Oasis Forum Confirms Dialogue with State House


Katebe says the meeting with State House is expected to proceed this Wednesday

By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia24 — (25-11-2025) — The Oasis Forum has dismissed claims circulating on social media that it has refused to meet government officials, clarifying instead that it has opened discussions with State House for a proposed dialogue scheduled for Wednesday.

Oasis Forum Chairperson Beauty Katebe condemned what she termed “propaganda” aimed at misleading the public regarding the Forum’s stance on the ongoing constitutional reform process.

“Contrary to some social media propaganda, the Oasis Forum has engaged State House for a possible dialogue proposed for Wednesday,” Ms. Katebe said in a statement issued at midnight on Tuesday.

The clarification seeks to counter misinformation and reaffirm the Forum’s role amid increasing public scrutiny of the government’s constitutional review process.

Civil society organisations have repeatedly voiced concerns over limited public consultation and the rise of misleading narratives online.

Ms. Katebe further indicated that the public would be informed of the outcome once the engagement with State House is concluded.

The Oasis Forum remains one of the most prominent voices pushing for transparency and meaningful public participation in the reform process. Its latest statement underscores rising frustration over attempts to misrepresent its position.

The Forum has welcomed President Hakainde Hichilema’s call for a meeting at State House on the Constitution amendment process but insists that its planned November 28 protest will proceed until the two sides meet and agree on the way forward.

Katebe said the President’s gesture reflects commendable leadership and reaffirmed the Forum’s willingness to engage in dialogue, provided the Head of State is equally willing to listen.

“Oasis Forum welcomes President Hichilema’s call for a meeting to be held at State House on the Constitution amendment process. It is a true example of the leadership Zambia needs,” she said.

She added that the Forum is ready to consult with the President but will await a formal communication specifying the date and time of the meeting.

“The Forum accepts the President’s invitation to State House and would now wait for a formal invitation to be sent to them indicating the date and time for the meeting,” she said.

However, Katebe stressed that the demonstration planned for November 28, 2025, would not be suspended until the President clearly outlines his position during the meeting.

“You know the Forum is made up of four organizations. So, right now I cannot confirm that we will put off the protests until we meet the President. For now, all I can say is that he has shown true leadership,” she stated.

She added that the priority for both parties should be to advance national interests rather than the concerns of individual organisations.

Katebe emphasized that “the Forum and the President should, at the end of the day, agree on what would benefit the country and not organisations or an individual.”

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