Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Bill, 2025
| Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Bill, 2025 | |
|---|---|
| |
| Bill citation | Bill No. 7 of 2025 |
| Introduced by | Ministry of Justice |
| Status: Unknown | |
Bill No. 7 of 2025, officially titled the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Bill, 2025, is a proposed amendment to the Constitution of Zambia. It was introduced in the National Assembly in May 2025. The bill seeks to amend several provisions of the Constitution, including changes to the electoral system, the composition of the National Assembly and the structure of local government.
Key Provisions
Increase in Parliamentary Seats
The bill proposes an increase in the number of elected Members of Parliament from 156 to 211, in line with recommendations from the Electoral Commission of Zambia's latest delimitation report.[1]
Electoral System Reform
It introduces a mixed-member electoral system combining first-past-the-post and proportional representation. The proportional component is intended to enhance the inclusion of women, youth and persons with disabilities in Parliament.[1]
Changes to Electoral Procedures
The bill includes changes to the nomination, disqualification, and resignation of candidates. Notably, it prohibits by-elections within 180 days before a general election.[1]
Local Government Adjustments
The bill proposes the removal of the two-term limit for mayors and council chairpersons and revises the composition of local councils to include sitting Members of Parliament.[1]
Ministerial Vacancies and Cabinet Appointments
Ministers and provincial ministers would be required to vacate their positions 90 days before a general election. The bill also redefines qualifications for the position of Secretary to the Cabinet.[1]
Public Response
Civil Society Concerns
Several civil society organisations and legal experts have raised concerns about the bill's implications for democracy. Lawyer Linda Kasonde described the bill as “frightening,” citing changes that could allow the disqualification of candidates on broad grounds, particularly through amendments to Article 52.[2]
Transparency International Zambia
Maurice Nyambe, Executive Director of Transparency International Zambia, warned that the bill could be used to manipulate parliamentary representation, and called for broader consensus before passing constitutional amendments.[3]
Broader Political Implications
Political analysts argue that the proportional representation mechanism might favour the ruling party, enabling it to secure a two-thirds majority, which could be used to pass future constitutional changes without significant opposition.[3]
Current Status
As of June 2025, Bill No. 7 remains under debate in the National Assembly. Its potential enactment continues to generate national discussion, with stakeholders calling for transparency and wide public consultation.
