Chaos rock Parliament

Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament Aisha Mambo Adams yesterday faced a torrid time to bring sanity in the National Assembly in Lilongwe.

First, Mzimba North member of Parliament (MP) Yeremiah Chihana (Alliance for Democracy) called for the release of former president Peter Mutharika’s security aide Norman Chisale who was arrested on Tuesday for allegedly meddling with the course of justice.

His remarks drew support from other MPs from the opposition benches, including Rumphi East legislator Kamlepo Kalua (People’s Party).

Thereafter, the House degenerated into chaos as MPs from both the government and opposition sides were seen rising willy-nilly without waiting to be recognised by the Second Deputy Speaker.

The unfolding events did not amuse United Democratic Front (UDF) chief whip Lilian Patel who, rising on point of order, wondered why some backbenchers on the government side, sat in the benches of Cabinet ministers.

Patel’s concern prompted Adams to order the backbenchers to get to their seats.

When government chief whip Jacob Hara rose to speak, Adams said if he was rising to explain the circumstances he would only be allowed after the MPs took their allocated seats.

Her ruling drew discontent from the government benches. Others spoke without using their microphones, but could still be heard on top of the din of the noise.

“Mai uyu amavuta kwabasi [This woman is difficult to deal with],” some were overheard referring to Adams.

Hara, who is also Minister of Transport and Public Works, stood again and said Blantyre City South East MP Sameer Suleman (DPP) had failed to submit evidence of allegations that Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Simplex Chithyola Banda misappropriated funds for a Global Fund project.

Later, Leader of the House Richard Chimwendo Banda rose and asked for suspension of the House to allow the Business Committee to meet, a request Adams approved without a motion.

Said Adams: “Since the House is not in order, I will not ask the question. I will just make a ruling to suspend the House.”

After a 30 minute-recess, the House reconvened and Adams said the Business Committee agreed that proceedings should continue.