Government has approved the establishment of municipal courts and the appointment of municipal magistrates, and has also granted arresting powers to the municipalities.
This comes after the consideration and approval of the Municipal Police and Courts Bill 2026 by Cabinet.
This is in line with the Urban Councils Act [Chapter 29:15] and the Rural District Councils Act [Chapter 29:13], Local Authorities are empowered to formulate and enforce regulations of matters falling within their jurisdiction.
Addressing journalists during Tuesday’s post-cabinet media briefing, Information Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said the move targets promotion of good governance.
“In order to promote efficient service delivery and access to justice, local authorities require coordinated structures and strengthened municipal enforcement of by-laws to address issues of non-compliance.
“These include apprehension of offenders of by-laws, investigation and prosecution of such offenses.
“The Bill strengthens the legal framework for municipalities to establish and maintain dedicated and professional police services focused on community safety, by-law enforcement, traffic management, and local crime prevention,” he said.
Dr Zhemu further said the bill provides for the creation of courts.
“Additionally, the Bill provides for the creation of municipal courts; definition of the courts’ jurisdiction; including over municipal by-laws, minor offenses, and traffic violations; and the appointment of municipal magistrates, among other matters prescribed by the law.
“Accordingly, local governance structures will be enhanced in line with the constitutional Devolution principles and improved public safety and environmental management outcomes.”
