Active Discussions Ongoing on Electoral Code and Constitutional Changes

Currently, there is renewed activity regarding discussions on both the Electoral Code and constitutional amendments. While members of the expert commission are more active in terms of constitutional changes, it is the ruling faction that initiates and advocates for changes to the Electoral Code.

The National Assembly's working group on electoral reforms has launched public discussions on the draft constitutional law 'Electoral Code' in an online format. The first public discussion has already taken place, focusing on topics such as pre-election campaigning, funding of campaigns, and the prohibition of abuse of administrative resources.

However, it should be noted that the ruling faction aims to bring the package of changes to the Electoral Code before the plenary sessions only during the spring session. It is worth reminding that this package is based on the concept of electoral legislative reforms adopted on October 1, 2018, which was not accepted by the Republican party that held a majority at that time.

Yesterday was just the first public discussion, and several similar discussions on specific topics will occur. A discussion regarding special measures for organizing voting during the pandemic will also take place on August 14.

The working group includes representatives from three parliamentary factions, the Central Electoral Commission, the Office of the Human Rights Defender, the Ministry of Justice, as well as members from various civil society organizations.

Additionally, the initial version of this draft has already been sent to the Venice Commission for review, and efforts are currently underway to address the received recommendations. Meanwhile, members of the expert commission on constitutional changes are expected to present their concept by the end of the year; however, voting in Parliament is again scheduled for next year. This means that the upcoming year will be active in terms of adopting new constitutions and electoral codes. We have been informed that both groups are currently continuing their work to meet their deadlines.

For the complete story, refer to today's edition of the newspaper.