A former New Zealand National cabinet minister has criticized the country’s mixed-member proportional (MMP) voting system, blaming it on the influence of billionaires. Chris Finlayson, who previously served in the National government, argued that the current system has been “buggered” and called for a shift to a preferential voting system similar to Australia’s.
Finlayson’s comments come amid growing debate over electoral reform in New Zealand. He stated that the MMP system, which allows voters to choose both a party and an individual candidate, has been undermined by the disproportionate influence of wealthy donors. This, he argued, has led to an unfair advantage for certain political groups.
The suggestion to adopt a preferential voting system, as used in Australia, is not new. Similar proposals have been raised in New Zealand in the past, but have not gained significant traction. Finlayson’s remarks, however, have reignited discussions about the need for reform. The Australian model, which allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference, is seen by some as a more equitable system.
The debate over electoral reform in New Zealand is part of a broader conversation about political accountability and transparency. With concerns over the influence of money in politics, calls for change have grown louder. While the government has not yet committed to any major reforms, the discussion continues as public interest in fairer representation increases.
