Zambia Signs Historic Agreement to Transform SADC Parliamentary Forum into SADC Parliament
On 2 July 2024, Zambia made a significant move by becoming the 11th Southern African Development Community (SADC) member state to sign the agreement amending the SADC Treaty.
This amendment will transform the SADC Parliamentary Forum into the SADC Parliament. The landmark agreement was signed on behalf of President Hakainde Hichilema by Hon. Princess Kasune, Minister of Justice, during the 55th Plenary Session for SADC-PF in Luanda, Angola.
The transformation of the SADC Parliamentary Forum into a fully-fledged SADC Parliament was endorsed by the SADC Heads of State and Government Summit. The new SADC Parliament will be established as one of the institutions of SADC under Article 9(1) of the SADC Treaty.
The agreement needs the signatures of 12 SADC member states to come into force, and Zambia’s signing marks a critical step towards achieving this milestone.
Hon. Princess Kasune, speaking on the occasion, highlighted the importance of this development for regional integration and legislative cooperation within SADC.
“This agreement signifies a new chapter in enhancing democratic governance and collective decision-making within the SADC region,” she stated.
The details governing the operations of the SADC Parliament will be outlined in a forthcoming protocol, which will specify the structure, powers, and functions of the new legislative body.
