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October 7, 2008 5:57:31 AM CDT

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Sarkozy 's Reform Bill Passes By a Hair

Posted Jul 22, 08 9:25 AM CDT in World 

(Newser) – French President Nicolas Sarkozy hailed the passing yesterday of a constitutional reform, fulfilling a key campaign pledge. The overhaul of parliamentary and executive powers passed in the assembly and senate by a single vote, capturing 539 votes when it needed 538, the BBC reports. The opposition says the change will solidify France as a "monocracy" for Sarkozy.

The reforms allow parliament to set half its agenda and veto presidential appointments, and limit presidents to two 5-year terms. "It is French democracy that has won," Sarkozy said from Dublin, where he was meeting with leaders to discuss the Lisbon Treaty. "The camp of movement, change, modernity has won over the camp of immobility, of rigidity, of sectarianism."

Source BBC

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French President Nicolas Sarkozy, center, is seen between Republican Guard soldiers during Bastille day ceremonies in Paris, Monday July 14, 2008.   (AP Photo/Jacques Brinon)
President of French National Assembly Bernard Accoyer arrives at the Versailles Palace, Monday, July 21, 2008 for the vote on President Nicolas Sarkozy's plans to rewrite the constitution.   (AP Photo/Thomas Coex, Pool)
French President Nicolas Sarkozy gets into his car as he leaves the Government Building in Dublin, Monday, July 21, 2008, following his meeting with Irish Prime Minister Brian Cowen.   (AP Photo/Remy de la Mauviniere)
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France  • Nicolas Sarkozy  • constitution  • executive power  • political reform


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