Karl du Fresne points out the so-called "debate" on the constitution (run by Radio NZ) is effectively a watered down version of a wet tea towel.They are cosy consensus sessions featuring safe speakers who can be counted on to agree broadly on the key issues. While the participants are learned and articulate, it’s dishonest to pretend these affairs are a genuine contest of ideas.
They are a sham, creating the misleading impression that the highly contentious issues under discussion – such as the place of the Treaty of Waitangi in our constitutional arrangements – are largely settled....This charade closely follows a series of pretend “debates” on the Treaty...It is a misuse of power – nothing less.
Yep, this will not end well. And no doubt the masses will rest easy knowing that no matter what happens, John Key and Maurice Williamson will be there to assure us the sun will still rise tomorrow. As if that is somehow relevant to the political darkness descending upon us.
Read the whole article: Debasing Debate