As MPs debate President Hakainde Hichilema’s address and deliver their maiden speeches, MakanDay explains when Parliament sits, how debates are conducted and what happens when time runs out.
By MakanDay Editor
Imagine your MP standing in parliament to raise concerns about a broken borehole, an unfinished road or a clinic without medicines.
You expect answers. But how much time does your MP have to speak, and what happens if parliament adjourns before the issue is fully debated?
These questions are particularly relevant as MPs debate President Hakainde Hichilema’s address to the 14th National Assembly, with some delivering their maiden speeches.
Last week, HOUSE BUSINESS explained parliamentary titles and procedures. This week, we examine maiden speeches and the National Assembly Standing Orders, which governs parliamentary sittings.
What is a maiden speech?
A maiden speech traditionally refers to an MP’s first formal speech in parliament. It offers an opportunity to introduce themselves, highlight constituency challenges and outline their priorities.
The term is sometimes also used for a returning MP’s first speech in a new parliamentary term.
For example, Shiwang’andu MP Steven Kampyongo used his maiden speech for this term to call for national reconciliation while promising that the opposition would firmly scrutinise government decisions.
Why it matters: A maiden speech offers voters an early indication of their MP’s priorities. But the real test is whether those promises translate into parliamentary questions, debates and action.
When does Parliament sit?
Under Standing Order 24, the National Assembly ordinarily sits from Tuesday to Friday. Proceedings begin at 14:30 on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and at 09:00 on Friday.
The house ordinarily does not sit on weekends or public holidays. Does this mean MPs work only four days a week? No. Their responsibilities also include committee work, preparing for debates and attending to constituency matters.
What happens when time runs out?
Parliament ordinarily adjourns at 19:00 on Tuesday and Thursday, 18:30 on Wednesday and 13:00 on Friday. Under Standing Orders 27 and 28, business is interrupted five minutes before adjournment, although a vote already underway must be completed.
Interrupted business can resume where it stopped when placed back on the order paper. An MP whose speech was interrupted retains the remaining speaking time.
However, if the member responsible does not appoint another day for the business, it lapses.
Why is Wednesday important?
Wednesday provides an opportunity for MPs to raise matters during debate on a motion to adjourn the house.
Under Standing Orders 29 and 30, an MP wishing to introduce a subject must submit notice to the Clerk before 11:00 on Tuesday.
The MP introducing the subject may speak for up to 10 minutes, while others have five minutes each. Debate ends by 19:00.
Can Parliament sit beyond normal hours?
Yes. Standing Order 34 allows ordinary adjournment rules to be suspended to complete business on the Order Paper.
However, the House cannot sit beyond 23:00 under this arrangement. Outstanding business continues the following day, even on a weekend or public holiday.
Why should citizens care?
For someone waiting for medicines at a clinic or repairs to a damaged road, parliamentary speeches matter only if they help bring attention and accountability to those problems.
As MPs make their opening contributions, citizens should listen for more than political promises. Is your MP raising the concerns of your constituency? Are ministers providing answers? And, most importantly, what happens after the speeches end?
Those are the questions HOUSE BUSINESS will continue asking.
