Hichilema meets with CSOs, pledges to prioritise dialogue, consensus-building on all govt issues

President Hakainde Hichilema has pledged to prioritise dialogue and consensus-building on all government issues, including constitutional amendments.

During a meeting at State House on Monday with representatives from various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), including the Law Association of Zambia and the Non-governmental Gender Organizations Coordinating Council (NGOCC), President Hichilema stated that the government had successfully resolved issues, which at one point seemed contentious, through dialogue.

“The UPND government is focused on delivering to the satisfaction of the public while abiding by the rule of law,” President Hichilema stated.

“We have resolved a number of issues, including in the mining sector, through dialogue. Several bills have been withdrawn from Parliament to allow for more input, and we will continue to do this to ensure all voices are heard.”

In her remarks, NGOCC Executive Director, Annie Anamela, speaking on behalf of the CSOs, raised concerns regarding the ongoing constitution-making process and the current versions of the Cyber Crimes and Cyber Security Bills.

Anamela proposed that the government establish a constitutionality assessment mechanism to ensure that all drafted bills align with the Constitution and protect citizens’ rights.

“Establishing a constitutionality assessment mechanism is crucial to ensure that draft bills align with Zambia’s constitutional provisions,” she said.

“This mechanism should be overseen by an independent expert panel to prevent inconsistencies or violations of fundamental rights before submission to Parliament.”

Anamela suggested that Zambia could draw inspiration from existing frameworks, such as the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), which promoted good governance and democracy.

She concluded that such a mechanism would foster a more inclusive, transparent, and accountable legislative process, reflecting the aspirations of the people.

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