In Parliament today, the Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin suspended sitting indefinitely for the next three weeks following an increase in Covid 19 cases in the legislature.
It follows reports that two more MP’s had tested positive for the disease raising the figure from 15 to 17. The number of cases among the parliamentary staff has also increased sharply from 56 to 151.
The Speaker last week announced that the chamber will be closed to visitors with about half of MPs directed to follow proceedings online.
Addressing the House on Friday, he expressed his displeasure at MPs who have failed to undergo the mandatory medical screening and COVID-19 test.
He disclosed that so far about 60 legislators were yet to comply with his directive to conduct a mandatory COVID-19 test.
“My directive that all members subject themselves to COVID-19 test has not been complied with by about 60 members of parliament. It is true as the majority leader has stated that we are all not safe, even in the House some members are afflicted by COVID-19,” he said.
He added: “You may not know who the person is because of protocol issue of confidentiality, we have not disclosed those who are now positive, but we have some of us in that category.”
He further urged lawmakers to ensure that they strictly adhere to COVID-19 protocols.
However, the directive will not affect the work of the Appointments Committee which will begin vetting ministers-designate from Wednesday, February 9, 2021.
