Kawana sets aside debate on anti-public gathering bill

Home affairs, immigration, safety and security minister Albert Kawana has asked for debate on the anti-public gatherings bill to be set aside till the next parliament.

He says this will give ample time to consult before discussing further on the bill which has been described as draconian by many.

“Particularly, an impression was given that this bill was meant to sort out opposition in Africa. We are miles ahead in terms of democracy.”

“I heard some of the views expressed by our colleagues and therefore, because of the limited time available to now consult, I feel that maybe this bill be put on abeyance until further notice when we come after elections,” Kawana said.

Responding to Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) member of Parliament Maximalliant Katjimune,
Kawana asked all political parties to meet with the Inspector General to deliberate on how to hold gatherings.

Katjimune told Parliament on Wednesday: “When there is public disdain about particular economic and social issues in the country and there is an upsurge in demonstrations because of those issues, the government must deal
with the substantive issues as they are and stop trying to be creative by introducing oppressive laws.”

He said government should concentrate on solving the root cause of problems including unemployment and inequality.