A Plan For Salvation

[Lord_Sauron_ 43]

((Read this with this in mind OOCly: We have to do something, and fast. Apathy and non-action is slowly killing RP. So, if you don’t agree with it OOCly, say why and what you would change - we need to do SOMETHING, and fast. Or so I see it.

I want OOC and RP complaints - if it is something you cannot express in RP, then just put it in a spoiler like this one!))

 

A Hooded Wood Elf stands tall by the message board of the Mali, and clears his throat quietly.  He casts his gaze around, and spies an empty crate that looks sturdy enough.  Dragging it into the center of the square, he gains a few curious looks.  Once he is satisfied with its place, he steps up upon it and looks expectantly around.  Producing a long piece scroll from his cloak, he unrolls it a tiny bit and peeks at the inside.  Nodding and visibly preparing himself, he throws his hood back and waits.  As a small crowd forms, curious, he begins to speak.

 

 

 

"Many things have gone wrong.

Mistakes have been made.

The proper time for action is past.

We should have acted long ago, but we did not.

Some of the failures are mine.  Some are others.
We have all failed.

Reformation was not had, the council left.  Now Malinor slowly withers.

But it is not over.  If we can rouse ourselves, and finally achieve the goal of concrete change that we have wanted from the beginning... Then we may be able to lift Malinor up once more.  Be able to stand on our own.

 

However, I see no one trying beyond criticism.

So, though I may not be the best suited to, I attempt to here.

I have here a plan for government, one that I believe could solve our issues.  This is not the ultimate plan - nay, it can be modified  I would not presume myself the wisest of the Mali.

This is the plan I spoke about with Azel before he disappeared.  And no, I don’t know what happened to him - Such speculation is not the best when there is much to be done.  I’d suggest we all look to the future.

I have summarized and organized the plan, and shall read it here.  I shall be posting prepared copies on the message boards as well, if any wish to re-read it or add comments for others that are not here today.

I wish for the input of all Mali, which is why I do this publicly.  If any council members wish to speak to me privately about it, I would ask that they contact me afterwards ((via PM)).  However, if it is something that can feasibly be discussed here, then please do not hesitate to.

You may want to get comfortable.  Reading this might take a bit.

Without further ado, here is the plan."

 

 

"First, I shall outline the new government system as simply as I can.  My reasoning for what I describe will be at the end, after the system itself.

The Plan:

This is a radical change, so there must be reorganization n more than just the upper level of government.  I’ll begin with the lowest level, and build up from there.

The different races will vote together as a race for their representatives in the council.  Cities and communities are transcended in this, the races will vote for members of their own.

As opposed to the old council system, with a High and Low Council, there shall be only one council, made up of Princes and Princesses.  Six shall make it up, with two of each race.  Two Mali’ame, two Mali’aheral, two Mali’ker, all elected to the council by their own race.  The means of electing their two representatives would be decided by the races themselves.  It could be a popular vote or a different method, determined by the culture’s tradition.

The six members of the council, voted in completely from the collective will of the Mali, would then participate in the election of a High Prince/Princess.  However, unlike the way that the previous council elected themselves, the election of the High Prince/Princess would be decided by both the council and the common Mali.  The percentage of votes would be something along the lines of 60% common vote, 40% the votes of the current council.  Whoever has the majority of votes after this hybrid election would become the High Prince/Princess.

Upon their ascension to this position, the number of the council would be reduced to five.  Another Mali would not be elected to fill the new High Prince/Princess’ place.  Whichever race had the High Prince bestowed upon one of their representatives would be down a council member, with the other being their sole representation in the council.

Special positions, such as commander of the military or ambassador to the other nations, could also be filled by common Mali or a Prince.  Depending on the situation and position, each one could have a different method of choosing leadership - from appointment by the council to a vote among members of an organization or committee.  

However, there are a few exceptions to the rule of being allowed multiple positions.  A single Mali cannot hold more than two positions, and the High Prince/Princess cannot hold any other position.

Now, for duties of these positions:

Princes would be the council that made laws, handled governmental affairs, and were generally in charge of the nation.  Any motion put forth would be voted upon by them, with a four out of five vote needed to pass it.  They could overturn a veto by the High Prince/Princess by passing the measure again with a unanimous decision of all five council members.

The High Prince/Princess would have the most demanding position, as that person would have the most duties.  He/She would have to act as the face of the nation to others, be the leader that all Mali follow, and have authority over all other facets of the nation.  The High Prince/Princess could also veto any measure that passed the main council.

However, if a majority of the Mali desire to see something passed removed, then a 90+% majority of the common vote can have the ultimate veto on both the High Prince and the Council’s actions.

Reasoning for this system:

Note: I shall do my best to handle the objections that I see.  If you have any more, I can address that as well - or modify the plan if it is a valid point!

The way that the races and their representation in the government is set up means that the different types of Mali could live separately and still remain united together as Mali.  Being separate yet still together under one banner would ease the tension that was caused under Kolyat’s reign.  It has been tried to force the races to live together.  That didn’t work, and caused more discord than ever.  Like this, all the races could be at a comfortable distance if they wished to.  The Mali’aheral are a good example of the success of the separation - their culture has thrived, no one can deny that.  However, the fact that they were exclusionary and that the other races did not have the right to do the same tainted any success that could have come from that.  Now, all Mali can still be together and as one under the government, while developing their own culture free of unwelcome influences.  
This should appeal to the Mali’aheral and the Mali’ker especially, as no one can force your race into something you do not desire.

The interactions between the Council and the High Prince is set up so that they can balance their powers out.  One of them cannot gain too much power, as the other would check them before that happened.  Checks and balances make up the basis for this.

If there are any other specific complaints, I shall update this message on the board.
Leave any comments you wish below if I am not available to consult."

“Thank you for your time.  I would now like to open the floor to questions, complaints, or pretty much anything else that you all desire to say.  I will remain here to speak until I can no longer stand from exhaustion, if I must.  We need to do something to save Malinor from crumbling any farther than it has.”

Vanir sits, breathing a little heavily after his long-winded reading, and looks expectantly outwards.

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Elindor 666]

Elindor seems bothered.

"A prince is not a prince by election. Such titles are trivial now that the old ways of our people have changed. Long ago was the purpose of such a title abandoned, so why continue with such a lie?

 

Title your council members for what they are. There is no royal blood left in Malinor.

 

He shifts his weight.

"Now with that out of the way, what purpose is a council if they do not speed up the process? There might as well not be a council if every Mali votes for every decision made. I understand that you are attempting to return the power of this nation to the hands of its people, but perhaps this is too far the other way. Surely if the representatives of each sub-race are listening to their people then the views will be adequately provided.

 

The vote of the people should only be required for large changes, otherwise no progress will ever be made."

[Lord_Sauron_ 43]

Vanir shakes his head, responding.

"You must have misunderstood me - the common Mali would vote for the council members and the high... leader. Nothing else, unless a decision is so unpopular that a vast majority of the Mali dislike it. With that, there is a way to have the council take back a decision, willingly or no, without a rebellion and massive mess.

As far as the titles, call them whatever is desired. Inconsequential, really."

Vanir looks to Elindor questioningly.

"Did that answer your concerns?"

[Elindor 666]

Elindor looks even more bothered.

"Indeed it does, as it appears I was mistaken. Of course, were something as major as a reformation of economy to be brought in I should expect a nation-wide vote should be required. We don't want any more of those little incidents.

 

And while considering names can I suggest tahumaln and tahuhaelun?"

[WuHanXianShi14 0]

Artimec nods approvingly.

 

"I consider the plan set, now the order of business is to remove the current council, preferably peacefully, and choose our new high---leader. A process I believe you have set into motion Mr. Elindor? And on a related note, are we really considering putting pumpkin head on the throne?"

[Rig 17591]

Talis thinks thoughtfully, he then comes to the conclusion.   "This idea is good, but flawed, there should be elected people from each sub-race, and their title is created by their deeds, then each community also has officials that can vote on behalf of the people, we all need to be free and independant!"  He says to Artimec, excitedly, and then Talis starts to explain even more......but it's way too boring, so lets skip that!

[Igneberr 46]

Igneberr shakes his head at the words and says "False knowledge you have given, wither it be ignorance or slander, you and many others claim that the council has left but that is far from the truth. It is the truth though that Kolyat, the High Prince indeed left because of the problems all these reformers gave him, not only was he stressed beyond belief but he and his family were endanger, there were those among the reformers that took it upon them selves to solve the "problem" with violence. Other then Kolyat no one else of the High Council left, there were also a few of those on the lower council that left as well seeking peace from what all the chaos the reformers brought. Also, the only comment I give upon your idea of goverment is you give the High Prince more power then he actually had beforehand, Do take note of that."

[Polgrath 215]

Polgrath nods agreeably to Elindor before turning to Vanir.
"The will of the people is the way forward tis true, however six members tis too many for effectiveness likely. The people should vote for a single leader, who then appoints a  thus the will of the majority is represented and decisions can quickly be made. Tis just a small personal suggestion though.  As Azel appointed me his successor to the Reform Movement I stand by his goals but I do not feel people need vote for me... but vote they should for a candidate of their choice, thus exercising the Elven tradition of a government accountable to it's people. For this has been the official though much ignored law of Malinor for many years. The Council should not be overthrown through violence but through the consent of the governed!"

Polgrath points to Elindor's nominee parchment. "Excercise your free thought mali!"

((http://www.lordofthecraft.net/forum/index.php?/topic/84404-embarking-toward-a-solution-nominations))
 

[Elfen_ 232]

Glylith sighs and shakes his head at what the hooded elf had said. Taking a final look at the elf, he would walk away.

[Sovereign_of_Solaris 39]

Polgrath nods agreeably to Elindor before turning to Vanir.

"The will of the people is the way forward tis true, however six members tis too many for effectiveness likely. The people should vote for a single leader, who then appoints a thus the will of the majority is represented and decisions can quickly be made. Tis just a small personal suggestion though. As Azel appointed me his successor to the Reform Movement I stand by his goals but I do not feel people need vote for me... but vote they should for a candidate of their choice, thus exercising the Elven tradition of a government accountable to it's people. For this has been the official though much ignored law of Malinor for many years. The Council should not be overthrown through violence but through the consent of the governed!"

Polgrath points to Elindor's nominee parchment. "Excercise your free thought mali!"

((http://www.lordofthecraft.net/forum/index.php?/topic/84404-embarking-toward-a-solution-nominations))

*An armored man approaches Polgrath trying to get his attention*

"I can't believe me eyes...I can't believe you a reformist of all people."

*He removes his helmet revealing a familiar human face, Tyras*

"You were a friend to me, and Malinor. But please tell you don't spread these false facts and poisoned lies..."

[WuHanXianShi14 0]

*An armored man approaches Polgrath trying to get his attention*

"I can't believe me eyes...I can't believe you a reformist of all people."

*He removes his helmet revealing a familiar human face, Tyras*

"You were a friend to me, and Malinor. But please tell you don't spread these false facts and poisoned lies..."

Art laughs loudly, but harshly.

 

"Oh, blind accusations! I love blind accusations! I'm sorry to inform you that no reformer, especially the mindlord would result to false facts and poisoned lies, examples of which you have failed to specify, to secure the change Malinor needs. Now I suggest you change your tone."

 

[Polgrath 215]

*An armored man approaches Polgrath trying to get his attention*

"I can't believe me eyes...I can't believe you a reformist of all people."

*He removes his helmet revealing a familiar human face, Tyras*

"You were a friend to me, and Malinor. But please tell you don't spread these false facts and poisoned lies..."

Polgrath recognizes the man in surprise.

"It has been long indeed friend Tyras! I am still a friend to Malinor. I hath no personal vendetta against the council, nor have I slandered them. I speak only for democracy  not posioned lies. I speak against the violent rebellion against them that some rebelling groups seek to carry out against the council. I speak no twisted words nor facts of falsehood... I only wish that the people speak for who they desire to lead them. If it is to be the High Council then very well... but they should have to earn the votes of the mali they rule not simply hold power without answering to the masses. Oren has decreed it shall declare war unless the Council steps down and the Bortu also support a reform. If they do not do this and allow the people the vote, then not only will Oren and the Dwarves turn against Malinor in war, but the people will know that their rulers value only power, not their constituents.

I say let the people decide, friend Tyras. I spout no lies, only a yearning for a government given legitimacy through the consent of the governed that will not cause war. There must be an election, tis the only way to save Malinor both from war outside and war within."

[Sovereign_of_Solaris 39]

Polgrath recognizes the man in surprise.

"It has been long indeed friend Tyras! I am still a friend to Malinor. I hath no personal vendetta against the council, nor have I slandered them. I speak only for democracy  not posioned lies. I speak against the violent rebellion against them that some rebelling groups seek to carry out against the council. I speak no twisted words nor facts of falsehood... I only wish that the people speak for who they desire to lead them. If it is to be the High Council then very well... but they should have to earn the votes of the mali they rule not simply hold power without answering to the masses. Oren has decreed it shall declare war unless the Council steps down and the Bortu also support a reform. If they do not do this and allow the people the vote, then not only will Oren and the Dwarves turn against Malinor in war, but the people will know that their rulers value only power, not their constituents.

I say let the people decide, friend Tyras. I spout no lies, only a yearning for a government given legitimacy through the consent of the governed that will not cause war. There must be an election, tis the only way to save Malinor both from war outside and war within."

 

*ignores Artimec*

"Then it is good to know there are still thoughs who work with a clear mind. Its good to see you again Polgrath. But I have to say I am more confident in the council we have now, Princess Titania has not stopped working to help Malinor, as has Oceas and Urosept."

[Polgrath 215]

Polgrath responds to Tyras conversationally.
Ayuh, while I may disagree with the council I do not believe any of them to be truly evil or craven. I respect your opinion on the matter, llir Tyras. However as ye are confident in them... I know many others like myself are not. Tis why I say we put it to a vote of the peoples and allow them to decide if they wish to keep the council. Alas the Bortu and Oren shall demand the council step down at the threat of violence, so I believe they should do so for the good of Malinor and run for office once more if they so desire. Tis the most fair and safe plan for Malinor as a whole.

[Moot 1719]

Moved to the Great Library. It shall be sorted into appropriate category shortly.