MPs & civil servants to vacate office if found guilty of criminal offences punishable for over 3 years

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Category: Latest News

Published: 09 September 2021

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A recent amendment to clause 23 of the Constitution, introduced as a Private Member's Bill by Lord Speaker Fakafanua, has prohibited any person convicted of a criminal offence punishable for more than 3 years, to hold office or retain Government employment whether of emolument or honour.

Read more: MPs & civil servants to vacate office if found guilty of criminal offences punishable for over 3 years

MPs no longer entitled to a 12-month absence from Parliament

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Category: Latest News

Published: 09 September 2021

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Lord Fakafanua, Noble’s Representative no.2 for Ha’apai introduced the Legislative Assembly (Amendment) Bill 2021 which proposed to reduce the time in which Members are allowed to be absent before their seat becomes vacated. This was reduced from 12 consecutive calendar months to 3 consecutive calendar months.

Read more: MPs no longer entitled to a 12-month absence from Parliament