FDD rejects Hichilema’s constitution reform committee, calls process self-serving

The Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) has rejected and condemned the appointment of the Constitution Reforms Technical Committee established by President Hakainde Hichilema.

President Hichilema had appointed members of the committee, chaired by retired Supreme Court Judge Christopher Sichimwa Mushabati, to undertake wide consultations and draft proposed amendments to the Constitution of the Republic of Zambia.

But in a statement issued in Lusaka on Friday, FDD spokesperson Anthony Chibuye said the process was ill-timed and politically motivated, insisting that it could not be trusted.

“Mr Hichilema and the UPND are not genuine in their dealings. It is always suspicious to start dealing with issues of the constitution close to an election period,” Chibuye said.

He argued that the President had sufficient time from 2021 to 2024 to address constitutional reforms but chose to act only now, despite having pledged to prioritise them upon assuming office.

Chibuye further criticised the government for neglecting pressing national challenges, citing persistent load shedding, the high cost of living, unstable fuel supply, the struggling debt restructuring programme, political divisions, tribalism, and alleged persecution of opponents.

“Does reforming the constitution guarantee citizens a good life, an end to load shedding, reduced poverty, or improved economic conditions?” he asked.

He alleged that the reforms were being driven by self-preservation and questioned the representativeness of the appointed technical committee.

Chibuye also appealed to those appointed to decline the roles, particularly those of high public standing.

“To those who are Christians on this committee, the Bible is clear — a good name is better than riches. Put the interest of the nation first. If Hichilema is genuine, let him defer these reforms to after the 2026 general elections,” he said.

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