Maravi

Current draft constitution progressive - Nkomeshya

Current draft constitution progressive - Nkomeshya
By Kombe Chimpinde
Sun 27 May 2012, 13:29 CAT

CHIEFTAINESS Nkomeshya Mukamambo II of the Soli people says most provisions in current draft constitution are progressive.

In an interview, chieftainess Nkomeshya, who was a member of Willa Mung'omba Constitution Review Commission (CRC) set up by Levy Mwanawasa in 2006, thanked the PF government for paving way for a free constitution-making process anchored on the aspirations of Zambians.

"I am happy because I was instrumental in advocating for the 50 per cent plus one threshold for a winning president. The clause of the running mate has also come back," chieftainess Nkomeshya said.

She also welcomed the removal of a university degree requirement for one to aspire for presidency.

"The inclusion of dual citizenship is also important because we have got many of our people in the Diaspora. When they are there, they opt for the citizenship of that country they are operating from; because of this, they are completely cut off from their own countries. When they come back, they come as foreigners and they need to have a VISA to be cleared to enter their own country."

Chieftainess Nkomeshya said if the clause was included in the final draft it would encourage business investments back to Zambia from Zambians leaving abroad.

"Those of our children who have money all over the world will be able to invest it back home without restrictions," she said.

Chieftainess Nkomeshya also admitted that her expectations of the final outcome of the process were very high.

"My expectations of the process are very high. We are grateful to the PF government that they have heard the cries of the people. I think it is important in my view," she said.

Chieftainess Nkomeshya, however, said the period given for the citizens to study, discuss the draft constitution and make submissions was too short.

"The draft has not been translated into other languages, the one we have been given is in English but those who will be heading these meetings will be able to interpret because we can't wait for translation because forty days given to us is not enough but we can make use of the remaining period. It is my hope and prayer as leader of this community that my people will come forward to make their submissions," said chieftainess Nkomeshya.

Labels: CHIEFTIANESS NKOMESHYA, CONSTITUTION

posted by MrK @ 4:29 PM