History of Transvaal (Volume III)



THE HISTORY OF TRANSVAAL - Volume III (since October 2008)

Published by the Department of Education, Federal Republic of Transvaal, Pretoria, 2008

Volume III is preceded by History of Transvaal (Volume II)

= Colonial War in South America =

OCTOBER 4, 2008 Three battalions of FPLP guerillas launched attacks at two undefended settlements in northern Paraguay today, triggering what the Frente Popular para Liberación de Paraguay is calling the start of "the people's war of liberation" against the Transvaler colonial authorities.

Transvaler ground troops under the command of Governor-Colonel Annetjie van Matteus currently consist of ten battalions amounting to 5000 soldiers dispersed in Central and Southern Boereguay while rebel forces also consist of similar-sized numbers based in the borderlands of Agmar, Dell Land, and unoccupied Brazil.

While Governor van Matteus is calling the guerillas "a horde of bloodthirsty, baby-eating communists and mongols" the FPLP does not seem to currently exhibit any sort of cohesive ideology apart from a unified dislike of the Transvaler occupation.

The Colonial Government of Transvaler Suid-Amerika has proven hugely unpopular with the vast majority of the Paraguayan populance as Van Matteus has done nothing but alienate any semblance of potential support by chronic maltreatment of the local population - especially towards the indiginous Guaraní which make up the bulk of the country's people.

While the use of Spanish has been discouraged in favour of making the population use English or Afrikaans - the use of the Guaraní langauge, spoken by at least 80% of the people, has been met with abuse and violence on the part of the colonial authorities.

OCTOBER 5, 2008

FURTHER DEVELOPMENTS IN TRANSVALER SUID-AMERIKA: With a popular rebellion on her hands in Boereguay, Governor Annetjie van Matteus now has to contend with a group of 500 white supremacists entering the conflict lead by former Verwoerd Front founder Uys Rooyan de Ruijters

Calling themselves the Witbrandwag (White Sentinel) or WBW, De Ruijters's posse seized the town of Pozo Colorado and proclaimed an Afrikaner separatist state in Paraguay - although the WBW only has a zone of control over a 100km radius around their base of operations.

Van Matteus has stated that no opposition to her authority as Boereguayan Colonial Governor will be tolerated and the Witbrangwag will be dealt with in due course once the situation against the FPLP has stabilised.

A known troublemaker in Transvaal, Uys Rooyan de Ruijters has a very long history of supporting the extreme right in the Federal Republic as well as twice committing treasonous acts against the state to overthrow it and replace it with an apartheid regime.

A former interior minister of Transvaal - including service under Van Matteus when she was Transvaler prime minister - de Ruijters had close ties with the Dark Hand and was involved in a failed assassination plot against Emperor Justinian of Slavorussia.

A staunch supporter of segregation and white supremacy, he later he sided with the neo-nazi Volkstater movement and Hugel von Hasso's plot to overthrow the National Party regime by opening Transvaal up to invasion by GOONS during the Unjust War.

De Ruijters later faced treason charges but ended up being exonerated and released from prison when Prime Minister Hertzog decreed a mass amnesty prior to the formation of the Federal Republic last December. He regrouped the far right and assorted white supremacist organisations in Transvaal under the Verwoerd Front banner and ran in the May 1 elections.

After he was implicated in late July of blowing up a munitions factory in Bloemfontein which caused a toxic leak killing 1,351 people, De Ruijters was dumped by the Verwoerd Front as being too much a liability to their attempts at getting elected through the ballot box.

He then went underground and his whereabouts were unknown until today.

OCTOBER 6, 2008 NEWS FROM THE PARAGUAYAN FRONT

Three FPLP guerilla battalions operating in Northern Paraguay converged on the undefended town of Maríscal Estigarribia and occupied it today. Governor Annetjie van Matteus dismissed the significance of the recent FPLP gain, stating that “the terrorists have yet to encounter any sort of opposition. Once they do however, we shall mow them down without any remorse”.

Meanwhile, the recent and sudden emergence of the Witbrandwag commandos under Uys Rooyan de Ruijters has forced the Colonial Administration to divert a battalion based at Concepcion to make its way towards Pozo Colorado. De Ruijters has called upon Governor van Matteus to leave the WBW domain alone and focus rather on the FPLP threat.

The Colonial administration however is saying it is responding to investigate some scattered rumours of a massacre at Pozo Colorado.

OCTOBER 7, 2008 MASSACRE AT POZO COLORADO

We are only just receiving the details of a horrible tragedy at Pozo Colorado. Transvaler Koloniaalkorps troops are reporting that Witbrandwag commandos have massacred most of the native Guaraní Indian population in the town. The commandos have since departed town and have headed north towards Maríscal Estigarribia to engage FPLP guerillas – but before their departure they tortured and shot any natives they could find.

“This [de Ruijter] man, their leader, he now has blood on his hands. I want revenge!” screamed Pedro Gonzales as he buried his wife. Many of those killed were grisly mutilated beforehand. “These soldiers came and round up some people. Then they cut out their tongues because they cannot speak their language” explained Gonzales.

After entering the town to investigate, the Koloniaalkorps then beat a hasty retreat for the outskirts of town as the survivors began attacking them with whatever weapons they could find. Their commanding officer decided against provoking the enraged townspeople any further.

“We do not want these people here. Go home and don’t come back!” said Gonzales.

STATEMENT FROM JOELISCOB OF AGMAR: Agmar will increase our border troops in the south to prevent any terrorists from entering our country. We also offer any help if needed.

REPLY FROM GOVERNOR VAN MATTEUS: The three FPLP units in northern Paraguay staged their initial operations from the borderlands of Agmar. We understand that the wilds of the Gran Chaco are difficult to patrol but whatever you can do to close off your border is appreciated. We do not know if they are still recieving supplies via Agmar or from local sources.

OCTOBER 8, 2008 BATTLE OF MARÍSCAL ESTIGARRIBIA

Two battalions of FPLP guerillas under the command of Commandante Luis Garcia ambushed the Witbrandwag Kommando at Maríscal Estigarribia today. Although outnumbered two-to-one, the commandoes proved to be better, heavier armed force and subsequently dug in when the FPLP launched their counterattacks.

OCTOBER 9, 2008

WIDESPREAD ILLEGAL STRIKES BREAK OUT

Southern Africa is the latest region to be hit hard by the downturn in the global economy as the Federal Government of Transvaal today announced it would not be paying wages in the face of wildcat strikes breaking out.

A recent, sudden loss of marble and lead has resulted in infrastructure costs skyrocketing by 20% and the government unwilling to pay its bills until new trade agreements have been signed. This has in turn caused frustrated workers to walk off the job in wildcat strikes.

The automotive, construction, microchip, and environmental sectors have all been shut down by job action. In the education sector, all university teachers have suspended classes and walked off the job in support of the strikers.

In response to the labour unrest, Prime Minister Jakob Hertzog has stated the Federal Government is doing all it can to find new trading partners but the people must remain patient.

NO CONFIDENCE IN HERTZOG?

Two ministers in the Federal Government have demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Jakob M Hertzog if the economy crisis in Transvaal is not dealt with soon.

Ministers Marthinus Hoffmeyr (Finance, Trade & Education) and Herrman Steyn (Labour) have give the prime minister until October 12 to get the economy back on track and the strikes ended or they shall put Hertzog’s job on the line in a parliamentary vote of no confidence.

Should Mr. Hertzog lose the vote, he would be obligated to resign and a new prime minister would be named to finish out the rest of his term which ends on November 30.

Deputy Prime Minister Willem Coetzee has voiced his continued support of the prime minister and stated that out of principle he would not step in as Hertzog's replacement; under Transvaal law that would normally be the case should the prime minister resign, become incapacitated, or die in office.

STRIKES END AS GOVERNMENT PAYS WORKERS

The Ministry of Finance began handing out pay cheques this afternoon after the Federal Government announced a new trade agreement had been signed. Transvaal has agreed to pay $3,000,000 rand to the nation of Germanopolis in exchange for lead and marble with additional $3,000,000 bonuses every 200 days.

"This is our standard trade agreement we offer" explained Finance Minister Marthinus Hoffmeyr."Since the start of this calender year, Transvaal has paid out over $15,000,000 rand to establish and maintain foreign trading agreements."

Hoffmeyr then announced that in light of the trade agreement, he would be retracting his no confidence vote against Prime Minister Jakob Hertzog.

OCTOBER 10, 2008 BATTLE OF MARÍSCAL ESTIGARRIBIA RAGES ON

The bloodied, house-to-house fighting for the town of Maríscal Estigarriba is now in its third day as FPLP guerillas under Commandante Luis Garcia continued to lay siege to the embattled Witbrandwag commandos of Uys Rooyan de Ruijters trapped in the town.

The commandos succeeded in capturing the small town early this morning only to find the noose around them slowly tightening during the afternoon as two additional FPLP battalions moved in to outflank their rear.

The fighting between both sides has been savage as no mercy has been given towards the wounded or captured.

Meanwhile the rest of the territory remains at an uneasy peace as both FPLP forces and Transvaler Koloniaalkorps are in an apparent stand-off, seemingly waiting for the other side to make the first move.

HERTZOG FACES VOTE ON SOUTH AMERICAN WAR

Having faced down the threat yesterday of a vote of no confidence regarding the state of the economy, Prime Minister Jakob Hertzog has now been served notice that Boereguayan Governor Annetjie van Matteus will launch a no confidence vote on Sunday regarding the ongoing conflict in Boereguay.

Van Matteus and her supporters in the National Assembly have backed Hertzog since the last elections - however she will now pull that support on October 12 and try to bring the government down after she stated on national radio that:

''“Hertzog and Cruywagen have left me hanging dry here in South America. We are now hearing wild rumours in Asuncion of a South American nation eyeing Transvaler Suid-Amerika for itself and a possible invasion. The Federal Government and military have repeatedly ignored my pleas for further military commitment. They need to decide now if they want to fight for this territory - or throw the towel in and leave. The inactivity from our current government is doing nothing but prolonging the agony.”''

The Prime Minister was unavailable for comment, however Marshal Cruywagen stated that: “Ms. van Matteus is just up to her usual tricks. She knows full well that our overseas military deployment is stretched in Boereguay and Madagaskar.”

OCTOBER 11, 2008 NORTHERN INVASION?

The Colonial Administration in Transvaler Suid-Amerika confirmed this morning that they have received intelligence information that the neighbouring nation of Agmar has massed upwards of 20 battalions along the colony’s northern border. The reasons behind the recent deployment consisting of approximately 10,000 soldiers are unknown but Governor Annetjie van Matteus now fears the worse.

“My administration, along with the Federal Government in Pretoria, has had neither contact nor dealings with the Agmarians – so we are of the opinion that their intentions are hostile as there is no way that the Transvaler Koniaalkorps under the current situation is of any threat towards them.”

Pretoria is also watching anxiously but Foreign Minister Peter Stellenbosch said to reporters that there was little the government could do as the two nations don’t have any diplomatic relations between them.

Meanwhile in the embattled town of Maríscal Estigarribia, the almost 2,000 FPLP guerillas have cut off the only road of escape for the besieged Witbrandwag commandos.

Commandante Luis Garcia showed foreign reporters covering the FPLP the remains of captured WBW commandos which had been shot either trying to surrender or breakout and escape the siege. “We show no mercy to the fascist scum. They will all dig their own graves here in Maríscal Estigarribia.” He then told reporters that he had secured financial baking and arms from the nation of Heska, showing off the brand new AK-47s which had been supplied to his troops.

“The racists are now outnumbered and outgunned. Some of them are using old bolt action rifles and shotguns.”

OCTOBER 12, 2008

Foreign Media Reporting Attacks on FPLP Guerrillas - a Tahoe Daily News Special Report by Peter Clinch, South American Correspondent:

Is it possible that Tahoan troops are intervening in the violent insurgency in Transvaal Suid-Amerika, colloquially known as Boereguay? Common sense says "no" given Tahoe's recent involvement in a world wide war, mostly of mostly words, due to European involvement in South American peacekeeping missions. Numerous sources in foreign media - South American, Transvaler, European - have reported attacks on Frente Popular para Liberación de Paraguay (FPLP) guerrillas surrounding the white supremacist WBW commandos at Maríscal Estigarribia.

De-classified campaign maps of the campaign released publically by the Transvaler Colonial Corps show no Transvaler troops in the area. This then leads to the question, "Who is helping violent white supremacists?" Is it Transvaler Special Forces? Unlikely, they have no reason to try and help the WBW, headed by an unpopular figure in Transvaal. Is it other foreign troops? Even more unlikely, as they have even less reason to help white supremacists.

Thus, this reporter has come to the conclusion that the forces operating in the jungles of Boereguay, attacking FPLP guerrillas and apparently attempting to relieve the embattled WBW is the Fiannoglach (Tahoan Army Special Forces). Why? First, the attacks are trademark Fiannoglach work. Unannounced, fast, hard and random. The tactics that the world has seen destroy countless leftist and communist organizations, militias and even nations are being employed to the letter against the FPLP. Second, our government rarely hesitates to use such force against organizations as the FPLP due to the long term strategic implications of having a group that hates Tahoe or one of its allies come to power. Furthermore, Uys Rooyan de Ruijters could be of some use to Tahoe in the future, and gaining his loyalty (or at least something) from him by saving the WBW. Or at least that is how our government often thinks. Third, Annetjie van Matteus is an extremely popular official in Tahoe, liked by both the population and the government.

Lastly, a contact within the Ministry of Defense told me yesterday that, quote "it is in the best interests of Tahoe to prevent an FPLP takeover in Boereguay. The WBW nutjobs mean nothing except they hurt the FPLP." So, perhaps our soldiers aren't attacking the FPLP because they are threatening the WBW. Perhaps they are trying to keep de Ruijters and his commandos alive because they serve a purpose, not because we want them alive. But the fact remains, our soldiers are in Boereguay, attacking the FPLP guerrillas surrounding the WBW.

AGMAR INVADES BOEREGUAY – WITBRANDWAG DESTROYED – HERTZOG RETAINS POWER

Ten-thousand troops began pouring across the northern frontier of Boereguay at dawn break after Agmar launched an ‘undeclared war’ against all groups fighting in Paraguayan territory.

General Samuel Deweegan, commander of the Agmar Expeditionary Force, issued a statement that “... foreign involvement and interference in Paraguay will no longer be tolerated by Agmar and that the invasion had been authorized by his government with the purpose of ridding the South American continent of both the foreign-financed FPLP and the Transvaler colonial imperialists”. Agmar then officially laid claim over the territory encompassing Transvaler Suid-Amerika.

While the Agmar military has stated they would engage Transvaler Koloniaalkorps troops should they resist, there was as of yet no officially declared state of war between Agmar and the Federal Republic of Transvaal. Pretoria has been silent since word reached there of this morning’s invasion.

“This is a conflict between us, a bunch of bandit rebels, and a colonial regime we deem illegal” said General Deweegan.

These events came just eight hours after the last resistance from the Witbrandwag Kommando collapsed in Maríscal Estigarribia. FPLP Commandante Luis Garcia spoke late last night to the surviving townspeople of the town and proclaimed the liberation of Northern Paraguay – unaware of the impending build-up towards invasion in the north.

The present whereabouts of the kommando leader Uys Rooyan de Ruijters are unknown as it appeared he had somehow slipped through the lines and evaded capture by the FPLP. Garcia told reporters covering the FPLP that perhaps a dozen defenders made it out alive from the original contingent of 500 kommandos – the remainder perishing in battle or from capture and summary execution.

“The white racists committed genocide against my people, so they received the supreme penalty for their crimes. De Ruijters will be hunted down and strung up like a wild animal like the rest” boasted a smiling Garcia.

Evidence that the conflict is now drawing outside foreign involvement on both sides is now undeniable as Commandante Garcia displayed half a dozen bodies of what looked like well-equipped special ops forces. “We do not know who they are except that their origin is not from Transvaal” said Garcia. “Whoever they are, they could be responsible for de Ruijters’ escape”. It is believed the FPLP has received funds and equipment from Heska.

The victory at Maríscal Estigarribia triggered the FPLP troops massed on the eastern front to commence their strikes against Transvaler Koloniaalkorps stations along the border with Dell Land and Legendis.

Meanwhile in Pretoria, Prime Minister Jakob Martin Hertzog survived a vote of no-confidence against him for his handling of the conflict in South America.

The vote brought to the National Assembly by Boereguayan Governor van Matteus ended up being tied 21-21 with Hertzog gaining the support of Deputy Prime Minister Willem Coetzee’s supporters as well as the 4 independent supporters of the deceased Riaan van der Byl. Most political pundits had expected the so-called Riaanites to back the Verwoerd Front, but their spokesman said that “for us to support Van Matteus would be unbearable as well as unthinkable.”

The Verwoerd Front lead by Reverend Erasmus Du Toit supported Annetjie van Matteus but without an extra vote to actually outnumber the government supporters, Herztog thus retained his post by the slimmest of margins. Prime Minister Hertzog acknowledged the restlessness of some members within his government but asked them to maintain unity and put aside their disgruntlement for the ballot box in November.

Coincidentally enough, the vote came on the eleven-month anniversary of the Prime Minister taking office – a term length unmatched by any other Transvaler prime minister or government official save for Staatspresident Botha himself.

BOEREGUAY GETS NEW GOVERNOR

Annetjie van Matteus has been relieved of her post as Governor of Transvaler Suid-Amerika and replaced by Mr. Hendrik Strijdom. In a touch of irony, Strijdom's previous posting was as Governor of Namibia - replacing Van Matteus there when she was re-assigned to South America.

The Federal Government issued a terse statement that Ms. van Matteus was grossly incompetent and a major cause of popular unrest in the Transvaler colony. Governor Strijdom has been instructed to ascertain the situation and advise the Federal Government on the best course of action in the colony.

OCTOBER 13, 2008 Agmarian troops have reached the outskirts of the devastated town of Maríscal Estigarribia where Commandante Luis Garcia is holed up – staring down upwards of 6,000 soldiers on his doorstep and outnumbered three-to-one.

On the Eastern front, the FPLP lost two battalions during fighting today along the Rio Apa as Transvaler Koloniaalkorps held their ground and maintained their control over the towns of Puerto la Victoria and Puerto Juan Caballero along the Legendis border. FPLP casualties numbered around eight-hundred to nine-hundred while Koloniaalkorps losses were light in comparison.

However, south along the Rio Parana four battalions of FPLP guerillas made their move across the frontier and succeeded in gaining two secure bridgeheads on the west side of the river, in the process sending two units of Koloniaalkorps retreating around 100 kilometres.

In Asuncion, Governor Hendrik Strijdom arrived to take charge of the worsening situation in the capital. While Transvaler troop presence in the city numbers around 1,500, some outlying neighbourhoods are gradually slipping from colonial authority as residents have gone on looting sprees.

Strijdom is expected to meet with Koloniaalkorps officers based in and around Asuncion to bring him up to speed on recent hostile activity as well as hear out proposed plans for the defense of the colony.

MEETING BETWEEN GOVERNOR STRIJDOM AND KOLONIAALKORPS COMMANDERS

“Surrender...?”

The table went silent. Governor Hendrik Strijdom sat back in his chair to think about what the three colonels had just told him. He stared back grimly at them and weighing their words.

“Sir, based on our recent victories in the northeast we would have been able to contain the FPLP. But now that Agmar has exerted their claim over the colony and backed it up with force, we now cannot delay the inevitable, that our days here are numbered. We cannot win a full-blown war against Agmar.”

Strijdom stood up and looked out of the window of the brick farmhouse at Villa Hayes, a short drive north of the capital Asuncion. He lit his pipe and took his time to pull a drag from it.

“So, you are absolutely certain we cannot put up a fair fight against the Agmarians?”

“No Governor, not with our current resources. Marshal Cruywagen has informed me that the Krygsmagte is deployed to capacity for overseas operations, we can expect no additional troops or supplies to be sent our way.”

A second colonel chimed in “If Pretoria had not sent Annetjie van Matteus here, we would not be in the mess we’re in now – it was all her...” but he was quickly cut off when the third colonel rebuked him.

“Well if Hertzog hadn’t gotten some harebrained scheme to settle in South America, then we...”

Strijdom slammed his fist on the table. “Enough, bickering amongst us will not change the past. We need to think of the here and now. Gentlemen, our meeting here is done. I shall return to Asuncion and send a full report to Staatspresident Botha on our situation. That is all!”

The Governor collected his briefcase and homburg before taking the lead to exit the farmhouse to return to his waiting armoured personal carrier.

OCTOBER 14, 2008 SECOND BATTLE OF MARÍSCAL ESTIGARRIBIA

The town of Maríscal Estigarribia came under heavy bombardment as the Agmarian military engaged FPLP guerrillas. Both sides lost about one-thousand men as Commandante Luis Garcia tenaciously held on to the dwindling remnants of the devastated Gran Chaco settlement.

Along with Agmarian artillery raining down on FPLP positions, two V-2 missiles were launched at the town by the Transvaler Raketkorps. Colonel Petrus Malan arrived last night in Asuncion with an unknown quantity stockpile of missiles flown in from the Federal Republic.

At present it is unknown where the missiles landed, as Colonel Malan explained after the initial launches “...with Maríscal Estigarriba as a target we're not really aiming at anything specific. No need to - as everything there is hostile. At this point, we don't care if they land on the guerrillas or the Agmarians.”

On the eastern front, FPLP continued a slow but steady advance as Koloniaalkorps troops continued to withdraw towards the safety of Asuncion and the immediately surrounding provinces.

NEWS ON THE HOMEFRONT

Meanwhile on the homefront, Prime Minister Jakob Hertzog faced yet another economic crisis after Transvaal lost its supply of iron and wheat when Gyronia suddenly broke their trade agreement.

Workers in the steel, automotive, brewery, construction and environmental sectors are threatening to walk off the job tomorrow. The Federal Government now faces inflation as infrastructure costs may increase by 9% if not more. A clearer picture will emerge tomorrow after the government has counted the daily tax revenue.

Having already faced down one vote of no-confidence in the National Assembly in the last few days, Prime Minister Hertzog has been served noticed by two of his ministers that if a new trade agreement is not signed by Thursday, he will face yet another vote.

It is slowly becoming apparent to Hertzog's supporters that Ministers Hoffmeyr and Steyn are trying to use any means necessary to bring down the government prior to the November elections. “Hertzog's time is up, his rule has become stale and we need to have a new, fresh National party incumbent before the Federal Elections - because Minister Steyn and myself do not believe the National Party can win re-election under the current stagnant leadership” said Minister Marthinus Hoffmeyr to reporters gathered at Government House.

Supporters of Prime Minister Hertzog were quick to defend the embattled leader. “The Prime Minister has done a wonderful job since taking office last November, Transvaal's growth has been phenomenal in the past ten months” said Deputy Prime Minister Willem Coetzee. “Mr. Hertzog has constantly faced tough criticism from his own party critics, yet none of them could do half as good a job when they had the chance” Coetzee said in veiled reference directed towards the Riaanite backbenchers and supporters of Annetjie van Matteus. “Some people here want to see us return to the stone age.”

OCTOBER 15, 2008 NORTHERN FRONT COLLAPSES

After one week of fighting, the guns finally fell silent today over the rubble of the settlement which was once Maríscal Estigarribia. The town fell to Agmar as the last of the northern-based FPLP guerillas were wiped out in a torrential firefight in the centre town square.

Commandante Luis Garcia was amongst the casualties as he lead his last remaining men on a suicide attack against entrenched Agmarian infantry, his last words believed to be “Viva Paraguay!” according to the Agmar soldiers who mowed him down with automatic fire and then posed for souvenir photographs with the corpse afterwards.

Francisco “Pepe” Lopez has been named the new commandante of the FPLP. Lopez’s forces have been engaging Transvaler Koloniaalkorps troops on the eastern front to moderate success.

The collapse of the Northern FPLP now leaves the whole of the Gran Chaco region west of the Rio Paraguay open to the Agmarian invasion – with the four northern departments of Boqueron, Alto Paraguay, Chaco, and Nueva Asuncion now firmly in Agmar control. The frontier town of Puerta la Victoria also fell to Agmar after the Koloniaalkorps evacuated it as they redeployed south towards Concepcion.

HERTZOG SIGNS NEW TRADE DEAL WITH COMMUNISTS

Placing economic necessity ahead of political ideology, Prime Minster Jakob Hertzog signed a new trade agreement late last night with Slonsylvania of the Union of Communist Republics.

As soon as terms of the new agreement for iron and wheat were read out, howls of outrage were heard from the Verwoerd Front members, Riaanites, and the supporters of Annetjie van Matteus. Fully anticipating such a strong and critical reaction, Prime Minister Hertzog deftly left the task of reading the terms to his chief National Party, the Minister of Finance & Trade Marthinus Hofmeyr.

Reverend Erasmus Du Toit, leader of the Verwoerd Front said that this was “just further proof that the National Party is, in fact, in league with Satan and international freemasonry.”

DE RUIJTERS CAPTURED

Transvaler white supremacist Uys Rooyan de Ruijters has been arrested by Colonial authorities in Asuncion. The leader of the so-called Witbrandwag Kommando and a dozen of his cohorts escaped from Maríscal Estrigarribia disguised as peasants and refugees and had made his way to the colonial capital to seek a flight out of the territory.

However, he let his guard down and was arrested by local police – passed out under a table after he became drunk at a tavern and created a disturbance. The whereabouts of his collaborators is unknown.

Governor Hendrik Strijdrom was immediately informed of De Ruijters’ arrest and said he will be removed to a secure military installation in the capital district until he decides what shall be done with him. It is unsure what De Ruijters's fate will be as he faces treason charges back in the Federal Republic. The FPLP guerrillas have also accused him of crimes against humanity for his torture and slaughter of civilians at Pozo Colorado during the on-going Boereguayan conflict.

OCTOBER 16, 2008

NEWSREPORT FROM TAHOE

Extremists in the Tahoan Senate called for a resolution offering Mr. de Ruijters sanctuary in the Tahoe Republic.

Taoiseach O Deaghaidh derided the move as a publicity stunt, and cited de Ruijter's opposition to the National Parties of Transvaal and Tahoe.

“Yes, it is possible for non-leftists to be undesirable extremists” the Taoiseach said during an interview “It is shocking that some would call on Tahoe to support and protect a man who has done all he can to bring down our allies in Transvaal. I'm sure that if given the chance, de Ruijters would attack Tahoe in any way possible as well.”

When asked about the recent article appearing in the Tahoe Daily News claiming Tahoan Special Forces involvement in the war in Boereguay, the Taoiseach laughed it off and called it “poor reporting.”

CEASEFIRE SIGNED BETWEEN TRANSVAAL AND F.P.L.P Governor Hendrik Strijdom announced this evening that a ceasefire has been formally signed between the Colonial Administration of Transvaler Suid-Amerika and the Frente Popular para Liberación de Paraguay.

The details have not been made public but the announcement was made over Paraguayan radio one hour after Governor Strijdom had returned from a meeting in Pretoria with Staatspresident Botha.

It is expected that Governor Strijdom will meet with Commandante Francisco “Pepe” Lopez sometime tomorrow at an undisclosed location near Asuncion.

Meanwhile along the northern front, Agmarian troops continued their advance through the Gran Chaco as the towns of Pozo Colorado and Puerto Pinasco were both occupied without a fight.

OCTOBER 16, 2008

WAR ENDS IN PARAGUAY

The Colonial Administration of Transvaler Suid-Amerika has announced that a peace treaty has been signed with Agmar regarding the ‘undeclared war’ in Paraguay.

In a tripartite agreement signed a few minutes after midnight (October 16-17) in the capital city of Asuncion between the Transvaler Colonial Administration, Agmar, and the Frente Popular para Liberación de Paraguay, the territory of Paraguay will revert to Agmar effective midnight October 27-28 (the two-month anniversary of Transvaler colonization).

Governor Hendrik Strijdom told reporters that once the Agmarians became involved in the conflict, attempting to retain the colony was futile and would only cost more Transvaler lives. He said his decision was based on the military situation – in that there was no hope of reinforcements from the Federal Republic and that Koloniaalkorps officers had “lost their resolve to fight an unwinnable war for an unpopular overseas adventure”.

After meeting with Staatspresident Botha on Thursday night to explain the situation and gain their authority to effectively surrender the colony, Strijdom then met secretly with Commandante Francisco “Pepe” Lopez to hammer out a deal for a ceasefire. While the Frente Popular para Liberación de Paraguay had been striving for independence from Transvaal, Lopez felt that under the change of circumstances Agmarian rule would still be more preferable option than remaining under Transvaler colonial rule. Strijdom said that the deal with the FPLP came with a price – of which he did not state, but said would become clear in time.

Both the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Transvaal were kept in the dark and the announcement came as a complete surprise to both men. Foreign Minister Peter Stellenbosch said that “...with hindsight the colony prove to be a burden to us, the quicker we can walk away the better.”

As for Prime Minister Jakob Hertzog, there have been calls from both sides of critics for his outright resignation as Paraguayan colonization had received his staunch support and encouragement. Those opposed to the colonization of Paraguay lay blame for the unnecessary conflict and related economic ills on his doorstep – while those in the Verwoerd Front are saying to leave Boereguay now without bloodying the Agmarians ranks of treason and national embarrassment.

During the transition period before the Transvaler handover to Agmar, Koloniaalkorps troops will remain in Asuncion while FPLP forces will occupy the remainder of Paraguay east of the Rio Paraguay. Agmar will hold its troops along the western bank of the Rio Paraguay. The FPLP will lay down its arms and disband on the same day as the departure of the Colonial Administration. Governor Strijdom will remain on location in his capacity as governor until the last Transvaler flag is brought down on October 27.

OCTOBER 17, 2008 AGMAR ANNEXES WESTERN PARAGUAY

General Samuel Deweegan, commander of the Agmar Expeditionary Force in Paraguay announed this morning that all of Paraguay north and west of the Rio Paraguay was annexed and now officially part of Agmar.

The remainder of Paraguay would remain under joint-authority of Transvaler Colonial Administration and the Frente Popular para Liberación de Paraguay (FPLP) until Transvaal's withdrawl on October 27.

Governor Hendrik Strijdom and Commandante Francisco Lopez acknowledged the annexation as "inevitable" after dividing the eastern zone between their two sides. The Governor also said that the terms Boereguay and Transvaler Suid-Amerika would no longer be used by the colonial administration as they represented a no longer existant ideal by his government.

NO-CONFIDENCE IN GOVERNMENT

Prime Minister Jakob Hertzog has been asked by members of the National Assembly to submit his resignation over the Paraguayan conflict. The Federal Government has asked Staatspresident Botha to chair an emergency meeting session for this evening (one hour prior to update) to discuss and if necessary vote the prime minister out of office.

Opponents of Hertzog and of colonial rule in Paraguay have said that this mess is his and no one's else. If the prime minister cannot be held accountable for the national embarrassment in South America, then what can he be held accountable for?

OCTOBER 22, 2008

DE RUIJTERS DEAD!

Transvaler white supremacist Uys Rooyan de Ruijters was found dead this morning in his prison cell in Asuncion. Coroners said that he had hanged himself with a makeshift noose made from his bedsheet.

Reverend Erasmus Du Toit, the Leader of the Verwoerd Front, used glowing, biblical language to eulogise him, tearfully explaining to his congregation that De Ruijters was “a National Messiah, the Third Apostle of White Nationalism in Transvaal - after Dr. Hendrik von Kruger and Hasso von Hugel”. His bizarre sermon continued with a brazen prediction that “... the Trinity of Von Kruger, Von Hugel, and De Ruijters would soon be resurrected by Christ to lay Judgement on the Afrikaner people for neglecting their heavenly-bestowed place to rule over the uncivilised African.”

The Reverend Du Toit however ignored making any references to De Ruijters’s later acts of treason which discredited him politically even with Du Toit and the organization which UR De Ruijters had founded, the Verwoerd Front. In death, it appeared that De Ruijters had indeed been exonerated by the Reverend and his former party.

Later on in his eulogy, the outspoken Reverend returned to his racialist beliefs by stating that De Riujters’s death was “a clear signal from God Himself that he was not happy with the Transvaler Volk straying from their god-given right of Christian National supremacy over the dark races”.

E Du Toit claimed that a suicide note had been found on De Ruijters’s lifeless body, which said “Transvaal = 666” on it. Conspiracy rumours suddenly abounded when it was later deduced that his death did occur – whether by divine intervention, design or coincidence – on the 666th day since Transvaal proclaimed its unilateral independence from the ANC on December 26, 2006.

“Now if that is not a clear indicative message from God that our Nation and Afrikaner Volk are now entering a New Age of Rule under Satan, disguised as the National Party, then I don’t know what is” commented a rather smug Du Toit.

More restrained and level-headed observers believe that De Ruijters was to be turned over to the FPLP when the colonial administration departs Paraguay on October 27 as part of the peace treaty deal signed by then-governor H Strijdom – and sensing the inevitable, he decided to take his own life rather than face humiliation and probable death at the hands of the vengeful Paraguayan guerillas.

The state telephone company refused to neither confirm nor deny phone records that indicated Du Toit had spoken long distance with De Ruijters two nights before.

Prime Minister Strijdom was silent when questioned by media regarding the nature and rumours surrounding De Ruijters’s death, although he cautiously granted permission to Reverend Du Toit to handle the details of the funeral arrangements.

UR de Ruijters is survived by his young daughter Joanne de Ruijters van Matteus. = Prime Minister Strijdom = OCTOBER 18, 2008

RADIO-TRANSVAAL (PRETORIA): Jakob Martin Hertzog announced his resignation as Prime Minister of Transvaal around one hour ago this evening. He had held the post for a record 342 days since his initial appointment on November 12, 2007. During that time he contested one Federal Election and won re-election on May 1, 2008 when the National Party secured 30 out of 42 seats in the National Assembly.

Hertzog became prime minister during the most difficult period in Transvaal’s history as the nation was making a break and moving away from the Maroon nationalism of Norden Verein and shifting towards IRON and the Orange sphere.

The so-called Oranje Oorgangstydperk (the transitional period to Orange) was a time of undue economic hardship for the Federal Republic as new trade agreements needed to be sought out and established. After two months however, Hertzog was able to proclaim an end to the Oorgangstydperk as well as the unification of South Africa under Federal Republic rule on January 7. The autumn months from March to early June were a period of massive economic growth where Transvaal’s population doubled compared to when Herztog took power.

Despite the domestic successes, Hertzog’s notorious inability to speak fluent English often made him uncomfortable dealing with foreign issues and the Federal Republic often stumbled from one ill-thought internation issue to another – the latest being the failed plan to colonise in South America.

Facing recent vocal opposition within his own party over the situation in Paraguay, Jakob Hertzog said during his press conference that he was proud of his record as Transvaler prime minister despite misgivings about the colonization scheme. He said he brought a period of internal peace and stability for all races in Transvaal which had permitted the nation to become a strong economic and political power in Africa.

He said his resignation was so he could have time away from the critical spotlight to reflect and refocus his energy towards winning the upcoming Federal Election in November. In his shaky English, he told listeners on national radio that “I stand with my record as Eersteminister and in November will I the voters let decide.”

It is unknown who will succeed him to finish out the rest of his term. Staatspresident Botha was expected to meet with cabinet members of the National Party government to reach an agreement with all factions over an interim leader.

INTERNATIONAL RE-ACTION FROM FRANZHARIA


 * “This is certainly a sad day. But Franzharia will stand by whomever succeeds him. Jakob, I wish you luck come November.” - Emperor Ranather
 * “Though I never met him personally, I believe his record speaks for itself.” - Empress Merina
 * “I have nothing but praise for Minister Hertzog. I wish him luck in his future endeavors. Come November I'll be watching.” - Prime Minister Everest

OCTOBER 19, 2008

HENDRIK STRIJDOM NAMED PRIME MINISTER In a surprise move anticipated by no one, Hendrik Strijdom has been appointed the new Prime Minister of Transvaal. The Governor of Transvaler Suid-Amerika, the most junior minister in the Federal Government was offered the post after Deputy Prime Minister Willem Coetzee turned down the position out of support to his beleaguered friend Jakob Hertzog.

In the volatile meeting which then followed, “we simply could not agree on anyone” explained Minister Herrman Steyn. “Every name which came up in the cabinet generated too much baggage and opposition in the voting. Obviously those of us in the Hofmeyr faction were not going to agree to Boersma or Stellenbosch – likewise they would not agree to Mr. Hofmeyr nor myself.”

“Marshal Cruywagen refused as he felt his place was with the military and he did not want to see a military officer running the country” added Interior Minister Boersma. “And personalities such as Archbishop Hoof and Sports Minister Bartnel Botha either refused or were deemed inexperienced or wholly inappropriate for the job.”

Annetjie van Matteus apparently attempted to canvas herself for the post as a 'compromise candidate' however she was unanimously rejected as being, to quote Mr. Coetzee: “Incompetent, selfish, and absolutely ill-suited for leadership in this nation. Her star is quickly setting.”

“However when Governor Strijdom’s name came up, almost as an afterthought when everyone else had been hashed around, there was silence – because, for once, we didn’t have a name on the slate which carried some sort of baggage” said Marshal Cruywagen. “We were all unanimous that – granted - he had the least experience in the cabinet however there seemed to be the least opposition to him, as he is such an unknown and new figure in the Federal Government. As well, during his short time working in Paraguay he was able to reach a quick and peaceful conclusion to a very unpopular conflict – that gained him some grudging but deserved respect from some of his senior colleagues.”

“When we put his name to the vote, he gained the most votes of any of us – we then had to contact him half a world away in Asuncion as he was unable to make a flight to Pretoria in time to make the meeting - so he had chosen not to attend.”

As soon as Governor Strijdom’s plane landed in Johannesburg, Staatspresident Botha and Archbishop Hoof were on hand to meet him as he disembarked. He was immediately taken aside and the results of the meeting explained to him to bring him up to speed. Apparently in shock from what he heard, it took ten minutes for him to be convinced to accept the post. Archbishop Hoof then immediately performed the official swearing-in ceremony while still on the airport tarmac.

STATEMENT BY SITHIS II OF REALM: Sithis II knows and trusts Annetjie van Matteus and Realm offers her its endorsement.

STATEMENT BY MIRREILLE OF ILE DE NOIR: JM Hertzog was an outstanding PM and will ge remembered for all that he was able to accomplish while in office. While we are sad to see him go, we must admit we are curious what H Strijdom will be able to accomplish in the future. This may be the first step in a much greater career. It will be interesting to see if he will run for office when the new elections are ready.

MEETING WITH THE TAHOE AMBASSADOR

Ambassador Séamus Ó Grianna made his first official state visit to newly inagurated Prime Minister Strijdom today in Pretoria. In a short meeting at the Prime Ministers office, the Ambassador wished Strijdom well and expressed the Tahoe Republic's desire to keep strong relations with Transvaal. The Prime Minister was briefed on affairs in Tahoe, a new attempt by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to keep allies up to date with goings on in the Tahoan government.

Taoiseach O Deaghaidh is also expected to phone Prime Minister Strijdom sometime in the next few days to extend his congratulations and well wishes.

PRIVATE CORROSPONDENCE FROM VARRIN VON COURSCA OF WIGHTON

I, Governor-Plenipotentiary Varrin von Coursca, would like to extend my personal congratulations to Mr. Strijdom, the new Prime Minister of Transvaal, on behalf of the citizens and the Board of Visitors of the Commonwealth of Wighton.

I would like to personally extend an invitation for the new Prime Minister to visit Wightstag, our capital, to officially open formal diplomatic relations between the Commonwealth of Wighton and Transvaal.

''I would also like to take the time to state that due to Wighton's location in the world, we in particular are worried about the rise of piracy in the Indian Ocean. As a nation that also has a border with the Indian Ocean, Wighton hopes Transvaal shares these concerns and would be willing to discuss methods of enforcing the rule of law in the sea and combating piracy.''

''Wighton would also like to convey that we acknowledge and understand the decision handed down from the PAC to our friends in the nation of BlackKnight. I understand that the matter could have been handled through the PAC and, in the future, we will encourage our friends in BlackKnight to acknowledge the rule of international law and work through the established and relevant institutions. We support our friends, but we also acknowledge that they are imperfect and will make mistakes.''

We hope to hear from Transvaal in the coming days and weeks.

REPLY TO THE TAHOE AMBASSADOR: Prime Minister Strijdom is appreciative of Tahoe's approval and indictation support as the two nations have a long legacy of mutual respect and close diplomatic relations.

REPLY TO VARRIN VON COURSCA: Accepted, consider mutual relations established. We shall provide embassy facilities in Pretoria for the Wighton ambassador and diplomatic delegation. Likewise, we shall assign Ms. Hilda Retief as our Ambassador to Wighton.

While Prime Minister Strijdom's short term will probably prevent him from overseas visits, he is hoping that time enough can hopefully be found for brief visits to meet with the leaders of our closest neighbours - namely, Arctica, Franzharia, and Wighton. Due to Transvaal's direct involvement in Madagascar, Arctican foreign relations are presently his main priority in regards to regional African foreign issues.

A couple of months ago, Franzharia brought up this very issue regarding piracy. The Transvaler Seemag has been sent on numerous anti-piracy operations in the Indian Ocean as Franzharia had no navy of its own and was thus open prey for pirates.

However now with Wighton naval commitment along with the Transvaler Seemag committed to anti-piracy, it should not pose a serious threat to our nations in the future.

REPLY FROM VARRIN VON COURSCA: Wighton officially recognizes the diplomatic status of one, Ms. Hilda Retief, and will construct an embassy on Embassy Plaza.

Wighton, in an effort to keep with the building codes in Embassy Plaza, cannot build the embassy any higher than 50 feet tall. As a result, much of your embassy (along with many others) is underground. There are only three stories above ground, then an underground parking garage, then a few stories underground. Furthermore, each embassy is given its own access road, patrolled by the Wightstag Police Department. A portion of your access road is shown.

We hope the underground offices are warmer in clime than the above-ground offices! Fortunately for the new Ambassador, it is spring-time in Wighton.

Wighton will be announcing the identity of our ambassador to Transvaal soon.

Wighton is willing to work with Transvaal to continue to enforce the Law of the Sea and combat pirates in the Indian Ocean and approves of these previous actions.

STRIJDOM'S ADDRESS TO THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

In his first address to the National Assembly, Prime Minister H Strijdom thanked his well-wishers at home and overseas and told listeners that due to the short length of his term, he would obviously be limited in scope to what his government could achieve before federal elections.

“First and foremost will be the decolonization of Paraguay and a hopefully arrange a meeting in Arctica with Sovereign Vedran to discuss the long-term future and status of the Madagaskar Vrystaat.”

“However, we have permitted external issues to remove our attention from domestic issues. Our economy will be undergoing some minor adjustments near the end of the month and I will need to examine what sectors need the most investment for the coming month.”

“However until recently, the Federal Government directed most of its tax surplus into infrastructure – however the lackluster performance of our military in the last war has shown that its equipment is in dire need of technological upgrading. In fact, the entire nation has been lacking in this sector, as little attention was given to the infrastructure-technology ratio. Until a month or so ago, our only means of acquiring technology was through the byproducts of war. Therefore during the course of my term I shall follow through on Minister Hofmeyr’s recommendations to maintain investment in the technological sector.”

In terms of social improvements, Strijdom said that Transvaal was in need of additional police headquarters to build confidence in public safety. He said consideration would also be given to building a fourth church – the second such building allotted to the Dutch Reformed Church – as a means to dampen the outspoken Reverend Du Toit using churches as a pulpit for his own political ends.

OCTOBER 21, 2008

REPLY TO VARRIN VON COURSCA: This is excellent news. Transvaal is also pleased to see another IRON nation (along with Realm) in Africa and hope for strong ties between our two nations in the future. On account of our common IRON bond, our Government has granted full docking and refueling facilities to all Wightonian ships during peacetime and in war.

OCTOBER 22, 2008

REPLY FROM VARRIN VON COURSCA: "I am most delighted and pleased to see such a large, Feric presence in the world. Wighton is offering Transvaal full docking, refueling, and access to Wighton's many ports, harbors, and Wightstag International Airport. We appreciate this gesture of good faith and friendship and hope that this may be the beginning of a friendship between our two nations! I will be sending you an ambassador soon...we're trying to find the right person for the job. Not many Wightonians speak Afrikaans...but we do have a few qualified candidates and should have our ambassador to you tomorrow."

OCTOBER 26, 2008

RADIO-TRANSVAAL (PRETORIA): Transvaler Koloniaalkorps troops began converging on the city of Asuncion this afternoon to make the final preparations for their departure from Paraguay. The eastern portion of the territory still under nominal Transvaal control will be turned over officially to Agmar at midnight on October 27-28. Agmar annexed the western portion of the territory when the Boereguayan war ended on October 16.

Apart from a handful of government officials and the 250-strong Oorsese Korps providing security, all Transvaler military and civilian personal are expected to depart at some point today. The Prime Minister’s office said that there would be no official handover ceremony, that basically the last remaining would leave in Lugmag transport aircraft on Monday night around twenty minutes before midnight and “leave the door unlocked and the lights on, so to speak, for the Agmarian transports arriving around half an hour later”.

Prime Minister Strijdom spoke to reporters briefly about the war, saying that what “started as a noble attempt to bring civilisation, law and order to an unwanted region of the world ended in needless bloodshed.” He blamed the original Boereguayan governor, Colonel Annetjie van Matteus, for “incompetence and mismanagement of the colony” which provoked the FPLP rebellion. Before becoming prime minister, H Strijdom had replaced Ms. van Matteus twice as governor in Federal Republic territories.

Colonel van Matteus has since petitioned the Prime Minister for the return of her Namibian posting but Strijdom’s reply was “fat chance” and vowed to remove her from all involvement in the Federal Government “so long as I am the prime minister”.

OCTOBER 27, 2008

TRANSVALER DAAGLIKSE NUUS - TRANSVAAL DAILY NEWS

EXPANSION IN THE NAVY: With generous financial assistance from fellow IRON ally Cheeseton, the Transvaler Seemag completed construction on the navy’s second shipyard, located in Cape Town. Three new warships were then launched as the Seemag fleet increased to 23 ships with the addition of the SAS-22 Hendrik Strijdom (Type 209/1400 class submarine), SAS-23 Sapper (Valour class frigate), and SAS-24 Cheeseton (landing ship).

OUR NEW AIRLINE: The Federal Government has announced the inauguration of its new airline Afrikaanse Lugdiens (African Airlines). Five state-of-the-art Boeing 707-320 series jetliners have been purchased and international flights from Johannesburg’s Staatspresident Botha Airport are expected to commence shortly. The Federal Government is taking applications from interested foreign airports within operational range of 6,920 km for the establishment of regular airline service. Destinations outside the non-stop range of the jetliners may be established if a network of stop-overs can be established.

NEW POLITICAL PARTY: Annetjie van Matteus has resigned from the National Party and formed her own new movement called the Transvaler Martense Party. The new party aims to present itself as a ‘neo-fascist middle ground between the National Party and Verwoerd Front’ said Ms. van Matteus at her poorly attended press conference.

Claiming that she had been railroaded out of the NP by the new prime minister, van Matteus acknowledged that she had slim chance to win the Federal Election but hoped to gain enough electoral districts to become a swing party in the next government.

The normally reserved Prime Minister H Strijdom said that “to appeal to Martensists in Transvaal was a desperate move by a desperate women as most moderate Martensists voted National Party while the irreconcilable extremists opted for Reverend Du Toit and the white supremacists. If she can split the already cluttered and split far-right vote, then so much the better for us in the National Party”. Ms. van Matteus retorted that “Mr. Strijdom and Company are in for a rude awaking come voting day.”

ECONOMIC NEWS: Finance Minister Marthinus Hofmeyr reported that wages had increased by $5 per day as a severe, month-long drought in the rural agricultural regions came to an end as the seasonal rains returned last night.

OCTOBER 27 – EARTH DAY: Prime Minister H Strijdom proclaimed the first national Earth Day in Transvaal on October 27 after Greenpeace activists petitioned the government to create a national holiday to remind citizens to appreciate the environment.

While the new holiday was applauded by progressives as a welcome surprise, the Verwoerd Front criticized the Federal Government for “pandering to communists, hippies, druggies, and homosexuals”. Reverend E Du Toit said that if the Verwoerd Front is elected on December 1, that “Earth Day would be removed from the Transvaler calendar as we Christian Nationalists acknowledge that the Earth was given to us for our sole use.”

The outspoken Reverend has made prior comments about environmentalism being “a tool of Satanist deception”, claiming that “so-called global warning is simply the hellfire of Satan warming up for when Our Savior Christ returns to cast all the non-believers and National Party members into Hell”.

NOVEMBER 1, 2008

INDEPENDENCE OF LÜBECK & COMOROS ISLANDS

After consultation this morning, effective this day of November 1, 2008, the Federal Republic of Transvaal hereby proclaims the independence of the Kingdom of Lübeck & Comoros Islands from the Federal Republic.

On agreement by Staatspresident Botha of Transvaal and Franz Ferdinand of Lübeck, Transvaal has relinquished to Lübeck control over the Comoros Islands and granted full independence to that nation.

Should Lübeck relinquish its claim or no longer reside in-game on one of the four major islands which make up the Comoros archipelago, then control of the islands shall immediately revert back to Transvaal.

The Kingdom of Lübeck & Comoros Islands is considered under the military protection of the Federal Republic of Transvaal.

This proclaimation is signed by presidential decree on the orders of Staatspresident Botha of the Federal Republic of Transvaal at Pretoria on November 1, 2008

NOVEMBER 2, 2008

PROCLAMATION OF FRANZHARIAN FREE STATE

The Federal Republic of Transvaal hereby claims the territory of the former Republic of East Africa and establishes effective immediately the autonomous Franzharia Free State under the protection of the Federal Republic.

The status of the Franzharia Free State is equivalent to the Madagaskar Vrystaat – in that while not considered a full member of the Federal Republic, violation of Franzharia Free State territory is a violation of the Federal Republic.

The following individuals are named to the Free State Administraion Council:


 * Interim Chairperson of the State: Governor Edmund Thomasson
 * Liason to the Outer Territories: Gertrude Olber
 * Secretary of Day-to-Day Administrations: Franc Hendriks

Governor Edmund Thomasson, a native Franzharian, is by his position of governor appointed to the Executive Cabinet of the Federal Republic.

At some point once law and order have been restored and previous technology purchases intended for Transvaal have been fulfilled, free and democratic elections will be organized by the Federal Republic in anticipation of resumption of full independence.

Prussian (Deutschland), Saboria, Ustio, and Realm troops are welcome to remain in the Free State as foreign observers to guarantee that the Federal Republic is acting in the best of intentions

This proclamation is signed by presidential decree on the orders of Staatspresident Botha of the Federal Republic of Transvaal at Pretoria on November 2, 2008.

NOVEMBER 3, 2008

Transvaal will maintain deployment of 14,000 and 2,800 tanks for the occupation of the Free State. Foreign troops from Prussia (Deutschland), Ustio, Realm, and Saboria are welcome to stay for the next two weeks - however we would appreciate any remaining foreign troops in Franzharia East Africa to evacuate in the next two days.

Governor Thomasson will be meeting with Staatspresident Botha (the legal "head-of-state" of the Franzharian Free State) in Pretoria to discuss the election timetable. The prime goal of elections will be the establishment of political stability in an unstable nation.

''Staatspresident Botha spoke to the Transvaler media today about the future of Franzharia. This is a summarization of what he had to say:''

This is the timetime I have decreed for the return of democracy and independence to Franzharia:

On December 1st the Federal Republic of Transvaal will proclaim the establishment of the Republic of Franzharia with Governor Edmund Thomasson appointed as its first President for a one-month term in office. Effective that date the Franzharian Free State will pass out of existiance as more autonomy is granted by the Federal Republic during this transitional period.

National elections will be held for January 1 (voting starts on December 15) and Transvaal troops will remain in Franzharia until December 31st. On January 1st the newly-elected government shall be sworn in and at that point, full independence will be restored by Transvaal, our troops shall depart for home, and the Franzharians are on their own course.

However the Republic of Franzharia won't be permitting communist nor monarchist parties from registering or participating in the upcoming election – as these two political forces have been the primary cause of that nation’s frequent problems and instability since Franzharia’s founding. We are encouraging a republican government as the best means to establish a climate of political stability for Franzharia and all political parties participating in the election will need to receive prior approval from Pretoria.

Naturally we anticipate that Franzharia will fulfill all its financial commitments to Transvaal during this timetable.

MADAGASKAR VRYSTAAT TO END JANUARY 1, 2009

Staatspresident Botha decreed today that the Madagaskar Vrystaat shall be evacuated and terminated on December 31st and the territory turned over to Sovereign Vedran so that the entire island of Madagascar can be united under full Arctican control on January 1, 2009.

"With the timetable for democracy now laid out for Franzharia, I felt it was also a good time to re-examine the sittuatiom in Madagascar. With stability, law, and order now firmly entrenched in independent Arctica, it is now time to prepare for the remainder of the Vrystaat for re-unification with its motherland" explained the Staatspresident during his radio speech this afternoon.

"We wish to see the New Year being heralded as the dawn of a new era for both Franzharia and Arctica - and in turn Africa."

NOVEMBER 4, 2008

Marthinus Hofmeyr, Minister of Finance & Trade for Transvaal, confirmed this evening that the Franzharia Free State delivered a shipment of 50 units of technology to the Federal Republic.

"This is a clear sign that our occupation of Franzharia (East Africa) is going forward in a positive direction" said Minister Hofmeyr. "Despite some isolated pockets resistance remaining, by and large peace has once again returned to this troubled nation. Transvaal applaudes these first steps in Gov. Thomasson's administration."

NOVEMBER 13, 2008

Admiral Rudolf Kruger announced this evening that four new ships were launched from the Kaapstad Shipyard: 3 brand-new aircraft carriers and 1 additional battleship.

The three Clemenceau-class aircraft carriers, the SAS-25 Kaiser Martens, SAS-26 Jake Felan, and SAS-27 Striderwannabe, are named to recognise Transvaal's military past whilst a member of Nordreich and Norden Verein.

The new Iowa-class battleship SAS-21 Heft pays homage to Transvaal's current military legacy as a member of IRON.

“We already had two warships named after IRON members, so we decided that it was only appropriate that our latest capital ship was named after the President of IRON” explained Admiral Kruger.

NOVEMBER 14, 2008

PROCLAMATION OF FREE SEAS ZONE

In response to recent actions limiting the closure of international shipping lanes and oceans, the Federal Republic of Transvaal has countered with the proclamation of a Free Seas Zone around the Cape of Africa.

In the spirit of international cooperation and to promote trade, Transvaal will guarantee un-restricted civilian shipping access of all waters in the following zone:


 * South of 0° Equator
 * East of 0° Greenwich
 * West of 60° E
 * North of 60°S

“Unlike some menacing nations who are restricting trade and free movement by blocking off huge expanse of what we deem international waters in the Pacific, Transvaal is welcoming foreign container fleets to use the Cape of Africa as a safe alternative” explained Trade Minister Marthinus Hofmeyr.

“We are telling foreign shipping, come to Southern Africa, we have safe and secure ports at Cape Town, Maputo, and Walvis Bay for all your refueling and replenishment requirements. We do not believe in taxation the open seas - but where we shall see some benefit will be an increase in port calls in Transvaal.”

As part of its operational duties, the Transvaler Seemag will patrol this zone to reduce piracy and smuggling as well as carry out search and rescue missions for those ships in distress.

Foreign warships will also be permitted to traverse the Cape of Africa however such ships must radio Cape Town to alert the Seemag of their positions and all combat operations in the free seas zone are expressively forbidden.

NOVEMBER 15, 2008

Prime Minister H Strijdom of the Federal Republic of Transvaal reported to the National Assembly in Pretoria that the Franzharians have now completed payments of all owed technology materials in production for Transvaal. Therefore the Federal Republic regards all outstanding debts by Franzharia to Transvaal now cleared and any future economic agreements signed on a clean slate irrelated to the circumstances of the East African occupation.

The Prime Minister also stated that Franzharia's Indian Ocean territories, both occupied islands and those under protectorate rule, will be repatriated and returned to the Republic of Franzharia on December 1st.

In related news, “democratic elections in Franzharia are still on schedule to start one month from now on December 15” confirmed Transvaal’s ambassador JS Jonkers.

NOVEMBER 15-21, 2008

MEETING IN PRETORIA

Governor Edmund Thomasson was requested to meet with Prime Minister Strijdom in Pretoria at his earliest convenience.

Thomasson sat in his plane, nervously. It was his first trip to Pretoria since his appointment and he was sure this was about the resurgence of Ranather.

As the plane landed in Pretoria, the butterflies only grew. Thomasson didn't immediately get off when it landed. He first finished his wine. He looked out a window then headed for the exit. The hatch opened and he went down the ramp to meet those sent out to greet him....

The plane from East Africa had been redirected over to a ‘restricted’ hanger area of Johannesburg International Airport.

Waiting for the aircraft was a black Mercedes limousine with all the windows blacked out. On the hood was a small Transvaler flag with gold trimming, indicating to Thomasson that either the prime minister – or, god forbid – the Staatspresident himself was waiting inside the vehicle. Its rear passenger door was open. As Governor Thomasson disembarked, he was politely escorted over towards the limousine.

“Welcome to Transvaal, your Excellency!” greeted a saluting Transvaler Lugmag officer holding the door open. “Please, if you may...” he said as he motioned towards the vehicle, “then we can be on our way for the journey to Pretoria.”

Thomasson then recalled that Transvaal was one of the few nations not to have its capital city serviced by its own airport.

As the Franzharian governor climbed inside, the Transvaler prime minister Hendrik Strijdom was waiting for him. Once Thomasson had made himself comfortable in the luxurious leather seats, Strijdom leaned forward to shake his hand. “I am Strijdom” said the prime minister, somewhat abruptly.

"We have much to talk about regarding your homeland, so I felt time could be spent better if we talked while making our way back to Pretoria. I only just arrived here an hour ago from a flight in from Cape Town, I thought that you’d be better served if you enjoyed the luxury of this automobile instead of one of the regular cars from the government autopool."

Thomasson entered the vehicle and returned the handshake. "Of course, Prime Minister. Where should we begin?"

STRIJDOM: "Well, first off... what are your own intentions once we depart at the end of December? My government, assuming that I am re-elected which at this moment looks highly likely, will pledge to you full support should you choose to remain President of Franzharia. However if you ultimately plan on permitting a restoration of the monarchists, either directly or indirectly through your own actions, then frankly we are wasting our time in supporting you and will need to of course re-assess our regional priorities. Also, Transvaal is planning on constructing a foreign airbase in the next month or so. We would like to enquire if you would permit this to be built on Franzharian territory – in a small military base enclave leased to us near Mogadishu. Of course we would agree to reimbursement and pay $3,000,000 rand in rent every three months as long as the base is maintained. Both parties would be able to cancel the lease with one month notice."

THOMASSSON: "I am of course, fully committed to the Republic. Though I know Ranather with try to undermine it, depite what he says. As for my future Presidency, though I will most certainly be in the running, the decision of who gets elected is ultimately with the People."

STRIJDOM: "Of course, it is our intention to run a clean election. We wanted to make sure that you were also on the same page in that regards. However we shall be channelling resources such as access to our shortwave radio broadcasting to bolster your campaign. Let me tell you, our concern is not so much with the Emperor himself, we actually have no qualms with him. Our issue is with the rest of the monarchy and its corrupt and oppulent trappings."

THOMASSSON: "The airbase I have no issues with whatsoever."

STRIJDOM: "This is excellent news. Good. We shall probably require an extra-territorial zone on the coast around two-by-three miles. We want the base to be compact so as not to be an interferance with the future Franzharian government and people. If we can access it from the sea, then we can essentially cut ourselves off from the rest of Franzharia. Anyways, the details can be finalised in the next week or so. Our military authorites shall survey some locations and discuss them with you for your approval. Also, one little thing..." Strijdom handed a Transvaler passport to Thomasson. "On the authority of the Staatspresident himself, we have granted you dual citizenship with Transvaal. Apart from some rather strange, creepy fellow with a German accent who resides in a private apartment at our casino resort, you are the only other foreigner right now with dual citizenship with the Federal Republic. Just in case something happens in the future and you are unable to remain in Franzharia, we would be welcome to provide you with asylum as one of our citizens. Also, since you are a member of the Federal Government's executive cabinet, you need to have Transvaler citizenship to be a member of our government. If the Imperial family did try to return, what would be your contingency plans?"

THOMASSSON: "I suppose the best course of action is never a simple one, especially in the case of how the old Empire fell. Though Ranather certainly has a great deal of experience, I would have to be frank with him about our committment to a Republican future. That, and I have heard....rumors about the men he associates himself with, and I'm certain we do not want any influences that might....destabilize our new ways. As for the dual citizenship, I am most honoured and humbled by it, and of course, given my aforementioned position, accept it."

STRIJDOM: "How much support do you believe he still has in Franzharia - both amongst the population in general and inside the Free State administration? How much civilian resistance is your government encountering?"

THOMASSON: "A decent chunk of the population, especially in the Northern and Island territories, roughly 35 - 37 percent, based on surveys and raw estimation, still profess support for him. Around half of that number believe he should have at the very least, some sort of highly restrained and watched over advisory role. Something I am deadset against, which has raised a decent amount of ire. My own approval rating sits roughly at 49 percent. Within the Administration itself, amongst the 'higher-ups', there is little sentiment either way. Though the lower clerks, secretaries, assistants and such have a much greater amount of support for the Old Empire. Thankfully, resistance on the ground has been limited to nasty letters to the local Media, and the occasional Streetcorner ranter or two."

STRIJDOM: "Fair enough. I'm pragmatic enough to realise that we'd have some opposition to abolishing the monarchy. Is there anything we can do in the next couple of weeks before the establishment of the Republic of Franzharia that we can do? We hope to be in a position to sign a foreign base treaty (OOC: buy the foreign airbase wonder) by the end of the month if our finances remain as strong as they do. Also, some in our government are suggesting that we encourage the repatriation of the Franzharian Afrikaners from Transvaal back to Franzharia. That might help buttress your support as you'd have a loyal base to draw both voters and potential government officials."

THOMASSON: "So long as we keep the subtle and not so subtle pressure, especially utilizing the Media, things will be fine in the long run. As far as the repatriation plan, I personally have no issues, I might run into some resistance from the Nordist elements of my Government, but I'm sure it can be pushed through as more beneficial than not."

STRIJDOM: "Obviously the best course of action is to gain unpressured popular support to undermine the royalist base. Has your Free State Government had any direct contact with Ranathar or the monarchists? Perhaps some unofficial contacts should be established either through the Free State administration through you or through the Federal Republic. Such contact might permit us to gauge Ranathar's intentions - but it would have to be at the highest levels so as to prevent his faction from infiltrating the Free State. I'll be frank here: we hold nothing personal against him, perhaps he can even be won over? It may be something to explore."

THOMASSON: "Other than the occasional letter, no. Convincing a deposed man to support us could be hard, but we could certainly try."

STRIJDOM: "Keep us informed if you have any contact. Are there any other concerns which we need to be made aware of? "

THOMASSON: "Naturally. Only this is concernable at the moment." Thomasson hands Strijdom a piece of paper. "This outlines my proposed plan for the structure of the Republic on the Federal level. YOu and your Government are free to review it at your leisure."

Strijdom glanced through the document.

STRIJDOM: "From what I can see, this looks most satisfactory. It has my approval. Well, if that is that, then I believe our meeting here is done. Since the same day the Free State becomes a Republic is also the same day of our elections, it will prove difficult to have a government official on hand in Franzharia for the official ceremony. However I will make sure there is a representitive, perhaps from our military, from the Federal Republic. I wish you godspeed on your journey home."

THOMASON: "I am quite glad that this meeting was fruitful. Naturally, I will be in touch. To a brighter future for the both of us, and my wishes for your success in the elections, Mr. Strijdom."

NOVEMBER 17, 2008

Prime Minister H Strijdom has confirmed that if he wins the December 1st federal election, he will officially withdraw Transvaal from the Pan-African Coalition.

Transvaal has not been happy with development of the organisation nor its structure. We feel that the recent demise of BlackKnight and its arbitrary re-assignment of its territory to a distant non-African power was ill-thought. It seems that one of the core foundations of the PAC was to administer vacated territory until a sutible new local regieme could be found - however that has not been the case as we've seen BlackKnight subdivided between existing border states or outright colonised by foreigners in the case of Naboo.

Our Federal Republic would be better off to strengthen our ties with our close neighbours, such as Franzharia, Lubeck, and Wighton to maintain and preserve our regional strength and security while at the same time withdraw into a more diplomatically isolated but unconstrained political stance on a global level.

We have always been reluctant to sign formal defense treaties with other nations and we are beginning to view the PAC as such. We shall not allow our nation to be dragged into wars not of our own starting or direct concern.

It is unknown whether Transvaal will demand the return of Southern Angola prior to departure - a territory which Transvaal held ample SOI claim over but peacefully relinquished to the PAC in the hopes a local ruler could be found. As of present, Angola has been vacant of direct local rule since last Spring.

NOVEMBER 19, 2008

The Federal Republic of Transvaal has announced the revision of its Free Seas Policy which affects the oceans surrounding the Cape of Africa.

"After further consideration, we have decided to apply a policy of 'reciprocal mutual regard' towards all shipping traffic around the Cape of Africa. Whatever your policy is towards us will be the same policy we apply to your civilian and military shipping. You tax us, we'll tax you the same rate. You exclude our traffic, we do the same. You give us freedom of your territorial water, we'll do the same. Simple as that." stated Admiral Rudolf Kruger.

The admiral then stated off record that the policy - called the Cape of Africa Declaration - was revised after discussion with the Federal Government and their disapproval of various exclusions zones which have been applied in the Pacific Ocean.

The area affected entails:


 * South of 0° Equator
 * East of 0° Greenwich
 * West of 60° E
 * North of 60°S

NOVEMBER 21, 2008

RANATHAR'S VISIT TO PRETORIA

Several days after the festivities in Jericho, Ranather Rukia's personal aircraft made its way south. After several hours the small Cessna landed in Johannesburg Airport.

This was the first time since the Nationalist Conference that he had set on Transvaler soil, and his first return to Africa since the events of the past month. Naturally he was slightly nervous, but thrilled to finally be able to hash things out with Transvaal.

Not wasting any time, the Governor exited the craft to whomever had been sent to greet him.

Unlike Governor Thomasson, who was met at Johannesburg Airport by the prime minister himself, Ranather Rukia would make the one-hour drive along the Kaiser Martens Highway himself in the limousine dispatched for him. The drive was uneventful and terminated at Government House, where he was ushered politely but briskly into the private office of Staatspresident Botha. Sitting alongside next to Ranathar, across from Botha's desk, was the Transvaler prime minister, Hendrik Strijdom.

The staatspresident began the discussion:

BOTHA: "Greetings Governor Ranathar Rukia, we have requested this meeting to find out what your intentions shall be once the Republic of Franzharia is proclaimed in a few weeks."

RANATHAR: "Staatspresident. When I was deposed, I very nearly lost my life for an ideal that was clearly no longer welcome. My people wanted more. They trusted Jessica Haines. She promised them a Republic. She gave them terror. If my people truly want this Republic, then who am I to stand in the way? I fully intend to cooperate in anyway the Republic asks me to, the Empire is no more."

BOTHA: "Jessica Haines was a mistake. Not only did your people err in supporting her, but so too did we and did not realise our folly until when she turned against us."

"As you know, our nation has invested a lot of money into Franzharian technology productions - so understandably we need to protect our investments. Ultimately Transvaal needs to have stable neighbours and regional allies, and Franzharia along with the Arcticans holds a special place in our foreign policy. We want to see Franzharia a strong and stable power in East Africa, just as we have become in Southern Africa. But as you know, Franzharia has been plagued by frequent government instability - and excuse me for saying this, but part of that instability has been cause by your supporters."

"This Thomasson chap seems genuine and sincere, a boon to your people, that is why we chose him during this transition period. If the monarchy is dead, as you say it is, then perhaps you need to align yourself with him? We could quite well see Franzharia evolve where an strong President-Prime Minister system like we have here as evolved, where you become head-of-state and rule on an international level and Thomasson governs domestically as prime minister. Think about it."

"Anyways, once the Republic of Franzharia is official, we shall not... we cannot... restrict your return to your homeland."

"One thing I must ask: what are your feelings about our future airbase in Mogadishu?"

RANATHAR: "I know when my failures are my own. I made poor choices, and take full responsibility for it. Thomasson and I have yet to meet face to face and will likely do so after the elections in January. I wouldn't want to be an unnecessary burden during the transitional period, and with my wife still recovering from labor, and a daughter just now ready to grow, I will focus on my family in Novorograd for the time being. Naturally once the Republic is steady and such, I will have to talk with Thomasson about integrating the Commonwealth back into Franzharia. I don't know much about the Airbase agreement yet, but I have little issue with it."

The Staatspresident leaned back in his plush chair. "We believe it would be beneficial for all parties that you and Thomasson meet somewhere before the elections. Even though you may not be involved in the elections, so long as you are alive you will always be a presence in Franzharian affairs. We believe that Thomasson specifically and the voters in general need to see concrete example of your interaction with the new Republic to give it some sense of stability. As long as you remain on the sidelines, there will always be this expectant air lingering over the Republic that you represent an alternate force in Franzharia."

Strijdom then timely interjected "I am going to be frank here: at some point we fully expect that you will attempt some sort of political comeback. We simply hope that it does not clash with Thomasson and the interests of the new Republic - otherwise everyone will find themselves back at square one. And who suffers the most? Your common people."

Once Strijdom had finished, Botha added, almost as an afterthought "But that is just our opinion and we'll leave it in Thomasson's and your hands to set-up a meeting". The two Transvaler leaders then waited for Ranathar's response.

RANATHAR: "I would be remiss if I said I had zero political aspirations, but it will be long thought and planned before that were to happen. There are many people who share the view that I cannot remain on the sidelines for long. I understand this. However, there are a good number more who feel that if I re-enter the scene too soon, it could de-stabilize what Thomasson has built. A 'Big Brother' over his shoulder if you will. Many would expect me to do just this, clash with any precedents he sets forth. That I would work to undo the Republic. You and I both know Franzharia likely cannot survive another upheaval. Thomasson and I have many things to discuss, as you can see. It will happen, in due time. Though I must admit, the pressure is squarely on me to assuage the fears of those who see me as the usurpary element."

Strijdom replied: "Ja, you could not have said it better. That has been our concern exactly..."

RANATHAR: "I realize at the same time that I simply cannot please everyone, and that words are useless if not followed by action. There will always be those who will always cast a dark eye on me, and rather than try to please them, perhaps it will simply be better, through my actions from here on out, to not give them a reason to complain."

Staatspresident Botha seemed more relaxed. "Well, after hearing your answers my concerns are now more rested. Would you be able to give us and Thomasson your word that any future political activity by you would be through legitimate means? Would you be willing to make such a public declaration? We could arrange through Radio-Transvaal to broadcast such a message to your people."

Strijdom however looked on, with a still yet unconvinced expression, not sure whether Ranathar could be fully trusted. Then a thought crossed his mind and he spoke sternly to Ranathar: "You know, of course, that Governor Thomasson is a dual citizen of both our nations. There are but one-handful of dual-Transvaler citizens, and those so worthy our government which has bestowed such honours would be most dearly troubled should any misfortunate fall on them."

Before he could respond to Botha, Ranather shot a look at Strijdom. This was clearly not a move he had expected. Returning to Botha, "I am more than willing to make such a statement."

BOTHA: Excellent, then we shall make the necessary arrangements to broadcast such a message.

Strijdom's reaction was expressionless towards Ranathar - but he appeared to savour the Franzharian's sudden, startled manner. He then quietly, but firmly said "I am glad that you have come to a realisation that we do mean business."

The prime minister then stood up and excused himself, telling the Staatspresident that he had some other pressing concerns that required his immediate attention. Strijdom held out his hand to Ranathar. "As prime minister of this federal republic, I am relieved to know that our economic interests in Franzharia are well protected and secure."

Strijdom's accent threw Ranathar off just enough that he could not tell if his words were a compliment - or a threat.

Working back into his cool demeanor Ranather returned the handshake, as he and Strijdom's eyes met for only a moment, with the ever so slightest glarity about it.

"A pleasure, to be sure."

Turning back to the Staatspresident,

"I will be ready."

After Strijdom had departed, Botha continued on in a sort of fatherly monologue.

"It seems that we all have an understanding. There is no reason that you, as, how shall I put it... a political individual... cannot be integrated into the new Franzharia. If anything, you working alongside Thomasson could both provide a unifying force for peace and prosperity in your country."

"And you can rest assured that Transvaal will not turn our backs on the plight of the Franzharian people should tragedy strike them."

"I am glad we had this meeting, your nation has a lot of divisions to heal but I believe it can be accomplished. Transvaal here has gone through just as dire trials and tribulations as Franzharia is going through - it is often the byproduct of political and social maturation of small and young nations."

Botha gently stood up, indicating the meeting was now over, and showed Ranathar to the exit of his office.

"From myself and my wife, I wish you and your family the very best. You are welcome here anytime."

As Ranathar walked out of the office, Botha peered from his doorway. "Remember, for the sake of your people... work with Thomasson, he is a smart man... an asset to be harnessed and not an enemy to be made."

"Wise advice my friend, thank you."

NOVEMBER 23, 2008

TRANSVAAL LEAVES FRANZHARIA

In response to the Silver Revolution, an angered Prime Minister Hendrik Strijdom spoke from the steps of Government House in an impromptu speech which was also broadcast on state television. His face flushed, he launched vehemently into his diatribe;

“To put it bluntly, we were stabbed in the back by the former Emperor Ranathar, a vile snake who less than a day ago spoke with the Staatspresident and myself at this very location and assured us that he would work peacefully in the new Franzharia.”

“I will not sacrifice Transvaler blood over a chronically instable region of Africa, therefore our forces will be departing Franzharia as soon as possible. The members of the Free State administration will also be evacuated along with us, if they wish to depart for their safety.”

Strijdom then took a drink of water and cleared his throat before continuing.

“Effectively immediately, the Transvaler Martense Party is declared illegal and all its members and supporters deemed a security hazard to this nation. Their leader Annetjie van Matteus was arrested and placed under protective custody less than an hour ago and shall remain as such until the Staatspresident and myself see fit. At last count, 2811 citizens, all suspected Martenists, have been identified for arrest and interrogation so we can gauge their intentions.”

“We went with the best of intentions to Franzharia, invested in their economy to get themselves back on their feet, and tried to help them build a future without bloodshed and anarchy. They were blind, not seeing how a similar transformation in Arctica has helped that nation on the road to recovery. However for all our troubles, we were stabbed in the back by those we felt we could trust - so we now consign them to their own desired fate. They will have to come crawling back on their hands and knees groveling if we are ever to lift a finger for them again.”

And then Strijdom did something, as an afterthought, which had not been done by a government official in almost a year, he gave the fascist salute to the crowd assembled in front of him before descending from the stage.

NOVEMBER 25, 2008

The Federal Republic of Transvaal announced the establishment of diplomatic relations in the past 24 hours with with Slovetzia and Neu Osea.

The Ministry of Finance has also forwarded $3,000,000 rand payment to Neu Osea after signing their first technology production agreement. Despite recent events in Franzharia, the Ministry of Finance also forwarded $3,000,000 rand to the new regime in the hopes that economic agreements can be maintained while diplomatic relations remain in limbo.

"Business is business, and if the Franzharians are willing to continue to deliver their end of the bargain, then I see no reason why we cannot maintain already established economic ties between both nations. If anything, it might help cool the rhetoric" said Finance Minister M Hofmeyr, who then admitted he was taking a risk because he had no guarantee that the Transvaler funds would simply be seized by the new imperial regime.

Currently the Federal Republic has maintain diplomatic relations with the "Franzharian state" while not yet giving formal recogition of the imperial regime. "We refuse to refer to Franzharia by their so-called term 'afrikareich' as we find this term politically offensive to our Afrikaans ears, which due to linguistic semantics particularly implies a direct threat to our own sovereignty" explained Foreign Minister P Stellenbosch.

RESPONSE BY SITHIS OF REALM: "Imperial Realm is not surprised that Transvaal would fund Neu Osea, considering the comments the latter has made in regards to the land now rightfully ruled by Emperor Ranather. It seems as though the Afrikaners are hesitant to step out of their role as the instigator of instability in the region. Not only did they do so through imposing a government unpopular with the East African people, they now seek to further undermine Emperor Ranather's authority by financing a nation who seeks to seize the land now in his possession."

RESPONSE BY RANATHAR OF FRANZHARIA: "Sadly, I must agree with my counterparts from Imperial Realm. The rest of us have moved on, yet some elements in Transvaal seem to want to continue on with the petty saber-rattling. As far as Neu Osea goes, they lost any claim they had to this land long ago. Perhaps they should concentate on building their future, not worrying about the past."

RESPONSE BY JUSTINIAN OF SLAVORUSSIA: This same arguement could have been used against you and your allies. Transvaal has always been fairly stable country. Transvaal is dedicated to peace, which is more than we can say for many nations around the world. Although our two countries may not always agree, Slavorussia holds the country, people and government of Transvaal in the highest regard.

REPLY TO SITHIS OF REALM: Transvaal is neutral as to whom it does business with. We know very little of Neu Osea or their politics (and frankly, don't care) but they are willing to sell us technology, so we are willing to buy from them.

While we have some serious political issues regarding Franzharia and the aftermath of the Silver revolution, we still are willing to put aside those political differences in the economic field and still do business with them. Likewise we trade with communist nations for resources even though our anti-communism is well-known.

In other words, pragmatism runs our ecomonic ties.

As for our "instigation of instability" that is simply a blatent falsehood!

- Where have we been instigators? When we willingly relinquished our SOI claim over Angola? - Where we supported and fortified Arctica's claim over Madagascar by allowing them to utilise our own extensive SOI over Madagascar to unite the island under their rule? - Where we relinquished our control over the Comoros Islands so that Lübeck could find somewhere to call home? - Where we stepped in to assist the Arcticans in maintaining order and control over their island in the aftermath of in-game war?

These are all examples of our peaceful relations with our neighbours. Franzharia would have been treated no different than how we have worked amicably with the Arcticans. As the world can clearly see, we have not interfered in Arctican relations and they have rebuilt themselves.

Once we terminate the Madagaskar Vrystaat in the next month and see Madagascar re-united under sovereign Arctican rule, then the world will realise at that moment that they misjduged us in regards to Franzharia. We predict that the so-called "afrika reich" won't last and East Africa will once again be plagued by warfare and instability and turmoil. Mark our words! When Ranathar is run out of his country yet again due to his incompetent rule and megalomania, we shall have the last laugh.

REPLY BY SITHIS OF REALM: It is that sort of indiscriminate economic free handedness that leads nations into troubled waters. If the success of the East Africa Company has proven anything, it's that choosing who your business clients are determine how secure your investments will be. What will happen should Transvaal engage in a technology deal with a nation that is at war with another? Not only is it a problem for Transvaal, it is a problem for Transvaal's allies who will have been dragged into a conflict due to the South Africans' foolishness. The Empire will have the last laugh when Transvaal dies alone and friendless due to their reckless economic policy.

NOVEMBER 23-29, 2008

KAISER MARTENS MEETS WITH BOTHA

On arrival at the border post, the Nordlanders are met by a squad of Krygsmagte troops. Their commanding officer, a colonel approached the tanks and saluted.

"I am Colonel de Beers, I have been ordered by the highest authorities to escort you and your group to the station in town. There waiting for you is a private train to take you to Pretoria. Your tanks will remain with us, we shall arrange to have them transported. Come, please hurry!"

"Greetings. Colonel, may I ask what the hurry is?" Martens spoke, adjusting his regular Reichskaiser cap and the neck of his uniform, his extremely oversized handgun hanging from his belt on one side, a smaller throwaxe on the other one. With him, comes his personal guard, a very tall, very pale man who most wouldn't dare look in the eye.

Zamoyski stood straightening his white naval uniform, the desert was not good for keeping it clean and pressed.

He fiddled with the hilt a bit and followed quickly in tow with Martens.

"Indeed, rushing like this is scuffing my newly shined shoes."

The colonel was taken aback. Confused.

"Well, I suppose we're not really in a hurry... but I was instructed to make sure that we made contact with you and got you connected to suitable transportation as soon as possible."

The colonel looked at the tanks. He was still digesting the fact that the visitors had made their way from the north by road. "Those will have to be sent down the coast by ship from here, our navy will make the necessary arrangements."

He raises an eyebrow. The Colonel is sure acting funny. He smiles, anyway.

"Alright. Lets go. Thank you."

He still thought the situation was a little fishy. Or maybe it was just that Martens was just used to driving and walking a lot on his very own during the years in which he had been "dead". Either way they proceed, and move, and enter the train.

Martens and company are shown to the middle passenger car of a three-car train, the two cars adjacent in front and behind occupied by the troops which had met them at the border. Around five minutes later, a whistle was heard and the steam locomotive began to chug, jerking the train into movement.

Colonel de Beers entered the compartment and explained that the journey would take them down the coast to Maputo, with a brief stop for lunch while locomotives were changed before continuing on to Pretoria. He then exited the car and left his guests alone for most of the trip, occassionally checking in on them every couple of hours.

Later in the day the train pulled into Maputo Station. Unlike the earlier welcome the Nordlanders had received, with the city fetted in Deutschland flags, the reception this time was cold and indifferent.

The locomotive was refueled with water and coal and Colonel de Beers entered the passenger carriage to announce that a one hour break would be taken in Maputo. He escorted Martens and entourage to a private dining area in the bustling station so that everyone could partake in some lunch.

"We should be arriving in Pretoria in around two to three hours" the colonel said to Martens from across the table. The meal was plain but hearty, the Colonel speaking between breaks in his soup. "You will be taken immediately to Government House and meet with the Staatspresident and Prime Minister. I believe the military commander-in-chief and admiral of the fleet will also be attending, as I heard something on the radio about Marshal Cruywagen making a special trip straight from Madagaskar."

Martens then spied one of the engineers reading the latest afternoon daily, and the headlines from the World News section Daaglikse Nuus caught his eye: "BOTHA TURNS DOWN VISIT INVITATION TO SLOVETZIA; AMBASSADORS EXCHANGED" and "OSEAN MAKES OFFER OF TECH DEAL"

Martens remained silent for most of the journey, only speaking when he must answer. For the most part, his eyes drifted off to look through the window at the terrain passing by. He simply longed to return to Nordland, to much more appropiate, colder weather.

"Hm...last time I saw Botha...we were in Übersteinia...that was long ago...this was a good meal, thank you."

He crosses one leg over the other and leans back, waiting to arrive.

The train finally pulled into the central station in Pretoria. Waiting by the platform was Marshal Paul Cruywagen and Admiral Rudolf Kruger, the two highest ranking officers in the Federal Republic. As Martens climbed off the train, the admiral gave a brief salute while Cruywagen stood there stiffly.

Cruywagen shot a sideways glace at Kruger and then stepped foward to greet Martens.

"Greetings, welcome". Cruywagen then motioned towards the exit at the end of the platform and walked beside Martens.

After a moment of silence, Cruywagen spoke in his dry, deep and gravely voice. "You arrive coincidently on a rather important and intiguing date. Today is the one-year anniversary of Transvaal leaving the Sons of Muspel and joining IRON..."

Cruywagen paused for effect before finishing his sentence. "...in other words, the marking of our complete break with our Nordlandic heritage, so to speak." The tone in his voice indicated that he agreed with the end of Transvaal's involvement in Maroon and Norden affairs.

The Marshal then waited for Martens' reaction to his meant-to-be-intentionally stinging words.

"You may break with your heritage...but heritage won't break with you. Our scientists would agree wholeheartedly..."

Martens returns the salute, very martially.

"Cruywagen will remain Cruywagen no matter how much you attempt to change this. However I recognize the individual's potential to bend one's destiny. And I respect it...let us go."

Every word was spoken calmly, and calm as well was his face, almost in an unnerving, disturbing fashion.

The Marshal remained expressionless but acknowledged to himself that Martens still had that unique, uncanny ability to chose his words - few but appropriate and to the point.

"Here we are, these limousines will take us to Government House."

After a short drive, the party arrived at the power and nerve centre of the Federal Republic - and one of the most important and influential buildings on the entire continent. As they walked up the stairs into the main foyer, Cruywagen made a call on his cellphone, simply uttering "Ja, hulle is hier" and hanging up.

Martens and his group were ushered into a conference room, and not Staatspresident Botha's personal office from what Martens recall in his previous meetings. Waiting for them was the Staatspresident seated at the head of the table, with Prime Minister Strijdom on his right. Marshal Cruywagen and Admiral Kruger took their places and Martens was offered the seat directly opposite Botha.

"Greetings old friend, it has been a very long time" said Botha, as he stood up to welcome the Nordlander. He walked over to Martens and shook his hand, and then hugged him. "Welcome, welcome, please sit down." As Botha returned to his chair, it stuck Martens that the Staatspresident had aged somewhat since their last meeting.

Botha began: "I believe you have met Marshal Cruywagen, commander-in-chief of our military ground forces; this is Admiral Kruger, commander of our Navy, and this is Prime Minister Hendrik Strijdom."

Strijdom nodded and said "Pleased to meet you, I have heard much about you from the Staatspresident". Strijdom's accent caught Martens' ear, it was a slightly different accent than that heard by most Afrikaners in Transvaal. It sounded vaguely like... like... yes, a Boerstaat accent, one he had not heard in quite a long time.

"So my friend... why do you wish to meet with us?" questioned Botha.

Martens hugged the now old man with some energy, and patted his back a few times. He smiled.

"I have missed everyone. It is good to be back."

Perhaps it would be striking to them all that Martens still appeared to be as young as when he had taken power, many decades ago. After that, he sits down and removes his cap, placing it on the table, Zamoyski always following along.

"Nice to meet you all, Gentlemen. This here is Zamoyski, my second in command."

He sighs, relaxing and then finally starting,

"I have heard that many Martensists, who didn't actually come along with me, were jailed alongside with the leader of the Martensist Party. I have also heard that apparently my little... operation damaged your interests. I wished to see what can be done for the Martensists, and what we may be able to do to make up for the trouble that we have caused you. Even though you are Neutral always, we wish to mantain only the best of relations, and because of this, we're ready to pay for anything we may have broken, so to speak."

“The Franzharian revolution caught us by surprise for three reasons. First off, we had just met face to face with Ranathar and we were given the impression, from his firm assurances to us, that he would work within the legal framework which we had painstakingly constructed and not contemplate a political return in the immediate future.”

“Second of all, because we felt that we had a mutual understanding with you – in that we never suspected that we would ever be on the receiving end of arbitrary events initiated by Nordland.”

“Third of all, we were led to believe that we had the general support of the international community. Our invasion of Franzharia was met with widespread support, we established the basis of a democratic government – arguably more democratic that our own – so that the international powers would see and understand that our involvement in Franzharia was sincere and transparent. Never for one second did we ever desire imperialistic aims over Franzharia. Trust me when I say that if we had ever wanted Somalia, we had ample opportunity to make it ours long before Franzharia was even a nation. Did we ever exploit that opportunity? No.”

“So you can understand if we feel thrice slighted – or should I say, stabbed in the back…isn’t that what you Germans said one time, no?”

Botha paused, slipped from his water, before continuing.

“The only damage done to us is that our pride has been hurt. A boer does not forgive very lightly the wrongs commited to him and it will take time for our nation to trust outsiders as openly as we did in the past. Perhaps that was our failing – that we opened up too quickly. I believe you will see a much more cautious… and sadly, suspicious, Transvaal during the course of the next few months.”

Martens replied: "Nordland...well. Nordland did not do this. Nordland was not aware of this. I and Ranather semi-spontaneously organized this. The responsability for this lies solely on my shoulders and Ranather's, not Nordland. One can say that I even endangered Nordland by doing this, so I would like to be single handedly blamed for this if possible. After all, I was dead to the world. Aside from this, I am not telling you that it would be nice if you could pretend that things are alright...I am asking, quite concretely, if you would accept anything from me and or Nordland to...somewhat make up for the harm. In the one hand I have my apologies to offer you. In the other hand, I have technologies, currency, goods. I wish to be allowed to help your nation to make up for what I have done. There's got to be SOMETHING I can do for you all."

The Staatspresident then changed directions in the discussion. “Now... regarding Annetjie van Matteus...” Botha looked towards the prime minister; it was his cue now to speak.

Hendrik Strijdom straightened himself up in his chair. The man was one of the most dour, hard Afrikaners which Martens had met and spent no time on niceties.

“I do not believe you truly understand the situation with Van Matteus and that you are misinformed as to her intentions. Oh… she may be able to charm those around her with her striking beauty, but underneath her Aryan good looks is a monster.”

Strijdom changed the tone of his voice, from being forceful and stressing his points to a reserved quiet manner:

“Do you know who is the father of her daughter? None other than the deceased Uys Rooyan de Ruijters. Yes, the white supremacist – or former, I should say. Isn’t it strange that when Van Matteus was stationed in Boereguay, that De Ruijters came out of hiding and made an appearance there? Coincidence?”

“I think not. After I replaced Van Matteus as governor of Transvaler Suid-Amerika, when we captured De Ruijters he confessed that Van Matteus had been sheltering him, that she had arranged for his commando militants to gain passage to the territory.”

“Isn’t it strange that the Verwoerd Front, de Ruijters’ old party, has nosedived in support while Van Matteus has perhaps the strongest electoral support in her career?”

Strijdom then cracked a smile. “Let me put it this way: is she someone you wish your movement to be associated with – or can afford to be associated with?”

Martens the answered "Hmm... I was not aware of that situation...."

Silence...

"Is there any chance that I could speak to her privately? I feel that if she is...indeed the enemy, I should be able to help out. I am sure that some of her followers are not, in fact, agreeing with Racialism as many were probably tricked. I would like to have a chance to separate the good from the bad. Perhaps I can convince her that I truly side with her in order to be able to obtain the full truth. I think it'd be worth a shot."

Botha replied: “The fact that you of all people had the decency to make the long journey here to apologise to us, either on behalf of Nordland or as an individual...” Botha looked around at the rest of his colleagues sitting around the table, each nodded back “...that we consider this particular matter now closed. Besides we were able to secure that last of our tech production owed to us before the revolution broke out.”

“Now as for Van Matteus... I suppose that we could arrange some sort of a meeting - but not privately.”

Strijdom then interjected in: “We are in the twilight last days of the diehard martense in Transvaal, their numbers are dwindling. Less than thirty percent of our people were even around when we were Nordland. Besides the National Party was in power during the Martenist reign over our nation, if anything we are the keepers of the martenist legacy in Transvaal – not Van Matteus and her hangers-on. As you know full well, times have changed, a year is a long time, and Transvaal has had to adapt to the realities of a new world or perish.”

Martens smiled, and nodded.

"Remember. I am in your debt now. When a favor is needed, no matter what it is, I will be there. Simply call me. Hmmm... was she jailed alone or were there others jailed? I would like to speak with her either way... just to give it a shot..."

BOTHA: "She is being held in solitary at our Interior Ministry."

"Do you have any other concerns or questions for us? Otherwise we shall make arrangements for you to speak with Van Matteus."

MARTENS: "I meant. Did you jail only her as part of the operation, or did you jail other suspects? And, sure lets make them arrangements."

STRIJDOM: "Ah. No, we are only holding her right now in Pretoria. Not just for her involvement in the Martense Party but for other reasons as well."

"The vast majority we arrested have since been released after brief questioning. There might have been may a dozen direhards we deemed 'hostile' and a severe security risk. They have probably been sent off to one of the labour camps in Mozambique, I'll find out from our interior minister for sure of their whereabouts."



Martens and Zamoyski are led across the street to Transvaal’s Ministry of Interior complex, a rather non-descript three-story building. They are met by Minister Boersma, who takes them downstairs… underground... into what is apparently the interrogation and holdings cells.

“You must excuse her appearance, as we believe her to be a definite flight risk” the minister said as he held open the cell door. “You have ten minutes and then I shall return. Of course we are monitoring everything via audio and video.”

The two visitors entered the featureless cell, which was brightly lit and obviously not the one which was her regular lock-up. Annetjie van Matteus was in the room, her arms, legs, and body chained down to a heavy metal chair positioned in the centre of the room and attached to the cement floor.

She looked up slowly, with an expression of obvious sleep deprivation.

Martens smiled fondly, as the dungeons and torture rooms reminded him of his home. A familiar sight. He places his cap nearby and nods. "Alright, I was on the impression that this had been a large scale issue. But around a dozen is a different situation...now..."

He steps forwards, and folds his arms behind his back.

"Lady Van Matteus."

Red eyes shift to meet hers.

Her eyes focused on the figure standing in front of her, they widened in shock once she made recognition.

“Oh my god, what are you doing here? I’ve done nothing to harm you!”

He pulled out another chair, and sat down in front of her, crossing one leg over the other, smiling lightly.

"Your case has sparked my interest. I would like to obtain more information in order to be able to have a proper opinion on the matter, Lady. That is all. Will you cooperate with me?"

Zamoyski stood in the corner of the cell, leaning against the wall with one leg up. He smoked a cigarette and fiddled with the hilt of the sword. Something about the situation made him uneasy. He never liked being monitored...but could it be more?

Van Matteus spoke softly, in an almost defeated tone: "Of course..."

"Alright then. What have you done to be here? How did you end up in here? Which are the accusations against you? That is what I must first know."

Before Van Matteus could answer Martens, Interior Minister burst into the interrogation room. He had a worried expression. He spoke to Martens:

"Excuse me for interupting, but we have a dire situation that needs your immediate attention. It seems that your embassy and that of the Franzharians has been hit with a sudden wave of visa applications this morning. By our reckoning, there are 1,341 of our citizens asking for resettlement to Nordland or Franzharia. I would assume those demanding to go to Franzharia are those who we resettled here prior to Ranathar moving his empire to Somalia. Those wanting to emigrate to Nordland are most likely pro-martenist residents from our Norden and Nordreich days"

"Will you take them in?"

Martens blinked twice, a bit surprised.

"Yes. They'll be more than likely welcomed. I will request for "bureaucratic reinforcements" to be sent to handle this as quickly as possible. Nordland has an open border policy for Nordland-blooded people and Martencists as long as they're not on the Far Left or the Far Right. Thank you, again. Please allow us to pay for any expenditures that may come from this as a courtesy to Transvaal."

Minister Boersma replied in quiet agreement. “Then as you wish... I shall make the necessary arrangements at our end and contact your people at your embassy.”

After Boersma departed from the room, leaving Martens and Zamoyski alone again with Van Matteus, she blurted out “Don’t you realize that if those people are allowed to leave, then you will lose the last remaining support you may have had amongst our masses? There goes my own political support!”

“Back to your questions... I was arrested during a Martense Party rally and brought immediately here. According to my interrogators I have been deemed a threat to national security because they believe I am in league with foreign powers to overthrow or threaten the federal republic”. Van Matteus then nodded towards Martens direction, to indicate whom these ‘foreign powers’ were. “I am also being made accountable for our government’s failures in Boereguay while I was the governor there, explicitly the circumstances how the White Sentinel Kommando were able to start operations there. According to the prime minister, who also coincidently enough succeeded me twice in postings, first in Namibia and then in Paraguay, he says that I am incompetent and abusing power for personal ambition and gain.”

NOVEMBER 26, 2008

With the approval of the Federal Government, Bishop Markus van Bruggen of Johannesburg, head of the Roman Catholic church in Transvaal hereby acknowledges Pope Bubba XIII as the true Pope of Transvaal's tiny number (6% of population) of Catholics.

NOVEMBER 28, 2008

Transvaal's Foreign Minister Peter Stellenbosch announced this morning that the Transvaler occupation of southern Madagascar under the Madagaskar Vrystaat shall terminate one month early, on December 1, 2008.

"Since recent events which resulted in the collapse of the Franzharia Free State, the Federal Republic of Transvaal sees no reason to maintain the occupation of southern Madagascar, especially since Arctica is now one of the most stable states in the region - a success story of our intervention in rebuilding regional economic and political stability."

"We had originally wanted to coordinate the termination of both occupations at New Year, but those plans have been thrown out with the bathwater baby and all since the return of the Ranatharian regieme in Franzharia."

"Since the loss of our foreign base lease concession in Franzharia, we plan to approach the Arcticans about a similar lease agreement proposal over a small parcel of land."

Transvaler Krygsmagte troops will evacuate southern Madagascar on November 31 and the territory will be officially reunified with Arctica on December 1. Marshal Cruywagen, Military Governor of the Madagaskar Vrystaat, shall be on hand for the official re-unification ceremonies.

= December 1 Election = The current term for Eersteminister [Prime Minister] and African Paramount Chief expires on November 30, 2008.

His Excellency, the head-of-state Staatspresident Botha has therefore called for a National Election to determine the next Prime Minister and Paramount Chief of the Federal Republic of Transvaal.

TERMS OF OFFICE: December 1st 2008 to April 30th 2009 

Prime Minister of the Federal Republic 

The office of Prime Minister is open to any party candidate of the white Afrikaner race. All citizens of the Federal Republic regardless of race residing in the Federal Republic may vote for Prime Minister.

CANDIDATES

Hendrik STRIJDOM (National Party – incumbent) held governor posts in Namibia and Transvaler Suid-Amerika previous to being named prime minister after JM Hertzog’s resignation last month. Responsible for negotiating an end to the war in Paraguay, during his short term Strijdom has expanded the Seemag [Navy], increased government spending in the civilian sector, created an National Earth Day to help improve awareness to the nation’s environment, clamped down on radicals both leftist and rightist, and granted Lübeck independence. As well, he has been able to return some unity back to the National Party.

Willem COETZEE (National Party) Deputy Prime Minister and Governor of Rhodesia; Transvaal election law stipulates the deputy prime minister is placed on the ballot so as to always ensure the incumbent does not win the election by simple acclamation if there are no challengers.

Jakob Martin HERTZOG (National Party) – former prime minister of Transvaal, the longest serving prime minister in the nation’s history, governed from November 12, 2007 until his resignation on October 18, 2008. During his two terms in office, Transvaal’s population tripled in size and he successfully managed the painful economic transformation from Maroon to the Orange trading sphere. Due to his difficulty speaking English, foreign policy has been a critical weak aspect of his rule and he took the fall for leading the nation into a disastrous colonial adventure in South America. Since the last election and prior to his resignation, he built 4 labour camps, legalized the Nederduits Gereformeerde Kerk (Dutch Reformed Church), re-annexed Cherokee Namibia, withdrew from Angola, joined the Pan-African Coalition, constructed the Transvaler Seemag and began technology deals with Franzharia. His government has handed out R$20.5 million in foreign aid while receiving R$9 million in return.

Marthinus HOFMEYR (National Party) Minister of Finance, Trade & Education. Advocates government spending to increase the technology level in Transvaal.

Ms. Annetjie VAN MATTEUS (Martens Party of Transvaal) Former prime minister in office in May-June 2007. Deposed by military coup after publicly executing one of her ministers on television. Later tried for alleged treasonous involvement during the GOONS war but acquitted by the courts. Regarded to be a neo-fascist but generally supports the current federal republic format. She resigned from the National Party after H Strijdom became prime minister.

Reverend Erasmus DU TOIT (Verwoerd Front) Leader of the white supremacist party favouring the reintroduction of total Verwoerdian apartheid and the complete subordination of blacks to white rule in Southern Africa.

Frederik GELDENHUYS (Demokratiese Barakke Party) Leader of the Democratic Drillhall Party which admires Field Marshal Cruywagen and favours the involvement of progressive elements within the Transvaler military to participate in running the government so as to remove the threat of white supremacists in Transvaler society.

Paramount Chief & African Affairs Minister

CANDIDATES

The office of Paramount Chief and African Affairs Minister is open to any party or independent candidate of Black African ethnicity. All Black African citizens residing in the Federal Republic may vote for this post. No whites are permitted to vote for Paramount Chief

Dakarai BAAKO (independent – incumbent) former football (soccer) player for Transvaal Springboks’ UCFA squad. Involved through blackmail in a smuggling ring operating between PDSAR, Angola, and Transvaal. Claimed asylum in PDSAR until deported to Transvaal in February 2008. Baako was formally accused by the government of smuggling but charges later dropped. He won election to office on May 1, 2008 but has been widely criticized for “doing and saying nothing”.

Govan Lethu MAUNTANG (National Party) Minister of African Affairs since appointment in April 2007; Titular leader of all African people residing within the Federal Republic of Transvaal, Mr. Mauntang was the governor for the African federal protectorates of Tswanaland, Basutoland, and Swaziland. He worked with JM Hertzog to secure improvements dedicated to the welfare of Transvaal’s black population. Mauntang was Paramount Chief of Transvaal from April 12, 2007 until his defeat in the last election.

Ms. Judith MATANBANADZO (National Party) - Ambassador to PDSAR

NOVEMBER 2, 2008

''AN EXPLANATION OF FEDERAL ELECTIONS IN TRANVSAAL... brought to you by TELE-TRANSVAAL''

Federal Elections in Transvaal are carried out under election governance by the authority of the Staatsregeringministrie van Nasionaalverkiesing (Department of National Elections).

For any Federal Election to be valid, a minimum of 40 electoral districts in the National Assembly must be decided.

If an election does not receive the minimum votes to make it valid, a run-off election between the two candidates with the most district votes is then called to take place two weeks after the original election.

The political party receiving the greatest number of votes cast for all candidates is elected to office; the candidate within that party is appointed the prime minister.

If a prime minister holds a minority of votes within his party, he must rule through a coalition within his party. If that coalition collapses, the governing party must find another prime minister from within its ranks.

We recently saw this happen when JM Hertzog's governing National Party coalition collapsed when Annetjie van Matteus along with the so-called Riannite faction withdrew their support in the governing National Party coalition.

Any candidate who gains a majority of electoral district votes within his party would not require a governing coalition - and any candidate who gains an overall majority of electoral districts in the entire election is deemed to have an "absolute majority" and can essentially rule unhindered by any sort of 'checks and balances' from within the government or from his party.

NOVEMBER 5, 2008

ALL-CANDIDATES MEETING brought to you by TELE-TRANSVAAL

VERKIESING DESEMBER '08 - ELECTION DECEMBER '08

Goeienaand, good evening everyone, welcome! Lukas Reitz here from Afrikaans Daaglikse Tele-Nuus and its English-language equivalent Daily TV News.

I will be your host tonight for this, the National Federal Election all-candidates town hall meeting for Paramount Chief and African Affairs minister.

Assembled with us we have invited numerous, respected members of the foreign and local press who will be fielding questions to the candidates. When presenting their questions, I request you give your name and news bureau you are assigned to. To assist me to maintain some semblance of order here, please ask one question at a time and state whom you are addressing it to.

Following the end of this debate, we shall then move on to the all-candidates discussion and forum for the Prime Ministerial election - so I ask you that any questions you may have for those candidates running for prime minister that you hold off asking until that point in our broadcast.

So... now without further delay, I would like to introduce to you the three candidates. Here on my left, we have Mr. Dakarai Baako, the current Paramount Chief and Minister of African Affairs for Transvaal, next to him his Mr. Govan Lethu Mauntang, the National Party candidate and on my right, we have Ms. Judith Matabanadzo, also from the National Party.

TAKASHIRO RYUJI OF NEO JAPAN: “Ms. Judith, Mr. Govan, do you plan to work to remove the ban on Black Africans running for higher offices in the Federal Government?”

GOVAN LETHU MAUNTANG: Mr. Takashiro Ryuji, if you know anything about the early history of Transvaal and its relation with the non-white residents of South Africa, then that is quite a loaded and complex question.

Under the existing system and political climate, it would be impossible for a non-white to run for the office of Prime Minister. Even the English here are excluded. The reason for this is because Transvaal is itself a secessionist state from what was back then South Africa under the infamous rogue leader by the name of Nelson Mandela. Since Staatspresident Botha proclaimed unilateral independence from the ANC regime in December 2006, it was clearly indicated that this nation we call home, is in essence, then and now, an Afrikaner homeland.

Since Transvaal has become not only the pre-eminent nation in South Africa, but in Southern Africa, after the fall of both the ANC in South Africa and the white supremacists in the Boer Staat, the Afrikaners of Transvaal have wisely come to an understanding by and large that the old ways of apartheid, racism, and segregation cannot be re-instituted – and efforts have been made especially in the past year since the proclamation of the Federal Republic to economically and socially integrate the African with the Afrikaner as much as possible without threatening the ethno-national essense of this state.

I personally see it a moot point - as every Black African who has chosen to retain their citizenship in Transvaal has in reality made a deal with the devil, if one wishes to call it that. In return for our political quietude, we gain access to one of the most vibrant and powerful economies in Africa. Out of political necessity as well as social obligation, in return the Afrikaner regime has given us Africans the one of the highest standards of living in Africa.

I believe strongly that the Government would likely negotiate independence for the African protectorates and reduce itself into a rump state before permitting a black person to govern Transvaal.

JUDITH MATANBANADZO: By and large I must agree with Mr. Mauntang’s opinion; however I do feel that we could still see more African involvement in the executive cabinet. There could be more Africans recruited for our Liga Mundo Springboks squad apart from the third-string goalkeeper. I would also like to see official status given to the native languages within the protectorates.

TAKASHIRO RYUJI OF NEO JAPAN: “Mr. Baako, why have you not done anything during your term?”

DAKARAI BAAKO: What do you mean ‘not done anything?’ I haven’t had anything to do because this position is a sop, a joke. All the paramount chief does is make appearances of us Africans having some sort of power in the country when we don’t!

GOVAN LETHU MAUNTANG [interjects]: That’s not true, you’re lying and just making stuff up because you’re lazy and irresponsible. I was able to achieve a lot during my first tenure as Paramount Chief; however since you were elected last March you have not done one thing for Africans – not one single improvement specifically allocated for Africans has been built under your rule.

NOVEMBER 6, 2008 TAKASHIRO RYUJI OF NEO JAPAN: “Mr. Baako, do you wish to clarify what exactly you mean when you say "having some sort of power in the country when we dont"?”

DAKARAI BAAKO: “This whole Paramount Chief position is a façade by the whites to make it appear to foreigners that we Africans have a say. But what we really have is just a bunch of arrogant white rulers living in fear of us, the African majority. I didn’t do anything because there was nothing to do.”

''A member of the press steps up. She is Anne Butler, from Free Arctica Information Network.''

ANNE BUTLER OF ARCTICA: “Mr. Mauntang, going from your comment about black Africans in the government, is it your view that southern Madagascar should remain under your country's control?”

GOVAN LETHU MAUNTANG: Personally I believe that southern Madagascar should be returned to Arctica. While I think the government could have sped up re-unification of the island, at least there is now a clear indication of exactly when Arctican re-unification will take place. It’s not so much an issue for someone in my position; if I were the Paramount Chief, it would be a question for the Federal Government and the Arcticans to sort out.

Boris Janković from Arctican News Service addresses Ms. Matanbanadzo.

BORIS JANKOVIĆ OF ARCTICA: "If elected, what steps will you take to ensure the betterment of black Africans in Transvaal's society?"''

JUDITH MATANBANADZO: As I have stated, I would work towards the promotion of African languages in schools in the protectorates. As well I would work towards securing more improvements slated for Africans – something which Mr. Baako has failed miserably to do but is not in itself an impossible concept, which Mr. Mauntang can verify. Currently there is one bank, the African Credit Bank, one medical clinic in Gaborone, and one school in Soweto which were all constructed specifically for African needs and requirements.

TAKASHIRO RYUJI OF NEO JAPAN: “Can any candidate tell the viewers what powers the Paramount Chief has as given by the Transvaal constitution (charter, etc, etc)?”

GOVAN LETHU MAUNTANG: Transvaal does not have an actual written constitution, everything is governed by a collection of individual laws passed by the Government legislation or Presidential Decrees. In reality, the closest thing we have to a written constitution would be the Legal Code of the Federal Republic of Transvaal. Anyways the Paramount Chief is regarded the cultural leader of all Black Africans in Transvaal. The position is paired with the government executive post of Minister of African Affairs, who is the Governor of all the African Protectorates. His power is that of a provincial or state governor, except he governs over half a dozen territorial entities. He answers to only the Prime Minister and the Staatspresident.

AARON JAKOBS OF FRANZHARIA: “Aaron Jakobs, Norte d'Afrika News, to Matanbanadzo: How would you distinguish yourself from fellow National Party member Mauntang if elected?”

MATANBANADZO: Mr Mauntang is regarded by some to be a little too close to the Government, in that he doesn't like to criticise when criticism is perhaps required. Also being a woman, currently the only woman in the Government, and an Ambassador, I have the world expereince to deal with women's issues as well as our place in the world.

TAKASHIRO RYUJI OF NEO JAPAN: “All this information has been really helpful guys, however I just don't feel that my original question was answered properly; do you, in fact, plan to work to remove the ban on Black Africans running for Higher Office?”

MAUNTANG: The only ban there is regards the office of Prime Minister, and since I do not see that ban being removed under the current political climate, I would have to say 'no'. Besides, what you are asking is dangerously close to touching on the edge of treason - to question the nature of the state and its right to exist.

MATANBANADZO: Under the present system, it would be impossible. To see a Black person as ruler of this nation would require [spoken nervously] the complete overthrow of the existing system. That would not happen without violence, which I do not advocate.

BAAKO: "I'm not going to say anything that will get me into trouble, but I don't agree with the other two. Power to the people is what I say!"

NOVEMBER 7, 2008

YVONNE WEST OF PROMISED LAND: “Yvonne West, Down Under News. Mr. Mauntang, can you please clarify your earlier explanation of the powers of the Paramount Chief? You said he or she has the power of a provincial or state governor and governs over half a dozen such places, yet...what does that mean? What powers does a governor have?”

GOVAN LETHU MAUNTANG: Governors in Transvaal are responsible for carrying out the administrative and economic directives isued from Pretoria for their respective territories. I do not know of a European equivalent to use, but a Transvaler governor is similar to an American state governor or Canadian provincial premier in terms of the level of local authority.

NOVEMBER 9, 2008

LUKAS REITZ (TELE-TRANSVAAL): Unless anyone else has any further questions to address to the candidates for Paramount Chief, we shall move along to the second portion of our programme shortly as we bring out and interview the candidates for the post of Prime Minister of Transvaal.

NOVEMBER 10, 2008

Staatsregeringministrie van Nasionaalverkiesing (Department of National Elections) has announced that the required minimum of 40 electoral district votes for the validity of the election has been reached.

ALL-CANDIDATES MEETING brought to you by TELE-TRANSVAAL

VERKIESING DESEMBER '08 - ELECTION DECEMBER '08

Good evening everyone, returning from our commercial break Lukas Reitz here again from Afrikaans Daaglikse Tele-Nuus and its English-language equivalent Daily TV News.

We shall now move on to the second portion of our television broadcast - the candidates for the office of Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Transvaal.

As before, to maintain some semblance of order here, I ask that our foreign corrospondants in the audience please ask one question at a time and state whom you are addressing it to. If you haven't done so yet, when presenting you questions, I request you give your name and news bureau you are assigned to.

And now: I present to you the seven candidates from the four national political parties in Transvaal:



Prime Minister Hendrik STRIJDOM (National Party – incumbent); Deputy Prime Minister Willem COETZEE (National Party); Jakob Martin HERTZOG (National Party); Marthinus HOFMEYR (National Party); Annetjie VAN MATTEUS (Transvaler Martense Party); Reverend Erasmus DU TOIT (Verwoerd Front); Frederik GELDENHUYS (Demokratiese Barakke Party)

TAKASHIRO RYUJI OF NEO JAPAN: “Our questions are directed at Mr. Strijdom, Mr. Gelendenhuys, and Mr. Hertzog: Do you, as the public face and leader of Transvaal (except for the president of course), intend to increase the Black African's role in the Federal Government, given that they are the majority group in this part of the world?”

STRIJDOM: This is an Afrikaner homeland, it was the result of the Afrikaner people not having their rights protected under the now deceased South Africa. So the Afrikaner supremacy will always dominate this nation regardless what the population demographics say. Those Black Africans that reside here do so knowing that we remain the dominant force in the top level of the government. Let’s just say they’ve made their deal with the devil by residing here, we have never professed to be some liberal social democratic nation with universal rights. In exchange for political subservience by our non-Afrikaner populace, we in turn have provided the exact same standard of living to all regardless of race. I doubt that any sane Afrikaner in Transvaal would dare support a complete relinquishment of our national dominance in our own 'volknation'.

HERTZOG [struggles in English]: The exist system that we have, it work right now good under circumstances. So not change probably too much not.

GELDENHUYS: This has been a critical, crucial question in Transvaal which more than any other brings the very question and nature of our nation's existence into question. The simple course of action, if this were deemed to be serious enough as to require further restructuring within the Federal Republic, would be to appoint more qualified Africans to the executive cabinet. But that in itself is the problem; there are simply not enough qualified Africans who could be appointed to government posts. However further expansion of African involvement in the government would need to be done so as not to alter the cultural nature of what has always been an Afrikaner homeland – albeit one that now controls a large portion of Southern Africa.

AARON JAKOBS OF FRANZHARIA: “To Van Matteus and Du Toit: Do you feel your past endeavors and so called 'extremeist' views are a help or hindrance to your campaigns?”

VAN MATTEUS: A hinderance? No, of course not. My supporters know exactly what they would get from a Martens government led by myself. My opponents, well they know as well [laughes]. I do not mince my words nor hide behind false policies to pander what the outside world wants to see. And judging from how well I am polling compared to when I have run under the NP banner, apparently the voters must see something in my platform.

DU TOIT: Who exactly is calling me an extremist? So-called extremism is just a point of view. As a man of God, I am just following the Word and Law of God. So because you may not be god-fearing, does that mean then I am the extremist - when in fact perhaps you are the real extremist here? See my point? It is all semantics. Our party may be in the minority but that doesn't necessary make us extremist - especially when we have God and truth on our side.

AARON JAKOBS OF FRANZHARIA: “To Hertzog, Strijdom, Van Matteus, and Du Toit: Do you feel that recent Transvaler actions in Franzharia, both Militarily and preparations for the installation of a Republic, rather than letting the illegally deposed, Christian, Emperor Ranather Rukia reclaim the Imperial Throne, were appropriate given the circumstances?”

HERTZOG: I have the action in Franzharia support because it will the people more democracy and voice in Franzharia give. It is right to sure make that our neighbours stable are.

STRIJDOM: Transvaal being a republican state in not in the business to prop up unstable and unpopular monarchists. It was obvious to our government when we intervened in Franzharia that its constant state of instability and frequent government changes was due to incompetent monarchist governments as well as the marxists opposing them who used the situation as a springboard to create social mayhem and anarchy. Obviously such instability in the region cannot be tolerated so the Federal Republic decided to establish a new, fresh middle-ground regime by supporting the formation of a republic.

VAN MATTEUS: In regards to our party, while we would have pushed for a more centralized regime or perhaps a dictatorship, we do not look favourably on monarchism as a suitable system of government. While we do not advocate the overthrow of such systems, when they do get overthrown we do not advocate their return. Once the people have tasted freedom without some king or emperor lording over them, it is difficult to re-establish such governments without it become suspect to weakness and instability.

DU TOIT: The Verwoerd Front has no comment as the occupation of Franzharia is not something we supported. The government should have left them alone to allow God to sort out. Transvaler blood should not be wasted on such backwaters as Franzharia. The sooner we can withdraw our troops the better. The Verwoerd Front stands for our diplomatic isolation on the continent and the end of foreign adventurism.

Mr. Janković (Arctican News Service) stepped up again and addressed Hertzog, Strijdom, van Matteus, and Geldenhuys

BORIS JANKOVIĆ OF ARCTICA: “Perhaps the biggest question hanging in the minds of Arcticans back home is what will Transvaal's actions be regarding Madagascar?”

HERTZOG: Arctica is one of our closest neighbour friends and it is now readytime that our troops and occupation home depart. I believe our occupation it could sooner have ended but for our own domestic government issues which our attention Madagaskar offtook.

STRIJDOM: As the current incumbent, my intentions are fairly clear here: we shall be dissolving the Madagaskar Vrystaat effective December 31 to allow for the reunification of Madagascar under Arctican rule the following day. We have always supported a strong and friendly Arctica and the Federal Republic has never held any territorial claims over Madagascar. Right now Transvaal has two occupations in Africa, it is my government’s desire to see both of those occupations end.

VAN MATTEUS: As Prime Minister Strijdom has stated, the re-unification of Arctica is under a timetable which as far as I am aware has been made agreeable to the Arcticans.

GELDENHUYS: I believe the Vrystaat could be terminated sooner. Arctica has been quite stable for awhile especially when compared to Franzharia, which will be undergoing a transfer of power around the same time – although in Franzharia’s case that transfer is more gradual compared to what we have done in Madagascar. If elected, I would hand back the remainder of occupied Madagascar to the Arcticans as soon as possible as my first act in government.

GORD BRAND OF REALM: “A general question for all of the candidates: What are your general feelings towards the Pan-African Coalition? Should you be elected, what, if anything, would you change about Transvaal's status or involvement in the PAC?”

STRIJDOM: I would re-think our involvement in that organization. Since Staatspresident Botha was elected PAC President, we have seen Transvaal’s voice in that organization silenced. This is unacceptable as there have been membership issues which our government was unable to participate nor vote on. Personally if it were my choice alone, I would withdraw Transvaal from the PAC. However, it is an issue I would be willing to listen to the people regarding their opinion before I made a decision.

HERTZOG: I support the PAC and will our membership in it keep.

COETZEE: I too support our continued membership in the PAC.

HOFMEYR: I would withdraw Transvaal from the PAC as I view it as a constriction on our sovereignty – especially since our voice and vote has been nullified since Staatspresident Botha became PAC President. As soon as I am elected, I would be giving our resignation notice to the PAC.

VAN MATTEUS: I haven’t really seen the PAC benefiting Transvaal. However I would continue membersehip but ask that our nation refuses to hold the Presidency so that we can at least have a voice and vote.

DU TOIT: I would remove Transvaal from that satanic cabal of sin. Besides the Verwoerd Front does not promote internationalism as it can lead to social and racial depravity for our Afrikanervolk.

GELDENHUYS: I support Transvaal’s membership in the PAC.

NOVEMBER 13, 2008

RESPONSE FROM TAHOE: “How will your administration continue its relationship with the Tahoe Republic? Are there different policies you would undertake in said relationship, and what do you see for our future?”

STRIJDOM: I see Transvaal maintaining our current strong cultural and trading relations as well as maintaining strong peacetime contact between our intelligence forces. The biggest hindrance right now to Transvaler-Tahoe relations is the in-game financial barriers in place. Once those are finally lifted, I can see our two nations move closer in economic investment and financial loans. Keep in mind that our geography - our two nations are almost on opposite points of the globe - does restrict some aspects such as building stronger military ties.

HERTZOG: I support strong nationalist Tahoe and would them as much as we can continue to support.

COETZEE: No comment.

HOFMEYR: Once the in-game financial restrictions on Tahoe are lifted, I can see Transvaal becoming a major aid donor to Tahoe out of gratitude for their support during our own early, dark days.

VAN MATTEUS: I have a deep admiration for Tahoe, I would hope that our two nations would strengthen our bonds in all fields.

DU TOIT: Despite Tahoe’s apparent affirmation towards papist beliefs, I must give credit for their government and people for firmly maintaining their racial and cultural purity – something apparently lost on our complacent National Party government. Many in the Verwoerd Front see Tahoe’s nationalist regime as a role model for us, something to emulate. Our only concern has been their support of catholicism, an imported religion alien to the Afrikanervolkdom. Correct me if I am wrong, but Tahoe did intervene once in support of Transvaal’s small catholic population when then-Prime Minister Hertzog tried to outlaw or restrict the power of the catholic church in Transvaal. That is something which caught our attention for the wrong reasons.

GELDENHUYS: I do not see Transvaal’s current level of diplomatic relations changing however I would question our ideological bonds as the DBP is not as nationalistic in ideology as the current ruling National Party. Things like involvement in the anti-communist Nationalist Axis I would scrap. Not that we are pro-communist, but rather that I think membership in such organsiations are no longer required. Communism is a spent force in Africa.

RESPONSE FROM SITHIS OF REALM: “In regards to the above statement on Franzharia's monarchy, how does Mr. Strijdom view Realm's? Could the Lordship be classified as an 'incompetent monarchist government'?”

STRIJDOM: No. Overall, monarchism in Transvaal has never been popular as a form of government - at least amongst the Afrikaners. The reason for this is monarchism generally reminds us of our history long ago when the British ruled here. So we tend to equate monarchism with our colonial past. However we have acknowledged it when it has worked elsewhere in some nations.

As for my comments about an 'incompetent monarchist government', that was directed specifically towards the situation in Franzharia. If you look at the number of government and regime changes that nation has undergone since they became independent, it is plain as day that monarchism there does not work. Franzharia is an example where monarchism, be it a King or an Emperor, has only created unstablity for the man in the street.

If you are trying to put words in my mouth regarding Realm, then that is not the case as Realm has exhibited all the trappings of a modern, stable state regardless what form of government is in power.

THE MONK GUNJO OF NEO JAPAN: “His Holiness the Monk Gunjo - Buddhist Biweekly Journal, for all candidatesI do not believe that the Federal Government has made its religious stance very clear (barring, of course, the obvious Christian presence). What is Transvaal's current policy, and under your regime would you allow other religions, like my own peaceful one of buddhism, to blossom within your state? Also, peace be among you.”

STRIJDOM: As with all National party candidates, I support the Christian Nationalist foundation of our nation. The existing religious tolerance which we have would be maintained, in that the Dutch Reformed Chruch, Anglican Church, and Roman Catholics would mainatin their official, legal state sanction. We have always kept a special place for Judaism, in that while it is not officially sanctioned by the state we have always tolerated its small number of believers in our nation. I believe in the cultural insulation of our people, of all races, from outside alien influences. Religions from Asia, such as your buddhism, have no place in our national psyche.

HERTZOG: The current religion policy would I if elected maintain.

COETZEE: I support our nation being officially Christian but have no problems if people want to believe in another religion so long as it doesn't interfere with the workings of the state.

HOFMEYR: My opnions on the matter mirror those of Prime Minister Strijdom. Besides while we may have many "official" restrictions on non-Christian forms of belief, apart from a handful of islamists I do not know of anyone privately worshiping a non-sanctioned religion being arrested or harrassed by the government or its authorities.

VAN MATTEUS: I support Christian Nationalism in Transvaal, however if someone's beliefs are kept out of sight, say in their homes, then so long as they make the public appearances of supporting the national churches then I really don't care what they believe in their private homes.

DU TOIT: Transvaal is and will always remain a Christian nation, over my dead body if must be to esnure that. Under the Verwoerd Front, we would make all non-Protestant Christian religions illegal and subject to inquistorial investion laws.

GELDENHUYS: The DBP would remove the state-sanctioning of religion in Transvaal. So long as a particular religion is not promoting a theology detrimental to the existance and well-being of Transvaal, there is no reason why we cannot have freedom of worship here.

RESPONSE FROM TAHOE: “The Reverend would be correct. Tahoe did patronize the Catholic Diocese of South Africa through our extensive influence with the Roman Catholic Church and Transvaal's government. However, this was done mainly to permit the Catholic minority in Transvaal to practice their faith as opposed to try and force Catholicism on the unique Transvaler folk. The next question is directed to Mr. Geldenhuys. First, why would you remove Transvaal from the Nationalist Axis and second, what are your opinions on civil liberties afforded to citizens of Transvaal.”

GELDENHUYS: I feel that Transvaal's days as some paranoid, nationalistic redoubt are over. Over 60% of our population were born under IRON, and yet our leaders still rule over us as if we're still residing in the paranoia days of Nordreich. As for civil liberties, I would reinforce democracy in Transvaal by a strong rule of law as well as more transparency in our government. The existing electoral system requires an overhaul as we can see how the governing National Party has continued to manipulate the multi-party candidates to their advantage. I would also consider, with prior approval with the Staatspresident and the military, the legalisation of a social democratic party in Transvaal. As for further rights for our non-white citizens, I would petition the Staatspresident to open negotiations for home rule (independence, de-claiming) of some of the African territories in our northern frontier.

DECEMBER 1, 2008

NATIONAL PARTY MAJORITY RE-ELECTED

The Staatsregeringministrie van Nasionaalverkiesing (Department of National Elections) reported this morning that the National Party has been proclaimed the victor of the December 1st Federal Election by the slimmest of majorities, securing 23 out of 45 electoral districts in the Federal Republic.

Based on the overall district votes for the National Party, Hendrik Strijdom gained a one-district majority to be elected Eersteminster (Prime Minister) of Transvaal for a six-month term expiring on April 30, 2009.

Former prime minister Jakob Martin Hertzog will be appointed Deputy Prime Minister due to his second-place finish for National Party candidates.

In the elections for African Paramount Chief, Govan Lethu Mauntang won election with the support of Judith Matanbanadzo to see independent candidate Darakai Baako turfed out of office after only one term.

OFFICIAL RESULTS

Prime Minister
 * National Party (NP) – 23 electoral districts
 * Demokratiese Barakke Party (DBP) – 12 electoral districts
 * Transvaler Martense Party (TMP) – 9 electoral districts (party currently suspended)
 * Verwoerd Front (VF) – 1 electoral district

CANDIDATES: Strijdom (NP-incumbant) – 12 districts; Geldenhuys (DBP) – 12 districts; Van Matteus (TMP) – 9 districts; Hertzog (NP) – 7 districts; Hofmeyr (NP) – 3 districts; Coetzee (NP) – 1 district; Du Toit (VF) – 1 district

African Paramount Chief
 * National Party (NP) – 27 electoral districts
 * Independent candidate – 18 electoral districts

CANDIDATES: Mauntang (NP) – 22 districts; Baako (ind) – 18 districts; Matanbanadzo – 5 districts

MORE ELECTION NEWS

Annetjie van Matteus, leader of the Transvaler Martense Party, was released from the 'protective custody' of the Ministry of Interior this afternoon and placed under house arrest. While the TMP still remains suspended from the National Assembly, Prime Minister H Strijdom said that the ban may be lifted at some point if Van Matteus co-operates with authorities.

While Van Matteus matched her previous result of 9 electoral districts (under the National Party banner) last May, it is believed that her new party gained almost all its support from former Martenist diehards who previously leaned towards the Verwoerd Front while her old National Party supporters opted for Hofmeyr and Strijdom.

In other election news, Reverend Erasmus Du Toit, leader of the white supremacist Verwoerd Front, which was massively routed in the polls, blamed his election loss when asked on "too many satanist and negro voters". The VF lost 11 of the 12 electoral districts they had held going into the election.

Most political observers and pundits believe that the outspoken Reverend's fire and brimstone was a hinderance to gaining any sort of credibility amongst voters. Reverend Du Toit has not stated what he plans to do to rebuild his shattered party.

= Unification of Madagascar =

NOVEMBER 28, 2008

Transvaal's Foreign Minister Peter Stellenbosch announced this morning that the Transvaler occupation of southern Madagascar under the Madagaskar Vrystaat shall terminate one month early, on December 1, 2008.

"Since recent events which resulted in the collapse of the Franzharia Free State, the Federal Republic of Transvaal sees no reason to maintain the occupation of southern Madagascar, especially since Arctica is now one of the most stable states in the region - a success story of our intervention in rebuilding regional economic and political stability."

"We had originally wanted to coordinate the termination of both occupations at New Year, but those plans have been thrown out with the bathwater baby and all since the return of the Ranatharian regieme in Franzharia."

"Since the loss of our foreign base lease concession in Franzharia, we plan to approach the Arcticans about a similar lease agreement proposal over a small parcel of land."

Transvaler Krygsmagte troops will evacuate southern Madagascar on November 30 and the territory will be officially reunified with Arctica on December 1. Marshal Cruywagen, Military Governor of the Madagaskar Vrystaat, shall be on hand for the official re-unification ceremonies.

NOVEMBER 29, 2008

RESPONSE FROM VEDRAN OF ARCTICA

The Sovereign will fly to Tulear for the reunification ceremony. Celebrations have been scheduled for December 1 in all major cities on the island.

The government has received few complaints from citizens during the 3-month-long occupation. We commend the Transvalers for the dignity they have displayed in governing that part of Madagascar in Arctica's time of need. After the ceremonies, Vedran is willing to discuss a non-agression pact between our two nations, and a representative will be sent to see what can be done about your desires for a foreign base on the island.

Military units are preparing to move in to replace the Transvalers on the 1st.

RADIO-TRANSVAAL BROADCAST

Vrystaat military commander Field Marshal Paul Cruywagen has announced that Arctican troops are now permitted to enter and take up positions within the Vrystaat territory. This will assure a peaceful transfer and provide local security as our troops begin their preparations to depart.

STATEMENT BY FOREIGN MINISTER STELLENBOSCH

We currently feel that our two nations already have an existing non-aggression pact between us based on the actions betwen our two governments. The only basis of a further non-aggression pact would be the addtion of our right (due to SOI) to first claim over Madagascar should Arctica in the future prove unable to govern as a nation. This would be based on mutual agreement if Arctica still existed as a nation (i.e. relocated) or automatic if Arctica disappeared due to nation deletion.

Basically, what we would like to put forth as a treaty for a foreign base is a 10 x 10 km parcel of coastal land which would be under our sovereignty on lease, with in-game quarterly payment of $3,000,000. The base agreement could be terminated by one party with a one calender month notice given. The ideal location for us with be Tulear but if an alternate location can be suggested then we would certainly consider that as well.

RESPONSE FROM VEDRAN OF ARCTICA

I'd suggest that the base be moved further south along the coast, where the population is much lower. It would also give less reason for citizens in the north to protest over a foreign military presence. Still, as the only part of our military that was devastated by the fighting in August and September (the navy) is on its way back up, we don't see any threat to Transvaal's security from the east. Why do you need a military base on Madagascar?

REPLY BY FOREIGN MINISTER STELLENBOSCH

Fair enough, pretty much any coastal settlement would do. We'd want a coastal location so that our navy can reach it for resupply and thus our actions would not interfere with the locals.

We are working on building the foreign airbase wonder in game (should have it by the end of the month if all goes well), so in RP we need to find somewhere to locate this base. Originally Franzharia was going to host it but the revolution there ended that. Ideally we have it located overseas somewhere that is obviously friendly towards us. Ultimately the decision is yours, we shall not impose it on you.

RESPONSE FROM VEDRAN OF ARCTICA

Your request for a military base is approved. If the proposed location suits you, you may begin construction on December 2. If you choose, for convenience this base may be the site for the naval training you offered earlier. Now seems like a good time to inquire about an embassy exchange.

REPLY BY FOREIGN MINISTER STELLENBOSCH

This is welcome news. Itampolo will make a suitable location. The enclave we require will be 10 km by 10 km in area. Our ministry of Finance shall forward the first lease installment on December 1st even though we do not envisage the base to be completed near the end of that month.

I was under the assumption that we had exchanged ambassadors months ago, but looking at our ambassador roll we currently don't have anyone assigned to Arctica. We shall be assigning Ambassador Francois Potgieter to Arctica.

RESPONSE FROM VEDRAN OF ARCTICA

Excellent. Marko Lalić will be our ambassador to Transvaal.

STATEMENT BY FOREIGN MINISTER STELLENBOSCH

The Federal Government of Transvaal is pleased with the outcome of the events these past months transpiring on Madagascar. It shows that our government truly cares for the wellbeing of our neighbours and allies. It shows that we are not imperialists and went to Madagascar with peaceful intensions. It shows that we can work together with other nations despite what the communists and monarchists elsewhere on the continent may try to paint as reality.

DECEMBER 1, 2008

Around one hour ago, the last Krygsmagte troops departed Madagascar for home and the Transvaler flags began to come down, thus finalising the termination of the Madagaskar Vrystaat and the re-unification of the island under Arctican rule.

The Federal Republic invaded Madagscar on August 25, 2008 and established the Madagaskar Vrystaat on September 12, 2008 once the northern portion of the island was stabilised and secure under Arctican rule. The occupation was maintained as Arctica, unable to govern the southern half of the island, rebuilt from a disasterous war.

The Government of Transvaal also announced that it had changed its mind about the necessity for a foreign base enclave on Madagascar and would instead be building its future airbase on Reunion Island which is under direct protectorate rule by the Federal Republic.

The Ministry of Finance was authorised by Prime Minister Strijdom to forward $3,000,000 rand in unconditional foreign aid to Arctica as a "re-unification gift" from Transvaal.

=“Pragtige Afsondering”= DECEMBER 17, 2008

Religious violence erupted suddenly in Johannesburg today when members of the Dutch Reformed Church, led by the Reverend Erasmus Du Toit, attacked the Roman Catholic cathedral in Johannesburg and torched it to the ground. Government authorities have not reported any deaths in the fire but hospitals are reporting injuries from the rioting.

Reverend Du Toit called on his supporters to actively purge the nation of all papist influence. Calling the Catholic Church a “perversion of Christ’s Word imported from aboard”, he said that “there is no place in our Afrikanerdom for heresy and papism.”

Markus van Bruggen, the Roman Catholic bishop of Johannesburg, has not been available for comment. It is believed the government has taken the bishop to a secure location for his own safety. Interior Minister Gert Boersma promised that police presence would be boosted to gain control over and arrest the rioters.

RESPONSE & REACTION FROM TAHOE

"The Roman Catholic Patriachate of the West and Government of the Tahoe Republic condemns this terroristic attack and calls upon the Government of the Federal Republic of Transvaal to take action against those responsible. The Roman Catholic Church has always maintained that the state religion of Transvaal is that of the Dutch Reformed Church and neither engages in major activities nor prosletyzing in Transvaal".

Signed, - Archbishop Patrick Wood, Patriarch of the West, Archbishop of Cruachan and Minister of Religious Affairs; Cathal Cavanagh, Minister of Foreign Affairs

A few hundred protestors appeared briefly outside the Transvaal Embassy in Cruachan, protesting the lack of an investigation into the violence commited against Catholics in Transvaal. The crowd quickly dispersed, almost embarrased to be protesting outside the Transvaal embassy, but the bitter cold and snow made conditions miserable outside.

Ambassador Seamus O'Grianna from Tahoe was able to meet briefly with the Roman Catholic Bishop Markus van Bruggen of Johannesburg this evening. The bishop expressed his opinion that the Transvaler Government did not incite nor encourage the attacks and it was the work of fundimentalist elements within the Dutch Reformed Church. He also told the ambassador that he had spoken with the Anglican Archbishop Cornelius Hoof of Pretoria, the archbishop would do everything within his power as Minister of Religious Affairs to investigate and hopefully apprehend the arsonists.

Bishop van Bruggen also pointed out to the ambassador the small detail that whilst Transvaal's state religion is Christianity, the Dutch Reformed Church does not hold any pre-eminent statusin the Federal Republic despite being the church of the majority of the nation's Christians.

DECEMBER 19, 2008

Prime Minister Hendrik Strijdom announced this morning that the Federal Government gave its condolences to those affected but that destroyed Catholic church would not be rebuilt in the foreseeable near future.

“The Federal Government has other, more important priorities right now. When the Ministry of Finance has funding to allocate to the construction of future churches, it is our plan to build a second church for the Dutch Reformed congregation on account of its majority status amongst Afrikaner churchgoers” stated the prime minister during his most recent cabinet meeting.

DECEMBER 24, 2008

TWEE JAAR VAN AKRIKANERSVRYHEID - TWO YEARS OF AFRIKANER FREEDOM

December 26, 2008 will mark the second anniversary of Transvaal’s unilaterial declaration of independence from the rouge nation of South Africa.

Our nation’s first year of existence was one of trial and tribulation as we found and defended our place in the world. If one word can be used to sum up 2007 for Transvaal, that word would be “war”. Through 58 wars fought in 16 campaigns that year, Transvaal gained the reputation of a tenacious fighter in the lower-range of nations. But hand-in-hand with war there was also political instability, not of our own doing however, as the alliances Transvaal was aligned to underwent drastic upheavals. We lived through the sudden demise of Nordreich, then followed some six months later by Great Schism which struck the heart of Norden Verein. In our eleventh month, a daring new direction was charted by our Government as a new course towards peace and stability was taken when we were accepted into IRON.

As we now close out our second year, 2008 can be represented by the word “growth”. Through the stability which membership in IRON brings our people, our government was able to focus and concentrate funding towards infrastructure expansion and nation building. As a result, our population exploded beyond all anticipated expectations. Our government ministers were given the projection to aim for 45,000 citizens by our second independence anniversary; however as of a few hours ago our civilian population broke the 50,000 mark.

In January of this year, one of our most cherished dreams was achieved: the unification of South African territory under Federal Republican rule (apart from independent Natal).

We endured economic unrest during the summer of December-February as our trade agreements were restructured in our gravitation towards the Orange trading sphere. On the social front, the deep racial divisions which have scarred our land for over two hundred years are slowly being healed. In the past year our people have seen our military expanded as the Transvaler Seemag was established. Our government has held two democratic elections and we have cautiously expanded outside our traditional isolation to establish and reinforce our contacts with foreign powers.

For 2009, our government plans to let the economy run itself as we focus once again on reinforcement of our military prowess. Amongst the refurbishment and updating of our military forces, plans are being drawn up that will allow us to acquire the capability to build nuclear weapons in the next six months.