M’membe warns HH against arbitrary consultations on constitution

By GIDEON NYENDWA

SOCIALIST Party president Fred M’membe has cautioned President Hakainde Hichilema against conducting constitutional consultations in what he described as an “arbitrary” and “unregulated” manner, warning that failure to follow proper procedures could land the matter back before the Constitutional Court.
Dr. M’membe said the recent order by the Constitutional Court requiring consultations cannot be implemented through informal or selective meetings chosen at the president’s discretion.
He argued that the process must be governed by a clear legal framework established through an Act of Parliament to ensure legitimacy and compliance with the Constitution.
“There are no shortcuts,” he said. “Mr Hichilema has no choice but to do the right thing and in the right way. Trying to create virtues out of inadequacies and posturing around won’t help.”
Dr. M’membe said any attempts to bypass legal requirements risk invalidating the consultation process, potentially leading to renewed legal challenges.
The Constitutional Court recently ruled that broad consultations are required on proposed constitutional changes, sparking debate over how these engagements should be structured.
While State House has indicated willingness to consult stakeholders, critics argue that mechanisms ensuring fair and comprehensive participation must first be enacted through legislation.