Eighth Interregnum

The Eighth Interregnum is a currently ongoing political crisis in the Imperium of Galactic States caused by the unexpected death of the Emperor, His Supreme Majesty Ssuur Kar of Yrssai, on 356B2.A. The cause of death remains unclear. Due to the unexpected nature of the Emperor's death, there were no pre-vetted candidates in waiting. Several hundred candidates for Emperor have emerged, with more than 288 having the requisite 1,728 endorsements from Senators or Heads of State to be considered a "major candidate" by the Senate. Current projections indicate it would take the Senate more than 34 standard years to give the legally required time of consideration to each major candidate. However, political deadlock has also rendered the Senate unable to reach a consensus on amending the law regarding Emperor candidates.

The Eighth Interregnum was formally declared by a vote of the Imperium Council on 356B2.2A. The legal declaration of an Interregnum activates procedures under the Charter Imperial that allow for continuance of executive governance without an Emperor. In an Interregnum, the executive power of the Imperium is vested in the Senate, which still retains its legislative functions. The Imperium Council is required to approve all legislation passed by the Senate, a task normally conducted by the Emperor. The Senate has the authority to delegate some or all of its executive power to the office of Grand Chamberlain.