Key facts
- New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is open to a referendum on the country's electoral system.
- The current Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) system was adopted in 1996.
- Luxon suggested a referendum could occur in 2027 if his party wins the November 7 general election.
- He believes the public should have a chance to confirm their desired electoral system.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has indicated he is open to the possibility of a referendum on the country's electoral system. Speaking in an interview, Luxon stated that such a referendum is "something we should consider" and could potentially be held as early as 2027, contingent on his party winning the upcoming general election scheduled for November 7.
Luxon expressed his belief that it is constitutionally appropriate to periodically check in with the public to confirm if the current system is still the one New Zealanders desire. The nation adopted the German-style Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) system in 1996, replacing the previous first-past-the-post system. The MMP system involves constituents casting two votes, one for a local candidate and one for a party, with party list seats allocated to reflect the nationwide party vote share. While praised for giving smaller parties a voice, the system has also faced criticism for its complexity and tendency to result in coalition governments. Notably, MMP includes seven seats reserved for Indigenous Maori voters.