50 +1 clause cheers YALI

8 Jan, 2016

The Young African Leaders Initiative Network (YALI) has commended the Zambian government for adopting the 50% + 1 clause in the first draft of the people driven constitution for the election of the republican president. The Young African Leaders Initiative Network (YALI) has commended the Zambian government for adopting the 50% + 1 clause in the first draft of the people driven constitution for the election of the republican president.

YALI President Andrew Ntewewe said President Edgar Lungu has done well to assent to the 50+1 clause.

Mr. Ntewewe told the Lusaka Star in an interview that the 50+1 clause is good and will enable majority of Zambians have a president of their choice.

"There are two mechanisms concerning the 50+1 clause. For one to be declared President of the Republic of Zambia, they have to get above 51 percent of the total votes cast. In an event that no presidential candidate gets above 51 percent, it calls for a re-run meaning only the two top parties will be allowed to contest in the second ballot,” he explained.

Meanwhile, University of Zambia (UNZA) Political Science Lecturer Evans Daka urged the people of Zambia to brace themselves for the consequences of the 50+1 clause especially in case there is a re-run.

Mr. Daka said the 50+1 electoral system is expensive especially for a developing country like Zambia.

“The disadvantage of this clause is that it is costly. In case of a re-run, new ballot papers have to be printed and this requires funds. Apparently, almost all the sectors in the country are facing economic challenges. Therefore, government needs to raise enough funds for the elections,” he said.

He advised political parties to use strategies such as forming alliances which could give them more chances of winning elections.