A potential protest by Opposition Members was called off after Deputy Speaker Lenora Qereqeretabua approved the inclusion of Supplementary Questions during Oral Questions Time. Initially, a proposal was put forward to eliminate supplementary questions to make time for a Government event scheduled for later in the evening.
In a statement to the media, Jone Usamate emphasized that Parliament serves as the People’s House, and it is the responsibility of Parliamentarians to present and discuss issues affecting the populace.
Usamate mentioned that the Opposition was prepared to protest but decided against it after the Deputy Speaker’s decision. He criticized the Government’s attempt to shorten the day’s parliamentary session to facilitate attendance at a function.
“Parliamentarians should not be subordinate to any other events. This is the platform where the voices of the people are expressed and brought to attention,” Usamate asserted. He further stressed that the needs of the Parliament should take priority over any visitors or external activities, ensuring that Parliamentarians have the opportunity to address important matters.