By Jane Chanda
The Citizens First Party (CF) has written Speaker of the National Assembly, Nelly Mutti, requesting a ministerial statement on reports of Zambia’s potential blacklisting for United States (US) visas.
In a letter dated June 17, 2025, CF chairperson for international relations Mary Zambezi expressed concern over widespread speculation and silence from authorities, causing national anxiety and uncertainty among citizens, businesses, and diaspora communities.
She premised the letter on Article 88,2 of the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Act No. 2 of 2016, which allowed a person or group of persons to petition the National Assembly to discuss any matter within its legislative competence or of public concern.
Zambezi stated that her party wrote to formally request National Assembly to facilitate the issuance of a ministerial statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
She stated that the party wanted clarity on whether any formal communication had been received from the US government, the basis of Zambia’s alleged inclusion on such a list, and what steps the government was taking to engage with the US and protect Zambian citizens from undue hardship.
“Given the potential diplomatic, economic, and human implications, and the importance of maintaining Zambia’s integrity and global mobility standing, we believe it is in the public interest that the Honourable Minister addresses the nation, through the National Assembly, with clarity on: Whether any formal communication or indication has been received from the United States government; The basis, if any, of Zambia’s alleged inclusion on such a list; What steps the government is taking to engage with the U.S. and protect Zambian citizens from undue hardship,” Zambezi stated. “We trust that your office will treat this matter with the urgency and seriousness it deserves, and assist in restoring public confidence through institutional transparency.”
Zambezi stated that the letter had also been copied to the minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mulambo Haimbe, and the Cabinet Office in Lusaka, Zambia.
.
