Restoring Democracy Prod’s Aim (Press, 17 June 1988)

On 17 June 1988, Nigel Malthus reported on the emergence of a new group in New Zealand called People for the Restoration of Democracy (PROD). This group was formed to address growing concerns about governmental accountability and the erosion of democratic processes. According to its chairman, Pat Fouhy, PROD represents individuals from diverse backgrounds who recognise the detrimental social and economic effects of a government that ignores the people's voice. The group's primary objective is to promote democratic consultation and decision-making within the government. Launched just four weeks prior, PROD has already gained traction from North Auckland to Bluff. It has opened a new branch in Levin and planned to establish one in Christchurch. The group aims to organise a national half-day stoppage if the government continues to disregard public opinion. They also intend to gather signatures for a petition, confidently aiming to exceed the 800,000 signatures collected against homosexual law reform, highlighting the irony of that unsuccessful effort as indicative of broader democratic issues. Fouhy expressed concern over the lack of constitutional measures to remove a government that acts undemocratically. He noted a growing disillusionment with New Zealand's party political system. While acknowledging the Labour Government's current role in this situation, he indicated that a National Government would likely perpetuate similar issues. He pointed out that since 1980, a trend towards what he described as "rule by executive decree" has become increasingly apparent, particularly under the Labour Government. Fouhy suggested that alternative forms of governance, like the Swiss model, might be more effective in ensuring democratic accountability. In Switzerland, for instance, significant legislative changes require a binding referendum if 5 percent of the electorate petitions for one. He contended that legislation could be rescinded and politicians held accountable if they fail to meet their commitments. He implied that if such a system were in place in New Zealand, politicians like Roger Douglas would have been dismissed for their actions. In further reinforcing the group's stance, Fouhy highlighted the Local Government Amendment Bill as an example of undemocratic governance. This bill would strip citizens of their right to hold polls on local government restructuring, concentrate decision-making power in a Cabinet committee, and remove the Local Government Commission's authority, effectively undermining parliamentary oversight in local government matters. This emphasis on restoring democratic principles and accountability was central to PROD's mission and the concerns it sought to address within New Zealand's political landscape.

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