This archive report was first published on 1 July 2020.
As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to spread, National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi has urged all legislators and their staff to undergo voluntary testing for the virus currently ongoing in Parliament.
Speaking yesterday, Muturi dismissed reports that six MPs had tested positive for the coronavirus, stating that his office was aware of only two cases.
He specifically asked MPs who may have come into contact with a Covid-19 case or suspected case to immediately take the test and notify his office in case they test positive.
“As responsible citizens, it is our duty to protect ourselves and those around us,” Muturi said.
He also reminded members to encourage their staff, including drivers and security officers, to undertake the tests and wear masks in public.
“Members of Parliament, just like other citizens, are susceptible to the disease. The Ministry of Health has set up two testing centres in Parliament, one at the main building on the Senate side and the other on the National Assembly side,” Muturi explained.
He called on the public to refrain from sensationalising the cases in Parliament, stating that they were not any different from those reported in other areas.
“The Ministry of Health will conduct Covid-19 testing from Monday, June 29, to Friday, July 3, 2020, at the main Parliament building from 9am to 4pm daily. You are encouraged to take the test,” reads a message circulated to various social media groups in Parliament.
Published on July 1, 2020, The Standard reported that the statement from the Speaker came even as members of staff took to social media to encourage others to get tested.
