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{
    "id": 715719,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/715719/?format=api",
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    "content": "this Message was received at a time when the Senate was on recess and pursuant to Standing Order 40 (5), I transmitted the Message to every Senator, vide letter Ref. SEN/L&P/MSG.2016 (65), dated 23rd December, 2016. Hon. Senators, pursuant to Standing Order 148 which requires that a Bill originating in the National Assembly be proceeded with by the Senate in the same manner as a Bill introduced in the Senate by way of First Reading, in accordance with Standing Order 129. Following a request by the Senate Majority Leader, I approved the consideration of the said Bill during today’s Special Sitting. As you may note, the Bill has been listed for First Reading at Order No.5. Hon. Senators, Standing Order No. 130 requires a Bill, which has been read a First Time to be committed to a relevant Standing Committee for scrutiny and to facilitate public participation. In compliance with the provisions of Standing Order No 130, after the First Reading of the Bill at Order No.5, the Bill will stand committed to the Standing Committee on Legal Affairs and Human Rights. As hon. Senators are aware, this Bill has been the subject of some contention. It is also not lost on us that we are counting down to the General Elections now due in just eight months. For these reasons, it is imperative that any legislation concerning the manner in which the elections shall be conducted be disposed off and concluded well ahead of time so that the public and all players are clear about the rules that shall apply. The urgency of the Senate proceeding with and concluding work on the Election Laws (Amendment) (No.3) Bill (National Assembly Bill No.63 of 2015), cannot therefore be overemphasised. There is no time to be lost. Hon. Senators, I accordingly direct that the Standing Committee on Legal Affairs and Human Rights, in accordance with Articles117 and 118 of the Constitution, scrutinizes the Bill and undertakes public participation commencing immediately today after the First Reading of the Bill in the Senate and prepares its Report. The Committee The electronic version of the Senate Hansard Report is for information purposes only. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor, Senate"
}