The Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the National Assembly define “un-parliamentary expression” as any language that imputes false motives to a member, accuses a member of falsehood, or uses abusive wording. Members are also prohibited from uttering treasonable, seditious, defamatory, or offensive expressions during proceedings.

Under Rule 284, if the Speaker is of the opinion that such words have been used in debate, he or she may order their expunction from the official record, either during the proceedings or afterward. The printed debates will indicate that words have been removed, but the expunged content is not reproduced in the official record.

Why it matters for National Assembly proceedings?

The rule ensures that parliamentary debate remains focused on issues rather than personal attacks. It protects the dignity of members while still allowing robust political criticism and disagreement within constitutional limits.

What is in it for citizens?

When citizens see reports of words being “expunged,” it means the Speaker has formally removed specific language from the official record. The words were spoken in the House, but the final parliamentary record reflects only the edited version, as Parliament maintains a controlled and official account of its proceedings.

Source: Rules 31(3)(j), 284, Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the National Assembly, 2007

The proceedings of the National Assembly are governed by the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the National Assembly, 2007. The current rules were passed on 23 February 2007 and have since been amended 22 times, most recently on 9 March 2026.

This post is part of FAFEN’s series on parliamentary literacy. Read more of this series here.