Opposition takes majority on key parliament selection committee

President Donald Ramotar (at left) taking the salute at yesterday’s ceremonial opening of Parliament. Prime Minister Sam Hinds is third from right, Speaker Raphael Trotman is second from right and Clerk of the National Assembly Sherlock Isaacs is at right. (Photo by Lakhram Bhagirat)

The Opposition yesterday defeated the Government on a vote to determine the composition of the key Committee of Selection as the new dispensation in Parliament manifested itself. The committee will comprise nine members: four from government and five from the combined opposition.

Speaker of the National Assembly Raphael Trotman ruled as carried a motion to amend a proposal by Prime Minister Sam Hinds on the composition of the Committee of Selection, after the Opposition outvoted the Government 33 – 31. This was the first order of business after the ceremonial opening of Parliament.

Prime Minister Sam Hinds proposed that there be a ten-member Committee of Selection with five members for the