The Press Monday, January 12, 1987. Hijacking An... (Press, 12 January 1987)

On 12 January 1987, the Coalition of Concerned Citizens announced its intention to influence the upcoming General Election in New Zealand by promoting a conservative agenda. The coalition aims to encourage voters to punish Members of Parliament (M.P.s) who supported recent homosexual law reform, seek the removal of other M.P.s who are perceived as socially liberal, and replace them with politicians who align with the coalition's conservative values. This strategy reflects a desire to impose a specific moral framework on the electorate. While acknowledging that political action is vital in a democracy, concerns were raised about the potential for the coalition's single-issue focus to detract from broader political discourse. The pressing issue at the heart of the coalition's campaign—homosexual law reform—has already been settled in Parliament, leading to fears that this singular focus could foster "tunnel vision" among voters and result in a government that neglects other significant economic, social, and political issues. The article pointed to the risks associated with single-issue politics, noting that they can skew electoral importance away from the diverse and multifaceted issues voters must consider. The coalition's campaign could destabilise the political landscape by polarising votes and fostering an atmosphere of instability. This instability is expected to have significant repercussions for the current Labour Government, which is primarily targeted by the coalition for its perceived liberal members. However, the National Party may also face significant challenges. A spokesman for the coalition claimed that its supporters have "penetrated significantly" into the National Party, raising concerns that this influence could push the party towards a more reactionary and narrow political stance. If successful, such an ideological shift could severely undermine the party's long-term viability, leading to a period of confusion and instability as both voters and political entities adjust to the evolving landscape. The discussion is underscored by a broader commentary on the importance of encompassing more varied political considerations in decision-making by the electorate. The potential for a coalition-led disruption of the existing political order may lead to far-reaching changes in New Zealand’s political dynamics as parties contend with the ramifications of this concentrated conservative push.

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