HH’ call for dialogue hypocrisy – Njobvu
By Francis Chipalo
Ackim Antony Njobvu, the Democratic Union President, has slammed President Hakainde Hichilema’s call for dialogue on the controversial Bill 7 of 2025, labeling it as hypocritical.
Njobvu argues that the government has already made a decision on the bill despite widespread rejection from stakeholders and citizens.
The bill has been met with opposition from various groups, including the church, civil society organizations, and political players, who cite lack of participation in the amendment process.
President Hichilema had called for dialogue with stakeholders, including OASIS Forum, who are planning to protest against the bill at State House on Friday.
However, Njobvu describes this as “cheap talk,” by President Hichilema, saying stakeholders have consistently opposed the bill’s attempts to amend the constitution.
The matter found itself in court following President Hichilema’s government insistence to amend the constitution less than a year before the country holds general elections.
Meanwhile, Njobvu who recently wondered why government was in a hurry to amend the constitution despite rejections has stated that Zambians cannot be stopped from protesting if that is the only way government can listen.
The oppostion leader has also reminded the UPND government of the many protests they did against Bill 10 during the Patriotic Front era.
“The peaceful protest against BILL 7 must go on for it is a constitutional right. As long as the protests are peaceful there is nothing wrong,” he said.
He said the DU stands in solidarity with the protestors against the bill, adding that peaceful protest should be encouraged just like solidarity matches.
“It is good for democracy to hold peaceful protests when there is a serious dispute with government,especially one that does not listen to its citizens because leaders are selfish and only want to serve their interests,” Njobvu said.
The outspoken oppostion leader has once again appealed to government to put Bill 7 aside for now and channel their energy on addressing more pressing matters like the current electricty crisis.
The controversy surrounding Bill 7 has sparked concerns about the government’s commitment to inclusive governance and democratic principles.
