Speaker should have stronger powers, CRC told

The Speaker of Parliament should be given stronger constitutional powers to enforce parliamentary ethics and address absenteeism among Members of Parliament.

The proposal was raised during the Constitution Review Commission (CRC) consultations in Lautoka yesterday by resident Viliame Ralulu, who said the constitutional amendment process presented an opportunity to strengthen accountability within Parliament.

Mr Ralulu referred to recent parliamentary sittings where absenteeism had been raised as a concern. He said the issue highlighted weaknesses in the current system and demonstrated the need for stronger measures to ensure elected representatives fulfil their duties.

“Provisions should be included in the Constitution giving the Speaker greater authority to enforce the Parliamentary Code of Ethics,” he said.

He also called for measures to address MPs who frequently fail to attend parliamentary sittings without valid reasons.

Mr Ralulu argued that Parliament must maintain high standards because MPs are entrusted by voters to represent their interests and participate in making laws for the country.

He said strengthening the Speaker’s powers would help improve discipline in Parliament and reduce conduct that undermines public confidence in elected leaders.

Submissions to the Constitution Review Commission continue today at the Rakiraki Market Conference Hall.