Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
Government has commenced phase one of the constitution refinement process by engaging Members of Parliament.
The two day workshop for Members of Parliament on international standards and best practices which will guide the review of the Public Order Act has been organized by the Ministry of Justice.
Officiating at the opening of the workshop, Speaker of the National Assembly Patrick Matibini expressed optimism the workshop provides a useful platform for lawmakers to effectively analyse the Public Order Act.
Dr. Matibini has urged MPs to take the workshop very seriously and participate actively in order to contribute fully and meaningfully to the eventual reform of the Act.
He notes that since its enactment, the Act has been subjected to some sparing amendments which have left the legislation a subject of controversy and court challenges.
Dr. Matibini states that the reform of the Public Order Act, will therefore not only guarantee the maintenance of public order, but also the enjoyment of people’s rights.
Speaking earlier, Minister of Justice Given Lubinda said the outcome of the workshop will feed into the National Dialogue on the Constitution, the Public Order Act, Electoral Act and Political Parties’ Bill.
Mr. Lubinda says the contribution of Members of Parliament in the discussion of the workshop will thus inform the drafting of the Public Order Bill 2019.
He has since thanked the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) for cooperating with his Ministry in organizing the two day workshop.