'No' to 2nd deputy speaker
The AL said before the election that it would appoint the deputy speaker from the opposition. Within days of winning the election the AL has forgotten that pledge. We feel disgusted, but we are not surprised. Clearly, what was once a “pledge” has now become a “lie”. And to cover up that lie the AL is now planning to create a new seat for a second deputy speaker!
Having a second deputy speaker will not solve any problems. If anything, it will create more friction and disagreement. But there is another important factor that we must take into consideration: the cost. Who is going to pay this extra deputy speaker's salary? The AL or the taxpayers?
Being a poor and small country, we can't afford a huge number of speakers, ministers and MPs. We have got so many other problems that need immediate government cash. Besides, why should taxpayers pay to make up for the AL's lie? Clearly, this whole “deputy speaker storm” has been created by the AL. Why should our poor people pay for it?
I will ask the BNP not to accept any such arrangement. The AL must apologise to the people for not honouring its pledge and immediately give the deputy speaker's position to the opposition. Our political parties must understand that it is time for them to be accountable for what they say and do.
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