Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
The opposition United Party for National Development (UPND) has welcomed the “no constitution no vote” campaign that was launched yesterday by the Grand Coalition championing for a speedy enactment of a new constitution.
UPND President Hakainde Hichilema says the move taken by the Grand Coalition to launch a ‘No Constitution, No Vote’ campaign should be supported by all well-meaning Zambians.
Mr. Hichilema has told QFM News in a statement that the initiative will seek to de-campaign candidates that have not signed the Social Contract pledging to deliver a new constitution if elected president on 20 January 2015.
He says, given the track record of previous governments in delivering the long-promised new constitution, he thinks it is only right for candidates in this election to commit in writing to what they are saying in person, as he did back in November, 2014.
He adds that he welcomed the opportunity to sign the Social Contract as this supports the broader commitment to form an open and accountable government.
The UPND Leader furthermore notes that this is also an important step in developing and maintaining a consultative relationship with civil society organizations that recognizes that government exists to serve the people and their needs and wants, and not its own interests.
Mr. Hichilema has since called on Zambians to assess and determine the commitment of some candidates who are not willing to sign the Social Contract saying they will not deliver the constitution.