The Parliament seating arrangement among SODELPA’s hierarchy has seen high chief Roko Tui Dreketi Ro Teimumu Kepa moved away from the top table, making way for Party Leader Viliame Gavoka.

Mr Gavoka has taken the seat previously occupied by Ro Teimumu.

Member of Parliament Anare Jale has been moved further back while MP Mitieli Bulanauca, who is known for making outrageous statements in Parliament, has been given a more central seat.

Yesterday, Parliament confirmed that the changes were proposed by the Leader of Opposition Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu and subsequently approved last week by the Speaker, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau.

When approached for a comment Ratu Naiqama said it was a difficult question to answer and the new seating arrangement was not an easy discussion to have.

As chiefs, he said they had to make way for Mr Gavoka, who was a commoner to seat among them because the people had voted him in.

“These days, people are challenging us. Chiefs have to prove themselves and we can’t keep looking out for each other as chiefs. This party is beyond that.”

Opposition Whip Lynda Tabuya said they moved Ro Teimumu to give Mr Gavoka some prominence as party leader.

She further explained that Mr Bulanauca was moved forward because he was a more senior MP compared to Mr Jale.

MP Tanya Waqanika was switched with MP Peceli Vosanibola because she was a new MP. Edited by Naisa Koroi

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