Parliament in Fiji is set to be prorogued from December 16, 2024, until the commencement of the next session on February 24, 2025. Prorogation marks the formal end of a parliamentary session and is not characterized as a sitting day.
The Honourable Speaker has officially notified His Excellency the President about the prorogation and the date for the upcoming State Opening of Parliament. During this prorogation phase, all parliamentary activities, including sittings and committee proceedings on bills, motions, and reports, will be suspended. However, urgent matters may be addressed at the discretion of the Speaker.
The State Opening of the third parliamentary session will be conducted by Ratu Naiqama Tawakecolati Lalabalavu, the President of Fiji, at 10:00 a.m. on February 24, 2025, and will include a ceremonial 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 and other senior judicial figures.
Following the State Opening, Parliament will reconvene on March 3, 2025, for a two-week session. During the prorogation, other operations within the Parliament secretariat will proceed as normal unless stated otherwise.
This period of prorogation can be seen as a time for reflection and preparation for the upcoming session, providing an opportunity for lawmakers to recharge and focus on pivotal issues ahead. The ceremonial opening promises to be a significant event, setting the tone for the legislative agenda in the new year.
In summary, the prorogation of Parliament is a routine part of the legislative calendar, allowing for a structured approach to governance while ensuring that essential matters can still be addressed when necessary.
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