Speaker warns of parliamentary impasse after mass resignations, urges MPs to resume duties and restore accountability.
It is with deep concern that I address a serious political impasse confronting our Parliament. This 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.
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 Constitution requires that this House remain the forum for debate, decisionmaking, and oversight.
I therefore call upon all Members to recommit themselves to their parliamentary responsibilities. 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 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.
As Speaker, I will ensure that the business of Parliament proceeds in accordance with our Standing Orders and constitutional mandate. I urge all Members to return to the table of dialogue, to engage constructively, and to uphold the democratic values that bind us together as a nation.
Democracy is resilient only when its institutions remain active. Parliament must continue to function, for the sake of our people and the future of the Solomon Islands.
Source: Speaker Statement
