Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on Friday pledged that his government will make amendments to a controversial law that governs public gatherings and processions.
Hichilema said the amendments of the Public Order Act will enhance democracy in the country by addressing concerns that have been raised for years especially by opposition political parties and civil society grouping on its unfair application.
In remarks delivered when he met an African Union (AU) Electoral Observer Mission led by former Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai Koroma, the Zambian president said the government will ensure that all political party supporters abide by the rule of law and create an environment that will allow the police to operate freely and professionally.
The Zambian leader further said there was need for electoral reforms that will ensure that the election process was not biased to any political party.
On his part, the AU envoy said the continental body will continue working with Zambia to ensure that the country continues being a shining example of democracy on the continent.
He however said there was need to address many issues such as the Public Order Act and the low participation of women and youth in the electoral process. Enditem
