INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PARLIAMENTARISM

Hon. Members, as Speaker of this august Assembly, I think it is most fitting and proper to seize this occasion to commemorate the International Day of Parliamentarism which is observed today, 30 June 2025. What better way than to seize this opportunity as a timely reminder for us, for you, hon. Members, to engage in a profound reflection on your role, our role. The vital and sacred trust vested in this House is that of serving as the steadfast guardians of the principles of democracy, the supremacy of the rule of law, and the inalienable rights and liberties of the citizenry. Indeed, hon. Members, Parliaments, the world over, stand as temples of democracy. It is within these walls that the fundamental rights and freedoms, as enshrined in our Constitution, can become living realities. When you elected me as Speaker of this august Assembly, I told you I will listen with an open mind, but without fear or favour. I also told you that my motto was contained in three R’s: Rights, Respect, and Responsibility. I invited you to promote a scrupulous democracy, not just in the National Assembly, but throughout the Republic of Mauritius. I have now presided the National Assembly for seven months. The elections are behind us. We have had some very interesting sessions, but unfortunately, I lost my temper during the Committee of Supply for obvious reasons. Hon. Members, we must strive to maintain the decorum of the House. Je ne veux pas retourner dans les dérives du passé. Let us all commit on this special day to respect the established procedures and decision-making processes of this august Assembly to achieve positive outcomes for our country. Thank you.