Governance and Human Rights Advocate Noel Chisebe has expressed concern over the current standoff between the government and Civil Society Organisation (CSO) under the umbrella of the Oasis Forum over the constitutional making process.
Dr. Chisebe observed that initially the president withdrew a previous process due to concerns about consultation and formed a technical committee to conduct nationwide consultations.
He said the committee has gathered input from across the country but wondered why the Oasis forum and its members were now protesting, citing concerns about the committee’s formation.
“The President has invited these groups to dialogue, emphasizing the importance of discussion in a democracy. This demonstrates the President’s commitment to hearing their concerns and finding a way forward,” Dr. Chisebe said.
He said the President has gone out of his way to accommodate the group despite their initial refusal to participate in the consultation process.
“The technical committee’s work and the President’s invitation to dialogue demonstrate a willingness to listen and incorporate feedback,” he said.
Dr. Chisebe has appealed to the Oasis Forum to consider the value of dialogue and the potential impact of protests on the process.
He emphasized that engaging with the President could provide an opportunity to address specific concerns and contribute to the process in which citizens have already participated, adding that their voices are part of the process.
He further urged the Oasis Forum to ultimately, prioritise the country’s interests and work towards a consensus-driven constitution-making process adding that dialogue was key to resolving disputes and achieving an outcome that benefits all Zambians.
