Clerk to Parliament Taeasi Sanga said four male candidates are contesting the posts today.
They are:
*Former MP for Temotu Nende, Patterson Oti - nominated by MP for Temotu Pele, Martin Magga;
*Former MP for Rannoga Simbo, Francis Billy Hilly - nominated by MP for West Kwaio Peter Tom;
*Former MP for Savo Russell, Sir Allan Kemakeza - nominated by MP for Ulawa Ugi James Tora;
*Former MP for Central Kwara'ae, Fred Fono nominated by MP for Rennel Bellona Seth Gukuna.
For Deputy Speaker’s post, Parliament accepted two candidates after Sir Allan's nomination was disqualified.
The two accepted candidates are:
*MP for North East Guadalcanal and former Prime Minister, Dr Derek Sikua - nominated by MP for Lau Baelelea, Walter Folotalu;
*MP for West Honiara, Namson Tran - nominated by MP for Gizo Kolombangara, Gordon Darcy Lilo.
Mrs Sanga said Sir Allan was disqualified under Section 64 of Constitution which states only sitting MPs are eligible to contest the deputy speaker’s post.
This section said Parliament shall at its first sitting after any general election elect:
(a) from among persons who are qualified for election as a member of Parliament, a Speaker; and
(b) from among its members, a Deputy Speaker.
Mrs Sanga said taking of oaths by the 49 MPs will first happen before the election of Speaker.
MP for Shortlands Islands, Steve Laore passed away less than 24 hours after the election of Prime Minister on 25th August.
Mrs Sanga said after the MPs take their oath, Parliament will suspend for 30 minutes to allow the new Speaker to take his seat and preside over the deputy speaker’s election.
She said after that Parliament will adjourn for Thursday 23rd September 2010.
Meanwhile, previous Speakers were:
*Late Sir Frederick Osifelo (Speaker of Legislative Assembly), 1974-1977;
*Late Sir Lloyd Maepeza Gina (Speaker of Parliament), 7 July 1978 - 14 March 1989;
*Waeta Ben Tabusasi (Speaker of Parliament), 14 March - 10 July 1993;
*Paul Tovua (Speaker of Parliament), 10 July 1993 - 20 December 2001;
*Rt Hon Sir Peter Kenilorea (Speaker of Parliament), 20 December 2001 - 8 September 2010
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