Members of Parliament have been criticized for using inappropriate and disrespectful language, leading a former secretary-general to label it a “Banana Parliament.” Mary Chapman expressed her disappointment at the current decorum in the House, noting that such behavior should be curtailed.
Her remarks came after a heated exchange during a recent session, where a Cabinet Minister referred to an Opposition MP as a “murderer,” to which the MP retaliated by calling the minister a “chor,” which means thief.
Chapman remarked that this level of discourse was unheard of in her time, when the Speaker would have swiftly intervened to address such conduct. She lamented the deterioration of standards, stating, “It’s not like a Parliament anymore. It’s just like a Banana Parliament. People are calling each other murderers and liars.”
She highlighted the seriousness of Parliament’s role in governing, emphasizing that using such inflammatory language undermines the institution. In her experience, calling someone a liar could lead to suspension, contrasting it with today’s environment where accusations have escalated significantly.
Chapman stressed the need for accountability, warning that without intervention, the situation could continue to deteriorate further.