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{
    "id": 988489,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/988489/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 67,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Sen. Khaniri",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": {
        "id": 171,
        "legal_name": "George Munyasa Khaniri",
        "slug": "george-khaniri"
    },
    "content": "Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, thank you for the opportunity. I rise pursuant to the provisions of Standing Order No.47(1) to make a Statement on a matter of national concern, namely; the response of the Government to the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19), to cushion and alleviate suffering of citizens, particularly in terms of accountability of Government spending, enforcement of preventive measures by security agents and socioeconomic support to the vulnerable. Mr. Speaker, Sir, as we are all aware, Coronavirus is currently the biggest health and socioeconomic challenge of our time. I appreciate the direction taken by the Senate to form an A d Hoc Committee to comprehensively tackle this disaster. The Committee has proven its competence and adaptability to the current times by successfully adopting technology to transact Committee business. They have been doing their meetings virtually and have had several virtual sessions. Further, the Committee has brought to the House the Pandemic Response and Management Bill (Senate Bills No.6 of 2020), which was read a First Time during our previous sitting. I also take this opportunity to commend every Kenyan for their efforts in the fight against this pandemic. This is a totally different type of war. It is a war that is being fought in the hospitals and houses, and not in the battlefield; by medical practitioners and not soldiers; and by face masks and hand washing and not guns. The best strategy in this war is to conscientiously follow Government directives and advice. Mr. Speaker, Sir, it is important to note and appreciate Government efforts through implementation of cash transfers for the elderly, people with severe disabilities, and now, stipends for the vulnerable in slum areas. The reduction in various tax categories and the establishment of the COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund are commendable. However, there is still need for the Government to explore additional social safety net measures that may include subsidization of commodities across board and increased food distribution. The electronic version of the Senate Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor, Senate."
}