Kangaloo: Try and control yourself

OPPOSITION Senator Taharqa Obika was temporarily removed from the Parliament chamber Tuesday following a comment he made to Senate President Christine Kangaloo.

Obika had posed a question in the Senate about the closure of the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in Uganda and asked how many Ugandan nationals were terminated and whether they were paid terminal benefits in accordance with their terms and conditions of employment.

He asked if his ministry received any information that in the diplomatic circles in Uganda the issue of non-settlement has arisen "and is causing embarrassment to TT's reputation."

Kangaloo, however, did not allow the question. Obika then asked if there was any information from foreign service officers attached to Uganda regarding any negative fallout from the benefits given to the staff.

Kangaloo said: "Senator Obika you keep...raising the same issue using different words. So I won't allow that question."

Obika retorted: "Because the minister hasn't answered my question."

Kangaloo: "Senator Obika please try and control yourself, okay? Try and control your emotions and act with propriety in the chamber. Okay?"

Obika apparently made another comment as Kangaloo told him "I heard that and I will ask you therefore to leave the chamber." She told him he could return at 2.30 (it was about 1.40 pm at the time)."

Obika, however, remained in his seat, and asked clarification on if he "can" or "shall" leave the chamber.

Kangaloo then asked for the marshal to be called.

She added: "Senator Obika let me put it very clear to you–please leave the chamber at this stage and let me just add you can return at three o'clock. Okay? Please leave the chamber now."

Obika said: "Thank you for the clarification."

He then slowly gathered his things and left the chamber.