The following five issues should have high priority:
1. Immediate and clear probing of corruption complaints brought against the previous Administration
It is not possible to build a solid future on a shaky past. Questions about Meridian Bank, sale of mines, PHI, etc., must be answered as soon as possible. The Auditor General’s reports must be followed up. As the DPP has recently made clear, the issue of immunity is not to the point at this moment, since it would only arise if prosecution began. But if parties currently under suspicion claim to be completely innocent, then they should readily welcome full investigation to substantiate their claim. The current Administration must take strong action steps now to demonstrate its commitment to good governance.
2. Presidential and parliamentary election petitions must be handled as quickly as possible.
Lingering doubts about the legitimacy of the outcome of elections in several areas are undermining the confidence and trust necessary for good governance to occur. The court petitions should be disposed of fairly and efficiently, with clear commitment of all persons involved to abide by the outcomes.
3. Constitutional reforms should be undertaken in an effective manner that will involve the Zambian public in a free and fair fashion.
The recommendations of the 1996 Mwanakatwe Commission should be revisited. Moreover, special attention should be paid to limiting the powers of the president, increasing the powers of Parliament, the fuller definition of human rights (with special attention to women), the reform of the electoral process (e.g., set a definite date for major elections, restore requirement for 51% vote for presidency), enlarging the field of choices for cabinet, abolishing the death penalty and removing the “Declaration of the Christian Nation.” A constituent assembly and subsequent national referendum should be considered.
4. Parliamentary procedures should be improved and more civil society interchange with MPs facilitated.
With a multi-party Parliament now in place, there is the possibility for a genuine multi-party democracy to occur. But easier access by the public to MPs must take place, better logistical support should be given to MPs to enable them to intelligently debate and decide on key issues, and civil society should have ready opportunities to present their opinions on pending legislation and issues (e.g., testify before public hearings).
5. Priority among all issues must be eradication of poverty to build sustainable development.
No development is possible without healthy and intelligent citizens. Hence social spending must take budgetary priority over debt servicing, allocations to the Office of the President or District Administrators, etc. The PRSP must guide government programmes and policies.
Dr. Peter Henriot
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