Hluttaws are institutions entrusted not only with the responsibility of legislation but also with the legal authority to exercise mutual checks and balances over the executive and judicial pillars, said U Aung Lin Dwe, Speaker of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw, at the meeting with standing committees of the Amyotha Hluttaw at its building in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday morning.

He continued that standing committees are important Hluttaw committees that have the authority to communicate with and summon for hearings the Union Government, as well as other Union-level bodies established under the Constitution, to question and discuss matters with them, and to require the submission of necessary evidence.

The Speaker noted that the four standing committees have distinct responsibilities and play a central role in implementing the Hluttaw’s functions. Their duties include scrutinizing and deliberating on bills, examining matters relating to the Union’s budget measures,addressing issues concerning Hluttaw privileges, and reviewing the assurances and commitments made by the Union Government.

He added that the standing committees have to cooperate with the government through bilateral checks and balances in order to smoothly operate the State mechanism and serve the interests of the people.

The Speaker underlined that the works carried out by standing committees reflect the Hluttaw’s efforts to fulfil the aspirations and expectations of the people and translate them into tangible actions for the public benefit. It also helps promote the transparency and accountability of the Government. Therefore, those committees should give due consideration to their recommendations, exercise their mandates effectively, and carry out their responsibilities with the public interest as their foremost priority.

He noted that the future of the nation depends on collective decisions and the sense of responsibility of the committees. Hence, the success of the committees will enhance the dignity of the entire Hluttaw and strengthen the trust of the people.

Chairs and secretaries of the Hluttaw Rights Committee, the Bill Committee, the Public Accounts Committee, and the Government Guarantees, Pledges, and Undertakings Vetting Committee reported on the formation of relevant committees, the work process of committees and further plans. — MNA/TTA