In the 2024 election 48% of eligible voters did not turn up to vote. People have lost trust in the system. Our lives didn’t get any better no matter which Party was elected. There was no trickle down, there was no levelling up. Foodbanks have multiplied and the climate is in trouble.

It clear that many British voters are disenchanted with traditional political parties. A notable outcome of this is the increased number of independent candidates running for Parliamentary seats—459, double the number from the 2019 general election. This shift suggests that now is a good time to reassess our political system and explore the potential advantages of having an independent parliament that operates under a direct democracy, free from the influence of political parties.

Benefits of an Independent Parliament

An independent parliament, free of political parties, could offer several advantages:

1. Enhanced Representation: Independent MPs are more likely to represent the specific interests of their constituents, as they are not beholden to a party’s agenda.
2. Reduced Partisanship: Without party lines, the focus would shift from party politics to policy and governance, potentially leading to more constructive and collaborative decision-making.
3. Increased Accountability: Independent MPs would be directly accountable to their constituents, fostering greater transparency and trust in the political process.

The case for Direct Democracy

Direct democracy, where decisions are made by the people rather than through elected representatives, can further enhance the benefits of an independent parliament. This system empowers citizens to have a direct say in policy decisions, ensuring that governance truly reflects the will of the people.

Parallels in other countries

.Several countries have seen similar trends and have implemented systems that can serve as models for the UK:

Italy: The Five Star Movement, which started as a protest against traditional parties, has shown the potential for independent and grassroots movements to gain significant political traction.

Switzerland: Known for its direct democracy, Switzerland allows citizens to participate directly in decision-making through referenda and initiatives. This has led to high levels of political engagement and satisfaction.

Iceland: Following the financial crisis of 2008, Iceland saw a rise in independent candidates and a movement towards greater citizen involvement in politics. The country has since made significant strides in transparency and accountability.