Sangwa calls for strong opposition
By JOHN KOMBE
OPPOSITION political parties must be allowed to thrive in a democracy because they are critical in offering checks and balances, constitutional lawyer John Sangwa has said.
Mr Sangwa was commenting on an earlier article he posted on the danger and possibility of making Hakainde Hichilema a life President should he deliver on his promises of economic recovery.
He said that contrary to reactions from some sections of society, he was not in any way advocating for life Presidency.
Mr Sangwa observed that the UPND had a majority in parliament and as such would have an advantage in passing laws.
He added that this could further be compounded if the ruling party won more seats in possible by-elections.
Mr Sangwa emphasised that opposition political parties must be allowed to thrive in order to sustain democracy.
He noted that opposition political parties were key in holding government accountable on issues that affect ordinary citizens.
Given the overwhelming votes that the UPND got, he said, there was a danger of the party being tempted to push for change of the constitution to allow Hichilema to rule beyond a two term limit.
He said that such a situation must not be allowed even if he delivers on his mandate.
Mr Sangwa said that any President is voted into office for a reason and once that is attained it must not be viewed as a favour.
He said that in case the UPND fixes the economy which he said was very likely, it would only be fulfilling the mandate on which it was voted into office.
Mr Sangwa therefore called on the new government to allow the opposition to strive so as to ensure that checks and balances were enhanced.
He further appealed to media houses not to fall prey to biased reporting as the trend made the PF to lose the elections.
Mr Sangwa said that the government should be told the truth by journalists for leaders to know what was obtaining on the ground
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