Mythbusting the Republic
Andrew Butler KC dispels some myths about becoming a republic:
- First, becoming a republic doesn’t mean we would leave the Commonwealth.
- Second, becoming a republic does not mean the Treaty of Waitangi dies.
- Third, it is misleading to suggest that a New Zealand republic must have a president, with powers like that of the US president.
He also gives some reasons for change, including:
- First, nationhood. Our head of state should reflect who we are. We believe in egalitarianism and merit, not inherited wealth or titles. All Kiwis should be eligible to be head of state, not just people born into one English family.
- Second, transparency. The monarchy and how it operates within New Zealand is obscure.
- Third, constitutional maturity. We stand on our own two feet in the world today, with our own identity, our own foreign policy. Our constitutional arrangements should reflect that we are Kiwis, not British.