Speaker of Parliament Ratu Epeli Nailatikau has referred the alleged incident between the Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and Opposition MP Pio Tikoduadua that took place on August 09, 2019 to the Privileges Committee.

He ruled that there has been a prima facie breach of privilege by both the Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and Opposition MP Pio Tikoduadua.

This is under Standing Order 134 2(a)

The Speaker referred to words allegedly spoken and acts allegedly done outside of the Parliamentary precincts on August 09, 2019.

“Therefore I am referring this matter to the privileges committee and further direct the privileges committee to meet and consider all relevant evidence and to table its report and recommendations to Parliament by no later than Thursday September 5, 2019.

“Time will be allocated on Thursday for Parliament to consider the report and recommendations of the Privileges Committee and to pass a resolution as Parliament deems fit and appropriate in the circumstances,” the Speaker said.

The Privileges Committee comprises the following members:

– Veena Bhatnagar, Deputy Speaker and Chairperson of the Privileges Committee
– Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, Attorney-General
– Inia Seruiratu, Minister for Defence
– Alvick Maharaj, Assistant Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations
– Sitiveni Rabuka, Leader of Opposition
– Adi Litia Qionibaravi, Opposition