MONICA KAYOMBO, Ndola
THE people of Luwingu district in Northern Province have commended the members of Parliament (MPs) for voting in favour of Bill number 16 and Constitution amendment Bill number 17 of 2015, which have paved the way for Zambia to have a progressive Constitution.
Speaking in an interview yesterday, Brian Chama, a resident of Shimumbi village, said the move the parliamentarians made was progressive for the country.
“We wanted the 50 percent plus one vote threshold and having a presidential running mate. These are some of the issues that meet the aspirations of the people,’’ Mr Chama said.
He said President Lungu must be commended for agreeing to the partial amendment of the Constitution through Parliament as it was more convenient.
“Most of the non-contentious clauses have been dealt with by parliamentarians. This is effective and less expensive,’’ Mr Chama said.
And Patson Mumbi of Shimumbi village also commended the move to have the partial amendment of the Constitution in Parliament.
He said the setting of the date for elections will also help the electorate prepare adequately.
“At least, we are aware that elections will take place in August and not any other month. In the past, we would have general elections even during the rainy season, which made it difficult for some people to cast their votes.
And Lubansenshi MP George Penda Mwamba says the people of Luwingu have received the news of the partial constitutional amendment with zeal and excitement.
Mr Mwamba said he will use his time on recess to sensitise the people on the importance of registering as voters in large numbers.
He said that he has no doubt that the PF would scoop the elections in 2015 with a big margin.
“The people are actually very happy over our move to vote in favour of the bill number 16 and Amendment Bill number 17. I am also busy sensitising them on the importance of registering as voters,’’ he said.