Understanding the Legislative Process in Zambia: How Laws Are Signed and Publicized

by ; Hamunkoyo Tobbius -18/04/25

Zambia follows a structured legislative process to create and enact laws that govern the country, Emmanuel Mwamba  Miles Sampa , Binwell Mpundu , and others should not mislead the nation that Laws are signed secretly. The formulation and approval of laws in Zambia involve multiple stages, ensuring that proposed legislation undergoes thorough scrutiny before being enacted. This article explores the legislative process in Zambia, focusing on how laws are signed and the requirement for their publicization.

The Lawmaking Process

The process of creating laws in Zambia is primarily handled by the National Assembly , with input from stakeholders such as government officials, legal experts, and the public. The journey of a Bill (a proposed law) from its introduction to its enactment involves several critical steps:

1. First Reading

A Bill is first introduced in the National Assembly, where its title and objectives are announced. At this stage, there is no debate—Members of Parliament (MPs) are given time to familiarize themselves with its contents.

2. Second Reading

During the second reading, MPs engage in a detailed debate on the Bill, discussing its potential impact on governance, society, and the economy. This is a crucial stage where concerns, objections, and recommendations are raised.

3. Committee Stage

The Bill is then referred to a specialized committee for further examination. MPs and legal experts review the content in detail, making amendments where necessary. If changes are made, the revised version is presented back to the National Assembly for approval.

4. Third Reading

The Bill returns for a final debate. MPs review the amended version and vote on whether it should proceed to the next stage. If the majority votes in favor, the Bill is deemed ready for presidential assent.

5. Presidential Assent

Once a Bill is approved by the National Assembly, it is sent to the President of Zambia for final approval. The President reviews the Bill and, upon satisfaction, signs it into law. This act of signing is known as presidential assent , making the law official and enforceable.

Is Publicizing Signed Laws a Requirement

Yes, publicization is a crucial aspect of Zambia’s legislative process. Certain laws must be published in the Government Gazette before they take effect, meaning not all Laws are published before enactment. The Government Gazette serves as an official public record, ensuring transparency and allowing citizens to access information about new laws. Additionally,

For example constitutional Amendments must be published at least 30 days before their first reading in Parliament.
New Laws may be announced through official government channels, including publications and digital platforms.

This requirement helps promote awareness and accountability, allowing citizens to stay informed about regulations that impact their lives.

Zambia’s lawmaking process is designed to ensure thorough examination and approval of laws before they are enacted. By requiring laws to be publicized, the government enhances transparency and strengthens democratic governance. Understanding this process enables citizens to actively engage with legislative developments and advocate for reforms where necessary.

Justice, Mercy, and Unity: The Landmark Release of Hon. GBM

By ; Hamunkoyo Tobbius -18/04/25

The recent release of Hon. Geoffrey Bwalya Mwamba (GBM), former Defence Minister, marks a significant moment in Zambia’s political landscape. It serves as a poignant reminder that politics should never come at the cost of human lives. Contrary to popular belief, GBM’s legal challenges were not initiated by the current United Party for National Development (UPND) government but stemmed from actions taken during the Patriotic Front’s (PF) tenure, when GBM aligned himself with the UPND. The present administration simply allowed the judicial process to unfold without interference, very important.

GBM was released from a correctional facility on medical grounds, alongside 12 other inmates who were also discharged due to terminal illnesses. Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister Jack Mwiimbu announced this development during a media briefing, explaining that Section 77(1) of the Zambia Correctional Service Act No. 37 of 2021 provides the legal framework for such discharges. The Commissioner-General, with the Minister’s approval and based on a health practitioner’s recommendation, may order the release of terminally ill inmates.

Minister Jack Mwiimbu revealed that GBM had petitioned President Hakainde Hichilema to exercise his prerogative of mercy. In a compassionate response, the President referred the matter to the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, who holds the authority to discharge terminally ill patients under the Act. After considering the medical board’s recommendations and the circumstances surrounding GBM’s health, the Minister approved his release.

Taking into account all the circumstances surrounding the inmate’s health, the recommendations made by the medical board, and the powers vested in me, I hereby discharge male convict, Lusaka 787/25, GBM, on medical grounds,” Minister Mwiimbu stated. He also clarified that Zambia does not have political prisoners, emphasizing that all incarcerated individuals have been found guilty through due process.

What truly stands out in this episode is President Hichilema’s decision to facilitate GBM’s release on humanitarian grounds. This act of compassion and restraint reflects a leadership style rooted in empathy and a commitment to national unity.

GBM’s political journey adds depth to this story. Born on March 15, 1959, GBM is not only a seasoned politician but also a successful businessman. He served as Zambia’s Defence Minister from 2011 to 2013 under the late  President Michael Sata. His political career has been marked by bold moves, including his endorsement of the UPND in 2015 and his role as Hakainde Hichilema’s running mate in the 2016 presidential election. GBM’s influence in Zambian politics has been significant, and his release on medical grounds underscores the importance of prioritizing humanity over rivalry.

This moment also underscores a critical lesson for Zambia’s political actors: the judiciary must remain independent and free from political manipulation. When courts are weaponized for political battles, the very foundations of justice and democracy are eroded. President Hichilema’s actions set a positive precedent, demonstrating that governance should prioritize humanity over rivalry.

As Zambia moves forward, this event calls for introspection among all political players. It is a time to embrace a culture of respect, uphold due process, and foster national unity. After all, we are one Zambia, one nation. No political disagreement is worth the loss of a human life

Lusambo cries for an acquittal, claims court erred to convict him

JAILED former Lusaka Province Minister Bowman Lusambo has cried for an acquittal in the Lusaka High Court stating that the prosecution failed to discharge the burden of proof on his charges and therefore he should be set free.

Lusambo in his arguments submitted that the court should acquit him of all his charges because the evidence by the prosecution was limping and unsafe to secure a conviction.

He said the magistrate found him guilty despite the presence of clear and credible evidence, some of it from the State’s own witnesses that exonerated him.

Last year on November 8, the Economic and Financial Crimes court convicted and sentenced Lusambo to four years imprisonment with hard labour in a matter he pleaded not guilty to ten counts of corrupt acquisition of public property, possession of property suspected of being proceeds of crime, tax evasion and conspiracy to defraud.

Lusambo had applied for bail pending appeal before the trial court, resident magistrate Faides Hamaundu but it was declined.

He went ahead and filed in the Lusaka High Court where he says the magistrate erred at law when she convicted him despite providing sufficient evidence.

“The appeal challenges both the factual findings and legal reasoning of the court, which, with respect, reached conclusions not supported by the evidence on record.”

“In each of the counts appealed against, the Appellant was found guilty despite the presence of clear and credible evidence, some of it from the State’s own witnesses that exonerated him.”

“In some instances, the court relied on assumptions and ignored material facts,” Lusambo said.

He argued that the trial court failed to properly assess the documentary and testimonial evidence placed before it.

“The honourable Court is now called upon to carefully examine the record and apply the correct legal standards.”

“These submissions will show that the findings of the lower court were flawed, that the reasoning applied was inconsistent with established legal principles, and that the convictions entered were unsafe and ought to be set aside,” Lusambo submitted.

He insisted through his lawyers from D Findlay & Associates, Makebi Zulu Advocates and Likando Kalaluka & Co that the higher court should acquit him on basis that the prosecution deliberately chose to omit other financial means that he had to acquire the alleged tainted properties herein.

The Appellant further submitted that the prosecution also failed to establish that he was the owner of the said properties.

“Therefore, it is our prayer that this ground of appeal has merits and should be allowed.”

“My Lords and my Lady, in light of the foregoing, this honourable Court is respectfully urged to find that the trial court materially misdirected itself on both the facts and the law, leading to unsafe convictions on grounds.”

“The prosecution failed to discharge the burden of proof and therefore the court should acquit the appellant.” read the document.

By Lucy Phiri

Kalemba April 18, 2025

Laura Miti Criticizes Timing of Constitution Amendments, Calls for Inclusive Dialogue

Renowned human rights defender and Executive Director of the Alliance for Community Action, Laura Miti, has expressed deep concern over the timing and nature of the proposed constitutional amendments, warning that the process risks undermining democratic integrity if rushed ahead of the 2026 general elections.

Speaking in an exclusive interview on Unpacked, Miti criticized the government’s decision to initiate constitutional reforms during what she described as a politically charged period.

“The country is now entering the electoral season, and as we know, we’re never at our wisest or most sober during this time,” Miti said. “A constitution requires sober discussion, not rushed decisions under the pressure of political timelines.”
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/15E2HCaFL3/

She emphasized that while constitutional reform is necessary, it should not be tied to electoral deadlines. Miti argued that meaningful amendments require adequate time for consensus-building and public participation.

“I would have wished that, if an amendment process is to start, it should certainly not be linked to the next elections,” she stated.

Among her specific concerns was the proposed reduction in experience required for the position of Secretary to the Cabinet a role she described as one of the most senior and consequential in the public service.

“Why are we reducing the quality of people eligible for such a senior role? It makes no sense to lower the standards for a position that is vital to national administration,” Miti questioned.

She also took issue with the possibility of determining the number of nominated Members of Parliament through an Act of Parliament rather than enshrining it in the Constitution.

“We’ve heard reports that the President admitted it was a mistake and I certainly hope so. The number of MPs should remain in the Constitution, not be left to ordinary legislation,” she said.

Miti further criticized the government’s approach to the reform process, accusing it of sidelining the general public and civil society.

“The government’s role is to facilitate the process, not to drive it. It is just one stakeholder in this nation. Facilitating dialogue, allocating resources, and ensuring inclusivity that’s their job. But dictating what should be in the Constitution is not,” she asserted.

Her comments come amid growing public debate about the legitimacy and transparency of the constitutional reform process, with civil society organizations urging the government to allow for broader participation and to postpone the amendments until after the elections.

As the country inches closer to the polls, observers warn that hurried constitutional changes may lead to long-term legal and political consequences if not handled with caution and inclusivity.

April 17, 2025
By Sarah N. Mabuku & Edwin Daka
©️ KUMWESU

GOVERNMENT DISOWNS CHADIZA DC OVER UPND POLITICAL EVENT APPEARANCE IN LUMEZI

Government in Eastern Province has distanced itself from the actions of Chadiza District Commissioner Malani Zimba who was recently spotted at a ruling UPND political mobilization event in Lumezi District.

Eastern Province Permanent Secretary Paul Thole says the District Commissioner is an adult who knows what he is doing and should face the consequences of his actions alone particularly when he is operating away from official duty.

Speaking to KBN TV news, Mr Thole has disclosed that the Chadiza District Commissioner is actually on a 10-day official leave and according to information on his desk, the DC is supposed to be in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania and not Lumezi.

The PS was reacting to speculations about Mr Zimba’s whereabouts after pictures and videos of him at a political mobilization in Lumezi District circulated on social media.

Recently, another District Commissioner for Lumezi was spotted at a UPND campaign trail before his official vehicle was damaged and his head hit by a stone when suspected UPND cadres clashed with TONSE alliance cadres ahead of the recently held Mtilizi ward by-election in Nyimba District.

Last month, CARITAS Chipata Director John Mtaziko Zulu bemoaned that a lot of DCs in the province are fond of abandoning their duties, neglecting the needs of the people they serve by focusing on partisan political agendas.

Meanwhile, the provincial Permanent Secretary has emphasized that Mr Zimba remains the District Commissioner for Chadiza and is expected to adhere to his conditions of service.

There has been wider speculation that the UPND have intensified efforts ahead of a possible parliamentary by-election in Lumezi after area MJP Munir Zulu was convicted of defamation and sentenced to one year imprisonment.

And Lumezi District Commissioner Malani Zimba has denied allegations of mobilizing ahead of a potential by-election in Lumezi district which has not been announced.

He claims that he visited his village in Lumezi and was approached by people who wanted him to address them and explain to them on some programs being implemented by the Government.

Mr Zimba has since labeled those accusing him of mobilizing as enemies of progress.
[ KBN TV ]

Musiwa, The Bodyguard from Beijing: A Story of Loyalty, Sacrifice, and Fatherly Bond

By Farai Ruvanyati

In recent days, social media has been abuzz with chatter surrounding President Hakainde Hichilema’s personal bodyguard, Musiwa, popularly nicknamed Beijing. The name, inspired by the 1994 Hong Kong action film The Bodyguard from Beijing starring Jet Li, has captured the public’s imagination. But beyond the cinematic nickname lies a real story of loyalty, sacrifice, and an unbreakable father-son bond forged in the fire of political struggle.

At the center of this buzz is Patriotic Front (PF) propagandist and Emmanuel Mwamba , mockingly dubbed “The Ambassador of Lies” and “The Man with a Permanent Squint,” who has launched a smear campaign against Musiwa’s presence and role.

Zambians were first introduced to “Beijing” during the swearing-in ceremony of President Hichilema at Heroes Stadium in August 2021. Dressed in plain clothes, Musiwa accompanied the newly sworn-in Head of State during the inspection of the guard of honour, a stark contrast to the uniformed security details seen under previous administrations. It was a moment that sparked curiosity, and later, admiration.

Since then, Musiwa has remained a constant figure at the President’s side, not merely as a bodyguard, but as a protector, confidant, and guardian angel. Those close to the President describe their bond as one akin to a father and son. In the line of duty, Musiwa has put his own life on the line time and again to shield Hichilema from danger.

Eyewitnesses recall several harrowing incidents. In one episode, PF thugs raided a radio station with firearms and pangas during a live programme featuring then-opposition leader Hichilema. With split-second judgment and immense bravery, Musiwa led the President to safety through an opening in the roof. In another instance, during a roadshow in Lusaka’s densely populated Kanyama township, a rock was hurled at Hichilema’s moving jeep. Musiwa yanked him down just moments before the projectile grazed the spot where the President’s head had been.

These acts were not isolated. They speak to a bond built on mutual trust, forged during some of the darkest moments of Zambia’s political history. They also underscore the professional solidarity Musiwa holds with the President, one that transcends typical security protocol and is rooted in shared sacrifice.

Critics have questioned Musiwa’s access to certain restricted zones, arguing that only trained military or intelligence officers should operate there. However, it is worth noting that Musiwa is a former soldier. Furthermore, the President is constitutionally empowered to assign and elevate individuals to military or advisory roles at his discretion. Historical precedent supports this, former President Dr. Kenneth David Kaunda, for instance, conferred the  rank of Colonel on Edward Festus Mukuka Nkoloso in recognition of his national service.

Thus, it should come as no surprise that the “Bodyguard from Beijing” operates with such proximity and trust. His loyalty is not purchased, it is earned, proven, and continually demonstrated through action. To President Hichilema, Musiwa is not just a protector, he is family.

2026 WILL BE THE FINAL CHAPTER OF PRESIDENT HAKAINDE HICHILEMA S PRESIDENCY

I am not a Prophet but President Hakainde’s downfall is inevitable. The lack of consultation on Serious matters of governance will cost President Hakainde Hichilema in 2026. Consulting widely on national matters is one of the bench marks of good and credible National Leadership.

No amount of intimidation,not the Police,not the courts ,not even the electoral Commission of Zambia will stop the will of the Zambian people.
Under Hichilema s rule , Zambia has become a country of suffering, fear and broken promises.

Zambians must refuse to go to the 2026 Presidential and Parliamentary elections with Ms Mwangala Zalomis and Donald Chipenzi well known UPND zealots mandated to oversee the country s electoral process at the helm of ECZ.

In 2026, Hichilema will definitely kiss the Presidency goodbye. President Hichilema has completely crushed the hopes of Zambians. To those who still believe Hichilema s grip on power is unshakable,think again and wait for 2026.

We are mobilising, organizing and Preparing to take the country back to the people from the failed administration of President Hakainde Hichilema.

The UPND government has betrayed the very people who put them into power by subjecting them to unbearable economic hardships.
Zambia belongs to the people and Zambians shall not tolerate  President Hakainde Hichilema priority to accommodate foreigners over indigenous Zambians .

The 2026 Elections will not be about a Political party but about the people s power to hold government accountable to the people. It will be about liberating Zambians economically and giving them back their freedom.

Make no mistake Zambians understand fully well that this country has been manipulated and stripped of it’s dignity by the UPND government.
We want to remind our friends in UPND that true democracy thrives on a system of checks and balances.

What is sad is that the Zambia Police service is  now operating as tools for Political Oppression under the UPND administration. High Profile Opposition figures are either languishing in prison serving sentences or appearing before Courts of law on dubious Charges.

Peaceful protests against government are met with excessive force with Protestors often arrested. As if that is not enough government has expanded its surveillance capabilities, making on line criticism a dangerous act.

Zambia s Media landscape has become one sided and heavily Censored with government aggressively controlling the flow of information ensuring that only narratives favorable to Hichilema s administration reach the public with online platforms being monitored with Cyber laws to silence dissenting voices.

The rule of law has been replaced by a system of selective justice ,where laws are enforced based on political loyalty rather than legal merit.

What is clear is that inflation has skyrocketed and that ordinary citizens are struggling with the high cost of fuel and electricity tarrifs.

Now instead of prioritizing the well being of Zambians the UPND administration is more focused on maintaining power at all cost.

On dialogue nobody wants to dialogue with the out going President,how do you dialogue with a President who is on his way out?

It’s too late now to dialogue with President Hakainde Hichilema the outgoing President.

We want to appeal to the international Bodies and democratic nations to hold the UPND government accountable for their undemocratic actions against the Zambian people.

The writing is on the wall 2026 will be the final chapter of President Hakainde Hichilema s Presidency.

Edwin Lifwekelo
PF Media Director
lusaka -zambia

THE CHURCH AND POLITICAL TUSSLE OF CONVENIENCE

“When the People Cry and The Bishop Is Silent: Bilon Kalumbinga’s Strange Battle”

By Dr Mwelwa

Bishop Bilon, your energy is admirable, but unfortunately misdirected. With all due respect, the article you’re responding to isn’t about you, and it’s not even about defending or attacking the Bishop—it is about asking a moral question that cannot be dismissed with the usual partisan gymnastics or convenient nostalgia. You’ve taken great pains to speak for Bishop Imakando, but what the nation is yearning for is his voice—not a paid proxy or self-appointed defender with a loud keyboard.

When the Bishop spoke in 2021, he needed no cheerleaders, no handlers, and certainly no apologetics. He spoke with conviction, yes—but more importantly, he spoke publicly, prophetically, and purposefully. His words, whether by intent or effect, stirred a national turning point. That is the undeniable truth. So now that the conditions have worsened—the cost of living has soared, tribal tension has deepened, injustices are rising, and people are weeping in the very townships where his churches stand—we are simply asking, where is that same voice now?

To ask that question is not to drag him into “cheap politics”; it is to hold a spiritual standard consistent with the prophetic tradition. Was Amos being political when he cried, “Woe to you who are at ease in Zion”? Was Nathan playing opposition when he confronted King David? No, they were fulfilling their divine responsibility—to speak when others are silent, to stand when others bow.

You suggest Bishop Imakando cannot be summoned to speak unless he feels a personal conviction. But can you really walk past hungry sheep and claim silence as obedience? This isn’t about being hired to speak; this is about being called to respond to suffering. When the shepherd sees the wolves come and says nothing, what becomes of the flock?

And while you’re quick to question the motivations of the Catholic clergy—conveniently pointing at alleged past benefits—you forget that they are the only major clerical body still standing up for the people in a time of great hardship. They have risked their comfort, their safety, and even their reputations to say what is unpopular but necessary. That, my brother, is called moral courage. Try it sometime.

Let’s be clear—no one is asking Bishop Imakando to chant political slogans or trade in partisanship. We’re asking for prophetic balance. If he had the courage to speak when governance was bad under one regime, he must also find the courage to speak when governance is clearly failing under the next. To only speak when it’s safe, and stay silent when it’s hard, is not conviction—it is convenience.

You spent paragraphs listing the sins of the past regime, but no amount of historical scapegoating can feed the hungry child in Kanyama today. The Zambian people are not fools. They don’t eat history. They don’t wear free education as clothing. They are asking why things are still hard—and why those who once stood with them now hide behind proxies and silence.

Bishop Imakando is not being condemned—he’s being called. And if he does not speak, it won’t be a political loss; it will be a moral one. Because the prophets are not called to be comfortable, they are called to be courageous.

So no, Bilon—we are not looking for your opinion. We are looking for the Bishop.

HH IS PLAYING CHESS, HE’LL EVENTUALLY ALTER TERM LIMIT – MUNDUBILE

Lusaka – Wednesday, 16 April 2025.

MPOROKOSO PF MP Brian Mundubile says President Hakainde Hichilema cannot be trusted because all the allegations he is denying pertaining to the constitutional amendments are true.

On Sunday, President Hichilema said allegations that he wanted to amend the Constitution in order to increase his term limit, remove the running mate, among other things, were very unfair.

But in an interview, Tuesday, Mundubile said President Hichilema was slowly moving towards achieving all of those things.

“All the allegations that he is saying no to remain true because of the manner in which he wants to handle the process, they remain true that he wants to remove 50+1 later, he wants to remove running mate, he wants to remove term limit and so on, that is his intention, he is playing chess, he doesn’t want to win on the first move, the first move should help him secure 2026 and then when he comes back all those clauses he was denying [will be amended] because remember, it is the same President who would say ‘today people are lying, they are saying that we want to give KCM to Vedanta, that’s a lie’, a month later, he comes to say we are glad to announce that we have found an investor, we have cancelled court cases, KCM is going to Vedanta, that’s the President, that’s President HH,” he said.

“He is not one who would shy away from turning around completely from something that he said previously, these are things that we know, even constitutional amendments he said we won’t [make], he is at it now, KCM we can’t give it to Vedanta, it’s now with Vedanta”.

Mundubile said even though President Hichilema was refuting the allegations, he was pushing a constitutional amendment agenda aimed at gaining majority in Parliament.

“What is of concern is that it’s the President who is justifying himself over the proposed amendments, it’s the President who is denying allegations over the constitutional amendments. In a constitutional amendment process, that should not arise, even the defence he is putting up, he is just digging himself deeper into the hole because why is he saying ‘I am not amending the Constitution for this’, that statement alone tells you there is something wrong because the Constitution says we the people give unto ourselves this Constitution, so there should be no time when an individual says I am not doing this because of this, he is already admitting that he is doing something wrong,” he said.

“He is admitting that he is the one amending the Constitution. The arguments we have is that it should not be him to amend the Constitution, it should have been the people to propose constitutional amendments so even if he is refuting those allegations, what we know is that he is pushing that agenda to gain the majority in Parliament through delimitation in strongholds, through nominations and if he can get two thirds just from his side, then after the elections, he will now come back and amend those other clauses that he has shied away from”.

Mundubile said the proposals, if implemented, would give President Hichilema an unfair advantage in 2026.

“He pushes for amending some of the clauses now that will give him an advantage in the 2026 elections because why should you tie the amendments of the Constitution to an election? They are the ones who are saying before 2026, why are they tying the elections to it? That is one question, meaning the amendment should give them an advantage in the 2026 elections and then thereafter, because of the many things that have happened in his first term, he will not then remove 50+1 going forward, he will remove the running mate going forward, he will remove the term limit going forward and so on. We have seen these things happen before in other countries so he must understand that there are a lot of people that read, there are many people that can see him in his tracks,” said Mundubile.

(Credit: News Diggers)

“BEWARE OF MISINFORMATION” – ECZ WARNS AHEAD OF VOTER REGISTRATION DRIVE

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has cautioned political players and the general public against spreading misinformation as the country gears up for a nationwide mass voter registration exercise expected later this year.

Speaking at a stakeholder engagement forum in Lusaka, ECZ Education Officer Maota Sikota emphasized the importance of relying on verified data, warning that deliberate distortion of facts could undermine the credibility of the electoral process.

“We must be careful with misinformation and disinformation. These are serious issues that must be dealt with, especially as we head into voter registration and eventually the elections,” Sikota stated.

His comments follow claims by some opposition figures, including the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), that certain regions such as Livingstone and Chama have recorded suspicious spikes in voter registration. Sikota dismissed the allegations, saying the figures are in line with monthly trends.

“For instance, Central Province recorded 3,858 registrants, Lusaka had 3,583, and Eastern Province stood at 2,008. These numbers are well within normal variation,” he said. “You can check our Facebook page or official reports. This is where the truth lies—not in political statements.”

Sikota explained that the Commission has implemented this exercise in all provinces, starting with provincial centers. In Southern Province, the process began in Choma Central, before expanding to ten more districts including Livingstone. The latest rollout has reached Monze.

He added that the Christian Churches Monitoring Group (CCMG) has been observing the process and published a report available on their website, summarizing their findings and providing transparency to the exercise.

“It is interesting that some suggest Southern Province was being given special treatment to catch up. That is not correct,” Sikota said.

“Currently, there is no bias toward any region. Each province had three districts selected, and that has been consistent.”

He also revealed that the upcoming national voter registration exercise will cover 12,152 polling stations across Zambia’s 156 constituencies. “This again shows no favoritism. It reflects the distribution of polling stations nationwide,” he emphasized.

Turning to the legal framework, Sikota clarified that the Electoral Process Act mandates the suspension of voter registration in any district holding a by-election. “Whether it seems logical or not, that is what the law says,” he said.

He further explained that under Section 20 of the Act, young people who will be 18 by election day are eligible to register, even if they are currently 17. “This is crucial. We must not misinform people that they need to be 18 at the time of registration,” Sikota said.

Sikota also warned that political violence could lead to campaign suspensions or candidate disqualifications, depending on verified reports from the Commission’s field structures. “The ECZ does not act based on social media clips. We rely on official information,” he said.

He however, urged citizens and stakeholders to actively participate in upcoming ECZ meetings and updates. “Let’s not say ‘we just had one meeting.’ These sessions provide updates, including roadmaps. If registration does not happen this year, it won’t be good. Let us prepare and remain engaged,” he concluded.

April 15, 2025
©️ KUMWESU

REPUBLIC OF ZAMBIA
MINISTRY OF ENERGY

15th April 2025

PRESS STATEMENT

MINISTRY OF ENERGY ANNOUNCES REVIEW OF GUIDELINES FOR THE TAZAMA OPEN ACCESS FRAMEWORK

The Ministry of Energy wishes to inform stakeholders in the energy sector and the general public that it has initiated a review of the guidelines governing the TAZAMA Pipeline Open Access Framework. This move aims to enhance the framework by incorporating operational insights gathered since its implementation on 1st April 2025, following the issuance of initial guidelines in December 2024.

The Open Access Framework was introduced to promote liberalisation and improve efficiency in Zambia’s petroleum transportation system by enabling third-party access to the TAZAMA Pipeline infrastructure. This framework represents a significant milestone in the Government’s ongoing efforts to modernize the energy sector and foster inclusive private sector participation.

Positive Developments Observed so far:
Since its operationalisation in April 2025, the framework has yielded promising results. Notably, the successful offloading and market sale of the first diesel consignment under the regime has demonstrated the viability of the Open Access model.

The initiative has also facilitated the increased participation of private players, leading to greater competition and improved utilization of the TAZAMA Pipeline.

The Government is pleased with the progress recorded so far and recognises the importance of refining the framework to address emerging realities. These include:

i. Feedback from industry stakeholders;
ii. The need to accommodate additional players in line with Government’s inclusive economic agenda;
iii. Ensuring a transparent Pre-Qualification Process for OMCs;

iv. Addressing pipeline capacity constraints and cargo volume management, particularly with the introduction of the Drag Resistant Agent (DRA) aimed at enhancing pipeline throughput.

The Ministry assures the public that this review is being undertaken with utmost transparency and accountability. Upon completion, the revised guidelines will be officially published to ensure all stakeholders are informed and aligned. The Ministry is also open to consultations and encourages input from all interested parties including OMCs.

The petroleum sub-sector remains a critical pillar of Zambia’s economy, supporting vital sectors such as mining, agriculture, manufacturing, and transport.

We need to constantly remind ourselves of the objectives of the Open Access Framework, and these are:

i. Promoting competition among Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) through fair access to infrastructure;

ii. Enhancing operational efficiency in the transportation and supply of petroleum products
iii. Ensuring transparency and fairness in pipeline use;
iv. Encouraging private sector investment, thereby supporting economic growth;

v. Strengthening national energy security through diversified supply options; and
vi. Contributing to affordable fuel prices for Zambians through enhanced market competition.

The Government remains committed to ensuring that the sector operates with maximum efficiency, stable fuel supply, and affordable prices for all Zambians.
Through this review, the Ministry seeks to strengthen the Open Access Framework to better serve the nation’s economic and energy security goals, while laying the foundation for a modern, competitive, and resilient energy sector.
We assure all players of a smooth and speedy process.

Issued by:

Peter Mumba (Mr)
Permanent Secretary – Technical

MINISTRY OF ENERGY