Legislative
Haitian Senate on 3-Day Retreat to Reflect on Function
- Monday, July 02, 2012 11:57 AM
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (defend.ht) – On Sunday, Haitian Senators began a three day retreat at Club Indigo in Montrouis to discuss matters of their function with technical and logistical support of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA). Senate President Simon Desras (Centre/Lavni) gave details on the agenda.
”It is a time for reflection. It is a time that we can evaluate the progress of our work – where we were, where we are today and where we are going.”
Deputies will soon end ordinary sessions and other national holidays and events are approaching. How the senate intends to operate up to and during those events are another point Senator Desras said would be discussed.
A reporter with Radio Vision 2000 pointed out to the senator that he made no mention of the amended to the Constitution, which was corrected and published in June but is in controversy as the entire Senate had signed a resolution denying the authenticity of the document.
”I believe this is one of the matters that we will reflect on as part of our agenda. I am sure that we will find the time to discuss this and redefine our orientation.”
Along with hopes of coming to a decision on the three nominees that will represent the legislature on the Permanent Electoral Council, there is the matter of operating with only two-thirds of the upper house and a growing divide of a group of 9 senators.
The 20-member Senate is has 9 senators who have taken stances of opposing the publishing of the Constitution and amendments and have been much more active in seeking to hold the executive accountable. For Senator Desras the retreat gives members a chance to express their points of view and for the Grand Body to find a common ground for operating.
Related 06.28.2012: Haiti: Senator Moïse Upset Ministers Were Not Convened by the Senate
Related 06.22.2012: The Truth about ARTICLE 137 in the Amended Constitution of Haiti
