EFZ DEMANDS IMMEDIATE END TO PRESIDENTIAL TERM LIMIT DISCUSSIONS
By Leah Ngoma
The Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia-EFZ- has demanded an immediate end to discussions surrounding the proposed removal of presidential term limits, warning that any attempt to alter constitutional provisions to accommodate individual political ambitions threatens the country’s democratic foundations.
EFZ Executive Director Reverend Allan Kasungami says the debate is unnecessary and risks plunging the country into political instability at a time when Zambia needs to focus on national healing following a divisive election.
In a statement, Reverend Kasungami says the constitution is the cornerstone of Zambia’s democracy and should not be altered for political expediency, adding that the country should instead prioritise economic recovery, national unity and improved service delivery.
He says the continued debate over presidential tenure limits is also diverting attention from pressing challenges facing citizens, including the high cost of living, economic hardships and increasing vulnerabilities.
Reverend Kasungami says EFZ’s position is informed by the 2001 Oasis Declaration, in which the church and civil society united to oppose a third-term bid and safeguard the two-term presidential limit.
He has since urged political players, civil society organisations and the church to reject any attempts to undermine the constitution.
Reverend Kasungami says all discussions regarding the removal of presidential term limits should cease immediately to allow the country to redirect its attention towards addressing the economic challenges facing citizens and promoting national unity.
PHOENIX NEWS