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{
    "id": 469901,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/469901/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 242,
    "type": "other",
    "speaker_name": "",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": "if you had not satisfied the provisions of Standing Order No.68 (2) (c) which requires that a matter that is being voted on by delegations can only be carried if it is supported by a majority of all the delegations. This means that we should only have gone to vote if we are satisfied that there is a requisite majority of delegations; minimum majority required of the delegations. Otherwise, it becomes an exercise in futility because we went to vote knowing – the Clerk and his team should have guided us – that, in fact, we did not qualify to vote at the time we voted because we did not have the requisite numbers. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, this means that since we are evolving a new system and processes of conducting our business, I think the Chair should be invited to guide the House; that in any matter where we are required to vote within the context of Standing Order No.68, we shall not proceed to vote until we have the requisite numbers. So, a matter can be debated and be put aside to wait voting when we have the numbers. This is what we have been doing in the Lower House whenever we debated constitutional Bills. You can only ring the Division Bell if you are satisfied that you have the requisite number, the threshold set to cast a vote that can either carry or defeat the Bill. I beg to submit and I think if we took this direction we will in future avoid this situation where we lose something of such immense value. If I had been given an opportunity to speak, I would have also moved the same amendment that Sen. Kuti moved because that is the direction we should go. But now we have lost it. In which case, therefore, I would suggest to the Chair that you exercise your discretion either to allow the Mover to reply and stay the voting until tomorrow or you step him down so that at the time he replies or responds then we go straight to the vote when we have the requisite numbers. Thank you."
}