Zimbabwe parliamentary sittings go virtual after 8 MPs test positive for COVID-19

 

Zimbabwe’s parliament plans to have virtual sittings as a measure of curbing the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, Clerk of Parliament, Kennedy Chokuda confirmed.

This comes after eight members of parliament tested positive for the virus last month who are all recovering from home.

“So far eight members have tested positive to COVID-19. They are in isolation at home recovering,” Chokuda said.

According to the clerk, all parliamentary debates will be carried out virtually in different rooms at the parliament building while other MPs will be in their hotel rooms to avoid physical contact and help in the fight against the spread of the virus.

However, there have been complaints from some legislators of poor internet connection in parliament and some experiencing challenges in using their gadgets.

The House of Assembly resumed sittings on Tuesday after a month’s break though business was immediately adjourned to September 1.

All MPs and supporting staff will undergo PCR testing before business resumes.