Calls for Electoral Reform Ignite Debate in Fiji’s Democracy

The general secretary of the People’s Alliance in Lautoka, Onisimo Raboiliku, has raised concerns regarding the fairness of Fiji’s current electoral laws. During a recent engagement with the Electoral Reform Commission at Namoli Village, he questioned the legitimacy of having Members of Parliament (MPs) elected with fewer than 1,000 votes while other candidates with significantly more votes—ranging from 2,000 to 5,000—are left unrepresented in Parliament. Raboiliku posed a critical question, “How is equal representation working here?” emphasizing the gap between voters’ expectations and the actual electoral outcome.

Echoing sentiments expressed by figures like former Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki and constitutional lawyer Jon Apted, Raboiliku’s calls for reform highlight a perceived disconnect between the electorate and their representatives. Fatiaki, in earlier critiques, labeled the current electoral system as “ridiculous,” underlining that it fails to ensure meaningful local representation. He and Apted have articulated concerns about a model that allows the election of officials with only a handful of votes, fundamentally questioning their legitimacy as proper representatives of their constituents.

This dialogue surrounding electoral reform is not new, with a series of discussions revealing broad community support for changing the existing system. Many citizens and experts advocate for a return to a constituency-based model that would facilitate direct connections between voters and candidates who genuinely understand local issues. The current framework, which operates under a single national constituency, leaves many citizens feeling alienated and underrepresented.

The consistent calls for reform from citizens like Raboiliku and experts alike signal a significant moment for possible systemic changes in Fiji’s electoral laws. There is growing optimism that these conversations and advocacy for inclusivity belong to a broader movement toward ensuring that every voice is heard and represented in the nation’s governance. The push for a fairer and more representative electoral system holds the promise of enhancing public trust in Fiji’s democracy and fostering a more engaged populace.