No Bail for Sexual Offences



NGOCC rejoyces saying the new law will strengthen GBV response and protect victims

By Francis Maingaila ♥️

Lusaka, Zambia24  -- (14-4-2026) -- The Non-governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) says the enactment of the Criminal Procedure Code (Amendment) Act, No. 4 of 2026, which makes sexual offences non-bailable, marks a major step in strengthening the fight against gender-based violence (GBV).

Anne Mbewe-Anamela, Executive Director of Non-governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council, told Zambia24 that removing bail reduces the risk of suspects interfering with investigations, tampering with evidence, or intimidating witnesses

Mbewe-Anamela said the law sends a clear message that sexual offences are serious crimes that require firm action. She said it will help improve prosecutions and restore public confidence in the justice system.

She said the reform follows sustained advocacy by civil society, including NGOCC, which had pushed for sexual offences to be made non-bailable.

Mbewe-Anamela said women and girls remain the most affected by sexual violence, describing the situation as a crisis that needs urgent action. She said the law is an important step in ending impunity.

She added that more reforms are needed, including expanding fast-track GBV courts to ensure timely justice for survivors.

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