Zambia’s Controversial Constitutional Bill Resubmitted, Sparking Renewed Democratic Concerns
LUSAKA – Zambia’s contentious constitutional amendment proposal, Bill 7, has been formally resubmitted to Parliament, reigniting a fierce national debate over the future of the country’s democracy. Government officials state the revised draft incorporates previous feedback, but the move has been met with immediate criticism from civil society, church groups, and opposition parties, who decry a rushed process and lack of genuine consultation.
The proposed reforms contain several key changes that have drawn significant public scrutiny. Chief among them are plans to increase the number of parliamentary seats, introduce a mixed-member hybrid voting system, and expand the quota of members of Parliament appointed directly by the president. Critics argue these adjustments could disproportionately benefit the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) and consolidate executive power.
A particularly contentious provision would allow political parties to replace sitting MPs without requiring a by-election or direct voter approval. Opponents warn this would severely weaken the accountability of elected representatives to their constituents, shifting power to party leadership.
“This bill, in its current form, poses a fundamental threat to the principles of representative democracy,” said a coalition of civil society organizations in a joint statement. “It is being rushed through without the comprehensive and inclusive national dialogue such a fundamental law demands.”
Church leaders have echoed these concerns, urging lawmakers to prioritize national unity and transparent processes over partisan interests. The opposition has framed the bill as a step toward authoritarianism, disguised as procedural reform.
Proponents, however, argue the amendments are necessary to modernize Zambia’s governance and ensure broader representation. The government maintains that the revision process has been consultative and that the bill will strengthen the political system.
As parliamentary debate resumes, Bill 7 has become more than a legislative item; for many Zambians, it represents a crucial test for the nation’s democratic trajectory. The outcome will signal whether promised constitutional reforms can be balanced against widespread fears of eroded checks and balances and the potential for concentrated power.
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