"One Voice," a non-partisan movement advocating social and electoral reforms, raised concern over the timing of the proposed Charter change (Cha-cha), at a time when public trust in almost all institutions is low and a climate of fear and repression exists.
"We must pursue Charter change from a position of strength, as a democratic exercise that is widely accepted by all," One Voice lead convener and former Commission on Elections chairman Christian S. Monsod said.
He added that acts of repression in the countryside hinder open discussions about the current state of the nation, including the proposal to shift from a presidential-bicameral to a parliamentary-unicameral form of government.
One Voice believes that the unresolved killings of journalists, lawyers, and activists, including the abduction of students, have brought about a climate of fear and repression that does not augur well for a sober and transparent debate on constitutional reforms.
"We must earn the right to change the Constitution. We cannot do this in an environment of fear and repression," Monsod said. "And even of harassment of those engaged in legitimate dissent on issues like Charter change."
Under the present administration, 717 extrajudicial killings have been recorded by human rights group Karapatan since 2001.
The government is also embroiled in a controversy surrounding its evacuation of workers from Lebanon to Syria aside from having to answer to several impeachment complaints.
"A truly meaningful discussion of Charter change cannot be held given these circumstances when so many of our institutions are on the defensive," Monsod pointed out.
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