Coronavirus: Speaker orders fumigation of Parliament

The Speaker of Parliament, Prof Aaron Oquaye, has issued a directive that all spaces within the country's legislature be fumigated as part of measures to fight the deadly coronavirus.

Speaking in parliament today, Prof Aaron Oquaye called for a re-arrangement of seats in the chamber to keep safe distance among Members of Parliament (MPs); a directive which is in line with World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines.

“There should be fumigation of every space of parliament where we operate from. Everywhere. And that should be done immediately. In fact the director has started enquiries already in this regard. Tomorrow you should see progress in that regard.” He disclosed.

Minority Chief Whip Muntaka Mubarak has also called for a reduction in sitting hours so MPs have less contact.

Meanwhile, some MPs are of the view that Parliament should suspend sittings but the Speaker is of a different view, stating that MPs are supposed to be present to deliberate on ways to “direct the nation” during states of emergencies such as the pandemic.

"In other organizations, some have stopped work, some have made very serious arrangements and re-arrangements and we should continue to consider these for parliament. (But) We can’t. Even in a matter of state of emergency parliament has to act on it. So it means that no matter the emergency that arises, parliament must be around to take steps under the constitution which are demanded to direct this nation and approve of relevant orders.”