The Tui Cakau, paramount chief of Cakaudrove, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, is expected to resume his tenure as a Member of Parliament for the Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) today.

Speaker of Parliament Dr Jiko Luveni, in a letter, confirmed that Ratu Naiqama’s two year suspension had ended and he could return to Parliament today.

Ratu Naiqama was suspended in May 2015 by a 27-18 parliamentary vote based on a recommendation by the Privileges Committee.

It had found Ratu Naiqama had uttered a slur against the Speaker.

Parliament was told this behaviour undermined the authority of the Speaker who is the embodiment of Parliament.

SODELPA leader Sitiveni Rabuka welcomed the return of Ratu Naiqama to Parliament.

Mr Rabuka said: “The Honourable Tui Cakau’s return will be a boost to our parliamentary effort, to represent the people of Fiji and their interests.

“It is also a celebration for the people of Cakaudrove.

“I note the Hon Lalabalavu’s constitutional challenge of his suspension is still before the courts, with judgment on notice, however SODELPA is unswayed and will soldier on despite this setback.”

Ratu Naiqama was not available for a comment yesterday. He was said to be away from home at a meeting.

Edited by Rusiate Mataika

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