New constitution moves step closer
After bill gains senate approval, Sarkozy must woo opposition votes to gain enough support in final vote next week.
President Sarkozy must secure cross party approval of a bill to reform the constitution if it is to pass.
While the bill has been voted through in both houses, as a constitutional measure it must be voted in by three fifths of senators and deputies at a special congress – a majority the president has yet to secure.
Contained in the bill are provisions limiting the president to a maximum of two consecutive terms and allowing him to address the National Assembly.
The bill will also give powers to citizens to pursue cases against perceived unconstitutional laws via special courts.
The Socialist Party has vowed to block the legislation, despite concessions from Sarkozy, who has offered the opposition equal time during parliamentary debates and the right to respond on television to the presidential address.
They want the president to change to the method of electing senators, who are chosen by local councillors and deputies, with some socialists wanting to use proportional representation.
"If this reform fails, it will be a failure for everyone, first and foremost for democracy, for parliament and for the rights of citizens," Sarkozy warned in an interview in Le Monde.
The 331 members of the Senate and 577 deputies of the National Assembly will meet in Versailles for the congress opening on Monday.
Photo:Afp
