BRUNEI VOTES

After more than 40 years, Brunei's citizens will be getting the right to vote... but they will not be getting democracy:

Brunei King paves way for first election since 1962
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, SEPTEMBER 29: The King of oil-rich Brunei on Wednesday signed a new constitution paving the way for the kingdom’s first election since 1962, when an armed revolt put an end to its brush with democracy. In a royal ceremony in the Brunei capital, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, wearing his customary white military uniform, signed a series of amendments to the 1959 Constitution that would allow for a partly-elected Parliament of 45 members.

‘‘The Constitution provides more opportunities for the citizens to engage in consultation and contribute constructively to nation building,’’ the Sultan said in a speech.

But Parliament, which reconvened last weekend for the first time in 20 years as a fully appointed chamber, will not erode the Sultan’s powers.

The Sultan, who has ruled since 1967, took the decision to reconvene Parliament in July in a move that some believe reflects a desire to wrap the kingdom in some of the clothes of a liberal democracy. ...

The last time when elections were held in Brunei 42 years ago, the winner was a party that wanted full democracy and to join newly independent Malaysia.

The demands were rejected, leading to an armed revolt crushed by the current sultan’s father, using Nepalese Gurkha troops, who still help ensure security in Brunei.

Elections are to be held, the article notes, after the government has completed its study of 'different democratic systems from around the world.' The study shouldn't take too long. Judging by the constitutional amendment it seems that they've already decided to replicate the impotent, sham parliaments of the Gulf Arab states.

The IHT reports:

The amendment to the 1959 Constitution calls for creating a Parliament with 15 elected members and as many as 30 appointed members. The appointed members will include all nine cabinet ministers and (Sultan) Hassanal.

No word yet on if women will be allowed to vote.