A potential protest by Opposition Members was avoided after Deputy Speaker Lenora Qereqeretabua permitted Supplementary Questions during Oral Questions Time. Initially, there was an agreement to forgo supplementary questions to accommodate a Government event scheduled for later that evening.
Jone Usamate addressed the media, emphasizing that Parliament serves as the People’s House, and it is the duty of Parliamentarians to raise and address issues affecting the public within the Chamber.
Usamate mentioned that the Opposition was prepared to protest, but this plan was abandoned following the Deputy Speaker’s decision to allow supplementary questions. He noted that the Government’s intention was to shorten the day’s proceedings to enable attendance at the evening function.
“Parliamentarians should prioritize their responsibilities. This is the platform where the voices of the people are expressed and acknowledged,” Usamate stated. He concluded by insisting that the needs of Parliament should take precedence over any external events or visitors, as they should not hinder Parliamentarians from voicing their concerns.