~MP says all elected representatives deserve equal treatment as tensions rise over budget proceedings~
PHILIPSBURG:--- Opposition MP Egbert Jurendy Doran delivered a sharp rebuke to the Chair of Parliament during Monday's continuation of the Central Committee budget meeting, accusing Parliament of applying different rules to coalition and opposition members.
Before beginning his budget questions, Doran addressed what he described as an uncomfortable exchange that occurred during last Friday's meeting, saying he initially intended to let the matter rest but decided to speak after hearing comments about whether Members had anything "constructive" to contribute.
"I want to remind you that we are all equally elected Members of Parliament," Doran said, stressing that debate inside Parliament should always remain respectful regardless of political affiliation.
While acknowledging that he can be passionate when discussing issues important to him, Doran maintained that he has never crossed the line into disrespect.
According to the MP, the real problem arises when different standards are applied to different Members.
Doran recalled that during a previous Central Committee meeting, he had been asked to stop speaking while the Chair invited other Members to contribute, which he described as disrespectful.
"That is beyond disrespectful," he stated, adding that the situation was made worse when, in his view, exceptions were later granted to coalition Members regarding amendments to parliamentary reports after he had previously been told such changes were impossible.
Referring to an incident earlier this year, Doran said he had requested amendments to a parliamentary report but was informed the document could not be altered. However, he claimed a similar request from a coalition MP was later accommodated.
"I believe we all should be treated fairly," Doran said, urging the Chair to avoid conduct that could hinder Parliament's ability to function effectively.
"I would like you to refrain from that type of behavior because it hinders the progress of Parliament and hinders us as Members of Parliament from executing our job," he said.
Despite the criticism, Doran proceeded with an extensive list of budget-related questions directed at several ministries, including requests for updates on the Philipsburg Market reconstruction, vendor compensation, youth programmes, utility relief, fuel price reductions and air-conditioning for the Cultural Center auditorium.
The exchange underscored continuing friction over parliamentary procedures as lawmakers continue examining the 2026 national budget.
