AN East Kwaio Community Chief has called on its re-elected MP to step down immediately, saying it is public knowledge Hon Festus Stanley Sofu no longer has the capacity to fully represent the East Kwaio people in Parliament.
“Hon Sofu has a duty to the people of East Kwaio. That duty, among other things, is to fully represent them in and outside the Chamber of Parliament,” Chief Peter Le’a told Solomon Star yesterday.
Chief Le’a said Hon Sofu must step down immediately as a Member of Parliament.
“The people of East Kwaio, both in and outside the Constituency, are entitled to a voice on matters affecting them. Unfortunately, Hon Sofu’s present condition does not allow him to fulfill all or any of the duties expected of him.
“As such, the right thing to do is to resign as a Member of Parliament. East Kwaio has many able individuals who have the capacity to execute duties assigned to elected MPs.
“It is fair to say the people of East Kwaio have never had a voice in Parliament in the last 16 years and eight months. And that was when the Hon MP was in good health. Now that he had to be helped even going into the Chamber, it is time he calls it quit,” the East Kwaio Community Chief said.
He said the only people who stand to benefit from his election are the coalition partners. His number counts,” he said.
Chief Le’a calls on the Government to introduce legislation which sets a threshold in terms of health for individuals serving in Parliament.
“Parliament is not a hospital. It represents one of the highest callings in the land. If Solomon Islands people going on the Labour Mobility scheme are required to meet all the health requirements, how much more our elected MPs?
