YANGON-------Chairman of Union Election Commission Thein Soe said that the current election system is outdated and so majority of the countries practiced PR system. He said at a meeting with the representatives of political parties on electoral system at the Mingalar Hall in Yangon Region government office on November 5.
The chairman said that there are 2 electoral systems: such as FTPT and PR system. Myanmar practiced FTPT system in accordance with 1947 constitution, parliamentarian elections held from 1948 to 1962 in accordance with 1974 constitution, and 1990 general election.
According to the changes of era, electing one representative from one constituency is outdated and unequal and so most countries didn’t use FTPT system and substitute PR system. When electing a representative who won 51 percent of votes in winner takes it all system, the winner has the chance to represent 100 percent while another representative who got 49 percent of votes lost his chance of representing the 49 percent of voters, he said. He discussed the differences between the two electoral systems and clarified the advantages of PR system.
The advantages of PR system are that minority parties, ethnics, women and individuals get chances depending on the ratio of votes.
He added the principles of the 2008 Constitution are to follow the genuine, disciplined democratic system, holding of two general elections according to the 2008 Constitution, the victory of just one great party that formed the government, advantages of multiparty to conduct check and balance and the electoral reform.
In accordance with 2008 constitution, two general elections were held, where one big and powerful political party influenced at the parliament and formed a government. If PR system is to substitute, minority ethnic groups can take part in administrative and legislative sectors proportionately, he added.
The second-day meeting will be held on November 6 and a total of 113 persons – 93 from 53 political parties and 20 civilians — joined yesterday’s event.
