5. Retrospect and Conclusion
To conclude this paper, we revisit dictates of the Zambian peoples' chosen polity, and categorical state the implications for governance in Zambia. And that is the government:
- Recognises that institutions of government should service the aspirations of the people in such a manner that they are held accountable to, and draw their legitimacy from the people;
- Recognises that the exercise of public authority derived from the people's unimpeded choice is of a non-sectarian nature;
- Shall provide an environment that allows for the assertion of the right to make political choices and implement such choices without interference (direct or perceived) from individuals tasked with the management of government, or from a collective of individuals either in government or of a particular political interest group;
- Shall provide for mechanisms that allow people to influence government decision -making, by implementing desirable measures that inform the people on the actions of government, and which allow the people to challenge such actions, and;
- Must embody the respect for human dignity and life, as enshrined in the basic rights and freedoms acquiesced to in their chosen civic order.
The challenge for the Zambia government and the Donors is that we seek to exist as part of a world order where there is due recognition of our chosen polity. For us to exist in such a world, we affirm:
- The critical need for Constitutional review, as the Zambian constitution is still not an acceptable instrument of good governance and political conflict resolution. A constitution must allow the people ownership of the fundamental law of the land.
- The administration of common affairs and the related fiscal issues should be exercised in a responsive and transparent manner.
- Exclusivity attitudes in government appointments, hate or sectarian attitudes from persons holding public office should be urgently redressed.
- Human rights violators regardless of the office they currently hold, and individuals that abuse the exercise of public office should not be allowed to continue holding public office.
- And lastly, a policy document is not simply a question of intent, it is a statement of action.
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