The National Assembly has placed nine officials on precautionary suspension with full pay over alleged security breaches that led to the fire that gutted some parts of Parliament last January.
In a statement, parliament said the group is part of 28 individuals that were pinpointed after an external investigation commissioned by Parliament into the causes associated with the 2022 security breach, fire, and misconduct.
“Due to the serious nature of the allegations, 9 out of the 13 staff members facing disciplinary action have been placed on precautionary suspension with full pay and benefits.
This decision takes into account their senior positions and the possible influence they could have on their colleagues within the organization,” read the statement.
The legal team pinpointed 28 individuals facing significant allegations that required their response.
The statement revealed that the implicated individuals were on 20 October served with notice of the charges under consideration and were given a chance to reply or comment on the claims.
Twenty-six employees responded, one did not, while another was hospitalized at the time but has since indicated a willingness to address the allegations.
“Some employees offered satisfactory justifications for their actions, which Parliament has acknowledged, absolving them from the charges.
For these individuals, Parliament is contemplating alternative measures such as professional development or additional training to address any identified skill gaps,” added the statement.
Parliament said others failed to provide adequate explanations, resulting in the institution arranging disciplinary hearings against them.
The statement stressed that the suspensions are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the institution and ensuring an impartial process.
The hearings will be conducted by external legal experts and chairpersons will be appointed to guarantee impartiality and eliminate any suspicion of bias.
