Oasis Forum Takes constitutional fight to the Streets



Katebe say, the Planned march to State House aims to protest the government’s rushed and non-inclusive handling of Bill 7

By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, 23rd November 2025 — The Oasis Forum is taking its constitutional fight to the streets with a peaceful march to State House on Friday, 28th November 2025, protesting what it describes as the government’s “rushed and non-inclusive” handling of Bill 7 and seeking to ensure that citizens’ voices are fully heard in shaping Zambia’s constitutional reforms.

Beauty Katebe, Chairperson of the Oasis Forum, said the protest is intended to provide a platform for Zambians to express concerns over a process that she says lacks broad public consultation.

“We are calling on citizens to participate peacefully and responsibly to ensure the people’s voice is respected,” she stated.

According to Katebe, the Forum notified the Inspector General of Police on 10th November 2025 after the Lusaka Provincial Commissioner initially declined to receive the notification.

She said the march will start at Freedom Statue and proceed along Independence Avenue to State House.

In addition to the march, Katebe said the Oasis Forum has taken multiple actions to challenge Bill 7, including filing a petition in the Constitutional Court, delivering an open letter to the President, launching the Black Friday campaign with black ribbons, honking, and black car discs, and writing to Members of Parliament while circulating a public petition to gather citizens’ support.

Katebe emphasized that the demonstration is lawful and peaceful, underscoring the importance of public participation in democratic processes.

She urged citizens to assemble in numbers at Freedom Statue and join the protest calmly and responsibly.

© 2025 Francis Maingaila

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