A protest planned by Opposition Members was avoided when Deputy Speaker Lenora Qereqeretabua permitted Supplementary Questions during Oral Questions Time. Previously, there had been a proposal to disallow supplementary questions in order to accommodate a Government event scheduled for later in the evening.
In remarks to the media, Jone Usamate emphasized that Parliament represents the people, and it is the duty of lawmakers to address issues affecting the public within its chambers. He noted that the Opposition was prepared to protest but decided against it after the Deputy Speaker’s decision.
Usamate expressed concern that the Government aimed to shorten the day’s parliamentary session to participate in an evening function. He stated, “Parliamentarians should not be subservient to anything else. This is where the voices of the people are heard in our country and should be prioritized.” He further asserted that visitors or external events must not overshadow Parliament’s opportunity to address important matters.