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{
    "id": 1268481,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1268481/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 126,
    "type": "other",
    "speaker_name": "",
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    "content": "The Code of Conduct regulating the conduct of Members of the respective House of Parliament shall be as set out in the Fourth Schedule. Further Paragraph 7 of the Fourth Schedule to the Parliamentary Powers and Privileges Act states as follows- A Member of the House shall uphold the dignity and integrity of the House by- (a) promoting respect for the House and its institutions at all times; (b) ensuring that the Member’s non-parliamentary activities do not interfere with or compromise the Member’s official duties or bring the House into disrepute. The rules regulate the conduct of Senators and govern the admission and conduct of the members of the public and other visitors to Parliament. Breach of the Speaker’s Rules results in the matter being referred to the Committee of Powers and Privileges for consideration and action. Hon. Senators, as I make a determination on this matter, I wish to draw to your attention that as representatives of the people, it is of paramount importance that we project an image that upholds the respect and dignity of the office of a Senator, and the constitutional institution in which we serve. Let us appreciate that the parliamentary Chamber and committee rooms, including conference rooms are not just places where we assemble to debate. They are symbols of our differences of our democratic governance. The parliamentary chamber is a citadel where differences of opinion are canvassed, critical decisions affecting the lives of Kenyans are made; laws are passed and resolutions are adopted to shape the future of this country. Therefore, it is only befitting that we treat this Chamber with the reverence it deserves starting with our attire. Hon. Senators, while the issue of defining the dress code may seem trivial to some of us, it holds great significance in fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and decorum in protecting the image of Parliament. A well-defined dress-code ensures that the focus remains on the issues scheduled for debate, as opposed to an individual’s choice becoming the debate hence wasting invaluable time that can be used to debate items on our Order Paper. Despite this, it is also important to strike a balance between upholding respect and dignity, whilst allowing for individual expression. Our attires ought not to be overly restrictive and suppressive in acknowledging the diverse identities of our communities. Rather it should set reasonable standards that uphold the tenets of professionalism while accommodating cultural and religious diversity. To achieve this, it is imperative that we adhere to the provisions of Rule No. 5 of the Speaker’s Rules on dress code. To Further buttress the provisions of Rule No.5, I direct as follows, notwithstanding previous directives- (1) Dressing by Hon. Senators should be modest, appropriate and not ill-fitting. (2) Religious attires are allowed based on the Senator’s faith. (3) The “coat” in Rule No. 5 should be long-sleeved, including that of a Kaunda suit. (4) Lady Senators’ attire should cover the arms and should be below the knee. The electronic version of the Senate Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Director, Hansard Services,Senate."
}