-by Kurt Campbell-

The Opposition People’s Progressive Party is not happy with the decision of the National Assembly to suspend its member, Bishop Juan Edghill from four sittings.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo called a press conference at the Parliament building this morning to complain that his party was “very upset” with the turn of events. 

Mr. Jagdeo said the party will continue to take part in the remainder of the Consideration of Estimates as it seeks to ensure there is scrutiny of Government spending.

“If we walk out from here they will get precisely what they want. That is why we decide to continue working while we fight the injustices against Bishop Edghill.”

Jagdeo said the PPP will not cede its responsibility and will do the job it was elected to do.

“We have a responsibility to look at the spending on behalf of all citizens and we intend to do just that.”

When the Assembly resumed on Tuesday following Monday’s suspension, the Speaker moved to proceed with yesterday’s agenda but did not allow any questions on those agencies and programmes.

He said he will only allow questions, within the stipulated time frame, when the Committee begins considering agencies slated for Tuesday.

It prompted an immediate walkout by the Opposition, but the MPs returned when the Committee reached Tuesday’s agenda and questions were being allowed.

Reflecting on Monday’s suspension and the request for Edghill to be removed from the Chamber, Jagdeo said the Speaker should have instead met with the two Chief Whips to discuss the matter before handing down a sanction on Edghill.

The Speaker had rendered Edghill out of order after he stood to challenge the time allotted for the Ministry of the Presidency and continued to argue with the Speaker even after being instructed to take his seat.

He returned to try to gain access to the Assembly on Tuesday but was led away by the police.

The PPP said it intends to sue all those involved in the detention of Edghill, both in their private and professional capacity.

A motion was moved and passed on Tuesday to suspend Edghill for four sittings after his initial suspension on Monday.