Senate President Wade Mark Breaks 15-15 Deadlock To Pass Procurement Bill

Senate President Wade Mark used his casting vote to break a 15-15 deadlock in the Senate on Monday evening, allowing the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Property (Amendment) Bill, 2026 to be passed in the Senate.

The Bill split the Senate evenly, with the Senate President exercising his authority to cast the deciding vote, allowing the Bill to be passed with a final margin of 16-15.

Speaking after Opposition Senators questioned his decision, Mr Mark maintained that he was not required to provide reasons for his casting vote, noting that there was “no settled practice” governing such circumstances.