from ARNOLD MULENGA in Lusaka, Zambia
Zambia Bureau
LUSAKA, (CAJ News) – ZAMBIA has suspended dialogue with civil society organisations that are concerned about dictatorship in the country.
Government had initiated dialogue, led by President Hakainde Hichilema, with the Oasis Forum as part of the constitutional reform process last week but the exercise has hit a snag after a fallout.
“Government has, however, since suspended the dialogue after it became clear that the Oasis Forum was not prepared to engage constructively,” said Cornelius Mweetwa, chief government spokesperson.
He said instead of participating in meaningful discussions, the forum submitted a letter dated Saturday November 29, 2025 indicating its unwillingness to proceed with genuine dialogue.
“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.”
Mweeta added, “As a result, the Government has been left with no option but to discontinue the engagement for now, as effective dialogue requires mutual commitment and acting in good faith.”
He said the government would continue to engage other stakeholders and will not allow this development to disrupt the broader national consultation process, including engagement with parties who hold differing views from the Oasis Forum.
“Government reaffirms that the doors for dialogue remain open to all stakeholders, including those in the Oasis Forum.”
Political temperatures are rising in Zambia ahead of the 2026 polls.
Critics accuse Hichilema and his United Party for National Development (UPND) of dictatorship.
The businessman has been in power since 2021.
– CAJ News