A SECOND parliamentary chamber would place an unnecessary financial burden on Fijian taxpayers, says business consultant and community advocate Sandeep Singh.
Speaking during public consultations on the Constitution Amendment Bill 2026, Mr Singh called on the committee to remove the Senate provision under Part C, Clauses 75 to 80, and retain a single elected chamber.
He said Fiji did not need 78 legislators, arguing that expanding Parliament would increase public spending through salaries, allowances, staffing and administrative costs.
“As a tiny nation, Fiji, in my view, this expansion would place an unnecessary burden on our taxpayers, through salaries, allowances, staffing, and administrative costs,” he said.
“Our priority should be improving public savings, and reviewing the cost of the Government.”
Mr Singh also raised concerns that a second chamber could delay legislation, suggesting that parliamentary scrutiny could instead be strengthened through effective parliamentary committees, independent expertise and meaningful public consultation.
He said these measures would allow Parliament to improve its oversight of legislation without creating an additional legislative chamber.
Mr Singh also called for the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) to retain its focus on cultural leadership, community guidance, welfare and national development, independent of party politics.
“I respect the GCC and the Bose Levu Vakaturaga.
With transparent and affordable arrangements, they should contribute to national decision without becoming part of a legislative chamber.”
He urged the committee to provide for independent consultation with the GCC and other community representatives and councils as part of the proposed constitutional arrangements.
Mr Singh said Fiji needed effective representation and accountable leadership within a cost that taxpayers could sustain.
“I do not believe an additional parliamentary chamber is necessary for a country.” The consultation on the proposed Bill continues today.
