The remark that one single party must win by a landslide election victory to amend the constitution is a real trick because even the number of elected parliamentary representatives is less than 75 percent, said People’s Party Chairman Ko Ko Gyi.
He was replying to the question of a reporter of The Daily Eleven on any change of plans if it wins the election during the opening of the party office in Kamayut Township on August 16.
“I want to be frank about the constitutional amendment. It is a con game if we say only one single party’s winning of the election paves the way for constitutional amendment. This is because even the number of parliamentary representatives we can elect is less than 75 percent,” Ko Ko Gyi said.
As per the constitution, over 75 percent of members of Union Parliament are required to amend some key provisions such as the military’s role in national politics and presidential qualifications.
There were seven constituencies in Myanmar where the 2015 election could not be held. In the 2020 general election also, holding the election in some constituencies of conflict-ridden northern Rakhine State is uncertain. So it is difficult to acquire 75 percent of parliamentary seats, he commented.
“We need 75 percent to amend the constitution. Then, the role of military representatives comes as to whether they will oppose or support. One single party’s winning of the election has nothing to with charge change, Ko Ko Gyi added.
PP Chairman Ko Ko Gyi is due to compete in South Oakkalapa Township for a lower house seat. His party will have 152 candidates run for election in over 70 townships.
Dr Zaw Myint Maung, vice chairman (2) of the ruling National League for Democracy, told BBC Myanmar on June 4 that people should observe if a political party can form a government.
“We can promote democracy only if we vote for the party that can form a government. So we still need to favour party reputation,” he said.
Ko Ko Gyi, one of the 88’ generation student leaders, formed his own party with his co-politicians after he was sidelined by the NLD in the 2015 election.
