What is Pro Tem Speaker?
What is pro tem speaker? A Pro-tem Speaker is a temporary speaker appointed for a limited period to conduct the works in the lower House of Parliament after the General elections. The Pro-tem Speaker presides over the first meeting of the lower House of Parliament after the general elections and also presides over the sitting in which the Speaker and Deputy Speaker are elected if it is a newly constituted House.
The pro-tem speaker is chosen with the agreement of the members of the Lok Sabha and legislative assembly. Usually, the senior-most member of the House is selected for the post, who then carries on the activities until the permanent speaker is chosen.
The main duty of the pro-tem speaker is to administer the oath of office to new members of the House. He also enables the House to elect a new speaker. Once the new speaker is elected, the office of the pro-tem speaker ceases to exist.
What is pro tem speaker in assembly?
Following the general elections, the lower house of parliament will be led by a pro-tem speaker, who is appointed for a brief duration. The 17th Lok Sabha’s pro-tem speaker, Virendra Kumar, has taken the oath of office.
The Pro Tem Speaker: A Temporary Role in Legislative Assemblies
In the intricate world of parliamentary procedures, the role of the pro-tem speaker often remains shrouded in mystery. This temporary position, vital for the smooth functioning of legislative assemblies, deserves a closer look.
Pro Tem translates to “for the time being” in Latin, aptly describing the temporary nature of this position. A pro tem speaker is typically appointed when a new legislative assembly convenes and electing a regular speaker is yet to be completed. This appointment ensures that the assembly proceedings can begin without delay.
Duties of a Pro Tem Speaker:
- Presiding over the first sitting: The pro tem speaker assumes the responsibility of presiding over the very first sitting of the newly formed assembly. This includes maintaining order and decorum, ensuring smooth conduct of the proceedings, and recognizing members who wish to speak.
- Administering oath of office: One of the most significant tasks of the pro tem speaker is administering the oath of office to all newly elected assembly members. This solemn ceremony marks the formal induction of the members into their legislative roles.
- Facilitating election of the regular speaker: The pro tem speaker plays a crucial role in facilitating the election of the regular speaker. This involves overseeing the nomination process, conducting the election, and announcing the results.
- Performing other duties as assigned: In some cases, the pro tem speaker may be assigned additional duties by the assembly or by the presiding authorities. These could include resolving procedural issues, interpreting rules, and maintaining neutrality during debates.
Appointment of a Pro Tem Speaker:
The process of appointing a pro tem speaker varies depending on the specific rules and procedures of each legislative assembly. In some cases, the appointment may be made by the President or Governor, while in others, the assembly itself may elect a member to serve as the pro tem speaker.
Duration of the Pro Tem Speaker’s Term:
The term of the pro tem speaker is typically short and lasts only until a regular speaker is elected. This usually happens during the first few sittings of the assembly.
Importance of the Pro Tem Speaker:
While temporary, the role of the pro tem speaker is crucial for ensuring the smooth and orderly functioning of the legislative assembly. Their impartiality and understanding of parliamentary procedures are essential for establishing the legitimacy of the newly formed assembly and laying the groundwork for its future deliberations.
Examples:
Recently, Akbaruddin Owaisi from the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) was appointed as the pro-tem speaker of the Telangana Assembly. Similarly, in the Indian Parliament, the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs often serves as the pro tem speaker during the first session of a newly elected Lok Sabha.
Understanding the role of the pro tem speaker provides valuable insight into the intricate workings of legislative assemblies. By ensuring a smooth transition and facilitating the election of a regular speaker, the pro tem speaker plays a vital role in upholding the democratic principles of representation and government.