Re: “Reform electoral system by banning parties,” letter, Oct. 9.
Many people like to associate with others who share similar interests, value systems and beliefs. I think that political parties provide wonderful opportunities for like-minded people to socialize together and support one another. To suggest that we ban political parties is like suggesting that we ban sports teams, service clubs and religions.
As an alternative, I suggest we ban political parties from running our country. They aren’t even mentioned in our constitution. Instead, have the prime minister selected by secret ballot by a majority of elected members of Parliament, similar to the protocol the MPs use for selecting the Speaker of the House. This would also give assurance to the Governor General that he is appointing a prime minister who has the support of the majority of the House of Commons.
I understand this alternative is included in the briefs being studied by the Special Committee on Electoral Reform. If you think that it’s a good idea to have the prime minister selected by secret ballot by a majority of MPs, tell your MP about your wishes.
Robert Radford
Duncan
