Zambia tightens reigns on NGOs
2007-07-18 21:40
Lusaka - The Zambian government has presented a controversial bill to parliament aimed at tightening the operations of civil society groups amid accusations the legislation is aimed at stifling criticism.
The Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) bill was presented to parliament for enactment late on Tuesday by Justice Minister George Kunda who said the government wanted to enhance transparency and accountability among civil society groups.
"I am a bearer of the message from the president (Levy Mwanawasa) that this bill be enacted into law," Kunda told lawmakers.
"The bill seeks to enhance accountability and transparency in non-governmental organisations."
Civil society groups have opposed the bill saying it is draconian and targeted at NGOs seen by the government as being overly-inclined to enter into political debate.
"Government has sneaked in the bill in parliament without consulting the stakeholders. The motive behind this bill is very suspicious," said Rueben Lifuka, president of Transparency International Zambia.
Mwanawasa and his government have in the past accused civil society leaders of being politicians using their NGO status as a shield.
The bill also seeks to provide guidelines for the establishment, registration and co-ordination of NGOs, including international organisations, that have offices in Zambia.
If enacted, the legislation will enable the government to suspend civil society groups that fail to submit quarterly or annual returns or when they misapply funds they receive from donors.
Parliament will begin debating the bill on Friday.