By CHILA NAMAIKO –
SPEAKER of the National Assembly Patrick Matibini has warned Members of Parliament (MPs) against use of abusive language and threats of physical violence in the House.
Dr Matibini said he has observed with concern a disturbing trend by some members to resort to the use of unparliamentary language against each other.
The Speaker urged the members to maintain their temperament at all times and be moderate in their debates and conducts.
“Honourable members, I have observed a disturbing trend by some members to resort to use of abusive language and threats of violence. This kind of conduct not only offends the rules of the House, but also, unfortunately seriously undermines the decorum and dignity of the entire House,” he said.

MATIBINI

He said Patriotic Front (PF) Roan MP Chishimba Kambwili was, therefore, out of order for making a personal attack and using disrespectful and unparliamentary language against Copperbelt Minister Bowman Lusambo.
The Speaker said this in his ruling to a recent point of order raised by Dr Kambwili against Government Chief Whip Richard Musukwa.
Dr Kambwili, in his point of order asked whether Mr Musukwa was in order not to cite the Daily Nation newspaper for contempt of the House by misrepresenting facts on what transpired in the House on December 15, last year.
In this matter, Dr Kambwili on the said date referred Mr Lusambo as a ‘boy’ and that ‘he wanted to warn that boy’, which the Speaker said was a personal attack and of use offensive and unparliamentary language against the minister.
He said Dr Kambwili also created an impression that Mr Musukwa was the only member who could draw the attention of the House to the alleged breach, when he plays a major role in maintaining the dignity of the House.
Dr Matibini said Mr Musukwa was not out of order as the responsibility of safeguarding the privileges of the House lies with every member, and called on the media to always verify on matters of the House
before publishing or broadcasting any item, to avoid misleading the public.