Page 11 - How to run and represent a party

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11
3. DEMOCRACY IN A PARTY
The following principles guide the development of internal democracy in our party.
ELECTED LEADERSHIP
Leadership – at all levels – must be elected regularly. The members must also have the
right to recall any leader for disciplinary reasons between the elections.
COLLECTIVE LEADERSHIP
Elected leaders are expected to operate as a collective. For example, in a Branch Executive
Committee (BEC) all members are responsible for ensuring that decisions are
implemented. Collective leadership has the advantage that you share skills, experiences
and knowledge, all of which facilitate the development of new leaders.
CONSULTATION
The party members must be involved in the political processes with opportunities to make
decisions, receive feedback, be consulted and participate in the development of programs.
PARTY DISCIPLINE
A party decision on an issue should be preceded by information, debates and consultations
so that members have a say. When a majority decision has been made by a party structure,
at whichever level, then that is the party’s formal view. All members must abide by
democratically taken decisions. Furthermore, decisions made by higher structures are
binding on lower structures. A party must act coherently for many reasons. Every member
must understand that this entails supporting and being part of
a party where the majority sometimes makes decisions that individual members do not
agree with.
RESPONSIBLE LEADERS AND MEMBERS
It is voluntary to become a party member, to stand for office and become an elected leader.
Whether a member or a leader, one must take rights and responsibilities seriously. Leaders
must understand that they are representatives and that they are not speaking for themselves
as individuals. Leaders must be in touch with members and encourage them to
communicate and express their views freely. Dedication and loyalty to the party can go