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Chirac sets date for referendum on shorter presidential term
President Jacques Chirac of France said Thursday he would ask French voters to approve a referendum to shorten the presidential term from seven to five years.
In a speech broadcast live on television and radio, Chirac said the referendum to amend the French constitution would take place Sept. 24.
The long-debated reform is likely to dim the luster of France's most powerful office. However, Chirac said the change would help breathe new life into France's democracy, and asked people to vote yes. He said shortening the presidential term would give voters the chance more often to have a say in electing the head of state.
Chirac, who is expected to run for a second term in 2002, could get a boost in popularity with a strong yes. However, a low turnout could also damage his prestige.
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