I'm not sure what the big deal is whether there is an exact date, or if the ruling party just has to have an election within a reasonable time frame. Either way, politicians will plan their agenda around the most opportunistic times. If anything, a set date can force issues that should otherwise be given more time.
On the senate; I can see the validity of an elected senate and a non-elected senate. The senate we have now may not be elected, but they also have very nominal power. It's really just a forum. And the fact it is appointed ensures that people from some minority groups that have little chance of ever being elected, but deserve to be involved in the politics of the country, can be involved.
What would be the point of an elected senate if it just has the same representation of parliament anyway? Unless the Senate is based on the popular vote, as opposed to parliament which is not... that might work.
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