The Citizens First Party has formally written to the Speaker of the National Assembly requesting that Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister, Mulambo Haimbe, be compelled to issue the government’s official position regarding reports that Zambia may be placed on a United States visa blacklist.
The party cited Article 88(2) of the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Act No. 2 of 2016, which allows individuals or groups to petition Parliament on matters within its legislative authority or of public interest.
In a letter dated June 17, 2025, Citizens First Party Chairperson for Foreign Affairs, Mary Zambezi, said the request was prompted by persistent media reports and growing public speculation that Zambia may be considered for inclusion on a U.S. visa restriction or blacklist.
Zambezi said the ongoing silence from government authorities had fuelled anxiety and uncertainty among citizens, businesses, and members of the diaspora.
“This is while no official confirmation has been issued by either the Government of the Republic of Zambia or the United States Government,” she noted.
She added that the petition was motivated by the potentially significant diplomatic, economic, and human implications of such developments, as well as the importance of safeguarding Zambia’s international reputation and citizens’ freedom of movement.
“We believe it is in the public interest that the Minister addresses the nation, through the National Assembly, with clarity on whether any formal communication or indication has been received from the U.S. government,” Zambezi stated.
She further stressed that Zambians deserved to know the facts surrounding the alleged inclusion and the steps government was taking to engage with U.S. authorities and protect Zambians from any unjustified restrictions.
“We trust that your office will treat this matter with the urgency and seriousness it deserves, and assist in restoring public confidence through institutional transparency,” Zambezi stated.
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