Economic Adviser at the Office of the Vice President, Professor Sharif Mahmud Khalid, has emphasised the importance of broad consultation and bipartisan input in the passage of the Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill, 2025.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile, he emphasised that the sensitive nature of cybersecurity demands cooperation beyond political lines. “With such legislations, I will always call for bipartisan legislations,” he stated, stressing that industry expertise must guide the process.
According to him, the country’s cybersecurity ecosystem should not be sidelined.
“I think that the cybersecurity network in the country, in terms of professionals, civil society organisations, and others whose work directly relates to this, ought to be consulted to see the way forward,” he added, arguing that stakeholder engagement will ensure a realistic and effective law.
Professor Khalid also highlighted the inherent complexity in drafting laws, cautioning against rushed or poorly crafted amendments.
“Sometimes legislation is a very difficult process, and the most difficult stage of legislation is drafting thus the use of language,” he noted.
He further explained that legislation can deviate from its intended purpose if not carefully constructed.
“Sometimes the intent is not as it reflects on paper, which is why you need to get fellow astute drafters to help in the process,” he said, calling for collaboration between policymakers and drafting experts.
