Government releases constitutional review committee’s terms of reference

Government has released the Constitutional Review Technical Committee’s Terms of Reference (ToRs) and tasked the team to facilitate nationwide consultations aimed at gathering public views on proposed constitutional amendments.

The Technical Committee on Constitution Amendments has been assigned to review and benchmark best constitutional practices from within and outside Zambia.

According to the Terms of Reference issued on Monday by Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa, the committee will spearhead nationwide consultations.

“This is meant to consolidate democracy and constitutionalism, enhance equitable and balanced representation and distribution of resources across the country,” Kangwa said.

He stated that the Committee would receive submissions from citizens regarding provisions related to the electoral process and system as a whole.

Kangwa further directed the Committee to examine by-elections, taking into account various factors such as their cost implications.

“The submissions should be specifically on provisions relating to the delimitation and delineation of constituencies and wards with a view to ensure fair, equitable and balanced representation and distribution of resources across the Republic,” he said.

Kangwa explained that the Committee would also study transitional and statutory mechanisms to ensure predictability and clarity regarding the term of office of all elected representatives.

“The focus should also be on the promotion and enhancement of effective participation of women, youths and persons with disabilities in elective positions and governance institutions in accordance with the principles of inclusivity, equality and equity,” he said.

Kangwa said the Committee’s scope also included reviewing the number of nominated Members of Parliament, as well as the procedure for fresh nominations following the resignation of candidates in presidential, parliamentary, and local government elections.

He added that the Committee would receive submissions on constitutional provisions relating to the term of office for Members of Parliament and Ministers.

“The Committee will receive submissions with respect to provisions of the Constitution relating to the hearing of Presidential, Parliamentary and local government election petitions with a view to enhance the administration of justice,” Kangwa stated.

Additionally, the Committee would receive submissions on the composition and tenure of local government officials, as well as the definition of youth, child, and adult within the constitutional framework.

Kangwa said further submissions would be received regarding constitutional office holders, specifically focusing on the tenure of office for the Attorney General and Solicitor General, and the qualifications of the Secretary to the Cabinet.

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