Zambia’s troubled constitutional reform process has hit a fresh hurdle after the government suspended dialogue with the Oasis Forum, accusing the civil society coalition of refusing to engage constructively in talks meant to shape the country’s legal and governance framework.
Information Minister Cornelius Mweetwa announced the suspension late Sunday, saying the forum had declined to participate meaningfully in scheduled discussions led by Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha.
The talks were intended to build on a 28 November meeting at State House that was chaired by President Hakainde Hichilema.
Instead of attending the follow-up meeting on Sunday, the Oasis Forum allegedly submitted a letter dated 29 November indicating its unwillingness to proceed.
“It was also evident that the Forum came to the meeting with the same fixed position outlined during the Friday meeting rather than taking an open-minded approach, which is necessary to achieving consensus in any meaningful dialogue,” Mweetwa said.
“As a result, government has been left with no option but to discontinue the engagement for now.”
Oasis Forum’s letter allegedly did not “identify specific problematic clauses in the [constitutional reform] proposals and they have not offered any alternative proposals.”
“Meaningful engagement is best achieved where both parties at the table are willing to offer clear alternative solutions to move parties closer to consensus-building rather than generalised objections.”
The constitutional reform process, launched under Hichilema’s administration, aims to strengthen equity, inclusivity and governance.
A technical committee has been formed to solicit citizens’ views nationwide, with the government insisting all legal protocols have been followed.
Mweetwa stressed that dialogue requires mutual commitment and good faith but added that the government remains open to re‑engagement.
“The doors for dialogue remain open to all stakeholders, including the Oasis Forum,” he said, reaffirming Hichilema’s commitment to inclusive dialogue as a cornerstone of national unity.
The Oasis Forum, a coalition of church, legal, and civil society groups, has historically played a critical role in Zambia’s constitutional debates, often challenging government positions.
Its withdrawal marks a significant setback in efforts to secure broad consensus on reforms.
JN/APA