The opposition United Kwacha Alliance (UKA) has raised alarm over what it perceives as continued constitutional breaches by National Assembly Speaker, Nelly Mutti, warning of potential chaos if her actions are not halted.
According to UKA Chairperson of Communications, Jackson Silavwe, Ms. Mutti’s disregard for constitutional integrity within the Zambia National Assembly threatens the very essence of legislative justice and discourse. The recent endorsement of Patriotic Front (PF) Faction leader Miles Sampa as Zambia’s sole candidate for the Presidency of the Pan African Parliament (PAP) has sparked controversy due to legal uncertainties surrounding his parliamentary status.
Mr. Sampa, Matero Constituency Member of Parliament, faced suspension and subsequent expulsion from the Patriotic Front (PF) for alleged offenses, both within the party and under court scrutiny. Renowned Constitutional Lawyer John Sangwa, State Counsel has highlighted the impropriety of Mutti’s actions, emphasising that matters concerning Mr. Sampa’s eligibility should be left to the courts.
Despite an urgent injunction filed by the PF, challenging Ms. Mutti’s recognition of Sampa as party president, the matter remains unresolved in court. UKA has since expressed dismay at the Speaker’s decision to endorse Mr. Sampa for the PAP Presidency, viewing it as a further breach of the constitution and a disregard for court processes.
Mr. Silavwe has further questioned Ms. Mutti’s motives, suggesting potential compromise or undue influence in her support for Mr. Sampa. The UKA condemns her actions as reckless and detrimental to Zambia’s international reputation and they have called for accountability and consideration of alternative candidates for the PAP Presidency.
