President Hichilema Defers Bill 7 to Allow Broader National Consultation
LUSAKA, 26 June 2025 — President Hakainde Hichilema has directed the Minister of Justice, Hon. Princess Kasune, to pause the ongoing legislative process on Bill No. 7 of 2025, in a move aimed at fostering wider national consensus and dialogue. The decision follows extensive consultations held at State House earlier this week with religious leaders, civil society organisations, and other key national stakeholders.
According to a press release issued by State House Chief Communications Specialist Clayson Hamasaka, President Hichilema’s intervention is intended to allow more public engagement and feedback from a broad spectrum of Zambian voices. The President emphasized the importance of participatory governance and inclusive reform as the foundation for a strengthened democratic process. More Below
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
STATE HOUSE
PRESS & PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICE
P.O. Box 30135, Lusaka, Zambia | T: +260 211 265018 | E: info@sh.gov.zm
PRESS RELEASE
Date: 26ᵗʰ June, 2025, Lusaka.
PRESIDENT HICHILEMA GUIDES JUSTICE MINISTER TO DEFER BILL NO. 7 OF 2025 FOR BROADER NATIONAL CONSULTATION
President Hakainde Hichilema has guided the Minister of Justice, Hon. Princess Kasune MP in consultation with Parliament, to defer the ongoing process on Bill No. 7 of 2025 to allow for more consultations with the Zambian people. This decision underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a participatory and consensus driven process in shaping transformative legislative reforms.
The guidance by the President follows further consultations with the Church, Church Mother Bodies, over thirty (30) civil society organizations, held at State House on Tuesday the 24th of June 2025, where diverse perspectives were shared. To ensure additional stakeholder input, the President has guided the Minister of Justice to work closely with the church, civil society, and other stakeholders to review the current roadmap and proposed amendments. This is premised on the President’s duty to listen to the citizens.
Additionally, President Hichilema reaffirms the government’s commitment to reviewing the NGO Act and the NGO Bill to safeguard the independence and operations of non-governmental organizations. He underscores the critical role of a vibrant and autonomous civil society in strengthening Zambia’s democracy.
The government remains steadfast in its pursuit of reforms that reflect the aspirations of all Zambians. By prioritising dialogue and inclusivity, the government hopes the national conversation can now focus on the substance of the proposed amendments, ensuring meaningful change for the nation.
Issued by:
Clayson Hamasaka
CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST
STATE HOUSE