As the nation awaited the much anticipated COVID-19 Response Budget, which would bring relief to the affected masses in Fiji, the Opposition once again tried to stall the proceedings last night.

Leader of Opposition Sitiveni Rabuka moved a point of order asking the Speaker of the House Ratu Epeli Nailatikau if more than 20 people were allowed in the House.

He said people had been arrested for violating the Public Order Act, and the Opposition members were waiting in the conference room.

“I don’t see any reason why the Opposition members of Parliament are not here in the first place,” said Ratu Epeli.

“This is a workplace and not a public gathering.”

Ratu Epeli then set out the rules in Parliament, which would be followed as long as the COVID-19 pandemic affected the world.

He said seating had been arranged so members were two metres apart and this had led to 18 members sitting in the public gallery.

Microphones nearest to the bar would be used by the 18 members and wiped down properly after each delivery.

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