The Process Has Begun: The Society 'Without Parties' Has Been Established. But Soon This Society Will Still... Join a Party! 0 6

So, it has happened – several public activists advocating for radical reform of the electoral system, namely the abandonment of elections based on party lists, have officially established a public organization with the symbolic name 'Without Parties'.

"According to the charter, the primary goal of the society is to achieve changes in the electoral process, creating a more just, transparent, and accountable political system for the people. Latvia needs a plan that works. And this is only possible if many people are involved – not closed party lists. To ensure broad participation and a professional outcome, the society is creating thematic working groups that will cover the main areas of the country's development – economy, education, healthcare, public administration, security, energy, social policy, and others. The task of the working groups will be to identify problems, propose solutions, develop specific proposals for policy changes, and form a general development plan for society. Anyone over the age of 18 can join the society," the press release distributed today states. The 'Without Parties' society was created by entrepreneur Armand Broks, priest Peteris Sprogis, director Alvis Hermanis, economist Guntars Vitols, Saeima deputy Didzis Smits, and publicist Yazeps Bashko.

Although the activists of this public organization intend to "put an end" to the party system, they will still need a party to participate in the upcoming Saeima elections, as the system of elections based on party lists is still in effect. According to unofficial information, the 'Without Parties' activists may take advantage of a small party called 'Platform 21', which was created by former politician Aldis Gobzems, who emigrated from Latvia. This is indirectly indicated by the party's recent call for those who support electoral system reform to join its ranks.

With the creation of their own party, the 'Without Parties' activists are already late – to participate in parliamentary elections, a new party must be registered no later than one year before the elections.