Government has given 30 days for non-governmental organisations that have not registered under the NGO No 16 of 2009 or face de-registration.
And Foundation for Democratic Process FODEP executive director McDonald Chipenzi has accused government of trying to divert the attention of the public away from the demands of a people driven constitution something he says is a waste of time on the part of government as NGOs will continue to demand for a new constitution.
In letter sent to FODEP, TIZ and Action Aid among other NGOs government through the ministry of community development is demanding for an explanation as to why the NGOs should not be de-registered within 30 days as they have been given ample time to register under the NGO act which they have snubbed.
“We note that despite the extension being made available, your organisation has knowingly failed or neglected to register or commence the registration process with the department of registrar of NGOs.
The NGO act further prohibits persons from operating organisations that are not register in accordance with the act (section 10). You are therefore given 30 days to show cause as to why your organisation should not be de-registered,” reads part of the later.
But FODEP executive director McDonald Chipenzi says his organisation will not be forced to register under the act and is ready to face any consequences in its fight for civil and political liberties in the country.
And Mr. Chipenzi said if the ploy is to divert the attention away from the demands of a new people driven constitution then government is mistaken as NGOs will continue to demand for the document.
“FODEP is not interested in registering under the draconian Act and therefore ready to face the consequences in its fight for civil and political liberties in this country.
We wish the ministry all the best of luck in its effort to decimate the NGOs from the earth of Zambia.
Others received these letters include TIZ and Action Aid Zambia. We here more yet to receive. if the motive is to divert us from demanding for a people driven constitution, then, they are in for a rude shock. The demand will continue whether registered or not but as Zambian citizens. We want a new constitution now,” said Mr. Chipenzi.
Government had extended the registration NGOs to 5th May 2014 for organisations to have their NGOs registered but they remain adamant in their resolve not to register under the act which they say is meant to control them.
how is it possible that you can de-register them if they are not registered to begin with?
Register or Face de-registration?? what kind of thinking is this?
It’s a welcome development but the registration process is cumbersome for example l went to Kitwe community offices they told me l have to go to Ndola, there l will go to the Ndola district health magement aboard to collect a form after l have deposited money in Indo Zambia bank. Not that we don’t want but make it simple, near to the people or through Pacra if you want. Provide leadership than threatening us. We also welcome the extension but make its easy to be done in every district.
Thank you
The NGO that fails to register in good time will not hold its current management responsible for consequences, such as deregistration or prosecution. It is unpatriotic to consider government policy as repressive when the polciy aims at accountable and transparency coporate governance. Talk of Good Governance?