Ministers need to do better

THE Constitution provides for the separation of powers between the legislature, executive and judiciary.
The respective provisions to that effect include sections 99, 100, 138, 139 and 157, 158 and 159.
There are administrative opportunities available for one arm to check on the powers of the other.
The ‘question without notice’ is one such opportunity where Parliament checks on the Executive arm through questions on policies and issues affecting the nation.
Parliament represents the people and has the power to question and get answers to the policies and issues.
It has been very disappointing to hear ministers responding unreliably with insufficient answers to questions.
In some cases, ministers fail to get to the point, and seem to be looking for answers.
The worst response is when minister say he will look into the question and respond later.
When is that later date/time for response when, in many instances, the answers/explanation sought are never given at all?
That is an abuse and misuse of the process that checks on the executive arm.
The minister concerned needs to know in depth the issues within the department before question time.
I agree with Sinasina-Yongomugl MP Kerenga Kua that the standard of answers from ministers has fallen terribly in recent years.
Our ministers need to improve on these areas to earn respect and trust in their ministries.

Waismann
University of PNG