This archive report was first published on 7 August 2019.
On August 7, 2019, a heated exchange took place in the National Assembly between MP Samuel Atandi and the Presiding Speaker, Chris Omulele. The controversy centered around Women Rep Zuleikha Hassan, who had brought her baby into the debating chambers and was breastfeeding when ordered to leave by the Speaker.
MP Atandi came to Ms Hassan's defense, which led to both of them being kicked out of the chambers. In a statement, Ms Hassan expressed her frustration, saying that women legislators have not been provided with a special section in the house to breastfeed their babies.
Ms Hassan pointed out that in 2013, the Parliamentary Service Commission had recommended that a crèche be established for members and staff to care for their babies. She argued that this would create a family-friendly atmosphere in the workplace, similar to other companies.
