Plebiscite Results May be Binding

Plebiscite results on the timing of parliamentary elections, due to be held on January 5, will be binding, according to a draft constitutional amendment unveiled on December 28.

The proposed plebiscite question is: “do you agree or not to hold parliamentary elections in spring?” The elections, in accordance with the constitution, are scheduled for sometime between October and December 2008.

Plebiscites generally – unlike referenda – are non-binding. The proposed draft constitutional amendment would only apply to this particular plebiscite and its results.

The proposed amendment will be discussed in late January, according to Vice-Speaker of Parliament Mikheil Machavariani, and if approved, will retroactively apply to the January 5 plebiscite.

An amendment envisaging the reduction of the current 7% election threshold to 5% is also expected to be discussed in late January.

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