National Federation Party’s Boycott Of Parliament Over

The National Federation Party’s boycott of Parliament is over.

This week, party leader Biman Prasad sat in as an alternate member for MP Lenora Qereqeretabua in the Standing Committee for Foreign Affairs and Defence.

Mr Prasad confirmed that even though the Speaker of Parliament Ratu Epeli Nailatikau had not responded to their queries, they were back in the Standing Committee meetings and subsequently back in Parliament.

“We have not had any response from the Speaker. So, if we are back in the committee what does that mean? It means we are back in Parliament,” Mr Prasad said.

“I didn’t say anything about returning and when all I said is that we are waiting for a response from the Speaker and we are still waiting for a response from the Speaker.

“I don’t take any single cent allowance as well. Whatever allowance I get I give it to the party. It’s never about money for me.”

NFP president Pio Tikoduadua’s six months suspension will end on Friday and he is also expected to return to Parliament in the next sitting starting on March 16.

Last month, Opposition MP’s including NFP parliamentarians walked out of Parliament on February 18 in protest to a ruling by the Speaker of Parliament.

Edited by Caroline Ratucadra

Feedback: fonua.talei@fijisun.com.fj