The Civil Society Constitutional Agenda (CISCA) is calling on President Hakainde Hichilema to take action and initiate a national referendum to solidify the progressive economic and social measures that his government has implemented. These measures have been included in the bill of rights to protect important human rights provisions from potential future changes. CISCA believes that a national referendum is necessary to ensure that these critical measures remain in place and are not subject to unpredictability or chance.
During a press briefing held on May 18th, 2023 at State House, CISCA urged President Hichilema to enshrine progressive economic and social measures through a national referendum. The organization expressed their shared concerns and fears that these measures may be negated if the President is not in office.
President Hichilema has been urged to take steps to ensure that the progressive economic and social measures he has introduced are enshrined in law through a national referendum. The President has expressed concern that these measures, such as free education and increased social cash transfers, could be reversed by future governments or presidents. By enshrining these measures in law, they would be protected and could continue to benefit the people of Zambia for years to come.
The Chairperson of CISCA, Judith Mulenga, has urged President Hichilema to ensure that progressive economic and social measures are enshrined through a national referendum. While CISCA appreciates the President’s efforts to provide free education, health, and social security, Mulenga has expressed concerns about the extent of the President’s autonomous powers. By enshrining these measures through a national referendum, the President can ensure that they are protected and upheld for the benefit of all citizens.
The Coalition for Inclusive Social and Economic Development (CISCA) is calling on President Hichilema to take action and implement progressive economic and social measures through a national referendum. CISCA believes that expanding the bill of rights is crucial in ensuring that vulnerable members of society have sustainable safeguards in place to protect their economic, social, and cultural rights. As such, they are urging the president to expedite this process and make it a top priority.
Advocates are urging President Hichilema to ensure that progressive economic and social measures are enshrined in the constitution through a national referendum. Without this constitutional safeguard, these measures may be perceived as mere favors from the president, and could be easily withdrawn by him or any future leader. By making these measures a permanent part of the constitution, they can be protected and upheld for the benefit of all citizens.
