Zambia Proposes Sweeping Constitutional Amendments
The Zambian government has proposed a series of constitutional amendments aimed at reforming the country’s electoral and governance systems. The changes, which include alterations to constituency boundaries, electoral processes, and the roles of public officials, are expected to spark nationwide debate.
One of the most significant proposals is the amendment of Articles 58 and 68 to allow for constituency delimitation, with the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) required to submit a report on the process to the Executive.
The government is also seeking to amend Article 52(6) to ensure that elections proceed even if a candidate resigns, thereby preventing fresh nominations and reducing delays.
In a bid to enhance inclusivity, proposed changes to Articles 47(2) and 68 aim to guarantee parliamentary seats for women, youth, and persons with disabilities. The ECZ has been tasked with submitting a report outlining how an inclusive electoral system can be implemented.
Another key amendment, affecting Article 153(2), seeks to reintegrate Members of Parliament into local councils, a move that could strengthen the link between legislative and municipal governance.
Further electoral reforms include amendments to Articles 73(2), 101(5), and 103(2) to ensure that election petitions are determined within 90 or 14 days, expediting the resolution of electoral disputes.
To address concerns about frequent by-elections, the government has proposed amending Article 57 to end party vacancy-triggered by-elections. The ECZ is expected to provide guidance on the execution of this reform by April.
The proposed changes also include increasing the number of nominated MPs beyond the current limit of eight, as set out in Article 68(2)(b). Additionally, amendments to Articles 81 and 266 seek to harmonize the term of Parliament, ensuring a full five-year tenure.
In efforts to curb the misuse of state resources, the government plans to amend Article 116 to mandate that ministers vacate office 90 days before elections.
Other notable amendments include removing the two-term limit for mayors under Article 154(2)(b), reducing the required experience for the Secretary to the Cabinet from 10 years to five under Article 176(3), and ensuring continuity in the Office of the Attorney General by amending Articles 178(1)(b) and 179(4)(b).
Finally, Article 266 is set for revision to clearly define a “child” as anyone under 18 and an “adult” as anyone 18 and above, providing legal clarity on age-related matters.
These proposed amendments are expected to generate significant discussions among lawmakers, civil society, and the general public as Zambia continues efforts to refine its governance framework.
