The Electoral Commission has officially announced that the number of Members of Parliament (MPs) for the upcoming General Election will remain fixed at 55. This decision aligns with Section 54 of the 2013 Constitution, which mandates a review of parliamentary composition at least one year prior to a General Election.
Chairperson Justice Usaia Ratuvili stated that the review process evaluated two primary data sources: census-based calculations and voter registration figures. These analyses were aimed at ensuring that the ratio of MPs to the population aligns with that of the inaugural general election held under the current constitutional framework.
Interestingly, the census-based assessments pointed towards the possibility of reducing parliamentary seats, whereas the calculations based on voter registration indicated a potential increase. However, after a thorough consideration of both perspectives, the Commission concluded that maintaining the current number of seats aligns best with the Constitution’s intent and structure.
Justice Ratuvili emphasized that the composition of Parliament will not change, ensuring that 55 MPs will stand for election in the next General Election. This decision signals a commitment to uphold stability in the parliamentary framework as the nation approaches its electoral event.
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