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1723 Shirerithian general elections

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1723 Shirerithian general elections
1717 AN ←
 1723 AN
 → 1729 AN
All 150 seats to the Adelsraad
76 seats needed for a majority

All 1,000 seats to the Folksraad
501 seats needed for a majority

Turnout Adelsraad: ... voters (...% of the population)

Turnout Folksraad: ... voters (...% of the population)

Steward of Shireroth before election

Louis Thuylemans (Thuylemans Government)

 Steward of Shireroth

Incumbent

The MSM and Ultraroyalists worked closely together and combined forces to campaign for a second term for Steward Thuylemans. A coalition agreement was formed with the Vanguard for National Rewakening and Passibelend.
The Vanguard for National Reawakening, a Verionist and post-Verionist political movement, stood on a nationalistic platform

General elections will be held throughout Shireroth on 1.VII.1723 for the Adelsraad and Folksraad, and, indirectly, also for the Raspur Pact Parliamentary Assembly. The last elections were held in 1717. The elections coincided with the Floria–Shireroth diplomatic conflict, debates about an increase of military funding, and growing criticism from the governing parties of the Raspur Pact, and in particular the Benacian Union. In several cities, political campaigns were accompanied by demonstrations, or sometimes even riots, between non-Humanists and Humanist supporters. Nevertheless, the Imperial Court seemed confident that the elections would be orderly overall.


Contesting Parties

Alrig

Note: the Vanguard and MSM have made an agreement in the constituencies that only have one seat in the Folksraad. The Vanguard will not stand in Alrig and Camoleo, and urges its supporters to vote MSM. Conversely, the MSM will not stand in Skyla en Sagittarius, urging its supporters to vote for the Vanguard for National Reawakening


Audentior

Batavia

Note: MSM and TL not to participate in Batavia, throwing their support behind UR

Brookshire

Camoleo

Note: the Vanguard and MSM have made an agreement in the constituencies that only have one seat in the Folksraad. The Vanguard will not stand in Alrig and Camoleo, and urges its supporters to vote MSM. Conversely, the MSM will not stand in Skyla en Sagittarius, urging its supporters to vote for the Vanguard for National Reawakening

Dalmacija

Draconia

Guttuli

Highpass

The Mango-Strengthening Movement and the Throne Loyalists agree not to stand, and throw support behind the Passibelend.

Jingdao

Jinkeai

Kezan

Kildare

Modan

Sagittarius

Note: the Vanguard and MSM have made an agreement in the constituencies that only have one seat in the Folksraad. The Vanguard will not stand in Alrig and Camoleo, and urges its supporters to vote MSM. Conversely, the MSM will not stand in Skyla en Sagittarius, urging its supporters to vote for the Vanguard for National Reawakening


Sathrati

Shirekeep

Skyla

Note: the Vanguard and MSM have made an agreement in the constituencies that only have one seat in the Folksraad. The Vanguard will not stand in Alrig and Camoleo, and urges its supporters to vote MSM. Conversely, the MSM will not stand in Skyla en Sagittarius, urging its supporters to vote for the Vanguard for National Reawakening


Talenore

Apportionment

Adelsraad Folksraad
Alrig 1 1
Audentior 19 70
Batavia 9 91
Blackrock 26 104
Brookshire 10 30
Camoleo 1 1
Dalmacija 12 62
Draconia 1 15
Gong Li 3 20
Guttuli 6 68
Highpass 1 3
Jingdao 5 27
Jinkeai 7 40
Kezan 3 12
Kildare 7 16
Modan 2 129
Qaoshan 10 20
Sagittarius 1 1
Sathrati 11 186
Shirekeep 11 80
Skyla 1 1
Talenore 1 13
Xianbei 2 10
TOTAL 150 1000

Polling

Folksraad

1716.XIV 1716.XV 1717.I 1717.II 1717.III 1717.IV 1717.V 1717.VI 1717.VII 1718 1719 1720 1721 1722 1723.III 1723.IV.10 1723.IV.20 1723.V.10 1723.VII.14
Mango-Strengthening Movement 19 23 24 25 27 30 28 27 26 27 27 28 28 23 20 19 22 24 27
Coalition for Imperial Humanism 16 18 17 18 19 21 24 26 28 27 26 27 26 22 23 24 22 23 23
Vanguard for National Rewakening Part of the MSM 11 11 12 11 10
Throne Loyalists 19 18 18 18 16 18 16 15 12 11 10 9 10 16 9 8 9 10 8
National Movement for Human Ecology 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 – 5 5 6 5 4
Ultra-Royalists 3 3 2 2 2 1 2 2 3 3 3 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 6
Imperial Democratic Party 10 8 10 9 7 8 7 6 4 5 5 5 5 7 5 5 4 3 3
Reform Society 6 5 7 8 7 5 5 4 3 2 2 1 2 5 4 4 3 – 3
Modanese Inclusive Liberation Front 5 5 4 4 4 3 3 2 2 2 1 1 1 – – – – – –
MILF for Modan 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 – – – – – –
Draconic People's Party 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 2 2 1 1 3 – – – – –
Laqi People's Party 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 2 2 2 2 4 – – – – –
Proletarian Party 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 4 4 5 – – – – –
Socialist Union of Yardistan 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 – – – – – –
Yardistani Annexation Corps 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 – – – – – – –
Others 6 6 5 7 4 5 7 10 13 14 13 13 10 15 15 17 19 16

Note: Whenever marked "–", party is counted in "others".

Folksraad propaganda and campaigning

Coalition for Imperial Humanism

Imperial Humanist Party of Greater Kildare

  • Campaign commenced in Port Nevermore with ceremonies commemorating the 70th anniversary of the War of Lost Brothers. An occasion to examine and reflect upon the conflict which saw Kildarians forced to fight against their Benacian kindred in the furtherance of Jingdao's aggressive policy against Floria. "The time has come to honestly assess the legacy of the Daocheng era, in the spirit of truth and reconciliation. We must avoid repeating the mistakes of the past. We are all subjects of the Golden Mango Throne, and Floria is our ally. Let us put the calamities of the past behind us." – Marius Gallo
    • In spite of these words of moderation (Floria was still perceived with distrust in the Eastern Imperium), Jing extremists were stirred up to attack Humanist political offices throughout Greater Kildare, obliging the Talons of the Archon to return to the streets in order to defend the IHPGK's portfolio of properties as well as the lives of cadre members in the regional and national sector parties.
  • Marius Gallo attended a rally of national and regional sector cadres in Nigrad, where the crowd comprised of members of the Humanist Vanguard and the Association of Humanist Institutes of Greater Kildare. After an evening of light popular music and Kildari nationalist folksongs, Archon Gallo then addressed to the crowds a series of remarks which included the following: "Of course what we remember is truly disgraceful about the present government is its willing embrace, out of expediency, of the Vanguard for National Rewakening. That false Vanguard makes no bones about its intention to end dynastic rule. Has the peace and stability brought to us by the long rule of the blessed Salome taught them nothing? Instead they want to go back to the institutionalised chaos of the nobles in the Landsraad figuratively and literally knifing each other every three months in order to sit precariously upon the Golden Mango Throne! Do we wish for an oustfest massacre to occur in every duodecennial cycle? And what does Thuylemans have to say to this? Not a peep? He is so fixated upon the Benacians and the Florians that he willingly ignores the viper he has clasped to the very bosom of this realm! Once again, I remind you comrades of the national community - the Humanist Movement stands for the rule of natural order in all organic nations, and the dynastic succession in Shireroth is the manifestation of the continuity and stability upon which this Imperial Republic has endured all of its travails. We should not rush to set aside the hereditary principle which raised Shireroth up upon its embrace, just as the rejection of the same by the Jing ultimately saw their empire shamefully cast down. Whilst it was fortunate, in that it was what allowed Kildare to once more arise to life and freedom, we must not permit the Thuylemans government to lead us into a new Decade of Inharmonious Regrets."
    • Steward Thuylemans' office responded not long after with the message that his party (the Ultraroyalisten) is well known for its pro-Kalirion views and would not do away with the dynasty which served the Imperial Republic well. The MSM too reconfirmed its commitment to the monarchy and the imperial family.
  • Following a day of Humanist Vanguard parades and stadium rallies in the Thanedom of Dalmajica, Jing nobles, their families, and retainers, endured episodes of being pelted with mud, stones, and rotting vegetables by Kildari youths. The rallies had expounded upon the depths of the suffering inflicted the Kildari race during the senseless War of Lost Brothers, where they were forced to fight against their Shirerithian kin, and the atrocity that was the Obedience Destruction. That the Jing, who had been the cause of the death of millions of Kildari, pulled the strings of the present administration was highlighted to the populace as a concern far greater than any supposed Benacian or Florian threat.
    • Vox Pop from Port Nevermore: "The Kildari struggle to be free of the Jing is a matter of historical record. What difference would a token change in the far lords make for us when the near lords still draw breath."

Imperial Humanist Party of Shireroth

  • 1723 Humanist Preaching Tour
    • Their hearts filled with the burning desire to spread the good news of the Human Supremacy in Benacia and across the world entire, twelve apostles of Humanism departed from Cabbagefall on 9.V.1723 to commence a preaching tour in the Imperial County and the Duchy of Brookshire. Blessed by an officiant of the Cult of Mors before their departure, the Order of Paladins has made prudent arrangements for their safety during the tour and all regional sector cadres and Humanist Vanguard have been charged to render every assistance and support that the twelve evangelists of Humanism shall require for the duration of their mission.
    • The apostles' mission held a significant purpose beyond just spreading the teachings of Humanism. Their goal was to play a crucial role in educating and preparing the population of Shireroth for the upcoming general elections. With the Coalition for Imperial Humanism aiming to make a strong impact, the apostles understood the importance of ensuring that the people were well-informed and ready to embrace the truth of Humanism.
    • The elections, scheduled to take place later in the year, held immense significance for the Coalition. Building upon their success in the 1717 elections, where they had emerged as the main opposition movement within the Folksraad, the Coalition sought to further solidify their position and influence in the political landscape of Shireroth. As the apostles embarked on their preaching tour, their mission took on a dual role. Not only were they spreading the message of Humanism, but they were also working towards creating a strong foundation of support for the Coalition's electoral campaign. By educating the population about the principles and values of Humanism, they aimed to garner widespread support and belief in their cause. With their fervent dedication and unwavering commitment, the apostles were determined to leave a lasting impact on the hearts and minds of the people of Shireroth. Their mission was not just about preaching, but about empowering individuals to make informed choices and embrace the truth that the Coalition for Imperial Humanism represented. As they travelled through the Imperial County and the Duchy of Brookshire, the apostles knew that they were contributing to a larger movement, one that aimed to shape the future of Shireroth. With the upcoming elections on the horizon, their mission took on a sense of urgency and importance, as they worked tirelessly to prepare the population for the choices they would make at the ballot box.
    • The twelve apostles had undergone rigorous training at the esteemed Shirekeep Benacian Institute, honing their knowledge and skills in preparation for the important mission that lay ahead. Each apostle was carefully selected for their dedication to the teachings of Humanism and their unwavering commitment to spreading its message far and wide.
    • The names of the twelve apostles were as follows:
        1. Amirah Nasreen
        2. Farid Ahmadi
        3. Sahar Karimi
        4. Aryan Mirza
        5. Leyla Hakimi
        6. Kian Mehran
        7. Zara Abbas
          1. Ramin Faraji
        1. Soraya Pahlavi
        2. Naveed Rahmani
        3. Parisa Shadmani
        4. Arman Zand
    • Each apostle brought their unique qualities, skills, and experiences to the mission, contributing to a diverse and dynamic team that was well-prepared to face the challenges ahead. With their training and determination, they were ready to embark on their journey to educate and inspire the people of Shireroth with the principles of Humanism.
      • A number of banquets and entertainments were laid on in the counties of Brookshire, the expense paid for by voluntary contributions and generous donatives from the Honourable Company, during which the electors of the visited areas were plied with meat, beer, and cheeses, with the Humanist youth cadres attending upon them as servants for their needs, whilst, between musical interludes, the twelve apostles would hold forth from the podium decrying the iniquities of the current government, its failures of foreign policy, the systematic neglect of the Imperial Forces, its unreasoning hostility towards the Imperial Republic's true allies in the Benacian Union, and seeming willingness to burn bridges with historical partners such as Natopia and Constancia through the threatened abandonment of the Raspur Pact.
  • Alaric Stern, Captain-General of the Order of the Paladins: "To the Thuylemans administration, the Raspur Pact, as the largest free trade bloc in the world, provides "precious few benefits". It is clear that, blinded by myopic paranoia about the Benacian Union, and covetous of recovering Elwynn and Goldshire - the aspiration of Thylemans' Verionist accomplices, the present administration aims for a decisive rupture with the most significant trading partners of the Imperial Republic. Blithely they assume that they can alienate Natopia and Nouvelle Alexandrie and become "another Sanama" in perfect safety and without consequences. Indeed, it is apparent that, with the Jing and Verionists pulling the Batavian's strings, a pact with Sanama would be in the offing the moment they treacherously abandoned their former alignment. Such perfect neutrality! Do they seriously expect that peace in Benacia could long endure under such circumstances?"
    • Count Palatine of Mirioth and Amity: "It is clear from their internal debates, that the MSM is intent upon the disarmament of the states and the noble lords. For presentational reasons they have shied away from it on this occasion, but we can be sure that - on the first trumped up pretext - the impulse and the policy will return. To be sure, they will claim that it is for our safety, but with the monopoly of force vested in the Imperial centre will come tyranny, and with tyranny shall the seeds of a second and more terrible fracture be sown. To ward against that day, noble lords, I appeal to you to maintain your retinues in a state of readiness, and to lend your votes to the Humanist movement on this occasion."
  • Amirah Nasreen, during a stadium rally held in Musica, warned of the prohibitive tariffs on grain exports to Nouvelle Alexandrie and Natopia that would face the agricultural concerns of Brookshire and the Guttuli if Shireroth were to attempt to decouple itself from the world's single largest free trade area. To say nothing of the threat posed by commerce raiding if Shirerithian vessels could no longer sail with the trade fleets, she added with an enigmatic smirk.
  • A blasphemous poster circulated by the MSM spread outrage amongst the Nazarene faithful. Something that Humanist cadres are only too keen to talk up. The worshippers of Sisera are the inevitable enemies of all rightly guided religions.

Regional Sector Party Sathrati

  • Refreshed and rejuvenated after an extended tour of Eura, the Count of Erudition arrived in the isles and began a programme of touring, meeting with regional sector cadres, local landowners and notables, and attending upon the plantation owners of Amity and Mirioth with especial intention. On the recommendations of their employers, select foremen at each visited site were singled out for praise and awarded donatives for their diligence in supervising those under contractural obligation in the fields. The Count of Erudition affirmed at each stop on his tour that the hard working denizen was the bedrock of a sovereign Sathrati within the Imperial Republic. The subject of manumission for the unfree was raised, and the Humanist view that liberty, as freedom under the law, should be attainable by any subject capable of demonstrating merit when subject to evaluation by authority.
  • Nordagaat (Mirioth): A public parade and festival was held, during which effigies of the safir, daemons, and Jing were subjected to ritualistic scorn before being publicly burnt. Donatives were distributed amongst the crowd.
    • The event was broadcast on several television channels and met with heavy criticism. Many were shocked and there was great anger in the streets, both in Greater Kildare and in other parts of the realm. The largest television channels, Batavian Broadcasting Company and Union Jing Broadcast, which until then had shown some form of neutrality and had broadcast political campaigns from all parties, announced a boycott of all Humanist-related politicians. Documentaries on the atrocities and war crimes of the Raspur Pact during the War of Lost Brothers and other campaigns were now widely broadcast on television. MSM representatives proclaimed in this action that their warnings to the Humanists were not unfounded. "A vote for Humanism is a vote for lynchings and mass murder. They are willing to do anything to put power in the hands of their foreign overlords and keep the Shirerithian people enslaved."
    • Vox Pop from a resident of Amity, widely circulated on social media: "Say what you will about the Pact, at least they never initiated a horror through clerical error. Reckon we might as well stick with the Pact and support the Humanists - at least they only reserve their ire for traitors."

Mango-Strengthening Movement and Ultraroyalisten

In the last week before the elections, a 'campaign by blimps' was held above major cities of the Imperial Republic.
  • Several political parties joined forces in the smaller electoral districts in a desire to stop the Humanists from profiting from the division between the parties. These parties are: the Vanguard for National Rewakening, the Mango-Strengthening Movement, the Ultraroyalisten and Passibelend.
  • Mango-Strengthening Movement and Ultraroyalisten
    • Under Louis Thuylemans, the MSM and UR kickstarted a campaign called "Thuylemans NOW" to keep their Steward in charge of the Imperial Republic. During the campaign, the focus was on two things: on the one hand, the threat of the Humanists was raised to appease the hawkish faction, but on the other - and this was mainly propagated by the strategists on Thuylemans' side - a focus was placed on the growing prosperity of the common citizen under the current administration. A vote for continued industrialization, improvement in living standards and the return of Shireroth to the international scene as a stable and neutral partner (possibly even apart from the Raspur Pact, should certain problems not be resolved), would mean a vote for the governing parties.
    • During the MSM party congress in 1723 AN, the representatives agreed that cooperating with the Humanist party would be impossible as long as they were perceived to handle in the interests of their masters in Chryse. The meddling of the Benacian Union was seen as a worrying and destabilizing factor.
    • The parties made extensive use of both radio and television to broadcast their message to the masses.
    • During the last week, the MSM launched a campaign not only by conquering the radio and television waves, but also through airships and blimps. Above every major Shirerithian city a blimp - fabricated by Gangtie Industries - was seen with the message urging the people to vote MSM.
  • The Thuylemans Now campaign, accompanied with a theme song and widespread broadcasting of adverts across television and radio, was seen as the first use of these mediums on large scale.
    The Thuylemans Now campaign, accompanied with a theme song and widespread broadcasting of adverts across television and radio, was seen as the first use of these mediums on large scale.
  • Especially in Greater Kildare, the feelings about Floria are especially negative. The idea of cooperating with them or seeing them as an ally was very unpopular. Needless to say that the MSM gladly picked up the quote from Marius Gallo.
    Especially in Greater Kildare, the feelings about Floria are especially negative. The idea of cooperating with them or seeing them as an ally was very unpopular. Needless to say that the MSM gladly picked up the quote from Marius Gallo.
  • Sanada Taro, a 30 year old Jing and moderate representative from the Daocheng voting district, ran for the second time in federal elections. His positive demeanor made him into the billboard of the less hawkish fraction of the party.
    Sanada Taro, a 30 year old Jing and moderate representative from the Daocheng voting district, ran for the second time in federal elections. His positive demeanor made him into the billboard of the less hawkish fraction of the party.
  • An attack add against the parties which aligned with the Raspurids was spread after the news spread that the Humanists were actively promoting genocide of the Jing race.
    An attack add against the parties which aligned with the Raspurids was spread after the news spread that the Humanists were actively promoting genocide of the Jing race.

National Movement of Human Ecologists

Following their respective regional conferences, where party officer elections were held, each branch of the National Movement of Human Ecologists affirmed the vision of Neo-Thalvaism. Thereafter, campaigning began within their jurisdiction.

The order of business at each campaign rally outside of Brookshire:

  • A free avant-garde rock concert intended to evoke the liberatory principles of Human Ecology, the ways in which the Machine-Centered Society is destructive to the Human Spirit, and the need for a Machine-Destroying Machine to save Humanity
  • Polemic Speeches from branch party officers, appealing to them for their vote in the upcoming general elections so that they can compel the state to become a machine-destroying machine, but also to become an active participant in planting the garden that will bloom into the Human-Centered Society of tomorrow.
  • The Local Candidates, who give a short message of peace and an invitation for attendees to visit their local ecological community to learn how to become a better Gardener of the Human Spirit.
  • Conclusion with the party's campaign song, "Life is Life".

Inside Brookshire, Łudo Thalva attends each campaign rally, and speaks a few minutes after each song about a specific problem affecting regular, common people today, and how painful it is to know that those problems are ignored by the people at the top. Branch party officers merely participate in introducing Thalva at the beginning of the rally, and at the very end, reminding people to vote for the National Movement of Human Ecologists.

Campaign Rallies in Brookshire

  • Iago's Rest (NMHE Headquarters, Publishing Center, and model Ecological Community)
  • Outer Montran
  • Woodshire Village (2x)
  • Gaudin
  • Meir
  • Hope
  • Etzeterra
  • Western Citadel
  • Maltenstein (3x)
  • Moss
  • Schwinn
  • Dolorous (2x)
  • Fortis (4x)
  • Samback
  • Dalbruï
  • Isenbury (2x)
  • Szirlah

Campaign Rallies in Guttuli

  • Ankh
  • Lachlan (2x)
  • Irenaea (2x)
  • Sentris
  • Evensong (3x)
  • Eth Lune
  • Lumenetra
  • Solaris
  • Mesior
  • Gaton
  • Kelb
  • Lichport
  • Lowbrook
  • Overmark

Campaign Rallies in Modan

  • Drakorda
  • Jugensk
  • Nor
  • Jakovita
  • Mortis
  • Riverden
  • Malokati
  • Pangwe
  • Kurpla
  • Signy
  • Modan Hamlet
  • Bajkir
  • Karamola

Campaign Rallies in Dalmacija

  • Yuanbeicheng
  • Luanfeng
  • Huaqiao
  • Zhailifeng
  • Wutun
  • Shangmei
  • Xingtian
  • Jingsawa
  • Vosjek
  • Tongtai
  • Zhangdun
  • Jiangkou
  • Xiahuo
  • Masha
  • Yunpei
  • Agnigrad
  • Taichang
  • Mangdang
  • Taqian
  • Yanghou
  • Laizhou

thereafter, they ran out of time to rally before the elections, and instead continued a modified form of rally following the general elections, intending to inspire the development of local ecological communities in Sichuan District

Joint Campaign Rally at Hunjibetz

During the last week before elections opened, branch party officers and Łudo Thalva gathered in the ruins of the Hunjibetz Estate. As supporters and inquirers came in by chartered train and bus, they were put to work to create a temporary Ecological Community there. This effort culminated with one last, highly unorthodox rally, nominally headed by Łudo Thalva but coordinated and kept on track by Ambrose Verreitzsch of the Guttuli Branch. The daylong rally featured ethereal ambient music and Łudo walking through the impromptu community, offering random people the microphone with the instruction to "share your pain, and gain strength from the sharing". At sunset, during supper, Łudo provided a benediction, telling people there that, in the morning, they will be returning home to their local towns and cities throughout southeastern Benacia, and that no matter how the election goes, they will have made an impact in the lives of others, and that this is has been the guiding principle upon which the Human Ecological Movement has always been based, but that some have forgotten over the years:

"the human-centered society is not human-centered because we have Conquered The Machine, it is human-centered because it is about one vulnerable heart connecting with another vulnerable heart, and the two creating something stronger in their bond than the mere sum of the individual parts. We are not components, raw material to be consumed to feed the will of the few or the one. That is the machine-centered society that many of us will be returning to in the morning. But by keeping true to the Human Ecological Movement, our hope is to surpass The Machine. This electoral politics is merely one method, one tool among many to help free those of us, which is to say all of us, who are trapped in the belly of this horrible Machine."

On the morning of the general election, it was announced that Łudo Thalva had died peacefully overnight. Summarizing his life's work, the party newspaper, Lohmin said, "He entered the world to teach us. He leaves the world knowing we've learned how to teach others." Following a brief meeting among the branch party officers, it was agreed to create a National Coordinating Committee to distribute the role of leadership among the party branches.

Throne Loyalists campaign

The Throne Loyalists' campaign began late, as the party was still in shock and grief over the death of its leader, Chrysostom Wythe. But once started, it had a conservative message of support of the status quo:

  • Support of the Carta Ayreonica (no constitutional review)
  • Loyalty to the Kaiseress and the Ayreon-Kalirion dynasty (a thinly veiled anti-Verionist and anti-republican message)
  • Support of the Raspur Pact (in opposition to the Verionists and MSM)

These were the party's red lines. It would enter no coalition with any party unless the above three points were inshrined in the coalition agreement.

Moreover, the party continued on nostalgia for Chrysostom Wythe and his work of keeping the country united and ever-growing. In continuing on this message, the Association wished for some reforms:

  • Tax reform (make tax fairer)
  • Better conditions for the lowest classes
  • Extension of peerage to more nobles
  • Extension of nobility to more commoners
  • Expanded military with expanded military service, as well as a civil service in parallel

In foreign affairs, the party pushed for a bigger voice of Shireroth on the international arena, within the Raspur Pact, and outside of it. The party made it clear that no land would leave Shireroth, but that Shireroth should always be welcome to assimilate other lands (former Shirerithian and other lands) as has always been the Shirerithian way.

Targetting people living in border areas, the Association pushed for continued open borders with RP countries, but also with working for better border crossings and trade opportunities with non-RP countries, such as Sanama, Çakaristan, Tellia, and Mercury.

Following the burning of Jing effigies by the Humanist campaigners, the Throne Loyalists accused the Humanists of flirting with genocide, and that no government in Shireroth could seat a humanist unless the humanists collectively make away with all their genocidal tendencies and anti-human rhetoric, and make amends, and apologise to those hurt by the humanist campaigns.

  • A Throne Loyalist member in Shirekeep subsequently reported being headbutted outside a bar by a gentlemen sporting a Humanist "red hand" lapel badge.

Imperial Democratic Party of Shireroth campaign

See also: Imperial Democratic Party (Shireroth)

The "Forward with Unity - Empowering Shireroth" campaign began on XX.XX.1723 AN, at the 1723 IDP National Convention, which was broadcast across the radio and television in Shireroth. The 1723 IDP National Convention focused on using its airtime to tailor the message of the IDP to the national audience and promote its leadership, Leader Naïs Szodarvs and Deputy Leader Tian Huiqing. The Convention served as the official launch of the campaign and of the new party platform, titled "One Shireroth for All, All for One Shireroth". Led by Party Leader Naïs Szodarvs and Deputy Leader Tian Huiqing, the IDP launched its campaign in seven states initially, before expanding into all of Shireroth. The campaign initially started operations in the states of Modan, Sahrati, Blackrock, Audentior, Batavia, Brookshire, and in the city of Shirekeep, building campaign infrastructure that engaged the grassroots, local political movements, as well as businesses and social organizations. From the start of the campaign on in XX.XX.1723 AN through XX.XX.1723 AN, the IDP campaign focused its campaign development and outreach on previously listed states until it opened new campaigns in all of the remaining Shirerithian states.

The IDP campaign suffered of several setbacks, such as low financing, dropping polling numbers, and a nationally broadcast national convention that did not yield any benefit electorally leading up to the election date. The IDP, bereft of financing and initial support, enacted a guerilla strategy that was barebones and focused on tailoring the IDP's policy platform to resonate with key states, communities, and groups in Shireroth. The campaign sought to create a harmonious balance between celebrating cultural diversity and promoting a unified national identity for Shireroth, while also addressing unique regional concerns that come with every state of Shireroth. The strategy that was followed was that local candidates would champion the IDP's platform, connecting with voters on a personal level, ensuring that the party's vision for the nation's development is communicated with clarity and conviction. Under the experienced leadership of Naïs Szodarvs and the dedicated support of Deputy Leader Tian Huiqing, the campaign aims to create an inclusive and inspiring movement that embodies the motto "One Shireroth for All, All for One Shireroth."

Early Organizational Difficulties

The campaign began with an air of optimism, but the organization soon encountered significant challenges. Low financing and dropping polling numbers were early indicators of the uphill battle the IDP would face. Despite these setbacks, the IDP chose to embrace a guerilla marketing and political strategy to resonate with key states, communities, and groups within Shireroth, tailoring its platform to address unique regional concerns as best as possible. The campaign opted for a wide-range of talented political surrogates, many of the political candidates themselves, to communicate and spread the party's platform and vision for Shireroth. The need to balance celebration of cultural diversity with the promotion of a unified national identity further complicated the campaign strategy, causing some embarrassing gaffes and errors with some key surrogates, including the Party Leader Naïs Szodarvs. Local candidates were often deployed to connect with voters personally in local cities, town, and villages, championing the party's vision and embodying the motto "One Shireroth for All, All for One Shireroth." A critical point in the campaign was the 1723 IDP National Convention, broadcast across Shireroth's radio and television. While the convention aimed to promote the party's leadership, platforms, and vision for the future, it ended up being a significant failure. A combination of poor planning, technical issues, and lackluster speeches by the party's leadership led to a widespread perception of disorganization and ineffectiveness. The event failed to ignite enthusiasm among the party base or the general populace and became a significant stumbling block in the IDP's campaign early on.

Rise of Szodarvs and Huiqing on Campaign Trail, Aggressive Stances

In the final weeks leading up to the elections, the IDP redoubled its efforts to connect with the Shirerithian populace. The campaign shifted from a focus on policy to a more personal appeal, highlighting the leadership qualities of Szodarvs and Huiqing, who embarked on a nationwide tour to engage with citizens. The party's leadership also went on the offensive, launching targeted political attacks against two main rivals: the Mango-Strengthening Movement (MSM) and the Vanguard for National Rewakening (VNR). The strategy and content of these efforts were both notable and illustrative of the political climate in Shireroth during this critical period. Party Leader Naïs Szodarvs and Deputy Leader Tian Huiqing embarked on a nationwide tour that brought them face-to-face with voters in all states. They held engaging town hall meetings, where they personally interacted with the electorate, answering questions, addressing concerns, and explaining their vision for Shireroth's future. The IDP's leadership's powerful speeches were filled with eloquent rhetoric, passion, and a call to unite the nation under a progressive banner.

The IDP took a particularly aggressive stance against the Vanguard for National Rewakening. A series of speeches and advertisements served to remind voters of the VNR's association with Verionism, an ideology that had historically resulted in significant corruption, death, war, and destruction. The IDP explicitly linked the VNR to the Great Disaster, the catastrophic event that resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands in the old Verionist Republic in Benacia. The party used vivid imagery and testimonials from survivors to paint a damning picture of Verionism, tying the VNR directly to the suffering caused by the event. Furthermore, the IDP launched detailed exposés on the corruption, militarism, and ruthless tactics associated with Verionism and the VNR. Using documents, testimonials, and compelling narratives, they accused the VNR of promoting policies that had directly led to suffering, war, and destabilization. The IDP also took aim at the Mango-Strengthening Movement (MSM), the government party, particularly for its past affiliations with Verionist elements and the newly formed Vanguard for National Rewakening. The IDP accused the MSM of hypocrisy, pointing to its previous partnership with the Verionists and questioning its true commitment to the security and prosperity of Shireroth. This line of attack sought to undermine the MSM's credibility, painting them as opportunistic and willing to align with destructive ideologies for political gain. The IDP also criticized the MSM's domestic and foreign policies, particularly highlighting areas where they perceived the MSM had failed the Shirerithian people. The IDP campaign also attacked the Mango-Strengthening Movement and the Vanguard for National Rewakening for "shrinking Shireroth and diluting its power" by withdrawing it from the Raspur Pact, and indicative of a broader failure in judgment by both parties.

Campaign Events

IDP Campaign Manager Saul Vertersburg devised a groundbreaking strategy for the Imperial Democratic Party, known internally as the "10,000-Campaign-Events-Strategy." Vertersburg's plan was to host at least 10,000 campaign events over nine months leading up to the election day in 1723 AN. Recognizing the value of grassroots outreach, the strategy focused on personal interactions between the party's leadership, surrogates, and the electorate. The plan's ambitious scope required careful coordination and a large team of surrogates. Vertersburg recognized that for the campaign to be successful, each surrogate needed to engage with voters in specific states where they had expertise or personal resonance. This led to a well-distributed schedule, ensuring coverage across all states without overburdening individual surrogates.

Vertersburg's approach also included innovative campaign events, tailored to local concerns, and making use of various outreach methods, from town halls to virtual meetings. The strategy successfully energized the IDP's base and resonated with undecided voters, providing a comprehensive and deeply connected campaign for the first time in the party's modern history. The top party surrogates bore the brunt of the campaign visits, with the party depending heavily on state and regional officials and supporters to support and aid to similarly ensure their own electoral progress locally.

Name Title Shirerithian States Visited (Number of Visits)
Naïs Szodarvs Party Leader All States at least (2), Additional Visits: Sathrati (184), Blackrock (102), Shirekeep (78)
Tian Huiqing Deputy Party Leader All States at least (2), Additional Visits: Dazijin (107), Sathrati (184), Audentior (68)
Reina Yorke Business Liaison All States at least (2), Additional Visits: Brookshire (28), Audentior (68), Blackrock (102)
Mikhail Aalto Education Outreach Coordinator Brookshire (30), Audentior (70), Blackrock (104)
Oliver Tannenberg Labor Relations Coordinator Near Guttuli (68), Modan (129), Blackrock (104)
Sofia Harland Environmental Campaigner Kezan (12), Sathrati (186), Audentior (70)
Ying Lu Healthcare Advocate Gong (20), Qaoshan (20), Sathrati (186)
Ragnar Einarsson State and Local Government Liaison Far Guttuli (68), Sathrati (186), Dalmacija (62)
Tara O'Reilly Legal Advisor Far Guttuli (68), Dalmacija (62), Blackrock (104)
Kazuo Watanabe Technology Outreach Coordinator Dazijin (109), Audentior (70), Brookshire (30)
Lena Schwartz Women's Rights Campaigner Brookshire (30), Audentior (70), Sathrati (186)
Boris Ivanov Veteran Affairs Liaison Modan (129), Blackrock (104), Audentior (70)
Sanjay Patel Community Organizer Talenore (13), Sathrati (186), Batavia (91)
Nadia Al-Saadi Human Rights Advocate Qaoshan (20), Sathrati (186), Brookshire (30)
Lucia Gonzalez Youth Engagement Coordinator Shirekeep (80), Sathrati (186), Dazijin (110)
Omar Hassan Immigration Affairs Liaison Talenore (13), Batavia (91), Sathrati (186)
Helena Fischer Science and Innovation Advocate Wendor (70), Audentior (70), Blackrock (104)
Martin Liu Senior Citizens' Advocate Gong (20), Modan (129), Near Guttuli (68)
James Kim Small Business Supporter Near Guttuli (68), Blackrock (104), Sathrati (186)
Key campaign moments
Event Surrogate Location Quote
IDP Campaign Kick-off Naïs Szodarvs Shirekeep "A new dawn is coming, and with it, hope, prosperity, and unity for all Shirerithians. Today we want a Shireroth that is united, forward-looking, and honoring the legacy of our beloved Kaiseress. Let's move forward with a new IDP government at the helm."
Education Town Hall Mikhail Aalto Brookshire "Education is the key to our future; we unlock it together - that's why we support free public education to ensure Shireroth's economy can grow and develop."
Environmental Rally Sofia Harland Sathrati "Protecting our planet is not an option; it's our sacred duty - vote IDP and let's get more sustainable energy and let's work with our neighbors to clean up the Elwynn river."
Healthcare Forum Ying Lu Gong "If we want to be strong, we have to invest in properly caring for the health of those that work and sustain this country and its economy.""
Workers' Summit Oliver Tannenberg Near Guttuli "Fair wages, safe workplaces – that's not just a policy that the IDP will enact - it's our promise."
Women's Rights Convention Lena Schwartz Audentior "Empowering women empowers us all. An IDP government will focus on unlocking the potential of Shirerithian women to power the growth of the national economy."
Technology and Innovation Conference Kazuo Watanabe Dazijin "With the IDP, you'll each elect a Government that's going to work to set the conditions to build a new century of prosperity and innovation, we want a great new century of Shirerithian prosperity and unity."
Community Engagement Event Sanjay Patel Talenore "Each community, each neighborhood, that is why we fight - we want communities to thrive, to be safe, to build something that is worth passing to a new generation - a new Shireroth of prosperity."
Veterans' Appreciation Gala Boris Ivanov Modan "Those who have fought in our battles know the great sacrifices that are needed to save and protect the nation. An IDP government not only will care for the retired veterans, but make the Imperial Forces better and stronger."
Science and Innovation Summit Helena Fischer Wendor "Let's incentivize research and developing and manufacturing right here at home, we have the talent and the manufacturing capacity - we have untapped potential, and to realize that potential, you must vote IDP."

IDP advertisements

Vanguard for National Rewakening Campaign

The Vanguard chose some effective and unusual campaigning strategies
The Vanguard campaign was mainly directed against the Humanists and the IDP, the latter of which was consistently referred to as the Imperial Vanic Party due to the past links of founder Aldric with the Vanic usurpers.

The campaign for the Vanguard for National Rewakening consisted of a mix of political advertising, campaign rally's, visiting voters, and especially utilising the vast network of post-Verionist political actors and movements throughout the country. Significant effort was spent in the Verionist strongholds of Brookshire, Shirekeep, Skyla and in the promising lands of Modan and Guttuli, in which Verionist powers had a historically strong presence. Vanguard officials, most notably Tobias Wythe and party leader Ludwig Lewis toured the country on the Grand Tour to Counter the Vanic and Raspurid threat. Political attacks were focussed on the main rival, the National Humanist Coalition who were consistently battered and slammed for threatening the peace of the Shirithian lands by entering Brookshire and Shirekeep with an armed force and 12 so-called evangelists, who were in fact nothing more than rabble-rousing charlatans. The recently reformed Imperial Democratic Party was also mercilessly attacked for the ties of Hartmund Aldric with the Vanic regime, and were consistently referred to as the Imperial Vanic Party in Vanguard propaganda and speeches. On hearing that the IDP had chosen the Verionists as their main opponent for the campaign, strategist Edelhard Kalorion remarked everything that comes out of the IDP that shows that we are 100% opposed to them is eventually propaganda for us, no matter how hard they try'. In addition, the Vanguard funded a massive reprinting of the famed Shirekeep Vindicator exposé on Aldric's lewd relationship with the former Vanic dictator of Shireroth.

Grand Tour to Counter the Vanic and Raspurid Threat

The Grand Tour to Counter the Vanic and Raspurid Threat visited the large majority of Shireroth's circles. Below is an overview of subdivisions visited, as well as the main points of campaign.

Division Subdivision Number of Rallies and Campaign Events Main Campaigning points and highlights
Shirekeep Inner City 1.195 The Inner City turned Black and White on most days, with the Vanguard not only hosting rallies, speeches and campaign events, but also sponsored lavish banquets and took care of providing free beer throughout the city. The Shirekeep City Guard, a largely Verionist organisation, was also active in properly motivating people to vote for the Vanguard.
Northshire South 391 Most of the rallies to the North of the city were done in relation to the threat caused by the Humanist "prophets". The Vanguard provided the locals with the means to defend themselves against the armed guards accompanying the Raspurid charlatans.
Lichkeep 421 In Lichkeep, the Vanguard took especially care to underscore the good relationship that Verionism has had with the lawful government of Shireroth. Especially the return to a 100-day rule and respect for the Imperial Republic's ancient precepts and the nobility were highlighted. Furthermore, the Humanist' record when it came to the rights for non-humans were highlighted, as well as the IDP's association with this deeply racist party.
Cabbagefall 120 Similar sentiments to the above were uttered. Focus on security and rule of law.
Brookshire Woodshire Circle 733 In Brookshire as a whole, the Vanguard again showed its track record of siding with the lawful government and being a stronghold against Vanic influences. It warned for the "wolf in sheep's clothing", the IDP. In addition, it showcased the appaling record of the Humanists, and stated that "one only needs to look across the border to see the ruin, slavery and despair that a Humanist leadership will bring to Brookshire's pastures". Additionally, the Vanguard made special effort to reach the Elfinshi communities that had escaped the Benacian Union, citing the Verionist link to Elfinishi progenitor Elu Verion, and their record in protecting the Elfinshi rights in Elwynn against the oppression of the Humanists, and their IDP allies.
Maltenstein Circle 691 In addition to the above, in Maltenstein the Vanguard also highlighted their support for Kaiseress Salome, and the ties of the House of Verion with the House of Ayreon-Kalirion.
Schwinn Circle 530 The Vanguard hosted tours to the Shireroth-Benacian borders, showing the vast difference in development between the free Shireroth and the enslaved Benacians. It warned "this can be your future, if the wrong choice is made".
Dolorous Circle 291
Fortis Circle 353 In the two circles bordering the old Verionist republic, the Vanguard accused the Humanist infiltrators of causing the demise of the Republic in the Great Disaster, and countered the "appaling lies" of the IDP, stating that the IDP in Ransenar has "taken the once free citizens of Goldshire hostage, and delivered them to the Benacian dictatorship". The fact that the IDP had betrayed the citizens of Goldshire was a strong point in the propaganda of the Vanguard.
Crestfall Circle 400 talking points were similar to Fortis circle.
Draconia 371 In Draconia, the Vanguard warned gravely against the influence of the Humanist party. Its main point was that the Raspur membership had put a "smothering blanket" on the Drak, and has "enslaved Natopia and the Drak against their own interest". The vanguard urged the Drak to "set free, and chose your own future in a Shireroth of liberty".
Modan Kizshire 391 Throughout Modan, the Vanguard applauded the citizens for "choosing freedom" in the overthrow of the Supremacist state and warned the Modanese to "not let evil enter again" by voting for "the Humanist and their spawn (IDP)". The Vanguard showed its support for the "brave warriors of MILF" who "overthrew your shackles", but also stated that "for the future, a strong Shirithian movement is needed to fully protect the Modanese interests" and promised to uphold their fight against oppression.
Capeshire 731 During a mass tour of Capeshire, the above talking points were frequently repeated.
Shimmerspring 120 In Shimmerspring, the evils of the Humanist oppression of the free peoples of the Garden were brought forward, and the strong Verionist alliance with the Kalgachi was frequently mentioned.
Sehmlshire 154 Similar to Kizshire and Capeshire.
Thanatos 161 Similar to the above, the local chapter of the Vanguard clogged the airwaves with anti-Humanist and IDP propaganda messages.
Highpass 2 The Vanguard spent only very limited resources in Highpass
Sathrati Yardistan 1.209 The Vanguard organised Crusade for Liberty rallies, in which the Yardistani oppression by Humanists was invoked, and pledged that Yardistan would never again be under the crushing hand of a Humanist dictatorship.
Mirioth 290 In Mirioth, the Vanguard painted itself as the protector of Shireroth's past and cultural heritage, and underscored the importance of religious freedom stating that the Vanguard remains the only real force in Shirerithian politics that is committed to free worship for all, and that preserves the heritage of the cults and churches of the great Republic era.
Amity 79 In Amity, the Vanguard faced some hostility from Raspur military forces, which they took as a showcase of what would happen in the future, were Raspur to continue to have a strong grip on Shireroth.
Zy-Rodun 10 Similar to Amity
Skyla 210 Titus Morvayne, now a very old man and still popular in Skyla, appeared in public during several rallies that reminded the residents of Skyla of the time when they truly were the seat of Imperial Power in the country.
Guttuli Near 391 In Guttuli, the Vanguard stressed their commitment to "traditional values", and similarly to Brookshire, the Vanguard accused the Humanist infiltrators of causing the demise of the neighbouring Verionist Republic in the Great Disaster, and countered the "appaling lies" of the IDP, stating that the IDP in Ransenar has "taken the once free citizens of Goldshire hostage, and delivered them to the Benacian dictatorship". The fact that the IDP had betrayed the citizens of Goldshire was repeated in the border province of Guttuli as well.
Far 120 largely similar to the above
Coastal 310 Aside from the above, in Coastal Guttuli, the Verionist focus on free trade was higlighted, promising to Make Musica Great Again as a harbour and hub of commerce.
Kezan Eleutherios and Akis 0 The Vanguard did not campaign in Kezan
Ossium 0 The Vanguard did not campaign in Kezan
Hawshire Free State 2 The Vanguard did not spend many resources in Hawshire, instead urging citizens to "vote local, and against the Humanist threat"
Sagittarius 80 The Vanguard campaigned mainly against Humanist influences, and promised Sagittarius a "new era of prosperity" with the plans for extended trade and free commerce troughout the South.
Batavia 102 Campaigning in Batavia was limited to the cities of 's-Koningenwaarde and Davignon, urging the rest of the country to vote local.
Jingdao Dazijin 40 Campaigning in Jingdao focussed on painting the Vanguard as "the true anti-Raspur party".
Far Eastern Territory 31 Similar to the above
Jinkeai Camoleo 1 The Vanguard held one session in support of the Mango-Strengthening Movement.
Redoubt 54 Campaigning in Jinkeai focussed on painting the Vanguard as "the true anti-Raspur party".
Samarne 88 Similar to the above.
Kildare Dalmacija 791 Dalmacija was a crucial campaign area for the Vanguard. During the many events, the Vanguard focussed on anti-Raspur messaging. In addition, they hearkened back to the Kildari independence, noting how the Verionist were the only faction that supported to continue the union between Shireroth and Kildare, whereas the Humanists and Democrats only were too happy to see Kildare go. Also, they showed their support for free trade, especially in the coast, taking the example of the Jacian Federation as an initiative of Verionist quality, that brought prosperity to the coast.
Gong 7 Similar to the above, limited campaigning
Haigong 96 Similar to the above
Heliu 104 Similar to the above
Hondon 139 Similar to the above, also highlighting the commitment of the Verionist to uphold history and customs of Shireroth's Apollonian past.
Qaoshan (Hallucination) 290 Similar to the above, also especially highlighting the Vanguard's defense of religious liberty.
River Warriors' AT 0 no campaigning
Xianbei 101 Similar to Dalmacija
Zhaoqin 639 Significant resources spent, special focus on international free trade, peace and leaving the Raspur pact to make room for "new alliances across the free oceans"
Zhongji 290 Similar to the above
Outer Antya Mengtian 54 Similar to the above, in Outer Antya, the threat of Raspur through the erratic actions of Floria were exposed and used as an argument to leave Raspur.
Xianxia 63 similar to the above
Raynor Isles Heel of Floria 109 Similar to the above, again the Vanguard provided excursions to the Florian borders, and invited Florian dissidents to speak out against the Raspur domination of the country.
The Isles 59 Similar to the above
Alrig 0 No campaign in Aldrig, supporting the MSM
Talenore 2 The Vanguard did very limited campaigning in Talenore

Raspur Pact Parliamentary Assembly

Shireroth was apportioned 252 seats. The seats are not directly elected, but indirectly. 75 of the seats will be apportioned in proportion to results of the election to the Adelsraad, and 170 seats in proportion to the results of the election to the Folksraad. The Landsraad will fill the remaining 7 seats.

Aftermath and government formation

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