The Senate started its third ordinary session yesterday, it’s first sitting since the resignation of its president Dr Jean Damascene Ntawukuliryayo a fortnight ago.

Yesterday’s sitting was chaired by Bernard Makuza, the Senate vice president in charge of Legislation and Government Oversight.

Ntawukuliryayo, who resigned after it emerged that 15 senators had signed a petition that could have resulted in a vote of no confidence amid accusations of abuse of office – but remained a senator – attended yesterday’s sitting.

Makuza read out the agenda for the third ordinary session and reminded members that they have a mandate to ensure the observance of the national principles as enshrined in the constitution.

Senators Marie Claire Mukasine, Fatou Haririmana and Laurent Nkusi presented to the House mission reports from their recent work trips to Ghana, Tanzania and Angola, respectively.Senators are expected to elect their new leader this month.

Meanwhile, the Chamber of Deputies also returned from recess.