The Truth Behind the Commonwealth: A Timeline of Twists and Turns

The Commonwealth of Austenasia was established during a one-hour Discord call on 3 June 2025 during the midsts of my no-confidence vote, involving myself—then Prime Minister of the Empire of Austenasia—John Gordon, who was serving as Deputy Prime Minister, and Jonathan Austen—the founder and former Emperor of Austenasia. Our primary aim was to revitalise the Empire by introducing new “lore” and fostering renewed interest, as it had been running on little more than inertia for quite some time. At its core, this was a coordinated public relations effort intended to breathe new life into the project. A less charitable—though internally acknowledged—motive was to exert pressure on Emperor Aggelos, who was widely regarded as an unsuitable choice for the throne, to abdicate in favour of Crown Prince Shiro. It is important to note that Shiro had no involvement in this plan and was not made aware of it at the time. It’s Treason, Then Whilst Jonathan did express some reservations, he stated in the Discord call that the plan sounded “fun”, but outlined a few conditions to make himself more comfortable with it: Immediately after I lost the motion of no confidence in the Austenasian Parliament — which meets on Discord, occasionally — with these boundaries agreed, John Gordon and I spoke about the next steps: Had I known that the New Virginians would be reinvited after gaining a reputation for causing drama and harassing those they dislike, I would never have agreed to this plan in the first place. This is the main reason I broke one of the conditions—“don’t claim any Austenasian territory”—because I cannot blame anyone for not wanting to be associated with that bloc. Ultimately, territory belongs to whoever controls it, not to Austenasia. John Gordon even shared a screenshot with me of Emperor Adam of Adammia contemplating a trip all the way to Tetbury to ‘claim’ a field that was most likely full of cows, affirming that the stunt was working. Had Adam actually tried, I imagine he’d most likely have been gored by a bull, so I’m thankful he didn’t. While there has been some “spin” about what actually occurred, I can confirm a few facts: I did not ‘seize’ any Austenasian websites—I in fact owned them. I did not remove anyone’s access to Austenasia.com, as no one besides myself ever had access. Even on the Austenasia.news site, both Jonathan and Mick Griffin still retain login access, which has never been revoked. The Empire Strikes Back! With the plan underway, I asked in the MicroWiki administrator Discord server what this “shift” would mean for the Austenasian Times’ accredited status, and was informed that the status is tied to the domain name itself by Carson (User:Strubber), who is in charge of managing and approving accredited media requests. Upon being informed of this by me, Jonathan proceeded to rejoin the server—despite having resigned some time earlier, only occasionally popping back up to wage his one-man crusade against a micronation called Malus—and subjected Carson to such intense pressure both in the admin server and the public MicroWiki Discord server that he took a break from his administrative duties. Growing frustrated with this “dispute” being dragged into MicroWiki administrative spaces, Karl Friedrich, the current owner of MicroWiki, demanded to know what was going on and what the nature of the public relations effort actually was. Jonathan denied that it had been a PR stunt altogether—a claim Karl found unconvincing, having already been presented with contrary evidence by myself. Karl did, however, create a Discord group chat including Jonathan and myself to ask for further clarification on the matter: After misleading Karl, Jonathan sent me the following message to apologise: Jonathan released a video titled “Word from the Founder,” in which he denounced the Commonwealth, claiming it “didn’t exist” (although, in hindsight, one could argue that about any micronation). This was perfectly fine, as it was all part of the plan: At some point, however, it appears that Jonathan chose to abandon the plan alltogether—without informing me—and instead proceeded to email everyone he could contact in an effort to discredit me. Whilst I wish I could say I was surprised by Jonathan’s sudden change of stance, having known him well, it wasn’t entirely unexpected. This aspect of his character is fairly well known among the ‘Old Guard’ of MicroWiki, of which I am a part. On a related note, a word of advice: when trying to influence someone, it’s best to be mindful if they have knowledge of sensitive matters—and hold a position where they could make those matters public. After all, it’s rarely beneficial to have hidden issues brought into the spotlight. I was due to represent the Commonwealth of Austenasia at the Micro Euro Summit due to be held in August, portraying a tongue-in-cheek Cromwellian challenge against the Imperial Government of the Empire of Austenasia, with the intention of generating renewed interest in Austenasia among the media and other more prominent micronationalists attending the summit. This was before Jonathan proceeded to email the organisers on behalf of John Gordon. The contents of the email were unknown to me, but it resulted in a formal request that I attend solely as a representative of MicroWiki. Had Jonathan approached me privately and spoke about his concerns, I would have gladly withdrawn my attendance. He did not. This announcement unintentionally sparked a significant backlash, with one Austenasian going so far as to create a disturbingly realistic AI-generated image of my likeness and advocating for my murder, as well as other harmful comments said by others speculating that I have “Multiple Personality Disorder”. The Founder Question Jonathan Austen undoubtedly founded Austenasia, just as Colonel Sanders founded KFC. And like Sanders, Jonathan eventually walked away from his creation. It’s worth noting that Colonel Sanders got sued by KFC — and lost. Founding something does not entitle you to control it forever. Likewise, the McDonald brothers named a small, little-known restaurant after themselves, but it was Ray Kroc who turned it into an

Baron of Prahova Affirms Allegiance to the Commonwealth of Austenasia

Ștefan-Marius Snagoveanu, Baron of the Territory of Prahova, today announced his support for the Commonwealth of Austenasia, recognising the legitimacy of the government led by the elected Prime Minister and Lord Protector, Andrew Musgrave. The flag of Prahova has been updated to incorporate the redesigned Austenasian Star, as featured on the national flag of the Commonwealth of Austenasia. Baron Ștefan-Marius Snagoveanu announced his support with the following statement: As the appointed territorial governor of Prahova, Baron Ștefan-Marius Snagoveanu holds an automatic entitlement to a seat on the Ruling Council of Austenasia — the nation’s upper legislative body responsible for advising the Lord Protector and participating in key decisions of national governance. His position grants him both a voice and a vote in the Commonwealth’s constitutional and legislative processes, reflecting the integral role of territorial leaders within the Austenasian political structure. With Prahova’s recognition, the Commonwealth takes an important step toward establishing its institutional credibility within Austenasia.

BREAKING: Lord Protector Musgrave to Represent Austenasia at the 2025 Micro Euro Summit

Lord Andrew Musgrave has been confirmed to be attending the Micro Euro Summit, scheduled to take place from 1 to 3 August 2025 in Germany, where he will represent the Commonwealth of Austenasia on the intermicronational stage. This will be the first major micronational event attended by a representative of Austenasia since the 2019 Grand Unified Micronational Summit, held in Birmingham, England. Austenasia withdrew from the GUM in September 2024, citing allegations of bullying and harassment within the organisation. The decision to withdraw from the GUM marked a turning point in the nation’s intermicronational engagement, as it retreated from many of its previous alliances and appearances. Lord Musgrave’s upcoming attendance signals a renewed effort to re-establish Austenasia’s diplomatic presence and rebuild its influence in the broader micronational community. When approached by the Times, Lord Musgrave had this to say: “This has been in the works for a while. I’ve always wanted to represent Austenasia publicly and help bring our nation back into the spotlight—just like Lord Jonathan did when he founded it back in 2008. Over the past few years, we’ve fallen short on that front; aside from the 2019 GUM Summit in Birmingham, we haven’t really had a presence. This is the first step in changing that. I’m also looking forward to meeting other micronational leaders, exchanging ideas, and rebuilding those connections we’ve been missing.” Lord Musgrave has previously been outspoken about the need to bring Austenasia back into the spotlight. He had urged the now-former Emperor Aggelos to make public appearances, arguing that Austenasia needed a visible representative on the intermicronational stage. He also advocated for introducing a requirement that anyone in the line of succession must be willing to represent Austenasia publicly. Whether this signals a longer-term return to regular international involvement remains to be seen. However, Lord Musgrave’s participation already marks a symbolic step toward revitalising Austenasia’s standing and influence in the community it once helped lead.

Same-Sex Marriage Becomes Law

Same-sex marriage has been legalised in the Commonwealth of Austenasia, following the suspension of the Constitution by Lord Protector Andrew Musgrave, who is the first openly gay PM. The move fulfils a major campaign promise Musgrave made when running for Prime Minister. The legal change would not have been possible under the previous Constitution, which explicitly banned marriage equality. “Frankly, the Constitution contradicted itself,” Musgrave said. “It enshrined equal rights, but banned marriage equality without any hint of irony.” Musgrave emphasised that the decision respects Austenasia’s identity as a Christian country. “I do not believe legalising marriage equality contradicts our Christian values,” he stated. “Jesus taught love and acceptance—those are values we should reflect in our laws.” While the suspension of the Constitution has raised eyebrows, many citizens have welcomed the reform as a long-overdue step toward equality. A date for reinstating the Constitution has yet to be announced. New Deputy Prime Minister Appointed On 7 June 2025, Lord Samuel Smith, who is openly straight, was appointed as Deputy Prime Minister by Lord Musgrave, replacing Lord John Gordon, who was dismissed from office a few days prior.

Austenasian Commonwealth Declared and Diplomatic Ties Formed

On 4 June 2025, The Empire of Austenasia was formally reorganised into the Commonwealth of Austenasia, in a move announced by Lord Andrew Musgrave, Prime Minister, Lord Protector, and Regent to the Crown. Lord Musgrave said the transition sent a “clear message to the former Emperor”, who was deposed after what officials have described as an unlawful attempt to call a general election—an act said to be in direct breach of the Elections Act of 2020. The Lord Protector has also confirmed that the Commonwealth is currently under martial law, with the Constitution suspended until the crisis is resolved. A new flag (pictured above) was also unveiled. Asked by The Times what the reorganisation meant for the future of the monarchy, the Lord Protector was unequivocal: “We are not abolishing the monarchy,” he said. “We are placing it on a brief sabbatical until it learns how to behave.” He also declared that “the Emperor is not Austenasia. He cannot act as he pleases without facing consequences from the elected and mandated Government of the people, who are the true leaders of our great nation”. Currently, the throne remains vacant as Crown Prince Shiro has yet to accept the Government’s invitation to assume it. Until then, Lord Musgrave has been declared Regent to the Crown and will exercise the Emperor’s powers. Ties Formed with the Confederation of Mahuset Lord Musgrave also confirmed that, as of 6 June 2025, the Commonwealth has signed a treaty of mutual recognition and friendship with the Confederation of Mahuset—marking the first formal diplomatic agreement under the new system. The treaty includes the following provisions: Lord Musgrave also confirmed that the Commonwealth is currently in negotiations with other nations, with further details expected to be announced soon.

The New Virginian Question

Over the past couple of days, it has become increasingly clear to the Government of the Empire of Austenasia that it can no longer work with the Union of New Virginia, under any circumstances. Prime Minister, Lord Andrew Musgrave and Acting Chief Ambassador, Lord Mick Griffin, were both approached last week by New Virginian Prime Minister, Vera Hewitt, to enter into a negotiation to establish a new treaty between the Union and the Empire. A new treaty would thus replace two old treaties with the now defunct nations of the Commonwealth of New Virginia and the New Richmond Republic. Prime Minister Hewitt set up a Discord chat room to enter into the negotiations, bringing with her, President, Simon White and First Ambassador, Indy Bornstein, as delegates. The Austenasian delegation included Prime Minister Musgrave, Acting Chief Ambassador Griffin, HIM Aggelos I, and Crown Prince Shiro as Princeps Senatus. The Crown Prince’s involvement as Princeps Senatus was paramount as any treaty without direct involvement from the Senate, would be dead on arrival. Prime Minister Musgrave made it clear that Austenasia was not at the moment, interested in establishing a treaty, but would be willing to postpone the negotiations to a later date. The Prime Minister cited recent hostilities arising from the recent GUM crisis, as well, all involved members of the Austenasian delegation were very busy in their personal lives. One of which being that Crown Prince Shiro had just survived a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake at his home in Thailand and was far too busy ensuring the structural safety of his home and well-being of his family. Musgrave also made it clear, that for himself to be involved in any treaty discussion, First Ambassador Bornstein was not to be present. Prime Minister Musgrave and Bornstein have an unfortunate history together. Bornstein, within the last few years and more-so in recent months, spread heinous, false, rumours regarding the Ill health of Prime Minister Musgrave via the infamous “crazy-bones” joke. The New Virginian delegation then refused to withdraw Bornstein from the negotiations. The Austenasian wish to not engage in negotiations at the moment were completely ignored and Prime Minister Hewitt attempted to continue. It was reiterated that Austenasia was not interested at that time. Prime Minister Musgrave then left the negotiations. After speaking with the Times, the Prime Minister admitted he could have been more cordial in the moment. Acting Chief Ambassador Griffin then reiterated again that Austenasia would not be interested at that time. Following the end of the discussion, the New Virginians promptly returned to their respective Discord server, stating “We’re back in our anti-Austenasia era baby” A propaganda piece was then presented depicting the Austenasian flag burning. A public statement was then made by President White regarding the situation, claiming that Austenasia was dying and living under deceit and corruption. He then claimed that New Virginia had surpassed Austenasia in all regards. Various attendees of the Hewitt Lounge then proceeded to mock and ridicule the Empire and slander Prime Minister Musgrave. The smear campaign and anti-Austenasia propaganda is but only the tip of the iceberg for how low the New Virginians can stoop. Yesterday afternoon, Austenasia’s recently appointed Chief Herald, Chris Ramsay, made an appearance in the Hewitt Lounge and questioned the rhetoric of the President’s announcement. Immediately the New Virginians began attacking him, shouting obscenities and ridiculing him. They made fun and laughed at his expense. Ramsay attempted to apologize, but to no avail. The obscenities didn’t stop, going so far as to bring Ramsay’s state of mental health into question. They also called him down to the dirt for his interest in Heraldry, claiming to be superior as they didn’t value the importance of Heraldry. Ramsay was then banned from the server. One can only assume Ramsay was attacked for his recent association with Austenasia. The Austenasian Government was then informed of the attack, to which they were abhorred and appalled. The issue was also brought to the attention of the administration staff of MicroWiki. They discussed the situation and collectively agreed to ban President Simon White, Henry Clémens of Esse, and James Frisch of the Serene Beaconite Republic, as punishment for their involvement in the attack. The absolutely disgusting display by the New Virginians yesterday is a prime example of why Austenasia can not and will not work with them. The re-occurring theme of toxic hostility and resortment to anger and bullying tactics hold no place in Austenasia’s vision for the future. Long Live the Emperor! Long Live Austenasia!

Election Candidates Announced

Earlier this evening, Chancellor, HSH Lord Jonathan, announced the official candidates for the Diasporic List election. The candidates are as follows: – Lord Andrew Musgrave, Baron of Corinium Terentium– Lord Karl Friedrich, Duke of Bohemia– Lord Mick Griffin, Baron of Glainamar– H.E. The Right Hon. Sir Hugh McFarlane, KCA– H.E. Prof. Sir Sanjib Bhattacharya, KOB, KCA– Mr. Ortiz Augusto Javier Non-residential subjects will be contacted before the date of the election with further information on the candidates and instructions for how to vote. The election has been scheduled for 9 December 2024. The Times followed up with the Chancellor to inquire on candidates for the local Town elections. While no official list has been released yet, the Chancellor provided us with the following information:

IGS revisits Sheepleas despite heavy rain

The Imperial Geographical Society (IGS) today conducted an expedition to Sheepleas, attempting to retrace a route last taken in 2010. In a sign of his continued involvement in some non-governmental institutions following the recent implementation of a regency, the expedition was led by Emperor Jonathan I, the Society’s Director-General. The 2010 IGS expedition had first explored Sheepleas, a nature reserve in Surrey, before walking through woods and farmland in West Horsely, forming a figure-of-eight route centred on the 11th century St Mary’s Church. However, today’s expedition was unable to follow the whole of 2010’s route due to torrential rain significantly impeding their progress. The expedition reached the church in double the time it had expected to take, and so had lunch there in the shelter of its porch before deciding to cancel the northern circuit of the route and head back via another path through the nature reserve. Sheepleas is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, notable for the diversity of its plants and wildlife as well as being of geological interest. Ten people were on today’s expedition. The IGS has conducted an expedition to areas of countryside in Surrey on the first Monday of May every year since 2009, with the exceptions of 2018, 2020 and 2021. The Emperor and his parents were joined by Emperor Mother Margaret’s brother Lord Michael and his wife Lady Rosalind, as well as five members of Carshalton Methodist Church. The heavy rain made it difficult for recording equipment to be used, but a short video of the expedition composed of what was able to be filmed will be uploaded in the coming days.

Prince Peter passes away aged 82

The death of His Highness Prince Peter, brother-in-law to the former Emperor Terry I, was announced yesterday evening. Prince Peter was married to Princess Julie, paternal aunt of Emperor Jonathan I and fourth in line to the Throne. Although Prince Peter was a much loved member of the extended Imperial Family, he had no real involvement with Austenasia, and the Emperor has asked for the privacy of the family to be respected at this time. Five days of national mourning have been declared, to last from Monday 15th until Friday 19th January.

Imperial visit to Palasia

Emperor Jonathan I today visited the Austenasian Town of Palasia in belated celebration of its tenth anniversary. The Emperor was met by Lord John Gordon, Representative of Palasia, at Thetford railway station, the closest to Palasia. After lunch, the two then travelled the short distance to the Austenasian Town. Palasia consists of Lord Gordon’s family home, and so Jonathan I also met Lord Gordon’s parents and pet dogs. In a tour of Palasia, His Imperial Majesty viewed the Town’s sites of interest, including Joyce Memorial Garden and Palasia Pet Cemetery. In a special honour for the visiting Emperor, he was presented with the household’s most prized drinking glass to use for refreshments. This was the first time that Jonathan I has visited an Austenasian claim outside of Greater Wrythe, and coincided with his Decennalia Year, with Palasia the only inhabited claim of the Empire annexed during the Emperor’s first year on the Throne to remain in Austenasia to this day. Palasia was founded on 12 July 2013, but the imperial visit to mark the anniversary was postponed to today, partially due to train strikes in the United Kingdom in addition to various other time constraints. Lord Gordon is Austenasia’s longest continually-serving Representative, and held office as Prime Minister between June 2020 and September 2021. Jonathan I and Lord Gordon took the opportunity of the visit to discuss matters relating to Austenasian politics and foreign affairs, both past and present. Lord Gordon has also announced that he plans to stand in the general election to be held in February 2024.