Former parliamentarians call for calm over “lacuna” debate
THE Former Parliamentarians Association of Zambia (FPAZ) has called for a calm and reasoned approach to the ongoing national debate surrounding President Hakainde Hichilema’s remarks about a potential “lacuna” in the Constitution.
During his address to Parliament last Friday, President Hichilema said there is a lacuna in the Constitution that would make elections be held after eight or nine years.
In a statement, signed by the association president Yizukanji Siwanzi, and Ponde Mecha, the general secretary, stated that it is critical to ensure that constitutional debates, especially those involving the presidency and governance do not lead to unnecessary divisions or instability.
The former legislators, advocated for a bi-partisan, inclusive and transparent constitutional review process calling on all political players and other stakeholders to take part in the review.
“We remind the nation that Zambia’s strength lies in our ability to engage in dialogue and maintain unity, even when discussing sensitive issues. The association acknowledges that there may be areas in the Constitution that require clarification or amendment.”
“However, any such review must be conducted through a comprehensive and inclusive process. We call on the government to initiate a transparent, bipartisan constitutional review that involves input from legal experts, civil society organisations, political parties, and citizens. This process will ensure that any
amendments reflect the collective will of the people and safeguard Zambia’s democratic
future,” read the statement.
The association warned against any reforms that could weaken presidential limits, which are seen as essential in preventing the consolidation of power.
FPAZ also called for increased civic education to ensure citizens are well informed about the Constitution and its implications.
“Zambian people must be fully aware of their rights and responsibilities in any
constitutional reform process,” said the association.
The former law makers urged Zambians to consider the consequences of constitutional ambiguities in other countries, some of which have resulted in term extensions or weakened democratic institutions.
“We encourage both the ruling party and the opposition to engage in constructive
discussions within Parliament and beyond, ensuring that this issue is addressed with the
dignity and seriousness it deserves. The association stands ready to facilitate and
support any efforts aimed at reaching a national consensus on this matter,” read the statement.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, September 17, 2024
Zambia has over 20 million people. This means that leadership is not vested in 1 pr 2 people alone but the country at large. Ar a given time there’s someone who can manage the office.
Mutale as usual due to your chronic PF election defeat infection you have failed to grasp what the Author and report said and reported. If you know that Zambia has more 19million citizens why are you championing the PF Edgar Lungu’s Alebwelelapo Agenda malume? Mwalitumpa sana malume imwe!
We miss the mature debates from you former Parliamentarians!
The caliber of MPs today is is that of Kaponyas and Ngwangwazis, scared to debate in a mature and dispassionate way. They would rather raise their tempers and walk out!
Why should anyone live in fear of Lacunae?
Why not engage in Bipartisan debate to attend to concerns being raised?