Matterly was the president of a primitive culture on Karaknid. During his rule his planet began being manipulated by the Rulers of the Universe who were able to bring about natural disasters such as hurricanes or earthquakes, or economic and political events such as the rise and fall of governments.
One of the manipulation suite operators hoped that another natural disaster on Karaknid would be the last straw for President Matterly. (AUDIO: I Went to a Marvellous Party)