Former student leaders nominated to the National […]

Former student leaders nominated to the National Assembly under the proportional representation (PR) system have dismissed claims that they have not completed their degrees, saying they have finished their studies and are now focused on their parliamentary responsibilities.

Former University of Zambia Students’ Union (UNZASU) vice-president Jemimah Mwaba said she completed her studies this year, while former Copperbelt University Students’ Union (COBUSU) president Lloyd Nsonga said he completed his tertiary studies last month.

Speaking in separate exclusive interviews with Zambian Business Times -ZBT, the two said they were no longer balancing academic studies with parliamentary duties.

“No, it’s not. I’m done with school,” Mwaba said when asked whether her parliamentary role was affecting her education.

She said she had so far encountered no challenges in adjusting to her new responsibilities.

“There are no challenges that I have encountered. Everything is just moving perfectly. I’m learning in my new role because this is a job on training,” she said.

Nsonga also confirmed that he had completed his tertiary education, saying“I just completed my tertiary studies last month.”

He said MPs serving under the PR system enjoy the same parliamentary privileges as elected MPs, including the opportunity to ask questions and follow up on national issues, subject to parliamentary rules.

Nsonga added that due to the increase in the number of Parliamentary representatives the Parliament motel that usually houses members of Parliament is under rehabilitation to accommodate the increased number.

By Karen Ngulube