Ministers Dismayed by Lusaka Catholic Council’s Letter

By Masauso Mkwayaya

A group of Catholic Cabinet Ministers is dismayed by a letter written by the Archdiocese of Lusaka Presbyteral Council condemning the proposed constitution amendment.

Speaking on behalf of the group of Ministers at a press briefing in Lusaka, Defence Minister AMBORSE LUFUMA said the Church should be civilised in its criticism regarding the proposed constitution amendments.

He said Government is always available for constructive dialogue, adding that the views in the letter do NOT reflect the views of the Catholic faithful nor its values and principles anchored on nation building and reconciliation.

Mr. LUFUMA said Catholic teachings of Social Justice promote unity, nation building and not divisiveness as propagated by the Archdiocese of Lusaka Presbyteral Council.

He has challenged the Catholic Council to explain what exactly is not progressive about the proposal to increase the number of women and youth in the National Assembly.

Mr. LUFUMA also asked the Council to share why delimitation, which seeks to add more constituencies and increase resource allocation for development, is not a good provision.

The Archdiocese of Lusaka Presbyteral Council comprises a group of selected Lusaka Archdiocese Priests who advise Archbishop ALICK BANDA on matters of governance and faith among other issues.