Leader of the Opposition, Robert Chabinga, has defended the passage of Constitution Amendment Bill Number 7, describing it as the result of extensive dialogue, consensus-building, and stakeholder engagement.
Speaking through an interview , Chabinga stated that the scrutiny of the Bill focused on clauses that had raised concerns among Members of Parliament and stakeholders, leading to the repeal or adjustment of some provisions following consultations.
He praised the executive for listening to divergent views and choosing dialogue over confrontation, calling this approach a mark of responsible leadership.
Chabinga welcomed what he termed progressive elements of the Bill, including the introduction of proportional representation and the expansion of political inclusion through reserved seats. The Mafinga Member of Parliament stated that proportional representation would strengthen democracy by giving smaller political parties a fair chance to enter Parliament based on their share of the national vote.
He rejected claims that the constitutional amendment process lacked integrity, explaining that Zambia’s Constitution can be lawfully amended through a private member’s Bill, a citizen petition, or an executive-sponsored Bill. Chabinga questioned why the process is only challenged when reforms are initiated by the Executive.
The Leader of the Opposition also dismissed allegations that Members of Parliament were bribed to support the Bill, stating that no MP received money and describing the claims as misleading and irresponsible.
Chabinga further highlighted that the proposed delimitation of large constituencies would promote equitable development, improve representation, and reduce local tensions linked to geography and population diversity.
Can he admit if there was bribery?