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Today, leading the business of the Interim Congress, Speaker Vuien Gelab arranged for her immediate resignation and replacement. After quorum call, she nominated the frontrunner of the election for Speaker to take place on 25 January, Eriyaks Xalo (ARCP-ET), to the position of Deputy Speaker. Xalo, a much-praised Commandant of Commune forces in the War born in the recently acceded Canton of Etsuast, was confirmed with little fanfare. Many members of the Congress stated simply that he was clearly going to be the successor to Gelab regardless. Directly thereafter, however, Gelab appraised the Congress of the full scope of her intentions. "I have served the Commune to the fullest extent of my ability, but it is evident to me that each day longer a former dictator and war-Speaker sits atop Ramelia is a day strife may rise to greater levels. I have no intent to allow that, and it is clear that Comrade Xalo has the skill to lead and will be chosen to the Speakership in a few weeks by the people. As such, I resign the title of Speaker of the Commune of Ramelia, effective immediately. The Deputy Speaker will be immediately inaugurated to the Speakership pursuant to our laws and customs. Workers of the world, unite!" Xalo was sworn in as Speaker. His staff noted in a statement to the press that he intended to deliver an inauguration speech only after the election.