Majority Leader James Agalga has defended the Speaker of Parliament’s handling of proceedings in the Chamber, insisting that the presiding officer has a comprehensive view of events and must be respected in maintaining order and discipline.
Mr Agalga said isolated sound bites from parliamentary proceedings could misrepresent what actually happened, arguing that several developments preceding the controversial moment involving former Attorney-General Godfred Dame’s successor, Hon. Abu Jinapor, were important to understanding the Speaker’s decision.
He explained that parliamentary rules require members who make allegations they cannot substantiate to withdraw them when directed by the Speaker.
According to him, the Speaker had repeatedly directed Mr Jinapor to withdraw his comments but the lawmaker showed reluctance before eventually complying after an order for him to be escorted out of the Chamber.
“The Speaker has a bird’s-eye view of whatever goes on in the Chamber. So as for the sound bites, if you listen to the sound bites, you may be misled,” Mr Agalga said.
He maintained that the Speaker’s authority to maintain order and discipline in Parliament was clearly provided for under the Standing Orders, which prohibit members from engaging the presiding officer in a debate.
Mr Agalga said members were expected to resume their seats immediately when the Speaker began speaking, rather than attempt to challenge or debate his directives.
He stressed that the Speaker was responsible for ensuring order and discipline in the House and that members were required to comply with procedural directives.
The Majority Leader’s comments come amid discussions over the enforcement of parliamentary rules and the conduct of members during proceedings.
Source: Newspyramid.com
