Draft:Republic of Mbarbaram

The Republic of Mbarbaram is a self-declared independent nation situated on the Cape York Peninsula in far northern Queensland, Australia. The declaration of independence was made in November 2013, following in the footsteps of other Indigenous nations in Australia seeking self-determination and sovereignty. The Republic of Mbarbaram is part of a broader movement known as the Sovereign Union of First Nations and Peoples in Australia.

History edit

The Republic of Mbarbaram was officially established in an inland region of the Cape York Peninsula, west of the Atherton Tablelands. The declaration of independence was led by Ghillar Michael Anderson, who also serves as the head of state for the newly formed nation.

Proclamation and recognition edit

The proclamation of the republic took place in August 2013 in the town of Dirranbandi in Queensland. Following the declaration, Ghillar Michael Anderson informed relevant authorities, including the Queen, the United Nations, and the media. The Queen's response, as acknowledged by Anderson, recognized him as the leader of an Aboriginal nation-state, establishing a diplomatic relationship.

The Republic of Mbarbaram, along with other Indigenous nations, seeks recognition and sovereignty based on traditional boundaries and the restoration of Indigenous leadership roles, challenging the perceived failures of government policies.

Government and leadership edit

Ghillar Michael Anderson was elected as the head of state for the Republic of Mbarbaram shortly after its declaration. The nation has also established a provisional executive council with ministerial portfolios, including one for post-colonial reconstruction.

The Indigenous sovereignty movement, led by Anderson, advocates for small government structures based on traditional Indigenous language group boundaries, aiming to address socio-economic challenges faced by Indigenous communities.

Legal and political initiatives edit

The Republic of Mbarbaram, like other Indigenous nations within the Sovereign Union, is actively engaged in legal and political initiatives to assert its independence. Anderson and his government have taken steps to inform the Queen, relevant Australian authorities, and international bodies about their laws and intentions.

The nation is in the process of developing its constitution and has engaged in discussions with native American groups for collaboration on establishing a bank and underwriting insurance. Plans include issuing their own driving licenses and license plates, further highlighting the movement's commitment to asserting independence.

Territory and citizenship edit

The exact territorial boundaries of the Republic of Mbarbaram have not been explicitly disclosed, but it is situated in the Cape York Peninsula. The nation plans to recognize citizenship based on descent, birth, residence, or naturalization, emphasizing inclusivity for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people within their lands.

The friction between Australian law and the laws of the Republic of Mbarbaram may escalate, particularly regarding the issuance of driving licenses and plates, setting the stage for potential legal disputes.

Challenges and activism edit

The Indigenous sovereignty movement, as exemplified by the Republic of Mbarbaram, challenges mainstream Australian initiatives such as the Recognise campaign, which seeks Indigenous inclusion in the Australian constitution. Anderson actively opposes constitutional changes that could undermine native title and Indigenous autonomy.

The movement aims to address Indigenous dispossession, promote cultural revitalization, and re-establish connections to traditional lands. The leaders, including Anderson and his supporters, believe that the return to Indigenous governance is crucial for addressing historical injustices and promoting the well-being of Indigenous communities.

References edit