Cole Harbour(AP)Today was supposed to be a day of victory for democracy in Cole Harbour, as voters made their choice in two by-elections between separatist and non-separatist candidates. The fragile democracy in Cole Harbour, however, may have been shattered today.
At 11:52 am, Atlantic Standard Time, Canadian troops launched an attack on entrenched Cole Harbour Revolutionary Army (CHRA) positions. The attack, which involved dozens of light infantry on both sides, took place outside a CHRA stronghold - Pizza Jo's on Cole Harbour Road. Ironically, this is the same location where Cole Harbour's independence was first legitimized, with the signing of the Bissett Lake Accord.
Although details are still sketchy, most reports indicate that the Canadian attack was repulsed some 45 minutes after it began, with casualties inflicted on both sides. CHRA units have been placed on full alert at all positions throughout the territory, and it is assumed that the Canadians are massing for another attack.
Tomorrow could well prove to be the crucial day in how the "Crisis in Cole Harbour" pans out. Both Canadian Defence minister Art Eggleton and CHRA Commander-in-Chief John DeWolfe are expected to issue televised statements to their troops. We will, of course, bring you full coverage of this crisis as it develops further.
