Only a few MPs will be allowed to the main Parliament chambers on Thursday next week when Treasury CS Ukur Yatani unveils the 2020-21 budget.
National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi said the move is part of the safety measures to contain the spread of the coronavirus.
Majority Leader Aden Duale, his minority counterpart John Mbadi, Chief Whip Emanuel Wangwe and Minority Whip Junet Mohammed are some of the MPs who will be granted access to the main chambers.
Also to be allowed in the chambers include members of the Budget and Appropriations committte chaired by Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung'wah, chairmen of departmental committees as well as select committees.“In keeping with the Speaker’s guidance on the conduct of plenary sittings during Covid-19 pandemic, the rest of membership will follow proceedings from designated areas within the precincts of Parliament,” Muturi directed.
According to the Covid-19 guidelines issued by Muturi in April, only 53 MP were allowed access to the main chambers with the rest kept in designated places.
The speaker also advised members and staff aged 58 years and above or those with existing medical conditions to work from home.
While inside the chambers, members will stick to seats marked for them.
They will also be required to wear masks at all times.
Hand sanitiser shall be provided in designated areas within Parliament Buildings.
Muturi on Tuesday confirmed that he has received communication from Yatani on the intention to unveil the next financial year budget.“I have received a letter from the Treasury Cabinet Secretary requesting to make public announcement on the Budget highlights and revenue raising measures for the national government for the financial year 2020-21 in the house on Thursday, June 11, 2020. I have acceded to the request,” Muturi said.
The budget highlights, he noted, will delve on the ways and means of financing budget for 2020-21.
