President Hichilema Reaffirms Commitment to Reforms

President Hakainde Hichilema has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to continuing reforms, citing progress already achieved in the energy, education and legal sectors, with further changes expected under the Grow Zambia agenda.

Speaking at State House today during the Speaker’s approbation ceremony, the Head of State urged Parliament to enact laws that will drive the economic transformation programme.

“We will continue with this agenda and Parliament must enact laws that will facilitate the Grow Zambia agenda,” he said, adding that the initiative is intended to improve lives and is a shared responsibility across all arms of Government.

On proportional representation, President Hichilema described the system as a revolutionary decision of the Zambian people, noting that it has brought women, youth and persons with disabilities into Parliament. “Every representative in Parliament is equal; no one has greater status. Proportional representation Members of Parliament are equal, with the same rights and privileges accorded to others,” he said.

He stressed that the House must embed the motto “One Zambia, One Nation, One People” while recognising the diversity of political parties. He urged Members to ensure factual and respectful debate, with patriotism guiding deliberations and conduct in Parliament.

President Hichilema said reforms undertaken so far have delivered tangible results and must be deepened to ensure that natural resources and national policies translate into improved livelihoods for citizens.

The Speaker’s approbation ceremony is the formal request and granting of executive approval of a newly elected Speaker of Parliament, along with confirmation of the legislature’s constitutional rights and privileges.

The approbation ceremony was preceded by the election and administration of the oath of office for Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti, First Deputy Speaker Malungo Chisangano, and Second Deputy Speaker Nshamba Muzungu.

In her petition, Ms. Mutti stated: “Mr. President, I beg, in the name and on behalf of the National Assembly, to lay claim by humble petition to the constitutional rights and privileges of the House, and further that you will be willing at reasonable times to allow Members free access to you, and that all their proceedings in the House may receive from you the most favourable consideration.”

In response, President Hichilema assured the Speaker and Members of Parliament of the full enjoyment of rights and privileges under the law, free at all times, with their actions interpreted favourably.