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President Hakainde Hichilema has declined to assent to the Public Gatherings Bill and has instead referred it back to Parliament for reconsideration, citing concerns that certain provisions in the proposed law were not fully aligned with established judicial precedents and constitutional guarantees.
Hichilema exercised his constitutional authority under Article 66(1)(b) of the Constitution by returning the Bill to Parliament on May 29, 2026, together with reservations outlining the reasons for withholding assent.
In a statement issued in Lusaka on Wednesday by State House Chief Communications Specialist, Clayson Hamasaka said the move underscored the President’s commitment to ensuring that legal reforms not only modernized governance but also safeguarded the democratic rights and freedoms of citizens.
“While acknowledging the positive intentions and progressive elements contained in the Bill, President Hichilema emphasized that any legislation governing public gatherings must be fully consistent with the Constitution, particularly the fundamental rights and freedoms enshrined under Part III,” he said.
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Hamasaka noted that the Head of State remained supportive of reforms aimed at strengthening democratic participation and improving the legal framework surrounding public assemblies.
He however, stressed that such reforms should withstand constitutional scrutiny and reflect the principles established through judicial interpretation over the years.
“The President further expressed confidence that Members of Parliament will carefully review the concerns raised and make the necessary adjustments to ensure that the final legislation serves the interests of all Zambians,” Hamasaka said.
President Hichilema reiterated that laws affecting public freedoms should promote inclusivity, accountability, and respect for constitutional rights.
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