First Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Malungo Chisangano has reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment in the promotion of freedom of expression and opinion in the country.

Ms Chisangano notes that the National Assembly recognises that freedom of expression and opinion, is the cornerstone and key in the promotion of democracy in the country.

Speaking when the UN special Rapporteur, Irene Khan paid a courtesy call on her, Ms Chisangano said it is for this reason that the National Assembly will continue to urge the executive, to either amend or repeal the old pieces of legislation to guarantee necessary freedom among citizens.

The first deputy speaker noted that to this end, parliament enacted some other pieces of legislation that include the Independent Broadcasting Authority act number 17 of 2002, defamation act chapter 68 of the laws of Zambia among others.

She explained that it is through parliament that the necessary legal framework for the protection of rights of opinion or expression is promoted.

Ms Chisangano observed that through the legislative functions of the National Assembly the constitution was enacted to guarantee certain freedoms under the bill of rights.

She added that Parliament performs its oversight function mainly through committees, and that the committee on media and information technology and on legal affairs, human rights and governance, are two such committees that provide matters related to media, freedom of expression and human rights.

“Over the years, Parliamentary committees have interrogated a number of issues that hinge on media freedom and freedom of expression and public participation in Parliamentary activities,” she said.

She further said that the National Assembly has opened its sittings to the media and accreditation both public and private media houses which cover plenary sittings of the house, and other events that are held at the National Assembly.

And UN Special Rapporteur, Irene Khan said she is in the country to assess the state of freedom of expression and opinion in the country and to consult with a wide range of stakeholders such as Parliament.

She explained that she will on Friday this week, meet the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation to provide her findings on the state of human rights in the country.

She reiterated the importance of various stakeholders to promote and strengthen freedom of expression and opinion, as it is a vital component and one of the most important rights of all human rights.

Ms Khan stressed that freedom of expression and opinion is critical in the promotion of democracy and that it is important for elections, peace and economic development of a nation.