Speaker Affirms Constitutional Bill Hearings Despite Floods

Speaker of the National Assembly, Jacob Mudenda, declared public consultations on the proposed Constitution Amendment Bill No. 3 will proceed as scheduled, even deploying helicopters for flooded zones. This reflects the government's commitment to advance the legislation despite logistical challenges. While the government emphasizes public engagement, critics argue that prioritizing the bill's passage over broad public participation, especially in disaster-affected areas, creates friction over democratic legitimacy. Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 remains a central point of contention, with the Speaker's commitment to use helicopters indicating the political priority and resource allocation for its consultation phase. This suggests a strong governmental push to pass the constitutional amendment despite opposition. The Speaker's directive to proceed with hearings despite flood conditions underscores the government's strategic intent to maintain legislative control over constitutional reform, irrespective of public access challenges.