A commissioner assessing Fiji’s electoral laws has acknowledged both the strengths and weaknesses of the current system, emphasizing a balanced perspective. Professor Wadan Narsey, leading the review, noted that while the shift away from ethnic constituencies is commendable, there are pressing issues that require attention.
Narsey highlighted the positive aspect of moving towards a more unified national identity, stating, “We firmly believe in the principle that we are all equal, regardless of ethnicity.” This reflects a significant step towards inclusivity in Fijin’s electoral landscape. However, he expressed concern regarding the five percent threshold for party representation, arguing that it marginalizes smaller parties with substantial voter backing. “We are seriously considering the concerns raised by political parties regarding the five percent threshold,” he said.
Addressing issues of vote allocation, Narsey pointed out flaws in the distribution process. He argued that the current system allows high-profile candidates, often dubbed as “Supermen,” to secure seats on behalf of others who may have received considerably fewer votes. He questioned the legitimacy of a system where politicians with thousands of votes can be overlooked in favor of those with minimal support, stating, “If a member of parliament doesn’t perform, the voters should be in a position to take them out at the next election.”
This discussion is part of a larger dialogue on electoral reform in Fiji, echoing earlier criticisms from constitutional lawyer Jon Apted and former Chief Justice Daniel Fatiaki. Both have raised alarms about local representation and the inadequacies of the single constituency system that can lead to representatives being elected with only a few hundred votes. Apted noted that this undermines local representation, leaving citizens without a dedicated member of Parliament to advocate for their community’s specific interests.
The pressing need for reform underscores an effort to enhance democracy in Fiji, with ongoing discussions aiming to balance the electoral framework to better reflect the will of the people. There is hope that these reforms will promote a more inclusive governance structure, encouraging wider engagement from all sectors of Fijian society.
As Fiji’s electoral landscape continues to evolve, the potential for meaningful reforms remains hopeful, aiming to create a system that truly resonates with the diverse voices of its citizens.
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