Coalition welcomes High Court ruling, urges PM to comply, resign or convene Parliament to uphold democracy
THE 28 member coalition has welcomed the High Court decision describing it as a decisive and historic affirmation of the rule of law, constitutional supremacy and parliamentary democracy.
In a statement today the coalition said the ruling provides a very clear direction on the constitutional issues currently facing the country.
It adds the decision removes any reason for delay or continuing to rule with minority in our parliamentary democracy.
The coalition stated that the Prime Minister himself has publicly stated he will adhere to any decision of the High Court.
“ We call on the Prime Minister to honour his public statement that he will adhere to any decision by the Court. Now that the court has made a decision he is obliged to comply with the Court’s ruling as he stated,” it said.
The statement adds the Court decision confirms what has always been clear in a parliamentary democracy and that is government must reflect the majority in Parliament.
“The Court ruling by the Chief Justice is very clear, resign or convene Parliament in the next three days,” it said.
The coalition further noted the Prime Minister’s statement last night to appeal the ruling.
The coalition said whilst the Prime Minister has the right to do so, it must not be intended to prolong minority rule, delay constitutional compliance and frustrate the clear and binding orders of the Court.
“The Prime Minister cannot speak of respecting the Court while also trying to delay its effect. He must commit to his own words and that is to adhere to the ruling,” it said.
The coalition said that the current situation has reached a critical constitutional point as alluded to by the Chief Justice in his ruling.
The statement adds the continuation of minority rule in these circumstances is untenable and contrary to democratic principles.
“We also reiterate our call for the Prime Minister to resign without further delay. This is in the best interest of the country, to allow Parliament to function in accordance with the clear majority and to restore stability, constitutional order and public confidence.”
“ The most noble and responsible course is clear: comply with the Court, respect the majority, or resign,” the Coalition stated.
SOURCE: PRESS RELEASE
