The Action Institute for Policy Analysis Centre (AIPAC) has expressed concern over the manner in which the Ministry of Justice is handling the constitution amendment Bill Number Bill 7 debate and legislative process, describing it as lacking legitimacy and public support.
Institute Executive Director, Solomon Ngoma, warned that pushing Bill 7 through Parliament without incorporating feedback from key stakeholders would be a grave mistake.
“Presenting Bill 7 in its current form could be suicidal, especially given the Ministry’s disregard for widespread stakeholder advice,” said Mr. Ngoma in a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today.
He drew parallels with the Cyber Crimes Act, which he said was enacted with controversial clauses that threaten freedom of expression and undermine the protection of whistleblowers, fears he believes could be repeated with Bill 7 if public voices continue to be ignored.
He therefore stressed the importance of transparency, inclusivity, and responsiveness in Zambia’s legislative processes, calling on the Ministry to meaningfully engage stakeholders in amending the proposed law.
Christabel Kamunu.
