Political System Reform: Deputy Mulet Raises Constitutional Concerns Over «Cartelization» and Restrictions on Association Rights

Original article: Reforma al sistema político: Diputado Mulet hizo reserva de constitucionalidad acusando «cartelización» y restricciones al derecho de asociación

Deputy Jaime Mulet (Social Green Regionalist Federation, FRVS) announced a constitutional reservation regarding the political system reform, which is currently under discussion by the Chamber’s Mixed Commission report.

The legislator specifically targets regulations that, in his view, «restrict the right of association and hinder the establishment and persistence of new political parties.»

«I have raised a constitutional objection to this reform, not just because of the provision from the Mixed Commission, but due to overall aspects that violate Article 19 number 15 regarding the right of association, as this is truly a case of cartelization,» the parliamentarian questioned.

Mulet especially noted the increase in requirements to establish political collectives, which is one of the key elements of the reform aimed at reducing fragmentation and strengthening party system representativeness.

«Large political parties are colluding to effectively prevent or make the existence of new political parties, and even currently existing parties, difficult, by raising the number of memberships and the number of regions that must be established to commence,» he outlined.

In this context, the regionalist deputy stated that «essentially, those currently in power are trying to eliminate competition. This is a matter of abuse that transgresses constitutional norms.»

Financing Regulations

Another criticism raised by the FRVS legislator was regarding the financing regulations applicable to new collectives, warning that this effectively leaves new parties financially powerless unless they gain parliamentary representation, which could take 4 to 5 years.

Finally, Deputy Mulet expressed his hope that the challenged regulations would be reviewed by the Constitutional Court.

«I believe this is a bad project. However, it has received support from UDI and RN, which are declining parties aiming to avoid competition. This is contrary to democracy. I hope the Constitutional Court will correct all those norms that restrict, complicate, or hinder the establishment of a political party or facilitate its dissolution,» emphasized the legislator.

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