Hon. Speaker of Parliament Patteson J. Oti has expressed concern over the mass resignation of all Chairpersons of all the Parliamentary Standing Select Committees and their members.
In astatement issued on Tuesday 24th May, the Speaker said, “It is with deep concern that I address a serious political impasse confronting our Parliament.”
He said in the past week, the Chairpersons of all the Parliamentary Standing Select Committees and their members had resigned from their appointments.
This has created a serious impasse that undermines the effective functioning of Parliament. It is an unprecedented situation in our Parliament’s history, he said.
While political disagreements are natural in any democracy, the deliberate suspension of parliamentary responsibilities undermines both the integrity of this House and the trust of our citizens.
“Parliament is the cornerstone of our democracy. It is here that the voices of our people are represented, laws are debated, and accountability is upheld.
“I need not remind all Members that our duty to Parliament and to the people of the Solomon Islands is not optional.
“Regardless of economic hardship, social pressures, or political impasse, Parliament must continue to operate,” the Speaker said.
He said, the Constitution requires that this House remain the forum for debate, decision‑making, and oversight.
“I therefore call upon all Members to recommit themselves to their parliamentary responsibilities.”
He explained the committees of Parliament are vital instruments of scrutiny and accountability, and their work cannot be abandoned or ignored.
“It is not optional.
“The people expect us to rise above political impasse and to demonstrate leadership in times of challenge.
“As such, pursuant to Standing Order 68(4), I will continue to offer committee chairpersonship and/or membership to any Members of Parliament to perform this vital parliamentary role, but if Members of Parliament (MP) decline to perform their parliamentary roles, they are answerable to the people they represent, not the Speaker.
“It is regrettable that I am not empowered, either by the Constitution or the Standing Orders, to recall Parliament during situations like this.
“In the absence of any enabling provisions, either express or by implication, Parliament sits in accordance with current practices and rules.
“In the absence of a sitting calendar, or any relevant rules to recall Parliament, all things equal, only the Government, through the Prime Minister, can summon Parliament to convene,” he said.
The Speaker said, he will ensure that the business of Parliament proceeds in accordance with the Standing Orders and constitutional mandate.
He urges all Members to return to the table of dialogue, to engage constructively, and to uphold the democratic values that bind the nation together.
