Bonus Deputy Application Removed Amid General Election Excitement in the Neighborhood
Greece is preparing for its general elections on May 21, and the country’s political system holds several unique features that make this election cycle notably different from those in other countries. For instance, if a political party wins 151 seats in the parliament, it can rule alone. If no party manages to secure a majority of 151 seats, the President will assign the leader of the party with the most votes to form the government. However, if a government cannot be formed, the President will task the leaders of the second and third parties with the most votes to form the government within three days. But, if the third approach also fails, all political party leaders will come together under the President to form a temporary government involving all parties. If this process is also unsuccessful, the country will go to the polls again.
In the event of elections being held again, regardless of the percentage of votes received in the first election, all independent candidates and parties will once again take their places on the ballot papers. Additionally, the “bonus” deputization rule would apply, and the first party will receive 20 bonus deputies if the voting rate is 25 percent or more. For every half-percent of votes gained above 25 percent, one more parliamentary seat will be granted. In total, the first party can receive up to 50 bonus MPs under this framework.
All parties and independent candidates participating in the general elections must pass the 3 percent threshold to enter the parliament. While this threshold is applied throughout the country, it practically prevents independent candidates from representing their country’s people in parliament. With the Supreme Court’s approval of 36 of 50 applications, 27 political parties, 8 alliances, and one independent candidate were allowed to participate in the May 21 general elections.
Although several parties are set to appear on the ballot papers, surveys conducted by research companies rank the ruling New Democracy party as the most supported by voters, followed by the main opposition Radical Left Alliance (SYRIZA). PASOK is placed as the third party with the highest level of support from potential voters.
In conclusion, Greece is set to hold its national elections, incorporating unique election rules and intriguing election strategies during its process. The world will watch how Greece navigates this election cycle and which political party finally wins over the hearts of the Greek people.
