LUSAKA – Water Development and Sanitation Minister Collins Nzovu has called on members of parliament from the Patriotic Front (PF) who vowed to resign if Constitution Amendment Bill 7 passed to honor that pledge immediately. This follows the bill’s successful passage through both its Second and Third Readings in Parliament yesterday, where it secured the required two-thirds majority on both occasions. “To those who promised to resign when Bill 7 passed the second reading stage, we encourage you to honour your pledge and quickly resign, demonstrating integrity and accountability to the people,” Nzovu stated.
The minister, who is also Nangoma MP, delivered his remarks in a statement issued shortly after the parliamentary vote. He encouraged what he termed “heartbroken MPs” to heal and move forward by working with the government to represent their constituents effectively. The final vote at the Third Reading stage saw all 135 MPs present voting in favour of the bill.
Earlier, during the Second Reading, the bill received 131 votes in support, two against, and no abstentions. The legislation now awaits the President’s assent to become law. Nzovu described the process as a demonstration of democracy, stating that yesterday’s vote “showcased the will of the majority,” noting that some opposition members had also voted in favor.
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“We, as MPs, are mandated to make laws, serving the people’s interests. He accused opponents of the bill of attempting to scare the public with “obnoxious clauses that aren’t even in the Bill,” asserting that “the people saw through it, and they have spoken overwhelmingly.” While acknowledging that the views of critical groups like the Oasis Forum are still respected, Nzovu said the parliamentary vote demonstrated the people’s will. He urged those who opposed the bill to accept the outcome and focus on national service. The minister concluded by thanking opposition MPs who supported the bill for “rising above politics.”
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