PNM walks out of heated John-Bates debate… says Govt abused privilege in offensive attack on Opposition

The People’s National Movement (PNM) walked out of the Lower House last night, accusing the Government of turning the debate into a “deliberate abuse” of parliamentary procedure.

In a media release issued moments later at 9 pm, the Opposition said it “condemns in the strongest possible terms the conduct of the Government,” which, it argued, left it with “no option other than to take the serious and principled decision to walk out.”

The Lower House was debating the recommendations of the Special Report of the Public Administration and Appropriations Committee (PAAC). This report deals with the controversy surrounding Janelle John-Bates and accusations that she intentionally attempted to tamper with a parliamentary inquiry.

According to the PNM, what unfolded in the House of Representatives “was not a fair or proper debate,” but instead “a deliberate and coordinated abuse of parliamentary procedure by a Government intent on silencing the Opposition.”

The party claimed Government MPs repeatedly breached Standing Orders through “the imputation of improper motives” and the use of “unparliamentary language” and “offensive and insulting attacks” directed at Opposition members.

It further alleged that Government speakers improperly referenced individuals not part of the committee under review, “undermining the legitimacy and fairness of the proceedings.”

The Opposition also raised concern over what it described as an “alarming development,” claiming the Leader of the Opposition was warned she would not be allowed to object to being referenced during the debate, an act the PNM said represents “a dangerous erosion of the rights of elected representatives.”

Rejecting what it called an “abuse of parliamentary majority,” the party said it refused to “participate in the charade” in the chamber.

The PNM warned the incident reflects “a growing pattern of behaviour” by the administration, alleging that “rules are disregarded, institutions are weakened and dissenting voices are treated with contempt.”

It maintained it would “continue to stand firm in defence of democratic principles, parliamentary integrity and the rights of the citizens” it represents.