THE Speaker may order a Member of Parliament to vacate the Legislative Assembly for a period exceeding five days if not complying with the House’s Rules of Procedures.
Lord Tu’ivakano reminded MPs about of House Rules when the House resumed after lunch break.
His comments came after Vava’u 16 constituency MP ‘Etuate Lavulavu voiced his right to reply to accusations made against him in an impeachment motion read in Parliament earlier today.
Lavulavu's plea was rejected on the ground the matter is now being referred for further consideration by the Legislative Assembly's Standing Committee on Privilege.
Lord Tu’ivakano explained that Rule 49 of the Legislative Assembly Rules of Procedures where the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly or Chairman of the Whole House Committee may order a Member to vacate Parliament for more than a week.
“That is if the Member fails to comply with the House rules, behaves in a disorderly manner or has been warned twice but persists or continues to obstruct a meeting,” further explained the Speaker.
The Speaker also mentioned the Rule 52 where Speaker and Chairman speaks uninterrupted.
“Where a Speaker or Chairman speaks during a debate any Member speaking or offering to speak must sit down and the Legislative Assembly must be silent so that he may be heard without interruption.
MPs were also advised on Clause 53 of the House Rules where a Member who refuses to retract, explain or apologise for any objectionable words at the demand of the Speaker or Chairman may be suspended in accordance with Rule 49.
He also advises MPs that the Speaker is responsible for ruling whenever any question arises as to the interpretation and application of these Rules and deciding cases not otherwise provided for. In all cases he shall be guided by previous rulings and established practices of the Legislative Assembly and his decision shall be final.
Earlier today, Lavulavu was disrespectful to the Speaker when vehemently denied a response to accusations against him in the impeachment motion. When repeatedly ordered by the Speaker to sit down he accused his fellow MPs from Vava’u for conspiring to put forward the impeachment motion.
He did not like the Speaker to dictate him because he was not elected by the people. Lavulavu also Lord Tu'ivakano with another impeachment for violating his rights to reply. He also denied the allegations made against him.
After lunch break, Lavulavu apologized to Parliament for his misconduct earlier. However, he also told Parliament he was hoping for his comments heard for a fair and balanced coverage of the deliberation.
Lord Tu’ivakano stated that it is normal procedure for the House to first refer the motion of impeachment and supporting affadavits to the Privilege Standing Committee for consideration and recommendations.