By Aubry Kalumpha and Andrew Chiyabwe
There is renewed advocacy for the reinstatement of Section 64 of the constitution to tackle the issue of absenteeism among lawmakers in Parliament.
This provision allows the Speaker of Parliament to declare the seats of legislators vacant if they fail to attend parliamentary sessions for 30 consecutive days without permission. Before its being repealed on 17 May in 1995, this provision served as a crucial mechanism for ensuring that lawmakers remain accountable to their constituents, providing a check against dereliction of duty.
The push for reinstating this section stems from increasing concerns that some legislators, with a large number being from the opposition DPP, are prioritizing political rallies over their parliamentary duties, thereby neglecting their responsibilities to their constituents.
Commentators have characterized the trend as disturbing. This issue is not merely a matter of attendance; it reflects a deeper problem of accountability and representation that has far-reaching implications for our democracy.
They have remarked that calls for the reinstatement of Section 64 of the constitution echo the growing frustration of citizens who feel their representatives have abandoned their responsibilities in favor of political rallies and personal agendas.
Indeed, as a renowned political commentator Edward Njolomole argues, the absence of parliamentary representatives is not just a procedural issue—it directly impacts the interests and needs of constituents. When legislators neglect their duties, vital discussions and decisions that affect the lives of ordinary people go unaddressed. Policies that should be shaped by robust debate and collaboration suffer as a result, leaving gaps in representation at a time when citizens demand more from their leaders.
Victor Chipofya, another political commentator, aptly noted that the current standing orders have failed to instill a sense of responsibility among lawmakers. The lack of adherence to these rules only exacerbates the problem, signaling a disconnect between elected officials and the people they serve. This is a concerning trend, especially in a democracy that relies on the active participation of its representatives in legislative processes.
The reinstatement of Section 64 would not only reinvigorate the principles of accountability in our political system but also empower constituents to take back control over their representation. If lawmakers are unwilling to fulfill their obligations, the constituents deserve the right to demand better. This proactive approach would encourage MPs to prioritize their roles in Parliament, ensuring that their focus remains firmly on the needs of their constituencies rather than on personal political ambitions.
