Parliament Moves Closer to Debate on Constitutional Bill No. 3 as Public Consultation Reports Near Completion

Government says Parliament is moving closer to deliberations on Constitutional Bill No. 3 (CAB3), with parliamentary portfolio committees now in the final stages of compiling reports from nationwide public consultations ahead of debate when the National Assembly resumes next week.

Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Ziyambi Ziyambi, said submissions gathered during public hearings conducted across the country are being consolidated into detailed committee reports that will soon be tabled before Parliament, marking a critical phase in the legislative process.

The minister said once tabled, the Bill will proceed to its first reading before advancing to the second reading stage, where Members of Parliament will undertake a detailed examination of its provisions, debate proposed changes and consider possible amendments.

Minister Ziyambi emphasised that Government remains open to views raised by citizens during the consultation process, noting that public submissions will play a significant role in shaping the final form of the legislation.

He said clauses within the Bill could still be revised, adjusted or removed entirely depending on the outcome of parliamentary deliberations and recommendations emerging from the consultation reports.

Expressing confidence in the pace of progress, Minister Ziyambi said Government is optimistic that the legislative process surrounding Constitutional Bill No. 3 could be concluded by the end of June this year.

The developments signal a significant step in the advancement of one of the country’s closely watched constitutional reform processes, with Parliament expected to play a central role in determining the Bill’s final outcome amid heightened public and political interest.

By Witness A Phiri