BRIEF: Nauru Calls for Judicial Review After Secret Parliamentary Meeting

YAREN, Nauru –- The Nauru Government is calling for the judicial review of Parliament Speaker, David Adeang, who called Parliament into session on Easter Saturday without notifying the Government. President Marcus Stephen and Government members are concerned that Mr. Adeang, a member of the Opposition, may be setting a powerful precedent.

Despite three members being out of the country and Parliament’s electricity being disconnected, MPs met by candlelight to pass a law that would effectively force two of Nauru’s senior Cabinet Ministers out of office. Although the meeting lacked a quorum, the ruling would have disqualified any current member of Parliament with dual citizenship. Consequently, Foreign Minister, Dr. Kieren Keke, and Finance Minister, Frederick Pitcher, both supporters of Mr. Stephen’s government, would no longer be entitled to their government positions. More importantly, their absence would give the Opposition the majority it currently lacks. 

President Stephen has asked for an immediate Supreme Court review of Mr. Adeang’s actions, which Mr. Stephen believes are hurting Nauru’s reputation.

For more information, please see:

Radio New Zealand International –- Nauru government rejects citizenship ruling –- 26 March 2008

ABC: Radio Australia — Nauru parliament meets in torchlight — 25 March 2008

Pacific Magazine -– Nauru Turmoil Continues -– 25 March 2008

ABC: Radio Australia –- Nauru leader says new speaker hurting reputation –- 24 March 2008

Author: Impunity Watch Archive