Proposed Constitutional Amendements Progressive -GEARS

By Sharon Siame

Governance Elections Advocacy Research Services -GEARS- Initiative Zambia has welcomed the proposed constitution amendments saying they are progressive.

GEARS Initiative Zambia Board Chairperson LACKSON LUNGU says the SADC Declaration stipulates that 30 percent minimum representation of women is needed in parliament and that Zambia is currently standing at 13 percent.

Mr. LUNGU has appealed to women to support the amendment process and also urged citizens to unite on the matter.

Speaking during a media briefing in Lusaka today, Mr. LUNGU said that the provision that stipulates how long Ministers will stay in office before the elections shows that the UPND Government has no political desire to give more advantage to Ministers.

And UPND member FRANK BWALYA said the proposals have demonstrated that President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA is selfless and has condemned the opposition for spreading falsehoods that the proposals are aimed at increasing the President’s term of office.

Meanwhile, UPND Media Team Member MQUEEN ZAZA said the proposal for delimitation is important as it speaks to the aspirations of Zambians and aims to empower people through the enhancement of the Constituency Development Fund.

Speaking at the same event, UPND Media Director MARK SIMUWE said the constitution amendment proposals are better than bill 10 which among others sought to amend articles that determine the number of judges who sit on the Constitutional Court.

Mr. SIMUWE said the proposal to amend articles 178 sub section 1- b and 179 sub section 4 b relating to the office of the Attorney General aims to retain officials until appointments for new office bearers are made is important as it will guarantee continuity in the administration of justice.