The Centre for Environment Justice (CEJ) is hopeful that the motion for the Environmental Court will be tabled expeditiously during the current life of Parliament.
This week, Kanchibiya Member of Parliament Sunday Chanda moved a motion on the establishment of an Environmental Court, which has since been deferred to allow wider consultations with key stakeholders.
In a statement, Friday, CEJ Executive Director Maggie Mapalo Mwape stressed that this must happen before Parliament is dissolved ahead of the forthcoming general election.
She her organisation regards the establishment of the Environmental Court as a vital step towards strengthening environmental governance.
Mwape said legislators should recognise the urgency of this reform and act without delay.
She called upon development partners to support consultations with key stakeholders.
Mwape explained that such partnerships can help ensure the process is inclusive and well-informed.
She emphasised that CEJ is willing to work closely with government to guarantee that the court is properly established.
Mwape underlined that collaboration between civil society and state institutions is essential for success.
She highlighted that the Environmental Court will provide a specialised platform for environmental justice.
Mwape observed that communities affected by mining and other industrial activities deserve access to such a mechanism.
She reaffirmed that accountability and compliance with environmental laws must be prioritised.
Mwape stressed that CEJ remains committed to advocating for this reform until it becomes a reality.
