Parliament will officially be prorogued starting Monday, December 16, 2024, until the next session opens on Monday, February 24, 2025. Prorogation marks the conclusion of a parliamentary session or year within a four-year parliamentary term and is not considered a sitting day.
The Honourable Speaker has notified His Excellency the President about the prorogation and the upcoming State Opening of Parliament. During this prorogation, all parliamentary activities, including sittings and proceedings by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Bills, Motions, and reports, will be suspended. However, the Speaker may still address urgent matters if necessary.
The State Opening of the third session will be presided over by His Excellency, President Ratu Naiqama Tawakecolati Lalabalavu, on February 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., which will feature a formal military Guard-of-Honour by the Republic of Fiji Military Forces. The event will also see the attendance of the Acting Honourable Chief Justice Salesi Temo, Justices of Appeal, and other judges.
After the State Opening, Parliament will reconvene on March 3, 2025, for a scheduled two-week sitting. The operations of the Parliament secretariat will continue as usual throughout the prorogation period unless notified otherwise.
This prorogation provides lawmakers an opportunity to prepare for the next session, laying the groundwork for addressing critical issues. The upcoming State Opening is a significant event that reflects the continued functioning and commitment of the Fijian Parliament to serving the public and advancing governance.
Summary: The article details the prorogation of the Fijian Parliament from December 16, 2024, to February 24, 2025, during which parliamentary business will be suspended, except for urgent matters. The upcoming State Opening of Parliament on February 24 will be officiated by the President of Fiji, with the Parliament resuming sessions on March 3, 2025.
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