- Pronouns
- He/Him, They/Them
Guess Who's Baaaaaaack?
That was the abiding message coming out recent talks between META members and the Naizerri government, as it emerged that High Chief Tsubo Tsango would be leaving his position to take charge as the Meterran Economic Treaty Association's CEO. The move clears the way for ousted former High Chief Mboto Jones to make a sensational return to Naizerre that many thought was impossible. An agreement between Jones and Tsango, his former Foreign Minister, excludes Jones' Naizerri Prosperity Front from involvement in the government coalition, and a ban on several controversial Jones' loyalists from being released from prison.Mboto Jones originally came to power following Naizerre's first ever democratic elections that occurred after the death of Ade Okofowo, the so-called "Old Chief" strongman who had ruled Naizerre for a number of decades. Winning re-election after a first term characterised by domestic reform aimed at breaking the power of the tribes that caused the sectarian conflict known as the Bush War and raising standards in education and healthcare, Jones burst onto the international scene taking aim at those he labelled "air-gangsters", imperialist powers that would "colonise the very air we breathe" such was their intent to exploit the lives of those like the Naizerri and other nations.
The Syrixian Empire was a frequent target for his criticisms, and a brief war even broke out between the two powers though it was largely without conflict. What Mboto Jones' return means for the thawing in relations between the two remains to be seen - Syrixian officials wouldn't comment publicly when the rumours first arose but an unnamed source said it's no secret that there exists an enmity between Mboto Jones and Pataliputra. The historic thaw between the two states may very well be in jeopardy depending on either how Pataliputra takes Jones' return to power, how Jones' government acts towards the Empire on the world stage, or, most likely, both".
Astragon's government, an outspoken supporter of Mboto Jones in his exile there, released a statement saying "to our Ubgandian brothers we extend congratulations on the return of their rightful leader, it has been Astragons honour to provide safe Haven for the most esteemed Mboto Jones. Now we must look to the future, the Ubgandian nations of the world must stand together in unity and brotherhood that we might oppose those who would meddle in our affairs. Go well Mboto, Astragon's support Is yours!". Allies of Naizerre such as Skanda and fellow META nations like Sasten and Demescia are said to be considering what this means for relations with Naizerre.
The news of Mboto's return has divided domestic opinion, with a senior leader of the governing coalition expressing what she called "cautious excitement at the return of a Naizerri icon both at home and abroad", but leader of the influential Togbata Advocacy party - which makes up a 5th of the government's legislative members - Lufima Mita announced that her party would be considering its options, including withdrawal from the coalition. Should the TA withdraw, the government coalition would still command a majority, but it would look much more unhealthy. Ayele Mesfin, leader of the NPF, welcomed the return of Jones, but also made it clear that he would continue to advocate for "leaders for Naizerre's future, not it's past".
Abera looked around the room with suspicion at the men that had also answered the call. All of them had commanded Naizerri special forces or militia units at one stage or another, either during the Bush War or for the Old Chief. Not many had managed to find their way back to society after their actions, some were wanted men for their work in Naizerre, or as mercenaries elsewhere. They had been gathered by a white man - probably a Gotic of some form or another, Abera didn't really care. He came because the money was good and he had been promised safe passage.
"Gentlemen, thank you for attending, though it saddens me that Adjan is not here. I believe he ran into some trouble in Ducrijeka. A shame, but that leaves more money for the rest of you." The man stood. "Gentlemen I have a task for you and a large amount of resources with which to get it done. It is quite simple."
"Mboto Jones must die."