By CHUSA SICHONE and JULIUS PHIRI –

THE Federation for Free Trade Unions in Zambia (FFTUZ) has warned that the manner in which some church leaders are pushing for the Constitution risks jeopardising the country’s peace as they are inciting congregants to rise against the country’s leadership.
FFTUZ representative, Henry Kazombo said during Labour Day celebrations in Mpika yesterday that the federation was disappointed with the way some church leaders were calling for the enactment of a new Constitution with their followers.
“The current debate on the Republican Constitution should not be championed by wrong personalities. A man of God is supposed to be patient and humble. He must not speak to people in a manner that reveals his violent nature,” he said.
Mr Kazombo, however, said it was not wrong to discuss issues of the Constitution in church, but that it was wrong to discuss the Constitution in a manner that incited congregants to rise against the country’s leadership.
Mr Kazombo said people calling for a new Constitution should do so with love, care, as well as in a sober and non-partisan manner.
He said FFTUZ was interested in seeing a positive conclusion of the enactment of a new Constitution, which should be people-driven.
“This is the people’s document. Politicians should not champion this cause in the political avenue, let the ordinary people participate without intimidation and oppression. It is a fact, Zambians want a new Constitution and we are hopeful it shall be done within the confines of the 10  Commandments,” he said.
And in response, Works and Supply Deputy Minister Mwimba Malama assured that Government was still committed to delivering a people-driven Constitution.
“All what I can say and assure this gathering is that we are on course on the issue of the Constitution, except we are being careful because if we are not careful, as the Government, we may bring a document before you which will not stand the test of time,” he said.
And the FFTUZ in Chipata said the debate on the Constitution should not be championed by wrong personalities.
FFTUZ assistant national executive secretary Mutelo Mabenga said during  Labour Day celebrations held at David Kaunda Stadium in Chipata yesterday that a man of God was supposed to be patient and humble on the issue of the Constitution.