There is need for a new Human Rights Commission Act to enhance the mandate and powers of the commission because in its current form, it makes it difficult for it to effectively discharge its constitutional mandate, says Chairperson Mudford Mwandenga.
Mr Mwandenga said the Human Rights Commission Act, chapter 48 of the Laws of Zambia should be repealed and replaced.
He said during the commemoration of the Human Rights Day that the Act in its current form makes it difficult for it to effectively discharge its constitutional mandate, particularly that of securing redress for victims of human rights violations.
Mr Mwandenga said it was the expectation of the commission and other stakeholders including rights-holders that the Act should be repealed and replaced to allow it to execute its constitutional mandate effectively and enhance the promotion of human rights.
“The commission is looking to a new Human Rights Commission Act that will allow it to execute its constitutional mandate effectively and serve the rights holders better than is the case now,” he said.
He said all stakeholders agreed that there was need for a new Act to enhance the mandate and powers of the commission that was consistent with the provisions of the Constitution of Zambia.
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