President Katonivere opens 2024 Parliamentary Session
THE President, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, in opening the 2024 Parliamentary Session, set out the tone for debate in first sitting this week.
The Head of State, while addressing Parliament in the presence of the members of the judiciary, laid out the pertinent issues the Government will focus on this year through proposed legislations, ranging from education, healthcare, climate change and infrastructure.
President Katonivere told urged Members of Parliament that as elected representatives they must “listen to the voices of our people, not only those who elected you, but to all our citizens young and old, men and women”.
“In doing so we will continue to respect the integrity and dignity of our Parliament. We must acknowledge and recognise our differences; however, we must be united with one common goal to ensure that we live in a progressive and prosperous nation.”
He touched upon the consultation process currently underway on the 3-Year, 5-Year and 20-Year National Development Plan (NDP).
“Nationwide consultations are currently underway, and I am encouraged by the participation from our different communities. It is anticipated that the Plan will be finalised by June this year, before the budget announcement,” President Katonivere said.
Preceding his address in Parliament, the President inspected the 100-member guard of honour, accompanied by the Commander of the RFMF, MajorGeneral Ro Jone Kalouniwai.
In keeping with tradition, members of the judiciary led by acting Chief Justice, Justice Salesi Temo joined the 55-elected MPs inside the “new look” and recently refurbished parliamentary chambers.
Diplomats and leaders in public and the private sector filled up the public gallery.