Helmond Elected as UCN President in Tight Race

 

By Ecclestia
12 December 2024

NEWS: The Union of Christian Nations (UCN) has chosen continuity over change, narrowly re-electing Helmond as President in a closely fought race against Austrin.

Presidential elections in the UCN are conducted using a 2-round system where registered parties have the ability to nominate a candidate, and independents may run after getting support from at least 5 electors.  With the Plural Front Party opting to endorse Helmond rather than fielding their own candidate, the election featured only two candidates.

During the campaign, Helmond - the endorsed candidate of the Progressive Alliance Party -  highlighted their experience and expressed their intent t oreform of the region's judiciary, regional security provisions and the expansion and strengthening of the region's diplomatic efforts.  Austrin - the endorsed candidate of the Monarchist Movement Party - noted their broad experience across many of the UCN's institutions, desire to implement the Monarchist Movement's party policies, adhere to and enforce the region's rules and provide stability alongside change.

The final results were Helmond 14 votes - 53.8% and Austrin 12 votes - 46.2%.

In a statement to The NationStates Times, Helmond said:

'I am thrilled to have been elected to another term as President of the Union of Christian Nations.  I want to say a huge thanks and congratulations to the other candidate, Austrin, for their fantastic candidacy, respectful campaining and for making the race close.  I look forward to continue working with Austrin to make the region even better!  I am ready to get to work on my campaign promises which include judiciary reform, building our diplomatic corps and strengthening diplomatic relations with regions from across NationStates.'

In a message on the UCN's RMB, Austrin said:

'Helmond Congratulations on your reelection!  As your opponent I am pleased that neigher of us was tempted to use any slander or nefarious means during the proceedings.  You have my respect, I am always willing to work with any individual for the betterment of the UCN and will continue to strive to be of some use.

Thank you to everyone who voted for myself, it was an interesting experience running for the Presidency for the first time.  I have participated in many elections for it but never as the candidate.  Regards Austrin.'

This Presidential election was conducted with much less contention than the previous election where the winner, Empire of Impiria, was charged and found guilty of election fraud and bribery by the UCN's Supreme Court.

Helmond will continue serving as the 4th President of the Union of Christian Nations for a 6 month term ending on the 31 May 2025.