Reform With Us, Not Without Us

CSOs insist on transparency, inclusivity, and stakeholder engagement in constitutional reforms.

By Francis Maingaila

LUSAKA – Civil society organizations (CSOs) have urged the government to ensure that the ongoing constitutional reform process is transparent, inclusive, and reflective of the aspirations of all Zambians.

Speaking on behalf of several CSOs, governance activist Isaac Mwanza emphasized that while the President has historically played a leading role in initiating constitutional reforms, the process must not be exclusive.

“There is no dispute that the President has the responsibility to initiate constitutional amendments, as seen in previous reforms in 1968, 1973, 1991, 1996, 2003, and recently during the National Dialogue Forum,” Mwanza said.

“However, democratic governance requires broad consultation, ensuring that all stakeholders—including civil society, political parties, and the general public—are adequately informed and meaningfully engaged.”

Conflicting Statements Raise Concerns

The CSOs expressed concern over contradictory statements from government officials regarding the status of the constitutional reform process.

Mwanza noted that while one official claims a draft already exists, another insists there is no such document, creating uncertainty.

“This inconsistency is troubling,” he said. “It creates unnecessary confusion and undermines public trust in the process. The responsible ministry must issue a clear and official position to avoid speculation.”

CSOs are calling for a formal stakeholders’ meeting where all interested parties, including the media, can be fully briefed on the proposed amendments and their implications.

Should Amendments Happen Before or After 2026?

Mwanza clarified that while constitutional amendments can be enacted within a short time frame, they must strictly adhere to Article 79 of the Zambian Constitution, which governs the process of constitutional changes.

“It is important to note that the Constitution can be amended before 2026,” he stated. “However, our position remains that broad consensus must be achieved first. Whether these amendments occur before or after the next general elections should be determined based on well-reasoned justifications from all stakeholders.”

CSOs Call for Independent Oversight

To ensure fairness and credibility, the CSOs are urging President Hakainde Hichilema to establish an independent committee to oversee the constitutional reform process.

“The President has a duty to ensure that this process is handled with integrity and transparency,” Mwanza said.

“An independent committee should serve as a neutral platform to facilitate meaningful discussions, foster consensus, and safeguard democratic principles.”

A Constitution for the People

The CSOs reaffirmed their commitment to an inclusive constitutional reform process and urged the government to engage all stakeholders in good faith.

“We want a Constitution that reflects the will of the people and strengthens our democracy,” Mwanza emphasized.

“For this to happen, the government must provide clear, consistent, and timely information.”

What’s Next?

With public interest in the constitutional reforms growing, it remains to be seen whether the government will address the CSOs’ concerns.

Stakeholders agree that any rushed or opaque process could have long-term implications for Zambia’s democratic stability.