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Speaker of the National Assembly Dr. Patrick Matibini (Picture by Albert Mpezeni)
Speaker of the National Assembly Patrick Matibini has suspended Lusaka province Minister Bowman Lusambo from Parliament for 30 days for assaulting Roan Member of Parliament Chishimba Kambwili.
This relates to an incident which happened on 3rd October,2017 at Parliament where Mr Lusambo slapped the Roan MP while Lands Minister Jean Kapata poured a bottle of water on him infuriated by the corruption allegations Mr Kambwili had been making against government officials.
Dr Matibini suspended Mr Lusambo following the recommendation of the committee on privileges,absences and support services which established that he indeed slapped Mr Kambwili on the precincts of Parliament
Rendering the ruling, Dr Matibini told Mr Lusambo that his conduct of assaulting a fellow member within the precincts of Parliament is unbefitting the conduct expected of a member of parliament a minister for that matter.
He said he will not tolerate indiscipline of misconduct from Mr Lusambo or any other member and requested him to reflect on his conduct more so as a minister.
Dr Matibini further informed Mr Lusambo before he took the walk of shame through the main entrance to the chamber that in accordance with section 28(3) of the national assembly powers and privileges act, he will during the period of his suspension not be entitled to a salary or allowance and will not be allowed near the precincts of parliament including national assembly motel.
Meanwhile Parliament voted against the suspension of Lands Minister Jean Kapata for pouring water and hurling insults on Mr Kambwili within parliament precincts.
The Speaker had decided to suspend Ms Kapata for seven days but members of parliament to not unanimously agree with the Speaker’s decision forcing to call a vote.
After the vote, 66 members of parliament voted against the suspension of Ms Kapata while 35 voted in support with four abstentions.