The National Assembly has tightened coronavirus preventive measures amid fears of the impending forth wave which is causing havoc in most countries. 

Speaker of the National Assembly Catherine Gotani Hara announced in the House on Thursday that all lawmakers, staff, contractors and members of the general public accessing the House will be required to show a valid Covid-19 vaccination certificate at the entrance.

“That all Members, staff, contractors, members of the general public accessing Parliament premises should show valid Covid-19 full vaccination certificate card at the main gate as proof of Covid-19 vaccination,” said Hara.

According to Gotani Hara, the directive follows resolutions that the Business Committee of the House adopted following a meeting they had on Wednesday.

The Speaker added that those who will not show their valid Covid-19 vaccination card will be required to undergo a rapid antigen test on daily basis on their cost.

“That all Honourable Members, staff, contractors and members of the general public  that are unable to show a valid Covid-19 full vaccination card shall be expected to access Covid-19 vaccine available for free in the public hospitals,” said Hara.

“That all Members and staff, contractors and members of the general public that are unable to show a valid Covid-19 full vaccination card and opt not to access vaccine will be required to undergo a rapid antigen test on daily basis for the period of access the premise without exception.”

Gotani Hara also disclosed that one member of the House has tested positive for Covid-19 and is currently in isolation.

Since the emergence of the pandemic, Malawi Parliament has lost a total of nine members due to Covid-19.