Speaker urges MPs to recommit to parliamentary responsibilities following last week’s mass resignation of committee chairpersons and members
BY NED GAGAHE
The Speaker of Parliament, Patteson Oti, calls on Members of Parliament to rise above political differences and return to constructive dialogue to ensure effective functioning of Parliament.
“It is with deep concern that I address a serious political impasse confronting our Parliament. This past week, the Chairpersons of all the Parliamentary Standing Select Committees and their members resigned from their appointments. This has created a serious impasse that undermines the effective functioning of Parliament. It is an unprecedented situation in our Parliament’s history,” Mr Oti said.
He said while political disagreements are natural in any democracy, deliberate suspension of parliamentary responsibilities undermines both the integrity of the House and trust of citizens.
“Parliament is the cornerstone of our democracy. It is here that the voices of our people are represented, laws are debated, and accountability is upheld,” he said.
Oti reminds all members that their duty to Parliament and to the people of the Solomon Islands is not optional.
“Regardless of economic hardship, social pressures, or political impasse, Parliament must continue to operate. The Constitution requires that this House remain the forum for debate, decision‑making, and oversight.”
He calls on all MPs to recommit themselves to their parliamentary responsibilities.
“The committees of Parliament are vital instruments of scrutiny and accountability, and their work cannot be abandoned or ignored. It is not optional. The people expect us to rise above political impasse and demonstrate leadership in times of challenge.”
“As such, pursuant to Standing Order 68(4), I will continue to offer committee chairpersonship and/or membership to any Members of Parliament willing to perform this vital role. However, if Members decline to perform their parliamentary duties, they are answerable to the people they represent, not the Speaker,” he said.
The Speaker also acknowledged the limits of his authority. “It is regrettable that I am not empowered, either by the Constitution or the Standing Orders, to recall Parliament during situations like this. In the absence of any enabling provisions, either express or implied, Parliament sits in accordance with current practices and rules. Without a sitting calendar or relevant rules to recall Parliament, only the Government, through the Prime Minister, can summon Parliament to convene.”
Oti assured that he will ensure the business of Parliament proceeds in accordance with Standing Orders and the constitutional mandate. “I urge all Members to return to the table of dialogue, engage constructively, and uphold the democratic values that bind us together as a nation.”
“Democracy is resilient only when its institutions remain active. Parliament must continue to function, for the sake of our people and the future of the Solomon Islands.”
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