MP and Minister of Maori Affairs, Willie Jackson, in the Labour Government, has briefed us through the media that in his opinion, democracy has changed and additionally we should not be scared of co-governance. He states, again in the media, that he regards people who disagree with his opinion as ‘hypocrites'. I disagree, democracy cannot change. It's fundamental requirement is ‘one person: one vote' in electing the Government and its policies.

It also means free expression in the debating whether co-governance is good or bad, so how can that be hypocritical if some citizens have an alternative view?

However democracy cannot prevail where 50 per cent of any vote is given to a selected race. It is unreasonable that 15 per cent of the population, above all else, is given an equal share in any government decision. Whether this be Three Waters, a separate health authority or a separate justice system – all without a clear mandate from its citizens. This seems to be government policy and possibly reflects its steady decline in political opinion polls.

David Hallett, Mount Maunganui.