We are MPs until return of writs, says Kramer

MEMBERS of Parliament remain as MPs until the return of writs to the Electoral Commissioner, says Minister for Justice Bryan Kramer.
“We are MPs from the day of return of writs in the last election and after the return of writs that is a full term of five years,” he said.
“There is no law prohibiting us from continuing our functions as MPs even after the issue of writs, there is no law.”
Kramer was responding to questions raised by Kairuku-Hiri MP Peter Isoaimo, who asked for clarification on the legal position of the Government on early campaigning.
“Persons who give gifts to everyone and say ‘vote for me’ is not early campaigning,” he said, calling it “bribery” and that it was “illegal”.
“However, there have been cases where certain MPs have used their position and district funds to present goods and services that were never planned, and the court has found it constituted to inducement or bribery that disadvantages other candidates.
“Projects that are pre-planned or in the pipeline and that don’t raise issues are okay.
“For early campaigning, there is no law, however, Electoral Commission has said parties announcing candidates is illegal.
“Whatever is defined illegal must be defined in law and not in someone’s opinion.
“Occupying the position does not give you the right to create another law.
“Under Section 182 of the Constitution, there is a provision that comes close to prohibiting in relation to campaigning, and that is to display certain posters, which is prohibited.”