Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti has been re-elected unopposed to preside over the 14th National Assembly as she pledged impartiality, discipline and accountability in the discharge of her duties as Parliament resumes a new five-year term.
Dr Mutti’s return, alongside the unopposed election of First Deputy Speaker Malungo Chisangano, gives the House continuity in its top leadership as it prepares to consider legislation under the Grow Zambia Agenda.
Mufumbwe Independent Member of Parliament (MP) Nshamba Muzungu was elected Second Deputy Speaker after polling 166 votes against 58 secured by fellow Independent MP Vincent Mwale of Chipangali West.
Mr Muzungu succeeds Luangeni MP Moses Moyo.
Clerk of the National Assembly Loveness Mayaka said that only Ms Mutti and Ms Chisangano submitted nominations for Speaker and First Deputy Speaker, respectively, by the close of nominations on Wednesday.
Ms Mayaka said that two nominations were received for Second Deputy Speaker from Mr Muzungu and Mr Mwale, prompting a vote by members of the House.
In her acceptance speech, Ms Mutti said that she was humbled by the confidence placed in her by the House and thanked President Hakainde Hichilema for nominating her for a second successive term.
“To the people of Zambia, who are the true owners of this House, I pledge my loyalty to the Constitution,” Ms Mutti said.
“Five years ago, you made history by electing the first female Speaker in the more than 100 years’ history of our legislature. Today, you have chosen continuity, experience and stability.”
Dr Mutti said that the 14th National Assembly was the country’s most representative Parliament, comprising 226 members elected under the first-past-the-post system, 40 elected through proportional representation and 11 nominated members.
She pledged equal treatment for all MPs, regardless of political affiliation, region or mode of entry into Parliament.
“Whether you sit on the right or left, whether you are UPND, NRPUP, RP, CF, ZMP, Independent, Nominated or a proportional representation member, you will be given a fair hearing,” she said.
“The Speaker has no party, no region and no tribe. The Standing Orders are my …
