On October 25, 1989, the Supreme Soviet voted to eliminate special seats for the Communist Party and other official organizations in national and local elections, responding to sharp popular criticism that such reserved slots were undemocratic. After vigorous debate, the 542-member Supreme Soviet passed the measure 254-85 (with 36 abstentions). The decision required a constitutional amendment, ratified by the full congress, which met December 12–25. It also passed measures that would allow direct elections for presidents of each of the 15 constituent republics. Gorbachev strongly opposed such a move during debate but was defeated. COUNT 3
QSN1 What did the Communist Party lose on October 25, 1989 with regards to elections? ANS1 special seats QSN2 Who voted to get rid of the special seats? ANS2 the Supreme Soviet QSN3 When did congress meet to ratify the amendment to remove special election seats? ANS3 December 12–25