Embrace AI in parliamentary processes: Mudenda

Source: Embrace AI in parliamentary processes: Mudenda –Newsday Zimbabwe

MEMBERS of Parliament should embrace artificial intelligence (AI) in parliamentary processes, while ensuring that it is used to supplement human capabilities rather than replace them, Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda has said.

Mudenda was speaking during the 2nd World Summit of the Committees of the Future 2023 in Uruguay this week.

The summit is running under theme — Bringing the future to the present, the democracy of the future artificial intelligence and Parliaments.

“As the use of Artificial Intelligence in parliamentary processes becomes increasingly prevalent, it is necessary to establish ethical and operational guidelines that ensure accountability, transparency and human autonomy, while promoting sustainable development goals and protecting privacy, security and diversity,” he said.

“While AI has made significant advancements in recent years, it has raised questions about its potential to replace human beings parliamentarians.”

Mudenda said AI could analyse complex legislative issues, while identifying patterns and making predictions based on historical data.

“This speed allows for faster decision-making in expediting parliamentary processes. However, human being parliamentarians bring experience, knowledge and the ability to consider ethical and moral aspects that AI may struggle with.

“They also provide a diverse range of perspectives and values, fostering debate and ensuring multiple viewpoints are considered.

“Regarding these Parliamentary processes, the complex relationship between AI and human autonomy needs to be taken into account.”

Mudenda said human autonomy was being threatened by technology.

He said human being parliamentarians possess empathy, emotional intelligence, and the ability to connect with constituencies on a personal level.

These qualities enabled them to understand the needs and concerns of the people they represent, making them more relatable and responsive, Mudenda said.

He said despite being efficient, AI lacked the ability to empathise or understand complex human emotions, limiting its capacity to fully represent the interest of diverse population.

Mudenda said it was also imperative to promote human autonomy and decision-making, including ensuring that parliamentary AI is used to complement human capabilities rather than replace them.

“However, artificial intelligence has the potential to revolutionise parliamentary processes by improving efficiency and objectivity.

“Striking a balance between AI and human parliamentarians is essential to preserve accountability, democratic values and achieve effective and inclusive governance,” he said.