The speaker of the National Assembly Justin Muturi has threatened to lock out members of parliament, journalist and visitors from entering parliament, the Lounges, Dining Room or Committee Rooms at all times if improperly dressed.
According to the speaker anyone visiting or working in parliament should adhere to rule 8 of the speaker’s rules regarding dress code for Members while in the Chamber, the Lounges, Dining Room or Committee Rooms at all times.
The speakers has ruled that members of parliament, Journalist and those visiting parliament should wear a coat, collar, tie, long-sleeved shirt, long trousers, socks, and shoes or service uniform for men and decent formal/business wear for women.
The speaker ruled on the matter after Kisumu West Constituency member of parliament Olago Aluoch, drew his attention to the dress code of the Member for Rarieda, Dr. Otiende Amollo, who was dressed in a collarless shirt and a matching jacket and without a tie .
Olago Aluoch who rose on a Point of Order last month was seeking the speaker guidance and direction on the matter of appropriate dress code for Members in the Chamber.
The speaker further ruled that one will only be exempted from the application of the rule, through necessary discretion by the Presiding Officer or Chairperson of a Committee.
He says his move is to protect Parliament noting that a parliament without basic agreed standards of dress and manners could easily subject itself to dishonor.