Group calls for expansion of fast-track GBV courts after sexual offences declared non-bailable

The Non-governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has called for the expansion of fast-track Gender-Based Violence (GBV) courts across the country following the enactment of a law that makes all sexual offences non-bailable.

The Women’s Movement has also welcomed the Criminal Procedure Code (Amendment) Act, No. 4 of 2026, which removes bail eligibility for offences such as defilement, rape and incest, describing it as a significant step in strengthening Zambia’s legal response to GBV.

In a statement issued in Lusaka on Tuesday, NGOCC Executive Director, Annie Mbewe-Anamela, said the establishment of more fast-track courts was critical to ensuring prompt justice for survivors and maintaining a responsive legal system.

She said rendering sexual offences non-bailable represented a decisive and progressive measure in addressing the growing prevalence of sexual and gender-based violence in the country.

“This amendment sends a strong and unequivocal message that sexual offences are grave crimes and human rights violations that warrant firm legal consequences,” Anamela said.

She explained that removing the option of bail reduced the likelihood of accused persons interfering with investigations, tampering with evidence, intimidating witnesses or contributing to the withdrawal of cases—factors that have historically undermined prosecutions.

Anamela added that the reform enhanced the prospects of successful prosecution while reinforcing public confidence in the criminal justice system.

She described the enactment of the law as a positive response to the voices of citizens and organisations committed to protecting women and girls.

“For a long time, women and girls in Zambia have endured gruesome and dehumanising acts of sexual violence, remaining the most vulnerable victims of these crimes. The persistence and scale of these violations underscore the reality that gender-based violence has reached crisis levels,” she said.

She emphasised that expanding fast-track GBV courts nationwide would be essential in ensuring the full impact of the new law was realised through timely and effective delivery of justice.

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