Kapyanga Calls Parliamentary Suspension "Unfair and Unexpected"

Mpika Patriotic Front (PF) Member of Parliament Francis Kapyanga has criticized his suspension from Parliament as unfair and disproportionate following controversial remarks about National Assembly Speaker Nelly Mutti.

Kapyanga was suspended after suggesting the Speaker should contest as an MP if she wanted to participate in parliamentary debates. The punishment has drawn criticism from fellow PF MP Stephen Kampyongo, who called it excessive.

Defending His Record

Speaking Thursday, Kapyanga defended his parliamentary conduct, stating he had never previously misconducted himself in the House. "If there are members who can boast of maximum wisdom in how they conduct themselves, I'm one of them," he said, adding that his comments came out of provocation.

The suspended MP expressed concern that his absence would deny Mpika constituents proper representation during debates on the presidential speech, particularly on critical issues like ongoing electricity shortages affecting citizens nationwide.

Background to Dispute

The controversy stemmed from disagreements over recognizing Miles Bwalya Sampa as opposition leader. When PF members raised this matter in Parliament, tensions escalated after the Speaker made remarks about confusion within their party, leading to opposition members walking out.

Following media comments by Kapyanga, Speaker Mutti summoned him for private discussions where he apologized both personally and to the House. Despite believing the matter was resolved, Kapyanga later received a formal complaint leading to his appearance before the Committee for Powers and Privileges.

Calls for Leniency

Kampyongo argued the Speaker should have followed the committee's recommendation for a simple apology rather than imposing suspension. "The committee recommended that the member just make an apology to the whole House. Unfortunately, the Speaker decided to elevate the punishment," he observed.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions between ruling UPND and PF opposition members, raising questions about parliamentary procedure and democratic representation. Kapyanga's suspension runs until September 30th.