This archive report was first published on 2 July 2020.
On July 2, 2020, Kenya had recorded 6,366 COVID-19 infections and 148 deaths, with both Houses of Parliament accommodating a limited number of lawmakers in the chamber during normal House business sittings.
Speaker Justin Muturi addressed the National Assembly, reassuring the public that only two MPs had tested positive for the virus, with one already discharged after successful treatment and the other in isolation at home.
"I have deliberately given this information to reassure the public and dissuade the ongoing speculation," Muturi said, responding to a local newspaper's story about panic among MPs.
He warned the media against sensationalizing the cases in Parliament, stating that they were no different from the rest of the cases in the country.
As part of measures to contain the spread of the virus, Muturi directed House committees to hold virtual meetings instead of physical ones, and advised MPs or parliamentary staff who might have come into contact with infected persons to take personal responsibility and undergo voluntary testing and self-isolate.
"The House has also amended its rules of procedure to allow virtual sittings. These are progressive measures for which we continue to implement for the safety of all," he said.
