The following Communication was issued by the Speaker in the National Assembly during the week:
1. REMINDER ON ADHERENCE TO THE COVID-19 GUIDELINES
The Speaker of the National Assembly Hon. Justin Muturi reminded Honourable Members, that reports from the Ministry of Health indicate an escalation of severe cases of COVID-19 exacerbated by the emergence of the Delta Variant in the country, thus there is need for all Members to strictly adhere to the Guidelines that are already in place as we continue to enhance measures to protect ourselves and our families from the effects of the pandemic.
In order to prevent transmission of the disease within the precincts of Parliament, the Speaker reminded all Members and Parliamentary Staff that :
-a) The sitting capacity in the National Assembly Chamber remains 112 Members and occupancy is on first-come first-admitted basis, save for the few reserved seats;
b) All persons accessing the precincts of Parliament, including Hon. Members are required to wear face masks at all times even when they are speaking in the plenary Chamber and Committee meetings; and,
c) The catering Department was directed to ensure that no unauthorized person is admitted in the Members dining areas and other lounges and that no more than two Members occupy one table in the Dining areas.
The Serjeant-at-Arms Department was also directed to enforce wearing of face masks at all times, hand-washing or use of hand sanitizers, and observance of strict social distancing, amongst other measures within the precincts of Parliament as well as ensuring adherence to all other protocols by the Ministry of Health on the prevention of transmission of this deadly Pandemic.
d) The Speaker directed the Clerk of the National Assembly to continue making arrangements for Members of Parliament and stafff to undergo voluntary COVID-19 testing and vaccination in a phased manner.
2. MESSAGES FROM THE PRESIDENT Pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order No.42, the Speaker conveyed a Message from His Excellency, the President relating to the nomination of persons for appointment to the Office of Member of the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).
In his Message, His Excellency the President sought the approval of the National Assembly on the appointment of the following nominees as Members of the Teachers Service Commission
1. Dr. Nicodemus Ojuna Anyang;
2. Ms. Christine K. Kahindi;
3. Ms. Sharon Jelagat Kisire;
4. Ms. Annceta G. Wafukho; and
5. Mr. Selesa Adano Abudo.
The Speaker referred the Message from the President, the Report of the Selection Panel together with the Curriculum Vitae and testimonials of the nominees to the Departmental Committee on Education and Research for consideration.
The Committee was urged to prioritize the matter and submit its Report to House within twenty one (21) days as provided in section 8 of the Teachers Service Commission Act.
