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Zambia gov't mulls second referendum to enhance people's right

Xinhua, October 28, 2016 Adjust font size:

The Zambian government said on Friday that it has started holding consultations with stakeholders on the possibility of holding a second referendum to enhance the Bill of Rights in the constitution which deals with people's rights.

The first referendum meant to amend part three of the constitution which deals with people's rights was held alongside the August 11 general elections but flopped after it failed to garner the required number of voters.

But Minister of Justice Given Lubinda said consultations have commenced and that once the consultations are completed, a comprehensive statement will be issued on the way forward.

"In order to definitively determine the next steps forward, government is undertaking consultations on the referendum and to determine the best way that the enhanced Bill of Rights becomes part of the constitution," he said in a ministerial statement delivered in parliament.

The government, he said, was committed to ensuring that the will of people was respected and that citizens were given another opportunity as soon as possible to vote in a referendum.

He added that the government will continue sensitizing citizens on the importance of participating in the referendum that will enhance their rights. Endit