The ideal number of seats in Fiji’s Parliament should be determined by the people, says Electoral Law Reform Commission chairman and former chief justice Daniel Fatiaki.

Responding to questions on The Lens@177 about the size of Parliament, Mr Fatiaki noted the country previously had legislative bodies with varying numbers of members.

“That decision ultimately belongs to the people,” he said.

“We have had parliaments with 50, 60, and even 70 members.

“A larger parliament may allow for broader representation, especially if we adopt a different electoral system.”

Mr Fatiaki also addressed concerns over the current electoral model, which favours high-profile candidates — often referred to as “superstars” — who draw in votes that help secure parliamentary seats for others.

“That is a reality of the current system,” he said.

“We have already seen how the loss of two major political figures led to the de-registration of a party and caused deep divisions within another.

“Many MPs entered parliament because of these superstars, not on their own merit.”

With elections looming, Mr Fatiaki said politicians who depended on popularity rather than individual credibility should reconsider their approach.

“Now, these politicians must ask themselves: Do they have time to find a new superstar, or should they focus on earning votes based on their own credibility?

“If they rely solely on a superstar system, they may struggle in the next elections.”