Government’s Efforts to Amend Constitution are Noble - HH
President Hakainde Hichilema told ZNBC that the government's efforts to amend the constitution are noble and aimed at addressing inconsistencies in the current constitution, which was formally adopted in 1991.
The proposed amendments aim to create a fairer and more inclusive Zambia, delimiting constituencies to ensure fairer distribution of resources and representation for all citizens, and enhancing representation for women, youth, and persons with disabilities to amplify the voices of marginalised groups, ensuring our legislature represents our nation.
Crucially, the President has emphasised that the Government is willing to listen and engage with stakeholders on their concerns around Bill 7, the constitution amendment bill.
Regarding concerns about amending the constitution during an election year, the President emphasised that there is no specific time frame for constitutional amendments. Previous governments have also amended the constitution during an election year.
The President’s comments at the State House during a meeting with various Civil Society Organisations (CSOs).
Later in his remarks, the President added that it was saddening that, in some cases, stakeholders were already objecting to the Constitution amendment without knowing the contents of the bill.
President Hichilema has instructed the CSOs to share their concerns regarding the NGO Act and the Bill, further assuring them that the Government is committed to inclusive consultation.
CSO Delegation Lead Isabel Mukelabai thanked President Hichilema for convening a meeting with the CSOs to discuss their concerns regarding the Constitutional amendment clauses.
Ms Mukelabai said that President Hichilema has shown strong leadership in calling stakeholders to dialogue on such difficult matters as it has never happened before.
She also called on the Government to reexamine the concerns that CSOs have raised regarding the NGO bill, as they are crucial to enhancing development in the country.