Why the Proportional Representation System Fails to Promote Minority Interests?

https://doi.org/10.22146/pcd.25722

Minna Thaheer(1*)

(1) University of Colombo
(*) Corresponding Author

Abstract


Proportional representation (PR) is favoured as the most suitable form of electoral system for multi-ethnic societes because it allows every vote to be counted. It, therefore, provides a strong incentive for minority parties and other political groups to promote their political articulations. This article examines the PR system in contemporary Sri Lankan politics. It argues that the executive presidential system has negated the efficacy of the PR system in promoting minority parties and has had disastrous consequences in their political fortunes. The PR system has enabled Muslim communities to elect Muslim representatives from their own province. Spesifically, this article emphasizes the dynamics of the political fortunes of the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC), which seeks to give a voice to the minority Muslim communities concentrated in the Eastern Province.

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.22146/pcd.25722

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