Although I don’t view the system as perfect,
I’m more concern with some of the suggested changes.
Our elected representatives need to be freed to represent their
constituents and not toe a party line. The problem is more often
Party flexing its muscle to focus the reps on an agenda set by
Premier or Prime Minister and not encouraging MLAs or MPs to find
out their constituents beliefs and needs on any given issue.
Any changes that allow or empower parties to appoint
representatives based on a percentage of the popular vote will
re-enforce the major weakness of the existing system. Voters must
vote for individuals who should represent them or they will not win
re-election. Our existing parties seem to feel any independent
thought is a threat to the governing structure whereas
representation by an elected member is our democracies greatest
strength.
Let’s devise a Charter that protects the elected rep
from the Party. The voter and the individual directly
voted for must reign above all else. Our existing system at least
gives us the illusion that this is the case. Parties (labels) may
be necessary to give form but the elected representative must be
able to stand against the party if their voters wishes, needs,
directions are in opposition.
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