SPEAKER of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti has urged Members of Parliament (MPs) to uphold integrity, respect and accountability in the execution of their constitutional responsibilities. Ms Mutti says disagreement is inherent in democracy, but hostility should not be allowed to undermine the dignity and effectiveness of Parliament. She says the strength of Parliament should […]

 SPEAKER of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti has urged Members of Parliament (MPs) to uphold integrity, respect and accountability in the execution of their constitutional responsibilities.

Ms Mutti says disagreement is inherent in democracy, but hostility should not be allowed to undermine the dignity and effectiveness of Parliament.

She says the strength of Parliament should not be measured by the absence of differences, but by the ability of Members to resolve disagreements through reasoned debate, lawful procedures and mutual respect.

The Speaker said this in Lusaka on Monday when she officiated at the four-day induction meeting for 280 Members of Parliament (MPs). 

The induction meeting has come at a time when the House is composed of elected, nominated and non- constituency based law makers arising from the Mixed Member Proportional Representation (MMPR) arrangement.

Meanwhile, Clerk of the National Assembly, Loveness Mayaka disclosed that Members of Parliament have a shared responsibility to contribute to the effective functioning and credibility of constitutional institutions.