Hold referendum on proposed changes

The Government should hold a referendum on the constitutional changes to the Elected Presidency ("Nine-member panel to review Elected Presidency"; Feb 11, and "How to give your feedback on Elected Presidency"; yesterday).

We cannot expect a nine-member panel to be able to ascertain the will of the people.

A constitutional amendment is an important decree, and should get the widest support from the people, as it affects their lives.

Holding a referendum will also further consolidate the Government's effort to be consultative with the people.

Perhaps the Government could also give more information on the qualifications of the panel members and their experience in constitutional law.

Patrick Low Soh Chye

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on February 20, 2016, with the headline Hold referendum on proposed changes. Subscribe