Uphold democracy through transparent Constitutional reforms - Chanda
By Daily Star Reporter
7/24/2023 3:40:21 PM
United Prosperous and Peaceful Zambia (UPPZ) president Charles Chanda has called on the UPND government to provide a roadmap for constitutional reforms before of end of this year.
Chanda stated that the urgency for this action is necessary to ensure a clear and clean Constitution is in place, allowing for credible elections in the future.
The opposition leader said as it stands, the current constitution appears to lean towards the ruling government, compromising the fairness of the country’s democratic processes.
Chanda emphasized that constitutional reforms are critical to protect the rights and aspirations of all Zambians.
"Our nation deserves a constitution that reflects the will of the people, one that guarantees equal representation, and upholds the principles of transparency, accountability justice," he stated.
“In recent years, several countries undertaken constitutional reforms to strengthen their democratic systems. Examples such as South Africa's post-apartheid and Kenya's constitutional review in 2010 serve as beacons of hope for democratic progress on the African continent. These countries have set a precedent, showing that constitutional reforms can lead to the establishment of inclusive governance systems citizens.”
Chanda outlined that without a definitive roadmap for constitutional reforms, the focus shifts towards the 2026 general elections, potentially leaving little room for comprehensive and meaningful changes. "We cannot postpone the urgent task of constitutional reforms any longer,"
Chanda asserted, highlighting the need for swift and decisive action from the government.
He said the UPND government needs to engage all stakeholders, including civil society organizations, legal experts, and the opposition, in the constitutional reform process.
The opposition leader urged the government to embrace a participatory approach that input and ownership from all sectors of society.
"Our ultimate goal is to build a Zambia where democracy flourishes, institutions are accountable, and the people have voice in shaping their governance. Constitutional reforms are the foundation upon which this vision can be realized," he said.
He said his party remains committed to advocating for the interests and welfare of all Zambians through transparent and inclusive processes.
Chanda stated that the urgency for this action is necessary to ensure a clear and clean Constitution is in place, allowing for credible elections in the future.
The opposition leader said as it stands, the current constitution appears to lean towards the ruling government, compromising the fairness of the country’s democratic processes.
Chanda emphasized that constitutional reforms are critical to protect the rights and aspirations of all Zambians.
"Our nation deserves a constitution that reflects the will of the people, one that guarantees equal representation, and upholds the principles of transparency, accountability justice," he stated.
“In recent years, several countries undertaken constitutional reforms to strengthen their democratic systems. Examples such as South Africa's post-apartheid and Kenya's constitutional review in 2010 serve as beacons of hope for democratic progress on the African continent. These countries have set a precedent, showing that constitutional reforms can lead to the establishment of inclusive governance systems citizens.”
Chanda outlined that without a definitive roadmap for constitutional reforms, the focus shifts towards the 2026 general elections, potentially leaving little room for comprehensive and meaningful changes. "We cannot postpone the urgent task of constitutional reforms any longer,"
Chanda asserted, highlighting the need for swift and decisive action from the government.
He said the UPND government needs to engage all stakeholders, including civil society organizations, legal experts, and the opposition, in the constitutional reform process.
The opposition leader urged the government to embrace a participatory approach that input and ownership from all sectors of society.
"Our ultimate goal is to build a Zambia where democracy flourishes, institutions are accountable, and the people have voice in shaping their governance. Constitutional reforms are the foundation upon which this vision can be realized," he said.
He said his party remains committed to advocating for the interests and welfare of all Zambians through transparent and inclusive processes.