Justice Minister Princess Kasune has emphasized that the long-overdue Constitution amendment process is necessary and commended President Hakainde Hichilema for taking the bold step to proceed where past leaders hesitated.
During the Women’s Day commemoration on Saturday, President Hichilema announced that an agreement had been reached to amend the Constitution before the 2026 elections. This revelation has sparked debates among stakeholders, including opposition leaders and civil society organizations (CSOs), who have questioned the timing and necessity of reviewing the Constitution ahead of the elections.
Government’s Justification for the Amendments
In an interview, Minister Kasune defended the President’s stance, stating that the Constitution could not be altered without national consensus. “The President says ‘we’ because it is we, the people of Zambia. If there is a document that is sacred, it is the Constitution,” she said.
Kasune further explained that constitutional amendments should reflect the will of the people and should not be viewed through a partisan lens. She emphasized that the process would be inclusive, ensuring broad stakeholder engagement to achieve meaningful reforms.
Stakeholder Concerns and Public Debate
Despite the government’s justification, opposition parties and some CSOs have expressed reservations about amending the Constitution before the elections. Critics argue that any changes made at this stage should not serve political interests but rather focus on strengthening governance, democracy, and the rule of law.
On the other hand, supporters of the amendment process believe that addressing existing constitutional gaps before 2026 will enhance Zambia’s legal and electoral framework, ensuring a more transparent and fair democratic process.
The Road Ahead
As the debate unfolds, the government is expected to outline a clear roadmap for the amendment process, ensuring broad consultations and national participation. With the Constitution being a fundamental pillar of governance, its amendment will require careful deliberation and consensus-building among all stakeholders.
The coming months will be crucial in determining how the process unfolds and whether the proposed changes will align with the aspirations of the Zambian people.