New Constitutional order dawns

President Lungu signs into law the constitution bill

Republican President Edgar Lungu has signed into law the constitution bill number 17 of 2015, marking the dawn of a new constitutional order in the country.

The signing of the constitution bill into law means the country will go to the polls on 11th August,2016.

The President assented to the constitution bill at a ceremony held at National Heroes stadium in Lusaka this afternoon witnessed by among other prominent people first republican President Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, fourth republican president Rupiah Banda and some opposition party leaders including MMD’s Nevers Mumba.

President Lungu says the signing of the constitution bill into law marks a new era in the governance of the country.

He says it is also his earnest prayer that the amendment to the constitution will serve as an instrument of national unity and social cohesion as its contents are a true reflection of the aspirations of a wider section of society.

President Lungu however cautioned that there will be issues which will emerge as some of the provisions of the amended constitution are implemented.

He states that in this regard, the process remains work in progress requiring full appreciation of the cost involved as well as the institutional arrangements to be put in place and their effectiveness.

And President Lungu says the country will have to hold a referendum as resources permit on those aspects of the constitution which require that process such as the Bill of Rights.

He says the PF government will always ensure that all process that are relative to the constitution are totally above board and are unquestionably transparent.

Meanwhile President Lungu has implored citizens and political players in particular to abide by civil means of engagement with one another as the country goes to the elections on 11th August.

He states that differences and hiccups will occur but must not be seized upon by enemies of a free society.

President Lungu signs the constitution bill as Justice Minister Ngosa Simbyakula and Chief Justice Irene Mambilima look on