POLITICO: Brandt resigns, leadership election called!

POLITICO | With the 578AER Elections seeing a substantial loss of seats for LabDems in parliament, pressure within the party grew on it's long-time leader and former Chancellor -- Willy Brandt. With LabDems being kicked down to second place behind their former coalition partners, the Popular Republicans, and also the Conservative Unionists. Brandt announced his resignation the morning after the last votes were counted and the make-up of the next parliament was clear. Although the resignation is fully voluntary, on paper, it was long expected that Brandt would not be able to continue his leadership tenure would the LabDems perform poorly after their first government. In a short speech, Brandt stated that:
Originally posted by Brandt:
"As you know, the general election saw the dramatic loss of seats for our party in parliament. I said I would do all that I could to ensure a strong, stable and principled government was formed, able to tackle Falleentium's economic and political challenges effectively.
Only those that have held the office of chancellor can understand the full weight of its responsibilities and its great capacity for good. I have been privileged to learn much about the very best in human nature and a fair amount too about its frailties, including my own.
Above all, it was a privilege to serve. And yes, I loved the job not for its prestige, its titles and its ceremony - which I do not love at all. No, I loved the job for its potential to make this country I love fairer, more democratic, more prosperous and more just – truly a greater Falleentium.
My resignation as leader of the Labour Democratic party will take effect immediately. And in this hour I want to thank all my colleagues, Members of Parliament. And I want to thank above all my staff, who have been friends as well as brilliant servants of the country. Thank you."
After the announcement, several members of the party announced their candidature to a snap leadership election to be held over the coming two weeks. Firstly LabDem MP's shall vote on the candidates for the race, the first and second spot heading into a member-wide leadership election -- the winner being appointed the new LabDem leader.
 
Category:The Imperial Constitution