And no, it's not only about "better knowledge" of the councillors - it's about representation of the NCSG. Again, freedom of opinion is important but representation doesn't exist in vacuum, and when it's a 2-years term and the only form of accountability is not to be re-elected (which, frankly speaking, will be irrelevant for anyone who is at the end of the second term, right?) - there is a great chance for internal differences to undermine the credibility of our work and to mis-represent the position of the community.
Yes, it is about trust, but it's also about accountability and representation. I am all for trust and have always been, but I think at least a real possibility to consider invoking the charter provision on direct voting in exceptional cases shall be an option.
Warm regards