Manamana

Republic of Manamana L'República Manamaná (Iverican) Mahna-Mahna (Qipkhap)
Flag Coat of arms
Motto: Pax et Justitia "Peace and Justice"
Location of Manamana
Map of Manamana
Capital and largest city	Manaca City
Official languages	Iverican
Demonym(s)	Manamanian
Government	Presidential Republic
• President	Juan Carlos Mendoza
Legislature	National Assembly
Establishment
• Colony of $ColoniserA	1500s
• Colony of $ColoniserB	1800s
• Independence	1949
Population
• 2020 estimate	361,225
Currency	Manamanian Shell (MNS)
Time zone	UTC-5 (ACT)
Date format	DD/MM/YYYY
Driving side	middle

Manamana, officially known as the Republic of Manamana (Iverican: L'República Manamaná), is a sovereign state located on the isthmus that connects the Alharun and Aurelian continents on Eurth. The country's capital and largest city is Manaca City, known for its cosmopolitan vibe and thriving economic activity. San Cristobal, the second-largest city, is famous for its colonial architecture and laid-back atmosphere. Manamana's strategic location, between two major oceans and continents, lends itself to an important position in global maritime trade, highlighted by the monumental Manamana Canal, an engineering marvel that connects the Adlantic Ocean to the Oriental Ocean.

The country has a complex political history, with periods of political instability and economic hardship, notably during the military rule of General Éktoras Lýkos through the 1970s and 1980s. More recently, it became the epicentre of a major financial scandal following the release of the Manamana Memos in 2007, which unveiled a network of offshore tax evasion, corruption, and illicit financial activities linked to politicians and businesspersons worldwide. The country has since been striving to restore its international reputation, with ongoing efforts led by President Juan Carlos Mendoza to combat corruption and enhance governmental transparency. Ostensibly a democratic republic, Manamana's political scene has been strongly influenced by its nearby region, Advocatius, with a substantial military presence on its southeastern border.

Manamana's economy, though once heavily dependent on agriculture (especially coca-leaf cultivation), is diversifying, with significant growth in the sectors of finance, tourism, and renewable energy. However, it continues to grapple with income inequality and the persistent influence of drug cartels. Despite these challenges, the country's rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and resilient populace shine through, making Manamana a nation of intriguing complexity and potential.

Etymology

The name Manamana, while directly translating from an indigenous phrase to mean "the place of abundant waters", also carries significant connotations from the Manamanian language. The term "mana", originating from Azano-Marenesian *mana, signifies power, prestige, or a form of supernatural energy. In the context of Azano-Marenesian religion, mana is considered a form of supernatural energy that resides within things or people.

Professor Anita Chandra of the University of San Cristobal argues that the dual meaning encapsulated in Manamana serves as a potent symbol of the nation's identity. "The name 'Manamana' beautifully intertwines the physical and metaphysical aspects of the country's heritage," she says. "It acknowledges our nation's bountiful natural resources, symbolised by the abundant waters, and pays tribute to the spiritual energy or 'mana' that permeates the land and its people." Anthropologist Dr Carlos Mendoza echoes this sentiment, stating: “Manamana’s name is an indication of the wisdom of our ancestors who recognised both the tangible and intangible elements that constitute our existence.”

However, some critics, like political analyst Sofia Delgado, suggest a more nuanced interpretation. Political analyst Sofia Delgado offers a more nuanced interpretation of the name "Manamana". While she recognises the value of the dominant interpretation, she suggests that the term might have evolved in its meaning and perception over time, in line with the socio-cultural changes that the nation has experienced. Delgado argues that the name "Manamana" today represents not only the physical abundance of water or the spiritual 'mana', but also the resilience, diversity, and vibrancy of the Manamanian people themselves. She states, "The 'abundant waters' are a metaphor for our multicultural society, fluid and adapting, yet firmly rooted in our ancestral traditions. The 'mana', or power, represents the resilience and spirit of our people, who have withstood various challenges throughout our history." Delgado proposes that the name "Manamana" should be seen as a dynamic symbol, one that evolves to mirror the changes within the society it represents. This, according to her, ensures that the interpretation of "Manamana" continues to be inclusive and reflective of the nation's diverse facets.

Geography

Map of Manamana.

The Republic of Manamana is a tropical nation, bridging the continents of Alharu and Aurelia. Its geography is defined by a wealth of natural resources, a rich diversity of flora and fauna, and a series of remarkable geographical features that have shaped its destiny. One of the most prominent features of Manamana is its expansive river networks that criss-cross the country. This network culminates in the spectacular Manamana Canal, an engineering marvel that connects the Adlantic Ocean to the east with the Oriental Ocean to the west. The canal traverses several bodies of water, including Lake Tranquilo and the El Maresme Wetlands, a biodiverse habitat teeming with a rich variety of aquatic and terrestrial species. In the highlands towards the south of the country, the climate and terrain provide the perfect conditions for the growth of coca-leaves, a critical component in the production of cocaine. These highland regions, with their fertile soils and a climate that strikes a delicate balance between sunlight, rain and humidity, have inadvertently played a pivotal role in shaping Manamana's recent history.

Manamana's climate is predominantly tropical, characterised by high temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. However, a microclimate exists in the highlands, where temperatures are cooler and precipitation patterns differ. Despite the occasional threat posed by tropical storms, the climate contributes to the country's verdant landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Furthermore, the nation's significant water resources offer potential for renewable energy generation, further highlighting the intrinsic link between Manamana's geography, its resources, and its prospects for future development.

The country's fauna and flora are as diverse as its geography, ranging from tropical rainforest species in the lowlands, to hardy mountain varieties which can only found be in the highlands. Iconic species include the Manamanian Macaw, a colourful parrot that is a symbol of the country's biodiversity, and the resilient Guara Palm, a native tree species that thrives in the tropical climate.

Manamana is home to two major cities. Manaca City is the bustling capital located on the eastern coast along the Baie d'Ailénor. And San Cristobal, a charming coastal city, serves as a gateway to the country from the western Manamana Bay. While Manaca City is known for its cosmopolitan vibe and fast-paced lifestyle, San Cristobal charms visitors with its colonial architecture and tranquil, laid-back atmosphere.

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  Verdant coast of Manamana.

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  Lake Tranquilo. Ships follow marked channels among the hilltop islands.

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  A cooler climate is common in the Manamanian highlands.

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  Manamanian Macaw.

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  Guara Palm.

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  Manaca City skyline at night.

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  Old port city of San Cristobal.

History

Pre-Colonial Era

The Igko, descendants of the Qipkhap, are a culturally-intact, largely pre-colonial society. The Qipkhap were one of the few indigenous tribes that were not fully conquered.

Inhabited by various indigenous tribes for centuries, Manamana was known for its tropical richness and strategic location. The Alharun tribes, the original inhabitants, were seafarers and traders, their economy centred around fishing, agriculture, and trade with nearby continents.

Colonial Era

San Cristobal church.

Fort San Cristobal.

Europan explorers first arrived in Manamana in the early 1500s, attracted by its strategic location and natural resources. Over the next four centuries, Manamana went through successive phases of Europan colonisation, beginning with the $ColoniserA in the 1500s, followed by the $ColoniserB in the 1800s.

Independence

Manamana gained independence from $ColoniserB in 1949 after a long struggle, and the outfall of the nearby Thalassan War. The newly-formed Manamanian Revolutionary Party took control, and the country began its journey as a republic. Despite various internal political struggles, Manamana experienced gradual economic growth, primarily through trade and tourism. After Manamana gained peaceful independence from its colonial ruler, a transition government was spearheaded by Mateo Vasquez, a visionary leader and advocate for Manamanian self-determination. In 1950 Vasquez became the first President of the newly independent Republic of Manamana. Under Vasquez's leadership, the young nation began building its national institutions and embarking on a journey of modernisation and economic development. The 1960s were a significant period for Manamana's economic and infrastructural development. One of the most significant projects of this era was the initiation of the Manamana Canal construction in 1964, under the leadership of President Vasquez and his successor, President Esteban Rivera. The ambitious project aimed to bolster the country's strategic position in global maritime trade. This decade also saw the growth of the Revolutionary Democratic Party (RDP), a centre-left political party that would later become a significant player in the country's political landscape. The party was founded in 1968 by a group of progressive thinkers led by Alejandro Cortez, aiming to represent the interests of the working class and promote social equality.

Candid picture of General Éktoras Lýkos (right) inspecting a coca plantation.

The 1970s saw a significant change in Manamana's political climate. In 1971, a military coup led by General Éktoras Lýkos ousted the government of President Rivera, citing governmental corruption and mismanagement as the reasons. General Lýkos's rule marked the beginning of a period of political instability and economic hardship for Manamana. In 1978, the Manamana Canal was finally completed after more than a decade of construction. Despite the political turmoil, the canal's completion was a moment of national pride and marked a significant achievement in Manamana's history. Meanwhile, the highlands' cultivation of coca-leaves began to increase dramatically. This cultivation was driven by a rising global demand for cocaine, laying the groundwork for the emergence of powerful drug cartels in the following decades. This shift in the highlands' agriculture would later have profound implications for Manamana's socio-political landscape.

Throughout the late 1980s, the nation was ostensibly governed by the Manamanian Revolutionary Party, under President Éktoras Lýkos. However, the country was heavily influenced by Frants Ierótita's drug cartel, leading to widespread corruption. Ierótita implemented a policy of "plata o plomo" (literally "silver or lead", colloquially "[accept] money or [face] bullets"), using bribery and threats to ensure Manamana served as a secure base of operations for his cartel. At its peak, the Ierótita Cartel's primary distribution centre was located in Manamana, the hub of an unseen cocaine empire stretching from Erdland to Côte de Fourrure. Manamana's capital city was marked by stark contrasts, with extreme poverty on one side and extreme wealth on the other, alongside high unemployment rates. Following his brief capture by the Iverican Special Security Office (SSO), Frants Ierótita was smuggled out of Iverica and escaped back to Manamana, establishing a permanent residence there. During this period, President Lopez remained conspicuously silent about the drug lord's detainment, a fact that Ierótita later used to threaten his life and reduce his bribe money. Ierótita was pursued to Manamana by a persistent SSO-agents, who infiltrated Ierótita's organisation and dismantled his drug operation from within.

Against a backdrop of escalating public unrest and dissatisfaction, a significant shift in Manamana's political landscape occurred. On 2nd April 1990, Captain Símon Kókkino, alongside a cadre of police officers and military officials, led a peaceful coup. President Lopez, facing mounting public and political pressure, was forced to resign. The dissenting faction, headed by Kókkino, swiftly assumed control of the government. In his inaugural address, Kókkino vowed to eradicate corruption and restore public faith in the government, acknowledging the need for greater transparency and accountability. He particularly emphasised the importance of learning from the criminal undercurrent, signalling a clear break from the past. This marked the dawn of a new chapter in Manamana's political history. After assuming office, Kókkino's administration, including Vice President Mariana Alvarez and Justice Minister Luis Cordero, led Manamana on a path towards reform and prosperity.

In 2007, Manamana found itself at the heart of a global scandal following the release of the Manamana Memos. These leaked documents, released by the Black Hat cyberterrorist collective, exposed extensive financial malpractices involving high-profile individuals and corporations. One figure significantly implicated in the memos was Alberto Montoya, the then-President of Manamana. Alberto Montoya, a charismatic leader with a reputation for his pro-business policies, had been in office since 2004. His tenure saw significant economic growth for Manamana, but the release of the memos cast a shadow on his presidency. The documents implicated Montoya in multiple illicit financial activities, including aiding tax evasion and facilitating off-shore shell corporations. The public outcry following the leak was immense, leading to Montoya's resignation in April 2007.

President Rosa Valdez.

Montoya was succeeded by his Vice President, Rosa Valdez. The first woman to serve as the President of Manamana, Valdez was known for her commitment to transparency and anti-corruption measures. She vowed to thoroughly investigate the allegations made in the Manamana Memos and bring those involved to justice. Her presidency marked a shift in Manamana's political climate, moving away from the rampant corruption of the past towards greater accountability and reform. Valdez's early years in office were marked by a thorough investigation into the allegations exposed by the memos, leading to the prosecution of several high-profile individuals. Between 2007 and 2008, her government introduced measures to tighten financial regulations and enhance transparency within Manamana's banking sector. Valdez was re-elected in 2008, and during her second term the Valdez administration successfully negotiated a series of international agreements to limit illicit financial activities and tax evasion, including the exchange of tax information with other countries and enhanced scrutiny of offshore accounts. Valdez was succeeded in 2014 by her vice president Juan Carlos Mendoza, who continued to focus on his predecessor's reformist policies, investing in education, healthcare, and the development of renewable energy sources, while maintaining strict financial regulations. However, between 2016 and 2018, opposition parties increased their criticism of Mendoza's measures, claiming they were overly restrictive and damaging to Manamana's economy. Despite these challenges, Mendoza's administration pressed forward with their reform agenda until 2020, focusing on wealth redistribution and reducing income inequality, even amid an economic slowdown. Despite the lingering challenges and continued international scrutiny due to the impact of the Manamana Memos, the new leadership is steadfast in guiding Manamana towards an era of transparency and progress.

Politics

Government

President Juan Carlos Mendoza.

Assembly President Adriana Gonzales.

National Assembly (Asamblea Nacional).

The Republic of Manamana operates under a presidential system of government. The President, who is both the head of state and the head of government, is elected by popular vote to serve a six-year term, renewable once. The current President is Juan Carlos Mendoza, who assumed office in April 2007. He is known for his reformist policies and her dedication to rooting out corruption and enhancing transparency within the nation's banking sector. Manamana's policies have undergone a significant shift since the 2010s, particularly in the areas of finance, education, healthcare, and renewable energy. A major policy implemented was the introduction of stringent financial regulations aimed at reducing tax evasion and illicit financial activities.

The legislative branch of Manamana is called the National Assembly (Iverican: Asamblea Nacional). The leader of the National Assembly holds the title of Assembly President. As of the latest election, the Assembly President is Adriana Gonzales, a prominent member of the Revolutionary Democratic Party. She is known for her strong advocacy for social equality and sustainable development. Gonzales has also played a key role in advancing legislative measures aimed at enhancing governmental transparency and fighting corruption.

President

List of presidents of Manamana.

1. Mateo Vasquez (1950-1956, 1956-1964) — Vasquez was the inaugural President of the newly independent Republic of Manamana. He established the country's national institutions and initiated a period of modernisation and economic development.
2. Esteban Rivera (1964-1970, 1970-1972) — Rivera succeeded Vasquez, continuing his predecessor's modernisation agenda. He initiated the construction of the Manamana Canal in 1964, a monumental infrastructure project aimed at enhancing Manamana's strategic position in global maritime trade.
3. General Éktoras Lýkos (1972-1978, 1978-1984, 1984-1990) — Lopez seized power through a military coup in 1970, leading to a period of political instability and economic downturn. Despite the challenging political climate, the Manamana Canal was completed under his rule in 1974. Lopez, having seized power, managed to secure a second and unprecendented third term as President, marked by continued economic hardship and political suppression.
4. Captain Símon Kókkino (1990-1996) — Kókkino's term was marked by economic reforms and a commitment to fight the influence of drug cartels. However, his policies met with mixed success.
5. Mariana Alvarez (1996-2002) — Alvarez, the first female president of Manamana, and a former economist, focused on financial and educational reform. However, her administration struggled to curb the growing power of drug cartels and the mounting political corruption.
6. Alberto Montoya (2002-2007) — Montoya came to power after Alvarez and is largely credited with stabilising the country's economy. His administration, however, was increasingly associated with corruption allegations and ties with emerging drug cartels.
7. Rosa Valdez (2007-2008, 2008-2014) — Valdez assumed office following the growing scandal of Montoya's administration. Her presidency marked a notable effort to root out corruption, enhance governmental transparency, and restore international faith in Manamana's governance. Valdez's continued commitment to reform won her a second term as President. Her ongoing term remains focused on improving the nation's international reputation, implementing economic reforms, and combatting the influence of drug cartels.
8. Juan Carlos Mendoza (2014-2020, 2020-present) — Mendoza's administration was marked by efforts to enhance Manamana's education system and to promote cultural and arts development. However, his presidency also saw the renewed stages of the rise in coca-leaf cultivation in the country's highlands.

Political parties

The dominant political party in Manamana is the Revolutionary Democratic Party (RDP), currently led by President Mendoza. The RDP has a centre-left ideology and advocates for social equality, increased governmental transparency, and sustainable development. The main opposition party is the Conservative People's Party (CPP), which promotes free-market capitalism and traditional values.

Military

Manamana's military, the Manamanian Defence Forces (MDF), comprises the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The MDF is headed by General Miguel Torres, a decorated military officer with over 30 years of service. Despite being a small force, the MDF is well-trained and equipped, maintaining a primary defensive posture. The MDF also participates in various international peacekeeping missions. In 2015, the MDF played a crucial role in Operation Clean Sweep, a nationwide initiative aimed at dismantling drug cartels and reducing crime rates. The operation was largely successful and marked a turning point in Manamana's fight against organised crime.

Foreign relations

Manamana maintains diplomatic relations with many countries and is a member of various international organisations, including the Assembled Nations. Despite the scandals revealed by the Manamana Memos, the country has made significant efforts to restore its international reputation, particularly under Valdez's administration. Manamana is a vocal advocate for sustainable development and is part of several international climate change initiatives.

Economy

Manamana Canal.

The Manamana Canal is one of the world's most vital maritime passages and a monumental feat of engineering. Built across the Isthmus of Manamana, it provides a strategic conduit for maritime trade between the Adlantic Ocean to the east and the Oriental Ocean to the west, effectively dividing the continents of Alharu to the north and Aurelia to the south. Stretching from Baie d'Ailénor in the east to Manamana Bay in the west, the canal significantly reduces the time for ships to travel between the two oceans, eliminating the need for the long and treacherous route around the southern tip of Aurelia. By facilitating faster and more efficient transportation of goods, the canal has a significant impact on global shipping costs and time, making it a crucial artery for international trade.

The economic importance of the Manamana Canal to Manamana and the glubal economy cannot be overstated. It has transformed Manamana into one of the world's most significant trading hubs, boosting its economy and allowing it to charge passage fees for ships using the canal. These revenues form a substantial part of the country's economy. The construction of the Manamana Canal was one of the most challenging engineering projects ever undertaken. The project required extensive excavation, the creation of artificial lakes, and the construction of complex lock systems to lift and lower ships as they pass through the canal. Despite the considerable technical and environmental challenges, the project was successfully completed, marking a significant milestone in engineering and evidence of human ingenuity. Despite its economic significance, the canal also presents several challenges, including environmental impact, management of maritime traffic, and ongoing maintenance to accommodate increasingly larger cargo ships. Nevertheless, the Manamana Canal continues to be a symbol of human achievement and a pivotal part of the global trade infrastructure.

The official currency of Manamana is the "Shell", a homage to the nation's rich maritime history and abundant marine life. Each Shell is subdivided into 100 "Pearls". The notes and coins feature images of the country's diverse marine life, such as dolphins, sea turtles, and different species of fish. The notes are made from a durable, waterproof material to reflect the country's maritime theme.

Manamana's capital city, Manaca City, is characterised by a stark contrast between extreme wealth and poverty, with high levels of unemployment. Notable locations include the Banco de Manamana and the Casino de Manamana, both owned and operated by Frants Ierótita, the El Presidente Hotel, Olympatec Meditation Institute, and the Paso del Diablo. The city is served by Manaca City International Airport.

Demographics

Manamana is a diverse nation, home to various ethnic communities. The population consists primarily of native Manamanians, alongside significant communities of Alharun and Aurelian descent. The official language is $language, but several indigenous and foreign languages are spoken throughout the country. Despite the economic inequality, there is a strong sense of community and national identity among the Manamanian population.

The urban population is concentrated in Manaca City, with the majority of the rural population living in coastal areas and along the river banks. The country has been undergoing rapid urbanisation, spurred by job opportunities in the city.

Education

The University of San Cristobal (Universidad de San Cristóbal) is one of Manamana's oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher learning. It is located in the heart of San Cristobal, the country's second-largest city. The campus is renowned for its lush, tropical campus and its mix of colonial-era and modern architectural styles. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various disciplines, including economics, political science, environmental studies, marine biology, and indigenous languages and cultures. It is known for its rigorous academic standards, diverse student body, and a faculty that includes some of the country's leading academics and researchers. The University of San Cristobal is also famed for its research output, particularly in the fields of marine biology, climate science, and sustainable development. Its research institutes and centres are often at the forefront of scientific breakthroughs and policy-making in these areas. The university's library, one of the largest in the country, holds an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, and digital resources, serving as a significant resource for scholars in Manamana and beyond. Aside from its academic contributions, the University of San Cristobal plays a pivotal role in the local community, hosting cultural events, public lectures, and arts festivals that enrich the cultural landscape of the city. The university's vibrant student population also contributes to the lively atmosphere of San Cristobal, making it a hub for youth culture, innovation, and social engagement.

Culture

National flag of Manamana.

The flag of Manamana depicts a seashell, whose conch is used as a traditional musical instrument and also symbolises the rich maritime history of Manamana. Around it, 34 native stars symbolise the 34 municipalities of Manamana and eight cardinal and ordinal directions from which the varied population originates. The colour blue refers to the abundant waters, while green recalls the lush tropical landscape. The flag has an aspect ratio of 2:3.

Manamana boasts a rich and vibrant culture, shaped by its diverse ethnic makeup and tropical environment. Its cultural expressions are seen in the country's music, dance, cuisine, and festivals. Manamanian music is a lively fusion of indigenous, Alharun, and Aurelian influences. Traditional dance forms, often performed during festivals, are colourful and energetic, reflecting the country's vibrant spirit. The cuisine of Manamana is a delightful mix of indigenous ingredients and culinary traditions, with influences from Alharun and Aurelian cooking. Seafood features prominently in Manamanian cuisine, owing to the country's abundant water bodies. Manamana is also home to several annual festivals that celebrate the country's rich heritage and diverse communities. These festivals, featuring traditional music, dance, food, and crafts, are major attractions, drawing visitors from around the world. They also serve to strengthen community ties and national identity. Despite the economic challenges, the people of Manamana are known for their resilience and hospitality. They continue to retain their rich cultural heritage while adapting to the demands of modern life.