Citizens’ Forum says political party leaders should encourage youth participation and representation in governance structures in the country and an independent consultant on good governance and democracy Roman Mukendi has called for youth participation in governance. AN independent consultant on good governance and democracy Roman Mukendi has called for youth participation in governance.
Mr. Mukendi said youths should take interest in the governance process and should advocate for representation.
He has since challenged youths to contest for elections and demand for amendments to the constitution that would give them more opportunities to participate in governance structures of the Zambia.
Mr. Mukendi added that this would strengthen youth participation and representation in key government bodies.
Meanwhile, Citizens’ Forum chairperson Kafula Mwila urged youths not to be used as tools for political violence.
He called on political party leaders to engage youths in constructive political participation and advocate for youth representation in the governance system of the country.
“I hope levels of active and meaningful participation of youths in governance structures and processes will be enhanced before the 2016 general elections and beyond,” Mr. Mwila said.
He added, “Youths are poorly represented in many key structures of governance in Zambia, such as political parties, parliament and policy making bodies. This is due to lack of citizens’ awareness and action to enforce their rights and challenge unequal power structures.”
Mr. Mwila has since called on political party leaders to punish youths whenever they exhibited unruly behaviour, or when involved in political violence.
This was during a workshop held at Mapalo Lodge in Lusaka on youth participation in governance.