By RABECCA CHIPANTA –
THE Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) on the Copperbelt has described the Constitution amendments as progressive because even the election date is known by all political players.
Copperbelt FDD chairperson Yotam Mtayachalo said yesterday that all the new clauses in the amended constitution were progressive, especially that members of Parliament (MPs) who defect would not be allowed to re-contest their seats.
He said in an interview that his party in the province was delighted with the fixing of the election date, unlike in the past when it was a closely guarded secret and caught citizens unawares.
“These are progressive clauses, and also the date of election is known unlike the way it was previously when election dates were coming like a thief in the night.
“It is good that everyone knows the election date, although more needs to be done,” he said.
On the Grade 12 education level requirement, Mr Mtayachalo said he was only concerned about those seeking to be elected as councillors because most of them did not possess such qualifications.
“I do not have a problem with the MPs and the president in terms of qualifications, but my problem is with councillors.
“It should have been relaxed so that we accord local people an opportunity to be part of governance,” he said.
He said the development would affect many people, especially in rural areas where illiteracy levels were high.
He, however, said there was need to look beyond some clauses because good governance should be part of the Constitution to allow government institutions to operate independently.
“Good governance must be part of the constitution so that institutions such as the Anti-Corruption Commission, Police Service, Auditor General’s office and Drug Enforcement Commission become more powerful than individuals,” he said.
Mr Mtayachalo said at the moment, some individuals were perceived to be more powerful than institutions, making it difficult for law enforcement agencies to carry out their duties professionally.
“That is what we are looking forward to as FDD, to ensure that we build strong institutions for good governance,” he said.