Jamaica’s Parliament today witnessed an unexpected halt to its budget debate as Prime Minister Andrew Holness orchestrated a walkout among government members.
As Opposition Leader Mark Golding delivered his budget debate contribution, tensions rose among the opposition and government ministers.
In the midst of his speech, Golding drew attention to the role of Juliet Holness, the Prime Minister’s wife, who serves as the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Golding contended that Juliet Holness being Speaker of the House “does not sit well with the tradition that the Speaker must act independently of the government of the day,” sparking ire from Prime Minister Holness and several government ministers.
Amidst escalating verbal exchanges from both sides, Holness abruptly rose from his seat and exited the chamber. “Low and desperate,” Holness repeatedly said to Golding as he walked out of the Parliament building.
His departure was met by supportive cheers from his colleagues, who also followed suit, leaving the building and shouting at Golding.
With the sudden exodus of government members, Deputy Speaker Heroy Clarke, assuming the role of Speaker, suspended proceedings in an effort to restore order and reconvene with a sufficient quorum.
Golding completed his budget debate outside Parliament.
Juliet Holness’ election received support from opposition
Juliet Holness’ nomination to the post in September had received support from the People’s National Party’s Phillip Paulwell, leader of Opposition Business in the House of Representatives.
Holness, who formerly served as Deputy Speaker, was the sole nominee.
As the wife of Prime Minister Andrew Holness, she is the first prime minister’s spouse to hold the position. She is also the second woman from the Jamaica Labour Party to hold the post.
She was elected following the resignation of Marisa Dalrymple-Philibert. The former Speaker had tendered her resignation following charges filed by the Integrity Commission in relation to her statutory declarations for seven years.
The Speaker’s job is to see that other members keep within the rules of the House, that the rights of the Opposition members are protected, and that every member gets a fair hearing during Parliamentary sittings.
Juliet Holness, a member of the ruling JLP, is also Member of Parliament for East Rural St. Andrew.
Read more: Juliet Holness elected Speaker of the Jamaican House of Representatives
