CSOs Slam Government’s Muddled Constitutional Reform Process
A storm is brewing as a consortium of seven Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) has lashed out at the government’s chaotic handling of the constitutional reform process, calling it a reckless display of disorganization and lack of transparency.
Consortium Chairperson Isaac Mwanza did not hold back, labeling the government’s conflicting statements about the existence of a draft constitution as a deliberate attempt to confuse the public and sideline key stakeholders.
“It is premature to oppose constitutional amendments when the government itself cannot provide a clear explanation of which articles are up for review,” Mwanza stated. “What we are witnessing is not just miscommunication it’s a dangerous game of smoke and mirrors designed to manipulate public opinion.”
Mwanza further accused the line ministry of abdicating its duty to lead an honest, transparent process, stating that their silence fuels speculation and undermines trust.
“The responsible ministry must come out of hiding and issue a comprehensive statement addressing all concerns,” he charged. “The people of Zambia deserve clarity, not riddles.”
In a scathing rebuke of the administration’s approach, Solomon Ngoma, Executive Director of the Acton Institute for Policy Analysis Center, warned that the absence of transparency could plunge the country into unnecessary political turmoil.
“Right now, there is no draft constitution in the public domain, so what exactly are we debating? How do you expect us to trust a process shrouded in secrecy?” Ngoma asked.
“The government is recklessly fanning the flames of division by keeping stakeholders in the dark.”
Ngoma stressed that until the draft is made public, the current debates are baseless. “We cannot recommend anything without seeing the actual document,” he added. “What we need is a serious, informed conversation not this circus of half-truths.”
Mwanza echoed the demand for a formal stakeholders’ meeting, warning that any further delay would erode what little faith the public has left in the process.
“If this government is truly committed to democracy, let them bring everyone to the table civil society, political parties, and the media and let’s debate from an informed position,” Mwanza said.
Meanwhile, Samuel Banda, Executive Director of Advocates for Democracy and Development, dismissed claims that CSOs are divided. “We are not the ones divided it is the government’s lack of leadership that has created this confusion,” Banda asserted. “Our stance is simple: transparency first, amendments later.”
March 15, 2025
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