Major Jack (PDP-Akuku Toru I) and Franklin Nwabochi (PDP-Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni I) have emerged as majority leader and chief whip of the Rivers House of Assembly.

The new house leaders emerged and subsequently took the oath of office following an election by 27 members during Wednesday’s plenary at the Assembly chamber.

Commenting on their emergence, Speaker Martins Amaewhule (PDP- Obio/Akpor I) congratulated the officers while charging them to remain committed to their new responsibilities.

Also, Enemi George (PDP-Asari Toru II) moved a motion to commend the speaker.

The legislators unanimously supported the motion as they extolled the sterling leadership qualities of the speaker and his team.

In separate remarks, members applauded the house leadership for upholding the tenets of democracy.

Similarly, the ‘Financial Autonomy Bill, 2023’ has scaled second reading.

The speaker emphasised the bill’s importance and stated his conviction that when passed, the governor would assent to it.

The speaker, however, alleged that the governor, Siminialayi Fubara, had withheld the funds meant to manage the parliament for November.

He assured the parliament’s readiness to continue its constitutional functions despite negative distractions.

The bill has also been referred to the House Committee on Public Accounts for hearing and other legislative scrutiny.

The 32-member house had been divided into two factions since October following the impeachment of majority leader Edison Ehie.

While Mr Amaewule retained 26 members, Edison Ehie has been operating with four members.

(NAN)