Mweetwa calls for dialogue on national matters

Government has called for dialogue on national matters as the country prepares for the 2026 general elections.

The media reports that speaking at a Press Briefing in Choma today, Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa said President Hakainde Hichilema is open to dialogue on issues of national interest, including the ongoing constitutional amendment, Bill Number 7 of 2025.

Mr Mweetwa called on Civil Society Organisations and the Church to engage government constructively on the bill rather than inciting citizens to hold street demonstrations, which could threaten national peace and unity.

“We urge the Civil Society Organisations and the Church to engage in dialogue on Bill Seven, rather than mobilising citizens for street protests which could breach national peace.”

Mr Mweetwa said the government has noted with concern remarks by some leaders purporting to incite citizens to reject Bill Seven.

“National conversations, especially on constitutional matters, must be conducted in a manner that promotes peace and unity. President Hichilema remains open to wide consultation, as shown by the deferment of Bill Seven to allow for extensive public input,” he said.

The minister emphasised that the government deeply appreciates the role of the Church not only in spiritual development but also supplementing government efforts towards improving the livelihoods of the people and the country’s governance.

“Government remains cognisant of the Church’s integral place in Zambia’s democratic and developmental processes,

We recognise the Church as an essential partner in uplifting livelihoods through its contributions to health, education, and various social services’’, he said.

Mr Mweetwa explained that the deferment of Bill Seven that it was deferred precisely to allow for broad consultations, which the government has undertaken in good faith.

” The Constitution is a national document that requires wide participation and minimum consensus across society,” he said.

The Chief Government Spokesperson also cited previous constitutional reforms, bill number 10 of 2020 which was differed and later undertaken in 2021 without calls for civil disobedience.

On the political front, Mr Mweetwa said political stability is also essential, and sympathized with the internal wrangles in the Patriotic Front (PF).

Mr Mweetwa said Government desires stability across the board and that the flames in the PF are saddening.