The Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia, Rt. Hon. Nelly B.K. Mutti, SC, FAPRA, MP, has reaffirmed the central role of Parliament in shaping Zambia’s constitutional future, stating that successful constitutional reforms hinge on informed and engaged lawmakers.

Speaking during the official opening of an awareness-raising and capacity-building workshop for Members of Parliament on the 2025 Constitutional Reform Process on Monday 16th June, 2025 at Parliament Buildings, Speaker Mutti described Parliament as the architect of the nation’s laws and a guardian of constitutional order. “For decades since our independence, this institution has been the architect of our country’s laws,” she said.
She further urged Members of Parliament to align their oversight and legislative functions with the values outlined in Article 8 of the Constitution, which include democracy, good governance, and sustainable development.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Justice, Honourable Princess Kasune, MP echoed Speaker Mutti's sentiments, stating that the Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 of 2025 was the result of broad national consultations and now required informed, constructive parliamentary debate. “This gathering is designed to equip you, my fellow Members, with the knowledge on the contents of the Bill,” she said..

And First Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Hon Malungo A Chisangano, MP,urged all Members of Parliament to reflect not only the knowledge gained, but alsothe community trust built,as well as the collective determination to apply these learnings in the service of our constituencies.

Mrs. Cecilia Sikatele Mambwe, Deputy Clerk – Corporate Affairs of the National Assembly, also highlighted the importance of Parliament’s institutional readiness. “Parliament is at the heart of any constitutional amendment process,” she stated, adding that the credibility and legitimacy of reforms begin with robust engagement within the House.

The workshop, coordinated through the Institute for Parliamentary Studies and Training, brought together Members of Parliament, the Ministry of Justice, the Electoral Commission of Zambia, and international partners. Discussions centred on ensuring Parliament is fully equipped to engage with the legislative process once the Bill is presented before the House.