods and verbal affirmations*
KARAD: Of course, I'm not sure I can say the same for Congress.
*laughter*
KARAD: So, as my first announcement for this meeting, I'm letting you all know that the UCP is going to do its best to form a consensus coalition of all three major parties. It won't hold together for every vote, but our goal is to maximize cohesion among the revolutionary tendencies. To this end we're hoping to balance the goals of both the SRF and the ASF.
WALAYAD: Are you sure that's feasible? We in the ASF have been pretty clear about our priorities, and my comrades there won't settle for half-assed balancing acts even if I'm there defending the UCP line the whole time. Point is we have to put substance behind our words. If we're serious about galactic revolution, then we need to show it.
DEVIKAR: Comrade Walayad, is there really no way for you to talk your Anarchist comrades down? I know that the armed struggle can't be entirely abandoned, but jumping the gun could be disastrous. I really don't see how applying more threats, or gods forbid military intervention, to Asteron or Kwazan is going to help in those contexts.
WALAYAD: We have allies in Asteron who need us to show support. Real support. I'm not saying invade the damn place, but I also don't want us to keep walking on eggshells to avoid pissing of the ANF. How the hell are we not going to piss off the ANF? We're Syndicalists, have you forgotten?! The PUF are our allies there, the ANF are our enemies. The ANF weasels at the trade summit and pigs arresting our union comrades know that, and the PUF sure as hell knows that.
KARAD: Friends, this is exactly what I'm talking about. Comrade Walayad, you're right about Asteron, but we still need to be careful not to set off violence unless there's really no other choice. Comrade-Secretary Kniov will be announcing the end of our recognition of the ANF, so the fence-sitters in Asteron get the message that it's either Syndicalism or Bourgeois Nationalism. There's no in-between worth pursuing there. But that doesn't mean we're going to send in troops or declare the ANF an Enemy of the People. And as for Kwazan, Comrade Devikar, you're right that there's no reason to intervene. The Tusi Rebellion is over, and forcing a conflict would be pointless.
DEVIKAR: What exactly are you getting at here, Karad?
KARAD: To summarize, I'm saying we need to get tough on Asteron where our PUF allies need us -though not with invasion-, and ease the tensions with Kwazan where any more pushing from us could have counter-revolutionary results.
WALAYAD: Interesting. I like the way you're thinking.
...
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PRIVATE MESSAGE TO THE PEOPLE'S UNITED FRONT IN ASTERON (delivered in person to the Party Chair by the Foreign Secretary at the RWU Embassy)
At 13:00 today Vorcia time, I, Foreign Secretary Sebastiyan Kniov, will publicly announce the end of RWU recognition for the ANF government as legitimate representative of the Asteran people. However, as you are no doubt aware, we cannot sustain this stance indefinitely unless the Asteran Revolution returns to power soon. Our offer to arrange meetings and help for organizations of the Revolution generally is reopened, but not for organizations of the People's War. Now is still not the time for violent insurrection.
Any representatives who want to discuss how the Union can best support you this election cycle should meet me in the Embassy after the announcement. Be careful: Make sure there are no bugs on you and no agents on your tail, and don't talk about any of this outside the Embassy. Just because our plans are nonviolent doesn't mean the ANF won't find a reason to interfere.
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SUMMARY: -- UCP chooses to try and form coalition with both ASF and SRF. -- RWU announces that it no longer recognizes the ANF as the legitimate government of Asteron, BUT the Union maintains its desire for peace and does not declare the ANF an Enemy of the People.
((OOC: Spork, I'm trusting you to RP responsibly on this one...))
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Post by Admin on Dec 10, 2015 20:38:09 GMT -6
Modmark
The last five years had been good to the RWU. Strife had been avoided, prosperity want running rampant, the Pilgrims of Nas were a new Syndicalist ally, and the UCP had proven itself a masterful coalition leader, capable of welding the disparate opinions of the populace into a seemingly united legislature that represented the will of 99% of the electorate. With conditions as they were the electorate seemed likely to reward the three ruling parties for their deft leadership, especially the UCP.
Then the Reterans invaded.
With only a couple months to go until the polls opened, the government had a snap decision to make: carry on, or delay. If this was a true war, holding elections during strife would be difficult and unpredictable. A single battle or piece of news could swing the election, and if a new government was elected the logistic difficulties of switching would be immense. Delaying the elections might be an eminently more sensible option, but it was also technically illegal.
SUMMARY The RWU has two options with the Reteran invasion underway: If the RWU chooses to go forward as planned the elections will be unpredictable, and logistic issues may leave some people disenfranchised. Events from the war will have a great impact on voting choices. If the ruling party changes in the middle of the war it may cause significant leadership issues. If the RWU chooses to delay the elections they can put them off until the fight with the Reteran is settled, or at least until New Sovereignty is no longer threatened. However, this is constitutionally illegal. Anger towards the ruling parties will grow the longer the election is delayed.
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Post by RWU on Dec 13, 2015 23:36:26 GMT -6
UNION COUNCIL PUBLIC BROADCAST TO ALL RWU TAKUDARS
It is with great regret that we must announce the intention of the Union Council to suspend the upcoming general election. The newest Enemy of the Revolution, the Retaren Empire, who now advances on New Sovereignty, threatens to disrupt communications and logistics within the Union. In such a situation, if we were to hold the elections as planned, millions if not billions of citizen-members would surely be disfranchised.
We recognize that this action is not permitted under the original RWU constitution. Therefore, we are seeking the approval of the Revolutionary Workers' Congress for a special exemption until such time as enemy fleets and armies are no longer in liberated Revolutionary Workers' territory. We appeal to all citizen-members to understand that we have made this decision in order to preserve the democratic process itself, which depends on full enfranchisement.
All power to the people. Long live the Revolution.
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-- RWU delays the elections -- Union Council seeks approval from Congress for this move
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