OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY SPEAKER

The Deputy speaker is created by the constitution.

There shall be Deputy Speaker for each House of Assembly, who shall be elected by that house in accordance with the standing orders from among the members of that House.

ROLES AND FUNCTIONS OF THE DEPUTY SPEAKER IN THE ASSEMBLY

At the beginning of each Assembly, the house also elects a member to the position of Deputy Speaker, proceeding in the same manner as for the election of the speaker. In the absence of the Speaker or whenever requested by the latter, the Deputy Speaker takes the Chair and has the same powers and functions as the speaker. The Deputy speaker is also the chairman of committees when the Speaker chooses not to chair the committee.

The Deputy speaker of a House of parliament shall presides over the sitting of that House in the absence of the Speaker.

The Deputy Speaker is the chairperson of committees of the Whole House and shall preside over committees of the Whole House;

The Deputy Speaker deputizes the speaker and assists in ensuring the dignity of the Assembly is upheld, its rights and privileges are not abused and generally assists in the interpretation and application of the practices and procedures of parliament at all times.