The Non Government Organization Coordinating Council (NGOCC ) has observed that government officials appear to be confused and lost with regards the constitution making process as evidenced by their contradictory statements.
NGOCC Chairperson Beatrice Grillo has told QFM News in a statement that the recent contradictory statements by some senior government officials on the constitution are worrying and indicate that there is no agreement among ministers on how to proceed with the constitution making process.
Ms Grillo cites the statements made by Foreign Affairs deputy Minister Gabriel Namulambe who was quoted as saying government has no money to enact a new constitution because of other press needs, and Defence Minister Edgar Lungu who was quoted as saying government will hold a referendum to adopt the new constitution despite the huge cost if it is the wish of the Zambian people.
She says there is need for the government, through the ministry of Justice to clarify the situation.
Ms Grillo states that the current confusion among senior government officials does not inspire confidence.
The NGOCC Board Chairperson has since urged President Michael Sata to give the necessary leadership to the process and receive the final draft constitution from the technical committee so that the process can be brought to finality.
She adds that the constitution making process being a national issue should not be the preserve of the Executive.
Ms Grillo says Zambians need to know what will after the draft constitution is handed over to the President and the public.