spoke/has spoken/had spoken

[Tan Elaine]

Mr Low added that the decision by the Central Executive Council was not unanimous but a "clear majority" voted for the motion to expel Mr Yaw.

Also present at the media conference were Aljunied GRC MP Pritam Singh and Non—Constituency MP Gerald Giam.

This was the first time party leaders spoke openly about the issue.

Should it be 'has spoken' or 'had spoken' instead of 'spoke'?

Thanks.

[5jj]

'Had spoken' is more appropriate than 'spoke'. As this took place in the past, 'has spoken' is not correct.