National Federation Party President, Tupou Draunidalo has been suspended for the remainder of the term of Parliament, with immediate effect from today.
The Parliamentary Privileges Committee has recommended to parliament that Draunidalo be suspended after the Speaker of Parliament, Doctor Jiko Luveni had referred a matter to the committee regarding her use of offensive words in parliament when Education Minister, Doctor Mahendra Reddy was addressing the House.
The anticipation was a usual day day of debate in parliament.
But today marked another day in history in our parliament.
Members debated whether Opposition MP Tupou Draunidalo should be suspended after an exchange of offensive words with Dr Mahendra Reddy.
First up was Leader of Government, Inia Seruiratu on the Parliamentary Privileges Committee decision.
“We have a responsibility its a principal responsibility, its a principal approach, let me say again this according to Hon Nawaikula the biggest loser will be democracy let me tell him democracy will be the biggest winner madam speaker,” said Inia Seruiratu.
The Opposition did not agree with their findings.
“It comes down no where in the report did the committee at least integrated or look further in to whether they read the hazard whether it was tempered or not it does not show on the record,” said Mosese Bulitavo – Opposition MP.
“Standing orders 76/3 says that first offence 3 days, second offence 7 days third offence 28 days and it does not say to be totally out of parliament where is the balance here, where is it?” asked Viliame Gavoka – Opposition MP.
Minister for Education, Dr Mahendra Reddy also shared his thoughts.
“This should never happen in this house this is the highest body in the country it should set example and i support this motion,” said Dr Mahendra Reddy – Minister for Education.
The NFP President also defended her action said, “Working with the Alliance government and SVT later to find a common guide between the races not to stop promoting ill feeling between the large communities and nothing will stop the two communities”.