Lakeba villager calls MPs 'free riders' in electoral system criticism

A villager from Lakeba in Lau has criticised Fiji’s electoral system, questioning how some Members of Parliament enter Parliament without what he described as sufficient public support.

Jiujiuwa Uluiqalu referred to such MPs as 'vodo loto' or 'free riders'.

During public consultations held by the Constitutional Review Commission (CRC), Mr Uluiqalu questioned the legitimacy of MPs who, in his view, fail to meet a fair vote threshold but still secure seats through party allocations.

“The people who do not have enough votes should not be sitting in Parliament,” Mr Uluiqalu said in his submission.

“They are 'vodo loto' or free riders benefiting from the hard work and popularity of others.”

His comments reflect growing frustration among some members of the public over Fiji’s proportional representation system, where candidates can enter Parliament through party votes despite receiving relatively low individual tallies.

The consultation in Tubou Village was led by CRC chairperson Sevuloni Valenitabua as part of nationwide efforts to gather public views on the country’s supreme law.

Mr Uluiqalu argued that the arrangement weakens accountability and undermines voter confidence.

He said Parliament should consist only of candidates with direct and substantial voter backing.

The submission adds to increasing public pressure on the review process to address concerns over representation, transparency and political fairness ahead of any future constitutional reforms.

Mr Valenitabua acknowledged the importance of public participation, saying the review process was intended to ensure ordinary citizens have a voice in shaping the nation’s governance.