Fiji Parliament Speaker Ratu Epeli Nailatikau reprimanded and warned SODELPA’s Lynda Tabuya against making social media postings about parliamentary business during sittings.
Ratu Epeli said Tabuya breached Standing Order(SO) 29 A(2) “and must not be permitted to go on” warning of possible suspension if she reoffends.
“Therefore, Lynda Tabuya is hereby publicly remanded for breaching standing orders 29A. Tabuya you are put on notice that any further repetition of the breach will result in more severe penalty including suspension from parliament under SO 75 and 76 which are very clear as well as being cited for contempt of parliament,” Ratu Epeli ruled.
“Whilst in parliament, Tabuya’s team can cover parliamentary debate. But what is not permitted is for her team to be selectively commenting on her personal page. As I had alluded to earlier, the post was not on Tabuya’s official page but on her personal page. “
Ratu Epeli also cautioned other MPs that similar breaches will be subject to disciplinary processes prescribed under the standing orders and established parliamentary practices and procedures.
The ruling came after Attorney General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, lodged a complaint during a sitting yesterday evening.
