Speaker of Parliament Catherine Gotani Hara has tested positive for Covid-19.
Confirming the development to media after parliament meeting on Thursday, leader of the August House Richard Chimwendo Banda said Gotani Hara went for a test after two members of her family tested positive for the virus.
“I can confirm that Hon. Catherine Gotani Hara has tested positive for Covid-19. She voluntarily went to hospital for the test Thursday morning after two members of her household tested positive,” said Chimwendo Banda.
Chimwendo Banda further said the Speaker is in self-isolation and in good health. The Leader of the House acknowledged Gotani Hara for going through Covid-19 test despite not showing signs and symptoms of the virus, citing that she cares for other people’s lives.
“She is in good health. She did that thinking of other people. When someone you live with tests positive for Covid-19, it is good to go for the test and isolate yourself. We thank her for taking that bold step and wish her well, together with her family,” said Chimwendo.
He explained that absence of the Speaker in August House will not affect deliberations in the House because both First and Deputy Speakers are available and will take the mantle.
Gotani Hara becomes the latest member of the August House to test positive for Covid-19 as a good number of members have been victims of the pandemic with some succumbing to it.
In the ongoing Mid-year Budget Review meeting, the National Assembly is strict on preventive measures, among others mandatory wearing of face masks, placing hand-washing facilities, and reducing number of MPs in the House with the rest participating virtually.
