We need a new expanded Chamber -- Speaker Mutti

...says the current structure, which has been in use since 1967, can no longer accommodate 280 MPs, proposes that government should consider building a new House of laws

By NATION REPORTER

October 29, 2026

THE National Assembly needs a new chamber to accommodate the increased number of Members of Parliament, Speaker Nelly Mutti has said.

Ms Mutti said the current chamber, which has been in use since 1967, was no longer adequate following the increase in the number of MPs from 167 to 280.

"I think the solution to proper sitting arrangement is by building a new chamber. This chamber has been in existence since 1967," Ms Mutti said.

She was responding to an urgent matter without notice raised by Shiwang'andu MP Stephen Kampyongo, who questioned why some senior opposition MPs had been displaced from their rightful seats.

"Madam Speaker, we, in the opposition have been displaced from where we are supposed to sit as a team about to form government. Jack Mwiimbu sat on the right spot for 10 years before UPND formed government. So, why are we being misplaced from our rightful seats?" Mr Kampyongo asked.

Ms Mutti said the increase in parliamentary membership had created a challenge that could only be adequately addressed through construction of a new chamber.

"There is an increase in the number of MPs and so, we will put to use whatever space is available," she said.

The number of MPs increased to 280 following the introduction of proportionate representation, making the existing parliamentary chamber, designed for a much smaller House, increasingly constrained.

Meanwhile, Government has allocated K13 million to the ministry responsible for water to address the cholera outbreak.

Since July 28, 2026, a total of 1, 622 cholera cases have been recorded, resulting in 30 deaths.

Of the deaths, 16 occurred in communities, while 14 were recorded in health facilities.

Ends.