Why is an element of Direct Democracy needed in BC’s political system today ?
The short answer - because only a Direct Democracy mechanism ensures true democracy.
Democracy is when the will of the people prevails.
BC’s present system of representative democracy permits the citizen one vote every four years for a Legislative representative. A court ruling has established that Legislative representatives are not required to obey the wishes of the constituents after election.
Representative democracy has failed us. Between elections the voter is helpless to influence the way BC society is evolving. This system must be changed. On the other hand, by adding real Direct Democracy to our system, the voter can approve, veto, or repeal any law, and can approve or reject any constitutional change. The referendum decision of the electorate is binding on government. Voters can also require the government to enact a law desired by the majority of citizens.
Switzerland has prospered under such a system for the last 150 years, and voting dates are set quarterly, for use if considered necessary by the people. About 95% of Swiss legislation is routinely approved with no action required by the voters. British Columbians voted to get this system in 1991, but the ndplib party gave us an unworkable recall system. Refed has now drafted legislation for British Columbians that copies and even improves on the system that the Swiss have.
RefedBC guarantees to enact a Swiss style system of Direct Democracy within 100 days of taking power in Victoria. A workable system of Recall can also be added. BC will then have true democracy. Vote Refed into power in Victoria.
The ndplib party will never install Direct Democracy in BC.
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