Claudius Francis has been reappointed Speaker of the House of Parliament, anchoring the leadership of the Lower House as the country prepares for the First Session of the Thirteenth Parliament, scheduled for Tuesday, December 16, 2025.
The motion for Francis’ return as presiding officer was moved by Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre and seconded by Leader of Government Business, Dr. Ernest Hilaire, in the absence of the Member for Micoud South, Allen Chastanet. The motion was approved, clearing the way for the formal swearing-in of Members of Parliament.
The House of Assembly will convene at 10:00 am, followed by the Senate at 11:00 am. Members of both chambers, some returning, others newly appointed, will take their Oath of Allegiance or Affirmation, formally assuming office. This will be followed by a joint sitting of both Houses to receive a message from His Excellency the Governor General, Sir Cyril Errol Charles, marking the official opening of parliamentary business.
Following his oath, Speaker Francis moved to complete the leadership of the Lower House, tabling a motion for the appointment of a Deputy Speaker. Member for Dennery South, Alfred Prospere, was nominated and duly appointed.
Meanwhile, in the Upper House, Alvina Reynolds was reappointed President of the Senate, her appointment following the sitting of the Lower House in which Francis was confirmed as Speaker. The dual reappointments ensure continuity at the helm of both chambers as the new Parliament begins its work.
The Senate configuration reflects a mix of continuity and strategic appointments. Alison Jean was retained as a Government Senator, this time serving as Leader of Government Business. She is joined on the Government benches by Shandalee Harracksingh, Dr. Virginia Albert-Poyotte, Ignatius Jean, and Mitonia Deterville.
The Independent Senators are Deale Lee and Embert Charles, while the Opposition is represented in the Senate by Elisha Norbert, Phera Polius, and Tommy Descartes.
Senator Deale Lee was also appointed Deputy Senate President.
