The NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi is condemning the National-led Government’s Electoral Amendment Bill, rushed through Parliament this week, which will disenfranchise tens of thousands of New Zealanders.
“Voter participation is essential for a healthy democracy. All Kiwis should be able to easily vote without restriction,” said NZCTU President Sandra Grey.
“This Bill undermines our democracy by restricting when people can register to vote. It will particularly disenfranchise low-income workers, Māori, Pasifika, Asian, and young people.
“This is voter suppression, and it is totally unacceptable. There is simply no justification.
“The Government parties don’t have a mandate for this Bill. They didn’t campaign on it and 80% of submitters opposed it at select committee, with only 0.5% supporting. The Government’s own Attorney-General has advised it unjustifiably restricts the right to vote.
“The NZCTU is deeply disturbed by this Bill, which creates the most restrictive voter enrolment timeframe we have had in decades. We call on opposition parties to commit to reversing this attack on democracy,” said Grey.