A potential protest by Opposition Members was avoided when Deputy Speaker Lenora Qereqeretabua permitted Supplementary Questions during the Oral Questions Time. There had been a prior decision to prohibit these questions to allow time for a Government event scheduled for the evening.
Jone Usamate, speaking to the media, emphasized that Parliament acts as the People’s House, where Parliamentarians have a duty to present and address issues impacting the public. He noted that while the Opposition was prepared to protest, this course of action was abandoned following the Deputy Speaker’s ruling.
Usamate pointed out that the Government intended to shorten the day’s session in order to attend a scheduled function. He insisted that Parliament should not be subordinate to any other events, as it serves as the platform for the populace’s voices to be heard. He concluded by stating that legislative duties should take priority over any visitors or activities that may interfere with Parliamentarians’ ability to address important matters.