Kiribati Parliament House
Gilbert Islands
The Kiribati Parliament House, locally called Maneaba ni Maungatabu meaning 'Maneaba of the Sacred Mountain,' is the sole chamber of Kiribati's Parliament. Established by the Constitution of 1979, it currently comprises 45 members, including 44 elected representatives serving four-year terms and one non-elected delegate representing the Banaban community of Rabi Island in Fiji. The Parliament operates under a Westminster system and has been seated in Ambo on South Tarawa since October 2000, having previously been in Bairiki. The institution evolved from colonial legislative bodies starting with an Advisory Council in the 1960s, transitioning through a House of Representatives and Legislative Council during the Gilbert and Ellice Islands colonial period. The Maneaba ni Maungatabu holds significant cultural and political importance, symbolizing Kiribati's sovereignty and democratic traditions. It is overseen by a Speaker, elected from outside Parliament, who presides over sessions and maintains legislative order. The Parliament's logo was updated in 2020, reflecting its evolving identity. This building is a key landmark for visitors interested in Kiribati's political history and governance.
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Tip: Visitors interested in Kiribati's political history should plan visits during parliamentary sessions to observe proceedings. The best time to visit is outside the rainy season for comfortable travel conditions. While entry may be restricted during sessions, guided tours or visits can be arranged through official channels. Advance inquiries are recommended to confirm access and availability. Discounts or special access for students or groups may be available through official arrangements.
Zajímavosti
- •The Kiribati Parliament is known locally as Maneaba ni Maungatabu, meaning 'Maneaba of the Sacred Mountain.'
- •Since 2016, the Parliament has 45 members, including a delegate representing the Banaban community on Rabi Island in Fiji.
- •Three women have been elected to the Parliament since its inception: Tekarei Russell (1974), Fenua Tamuera (1990), and Koriri Tenieu (2012).
- •The Speaker of the Maneaba is elected from outside the Parliament and does not have a voting right, except to declare a tied vote as rejected.
- •The Parliament adopted a new logo on 26 October 2020 to represent its identity.
Historie
The Kiribati Parliament House traces its origins to colonial governance structures established in the 1960s with the Advisory Council and later the House of Representatives.
Following the separation from the Ellice Islands in 1975, the Parliament was reconstituted specifically for the Gilbert Islands.
The Constitution of 1979 formally created the Maneaba ni Maungatabu, marking Kiribati's legislative independence.
The Parliament moved to its current location in Ambo in 2000.
Over the years, the number of elected members has increased, and constitutional changes in 2016 removed the Attorney-General's ex officio membership, reflecting evolving governance needs.