National Emergency Operations Center (NEOC)’s counsel was not sought in the decision to recommence sittings at the parliament building.

NEOC spokesperson Mohamed Mabrook Aziz revealed this at Monday night’s Covid-19 press briefing, hours after the People’s Majlis announced the decision.

Responding to a question regarding this, he said that there were no such discussions with the center regarding holding sittings at the parliament building but that he believes that the Majlis will reach such a decision “within the laws”.

While the spokesperson was also questioned on whether the director general of public health will be taking action against this given the lockdown announced in the capital, Mabrook said that he does not have the authority to answer such questions.

However, he noted that there are individuals that are exempt from the lockdown, and highlighted that police permits can also be taken if required to go out for essentials.

Majlis on Monday announced a standard operations procedure to resume sittings, which includes that 42 lawmakers will be present at the floor at any given time. Further, a minimum of employees are to be present as well, and all are required to wear masks.