SNews: March 15/2013

Speaker of the National Assembly Raphael Trotman hit out at this year’s Babu John Cheddi Jagan death anniversary commemoration by referring to “intolerant” comments made there by several persons.

At the Babu John event on Sunday March 3, 2013, President Donald Ramotar verbally attacked the Opposition in general and made remarks against former colleague Moses Nagamootoo. He also attacked media houses for being critical and letter writers for stating their opinions on the letter pages of newspapers.

“Honourable members, on the last occasion during the 38th sitting of the National Assembly I called the sitting to an end, following what had in my opinion had become intolerable behaviour and remarks. Remarks such as ‘thief’, ‘liar’, and ‘prostitute’, were just a few of the ones most audible,” he said. “In addition, there was what I consider to be disdain, disgust and disrespect being shown by members to each other and even to the Chair. We are all reminded that we are all, including myself, are elected officials – servants and stewards of the people’s trust and aspirations. The people are not only expecting more robust, fruitful and honourable National Assembly of the 10th Parliament, I believe they are entitled to it,” he said.

He then apologised to anyone that he might have offended during the many exchanges during the previous sitting. “There are far too many statements and actions of intolerance in our society coming from as far away as Babu John to Marudi Mountain and we representing the apex of leadership of this country must deliver a higher level of behaviour and governance,” he said.

The Speaker said that yesterday just before the sitting he received a letter of protest from the Government’s Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira challenging his decision to hold the sitting yesterday. “I believe that it was important for us to resume after a month’s hiatus and to put our house back in order before the much anticipated budget debates commence within a few weeks,” he said.