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Government Introduces Access to Information Bill 2023 in National Assembly

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President Hakainde Hichilema

The introduction of the Access to Information (ATI) Bill in the National Assembly has been hailed as a pivotal step towards bolstering transparency within the nation, reflecting President Hakainde Hichilema’s commitment to accountability and openness.

Information and Media Minister, Cornelius Mweetwa, underscored the significance of President Hichilema’s dedication to enacting the ATI law. Mweetwa noted the President’s consistent advocacy for this legislation since 2006, emphasizing its importance, which prior administrations were hesitant to address.

Speaking in Lusaka shortly after presenting the Bill to parliament, Mweetwa lauded President Hichilema’s fearless pursuit of government transparency and accountability. He highlighted the President’s swift action in abolishing the law on defamation of the President immediately upon assuming office, underscoring the government’s dedication to fostering openness.

Mweetwa, also the Chief Government Spokesperson, assured the public that the long-awaited amendment to the Public Order Act would soon follow, once the remaining procedural steps are completed.

The ATI Bill, formally designated as N.A.B 24 of 2023, serves to establish the Human Rights Commission as an oversight body concerning matters linked to access to information. It aims to delineate citizens’ rights to access information while setting boundaries, instituting procedures for information requests, and aligning with international agreements, including the United Nations Convention against Corruption and the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights.

The Bill, presented for the first time in the House, has been referred to the Committee on Media, Information, and Communication Technologies. National Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Nelly Mutti, MP, has scheduled the Committee to present its report on the Bill on December 7, 2023.

Members of the public have been encouraged to provide submissions related to the Bill during the committee’s deliberations. The presentation of the Access to Information Bill stands as a substantial stride toward cultivating a culture of transparency and accountability, aligning with President Hichilema’s vision for a more open and participatory government in Zambia.

Source: Lusakatimes

Zambia News

President Hichilema to Visit Seseli Mine

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Seseli Mine in Chingola

President Hakainde Hichilema is scheduled to visit Seseli Mine in Chingola on the Copperbelt, where a number of illegal miners find themselves trapped in a flooded open-pit mine. The announcement was made by Copper Minister Elisha Matambo during a press briefing in Chingola, reflecting the government’s commitment to addressing the critical situation.

Minister Matambo expressed confidence in the measures and interventions implemented by the government, ensuring that the ongoing rescue mission will reach the trapped miners. The President’s visit underscores the gravity of the situation and the government’s hands-on approach in coordinating the rescue efforts.

Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe provided further assurance, stating that safety precautions are rigorously being followed to maximize the chances of a successful rescue operation. He emphasized that the government has engaged with families affected by the incident, with twenty-seven families having come forward to claim missing relatives.

Source: aljazeera

In other news – It all ended in tears for Faith Nketsi

News that well-known Mzansi reality TV star and influencer, Faith Nketsi whose full name is Mapholoso Faith Nketsi was finally divorcing her short-term husband Nzuzo Njilo was met with relief from fans of the reality star and businesswoman.

Faith Nketsi

The reason behind the celebration of the divorce was because Faith’s brand took some knocks when her husband’s corrupt business ways were aired on the covers of Mzansi’s biggest. Read more

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PF MPs Urged to Embrace New Leadership Dynamics in National Assembly

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Robert Chabinga

The leader of the opposition in Parliament, Robert Chabinga, has commended President Hakainde Hichilema for demonstrating a spirit of unity and magnanimity towards his predecessor, former President Edgar Lungu. In the midst of heightened provocations, Mr. Chabinga emphasized that President Hichilema and the United Party for National Development (UPND) are not responsible for the challenges within the former ruling Patriotic Front (PF).

Speaking from his position as the Member of Parliament for Mafinga, Mr. Chabinga advised PF Members of Parliament to acknowledge the changed leadership in the National Assembly. He urged them to embrace discipline and decorum in the legislative body, emphasizing the importance of non-political conduct and effective representation aligned with the wishes of the electorate.

“President Hichilema has demonstrated love towards his predecessor, former President Lungu, even in the face of heightened provocation. The challenges within the PF should not be laid at the doorstep of President Hichilema and the UPND. It is essential for PF MPs to accept the new reality and move forward,” stated Mr. Chabinga in a statement issued to ZNBC News in Lusaka.

He underscored the importance of maintaining discipline in the National Assembly, urging MPs to prioritize the interests of the people who elected them. Mr. Chabinga emphasized the need for constructive checks and balances from opposition MPs, fostering an environment of cooperation and effective governance.

“Opposition MPs have a crucial role in providing constructive checks and balances in the House. It is imperative for all MPs to refrain from antagonizing one another and focus on contributing positively to the legislative process,” added Mr. Chabinga.

Source: Lusakatimes

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