18 March 2016
MP files notice of motion to repeal AIPPA
The MP for Mabvuku Honourable James Maridadi has tabled a notice of motion to repeal the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (AIPPA) in line with Section 62 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
In tabling the notice Hon. Maridadi said the Executive was abrogating its duties by failing to gazette bills to replace one of the most restrictive media laws.
According to the Votes and Proceedings of the National Assembly , 11 March 2016 , the notice reads:
“Noting that when setting out the legislative agenda during the official opening of the 3rd session of the 7th Parliament on July 14, 2010, His Excellency, the President, stated that Media Practitioners Bill which would repeal part of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (AIPPA) which deals with the registration of journalists and privacy issues would be tabled in Parliament.
“Worried that six years on, the executive has not responded to the call. Further worried that AIPPA is in violation of some of the sections of the new constitution in particular section 61 (1) (a), (b) and (c).
“Concerned that failure to table the Bill is an abrogation of the constitutional responsibilities of the executive as outlined under section 110 (3) (c).
“Now therefore calls upon the Executive to urgently table the Bills to repeal the offending provisions of AIPPA…”
The notice of motion was seconded by Honourable Anele Ndebele. Both MPs are members of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Media, Information and Broadcasting Services.
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