Referendum 'One Vote, Multiple Proposals' Plan Criticized as 'Disaster' by Election Chief

Lawmakers from the Kuomintang and Taiwan People's Party are set to push for amendments to the Referendum Act today, a move that would permit voters to cast multiple votes on different proposals within a single referendum. This procedural change, often referred to as 'one vote, multiple proposals,' has drawn sharp criticism from the head of Taiwan's election authority.

Central Election Commission Chairman Yu Chien-lung convened a press conference to voice his strong opposition, labeling the proposed amendments a "terrible idea" that is "bound to become a disaster." He urged the legislature to pause the legislative process, emphasizing that election reforms must consider voters as the primary stakeholders, not the lawmakers themselves.

“

Election reforms must consider voters as the primary stakeholders, not the lawmakers themselves.

Yu questioned the timing of the push for such significant changes to the referendum law, noting that the next general election is less than 100 days away. He argued that introducing this system so close to an election could create confusion and undermine the integrity of the electoral process.

The proposed amendments represent a significant departure from current referendum procedures, which typically allow for a single vote on a single proposal. The opposition's push for this change is expected to face strong resistance from those who believe it could complicate voting and potentially lead to unintended consequences.

“

What is the purpose of pushing such a referendum amendment at this time, with elections less than 100 days away?