Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has officially nominated retired High Court judge Justice Filimoni Jitoko to serve as the next Speaker of the House. Mr. Rabuka confirmed this decision, indicating that the Cabinet has reached a consensus on the nominee.
Justice Jitoko brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as the chief justice of the Nauru Supreme Court from 2017 and as the Registrar from 2015 to 2017. He holds a Bachelor of Law from Victoria University in Wellington, New Zealand, earned in 1978, and graduated from the University of the South Pacific in 1969.
According to the 2013 Constitution, the position of Speaker becomes vacant immediately before Parliament’s first meeting following a general election or if the incumbent assumes another public office. The Constitution also stipulates that Parliament must elect a Speaker who is not a member but qualifies as a candidate for election during its initial session after a general election, or when a vacancy arises.
The upcoming Parliamentary session is set for December 7, providing a timely opportunity for this nomination to be finalized.
This nomination of Justice Jitoko signifies a commitment to experienced leadership within the Parliament, potentially fostering a constructive environment as the nation navigates forward. With his legal background and judicial experience, there is hope that his leadership in this role will be marked by fairness and a strong sense of justice.
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