Dear Editor,
I was taken aback by MP Ardwell Irion referring to the Chair and Presidium of Parliament as a “dictatorship” over the decision to reduce MPs' speaking time.
My question is simple: How is the Chair a dictator when eight elected Members of Parliament voted in favour of reducing the speaking time?
This was a decision supported by a democratic majority, not a decision made by Chairlady Sarah Wescot-Williams alone. Eight MPs voted for it, and the majority carried the decision. That is not dictatorship. That is how democracy works.
Parliament's own Rules of Order also provide for limits on speaking time. Article 52 allows Parliament to impose rules regarding the duration of members' speeches. So this was not some power created by the Chair to silence the opposition.
MP Irion should also be careful about selective political memory.
In May 2013, his National Alliance colleague Rodolphe Samuel was President of Parliament during another very contentious period. According to SMN News, Samuel announced on the Lloyd Richardson Talk Show that he intended to resign as President of Parliament. However, when Parliament met the following day, he remained in the Chair, explaining that he had sworn to uphold the Constitution and had duties to perform.
During that meeting, members of an eight-MP majority repeatedly attempted to raise points of order. SMN News reported that Samuel repeatedly told them, “you do not have the word,” before the meeting was eventually adjourned.
The circumstances are not identical, but history matters. The principles of democracy cannot change depending on whether your party is in government or opposition.
There is also a matter of respect and decorum. MPs have every right to criticise and challenge the Chair. However, Parliament's Rules of Order themselves recognise limits when it comes to insulting expressions and disorderly conduct. Articles 50 and 51 give the President authority to call a member to order and provide further measures when necessary.
This is not about protecting Sarah Wescot-Williams personally. It is about respecting the office of the President of Parliament and the institution itself.
MP Irion can disagree with the decision. He can argue that MPs deserved more time. He can criticise the eight MPs who voted for it.
But stop creating controversy where there is none.
Eight elected MPs voted in favour. The majority carried the decision. Losing a vote does not make Parliament a dictatorship.
Disagree with the Chair. Challenge the Chair. But respect the Chair and respect the democratic decision of Parliament.
A.A Bryan
