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Abstract:
The paper provides a framework for
systematic cost-benefit analysis of constitutional provisions that seek to
enhance democracy in Zambia. Democracy is one of several variables that work
together to generate human development index. Other variables include those
that enhance the economic and social wellbeing of the people notably education,
health and other social services, national security, public administration etc. A five-year election cycle is the
socially acceptable cost that is inevitable for the democracy component of
human development. Costs for by-elections are optional in that there may be
inexpensive alternatives to fill casual vacancies at all levels of elected
office. For instance, filling a casual Presidential vacancy through a running
mate can save the country a by-election costing equivalent of 10 boarding
schools with 25 teacher houses each or 8 district hospitals with 10 staff
houses each. When all options for filling casual vacancies at President, MP or
Ward levels are examined, there is no democratic dividend to justify the cost
of any by election as casual vacancies can be filled without that cost. Indeed, apart
from cost considerations, the requirement of a by-election in case of a 50% + 1
constitution provisions is not consistent with the spirit of respecting the
will of the people.
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