Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo has called on the Church to support the government’s proposed constitutional amendments, emphasizing that the process is being undertaken in good faith.
Speaking at the Zambia Baptist Association – University Project Fundraising launch in Ndola, Mr. Matambo reassured religious leaders and the public that President Hakainde Hichilema has no hidden agenda in amending the Constitution. He explained that the amendments aim to increase constituencies and enhance youth and women representation in leadership.
His remarks come after the three Church Mother Bodies last week requested the government to halt the constitutional amendment process until after the 2026 general elections. However, Mr. Matambo urged the Church to reconsider, stating that the reforms would help address long-standing challenges in governance and service delivery.
“Constitutional amendments will facilitate the delimitation of vast constituencies such as Lufwanyama and Mpongwe to bring services closer to the people,” Mr. Matambo said.
He stressed that Lufwanyama, which is significantly larger than all the Copperbelt towns combined, requires urgent adjustments to ensure fair representation and development.
“We have a God-fearing President who does not hide issues. When the white paper is released, people will see that there is nothing sinister in the proposed amendments,” he added.
Meanwhile, Chief Machiya of the Lamba people of Mpongwe encouraged citizens to uphold Christian values, reminding them that Zambia is a Christian nation.
During the fundraising event, the Zambia Baptist Association called for support toward its $20 million church university project, which is set to be constructed in Baluba, Luanshya.
In a show of support, Mr. Matambo and Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe pledged K100,000 toward the initiative. Additionally, Copperbelt UPND officials and members of the business community made various contributions to the project.