Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Li’o Papalii Taeu Masipa’u has confirmed an official complaint has been lodged against “unnamed” Members of Parliament.
“And they have been given until Monday 3 May 2022 at 4 pm to respond in writing to the written complaint made against them.”
“I have received a written complaint citing violation of section 178.1 of the Standing Orders by a Member of Parliament and pursuant to section 180.1 the complaint has been handed over to the accused MP’s,” said the Speaker.
He said under section 180.2 stipulates that the Speaker shall not report that a matter involving another member involves a question of privilege without first informing that member that this is intended.
Adding that the MP’s who are accused to submit written submission for the Speaker’s consideration.
On Tuesday, the Speaker will announce his official decision in Parliament. Furthermore, the Speaker ruled that no one is allowed to discuss this matter in Parliament.
Standing Order sections 178 (1) (2) and 180 (1) (2) are printed verbatim below.
178. Raising of Matter of Privilege:
(1) Any member wishing to raise a matter of privilege shall refer it to the Speaker in writing at the earliest opportunity before the next sitting of the Assembly, or if the matter occurs in the Assembly, it may be referred to the Speaker in writing forthwith. Provided that matters of privilege relating to the conduct of strangers present within the precincts of the House may be raised forthwith in the House and dealt with in such way as the Speaker may determine.
(2) The Speaker shall consider the nature of the complaint or alleged breach and determine whether a question of privilege is involved.
180. Members to be Informed of Allegations Against Them:
(1) Any member raising a matter of privilege which involves another member shall as soon as after raising the matter, fully inform the other member of the matter of privilege raised.
(2) The Speaker shall not report that a matter involving another member involves a question of privilege without first informing that member that this is intended.
