HRC supports govt’s proposal for another referendum

The Human Rights Commission (HRC) has backed government’s proposal to hold another national referendum on the proposed Bill of rights.

According to a statement issued by HRC Chief of Information and Training Mweelwa Muleya, the Commission noted that the pronouncement by Justice Minister Given Lubinda that government will widely consult with key stakeholders before tabling the Bill of Rights to voters is the right way to go.

Mr Muleya pointed out that the proposed Bill of rights is largely progressive, adding that areas of contention can easily be addressed so that there is consensus on its contents.

He said it is unjustifiable that Zambia should continue maintaining a Bill of Rights which is inherently discriminatory against women.

Mr Muleya charged that the current Bill of rights only protects civil and political rights at the expense of other rights and freedoms.

He added that the Commission supports the proposal to revisit the national referendum because if adopted and enacted, it will contribute to the enhanced and broadened legal protection of human rights and freedoms in Zambia.

And Mr Muleya said the Commission is ready to continue sensitizing the public on the importance of reforming the current Bill of Rights based on the experience and views from stakeholders that were engaged during countrywide sensitizations prior to the last elections.

He has since appealed to government to make the proposed Bill of rights readily available and accessible to the Zambian citizens.