Geingob to open parliament tomorrow
President Hage Geingob is expected to officially open parliament for the year 2021 tomorrow.
Parliament spokesperson David Nahogandja, however, said in view of the coronavirus pandemic, invitations to the official opening have been restricted.
This is in order to comply with the health guidelines aimed at safeguarding the health and wellbeing of the public.
“Parliament has decided to scale down on the activities that are normally associated with the opening ceremony due to the Covid-19 health protocols,” Nahogandja said in a statement last week.
He said traditional activities such as military procession and all ceremonies associated with it will take place.
“No guests will be invited as well as reception will be hosted. No cultural and school children performances,” he added.
Moreover, he said, attendance will be limited to only 50 members, inclusive of the presidential entourage, the chief justice and deputy chief justice as well as the three uniform service chiefs.
He advised media practitioners who wish to attend and cover the event to adhere to the Covid-19 preventative measures.
“The number of media practitioners will be very limited in order to comply with the regulations,” he stressed.
This important annual event on the calendar of the country brings together under one roof the three main organs of the state.
The event will take place at the Parliament Building from 14h30.
This year, the official opening coincides with Constitution Day, which is normally celebrated on 9 February.
The Combating of Rape Amendment Bill, Combating of Domestic Violence Amendment Bill, Criminal Procedure Amendment Bill, High Court Amendment Bill, Magistrates Court amendment Bill, Divorce Bill, Ombudsman Bill, Child Justice Bill, Marriage Bill, Uniform Marriages Bill, Banking Institutions Amendment Bill and the Metrology Bill are some of the Bills that would be tabled during the 2021 parliamentary year.