The Prime Minister, Manasseh Sogavare, has apologized for asking the Speaker of Parliament, Sir Peter Kenilorea, to leave the chambers during a recent debate in Parliament.
During his remarks at the closing function of the recent parliamentary session Mr Sogavare said that "he regretted asking Sir Peter to leave the speaker's seat just before parliament debated an opposition no confidence motion in the prime minister on August 10."Mr Sogavare said that despite the heated exchanges in the Parliamentary chambers, during the attempted motion of no confidence moved by the opposition, he appreciated the professionalism and maturity displayed by the Speaker particularly on sensitive issues brought to the floor of Parliament.
Sir Peter Kenilorea thanked the Prime Minister for his kind gesture adding that the recent Parliamentary sitting was very challenging and a testing time to be Speaker. Sir Peter said he greatly appreciates supportive comments by the Prime Minister and other members of Parliament.