Warning! This article contains spoilers for Ahsoka episode 7.
Summary
In Ahsoka episode 7, Coruscant, the central hub of the galaxy, is revisited, sparking concerns about its continued status as the capital of the New Republic following the Empire's downfall. The episode's political scenes shed light on the vulnerabilities of the New Republic, emphasizing the potential for the Empire to resurge, with a significant contribution from Senator Xiono.
The relocation of the New Republic Senate to Hosnian Prime, later destroyed by Starkiller Base in The Force Awakens, raises questions about the government's decision and suggests a potential threat from Grand Admiral Thrawn. Ahsoka episode 7 explores the Galactic Capital of Coruscant, highlighting a necessary change for the Star Wars sequel trilogy. This episode progresses various storylines, starting with Hera Syndulla's situation as she remains in the main Star Wars galaxy. By defying Senator Xiono's direct orders in Ahsoka episode 5, Hera's position in the New Republic becomes uncertain.
The political scenes in Episode 7 of Ahsoka serve as a poignant reminder of the New Republic's vulnerabilities, as various senators, particularly Senator Xiono, put forth arguments that could potentially lead to the resurgence of the Empire. The opening scene takes place on Coruscant, a city-planet that has long been recognized as the galactic capital. However, this choice of location poses a significant predicament.
Coruscant Is Still The Galactic Capital In Ahsoka
Coruscant, a city-covered planet, holds a significant position as one of the Core Worlds in the Star Wars galaxy, often regarded as the epicenter of the entire galaxy. It is historically recognized as the birthplace of humanity within this vast expanse and served as the capital of the Republic for a millennium before falling under the control of the Empire. Over time, Coruscant has been a dwelling for both the Sith and the Jedi, while also hinting at possibly being a base for various other Force cults. However, despite its historical significance, Coruscant was no longer considered the capital after the Empire's downfall.
In Chuck Wendig's "Aftermath" trilogy, it is revealed that the New Republic initially established a rotating system for its senate's location, changing every few years. It briefly settled on Chandrila, the homeworld of Mon Mothma, but also included other Core Worlds. Yet, currently, Coruscant seems to have regained its stature as the chosen location for the senate, which is a logical decision due to the existing infrastructure that facilitates accommodating the governing body with ease. Furthermore, from an out-of-universe perspective, this return to Coruscant allows Star Wars to reintroduce a familiar and iconic setting.
Why Will The New Republic Move To Hosnian Prime?
The issue lies in the fact that the New Republic Senate is expected to relocate to another planet, specifically Hosnian Prime in the Core World. However, this planet will later be destroyed by Starkiller Base in the Star Wars sequel, The Force Awakens. This decision by Lucasfilm is puzzling, as it may be due to their reluctance to destroy a well-known world from the prequel trilogy. Nevertheless, it leaves behind an untold story of when and why the New Republic government made the move.
There is a possibility that Grand Admiral Thrawn plays a role in this relocation. If Thrawn successfully invades the main Star Wars galaxy, he may have the capability to attack the New Republic and eliminate a planet that houses its government, much like Coruscant. As more Star Wars content focusing on the New Republic Era is released, audiences will gain a better understanding of how the government changes its location. However, for now, viewers may have to accept the lack of explanation in Ahsoka's season finale.
Ahsoka releases new episodes Tuesdays at 6 pm PT / 9 pm ET on Disney+.