Constitutional Reforms or Political Maneuvering?

Caritas Zambia warns that rushing constitutional amendments before the 2026 elections could undermine public trust and fairness!

Lusaka, Mar. 19 – Caritas Zambia has called on the government to postpone proposed constitutional amendments until after the 2026 general elections, warning that rushing the process now could erode public trust.

Also Read: Zambia’s Constitution: Amended by Stealth, Defended by Silence! Hichilema, the man who once blamed a sleeping government for the economic amputations of privatization, now appears to be relying on that same national slumber to smuggle in a new constitution.

In a statement, Caritas Zambia Executive Director Rev. Fr. Dr. Gabriel Mapulanga echoed concerns raised by Catholic bishops in their Pastoral Statement on the State of the Nation issued on November 19, 2024. The organization acknowledged the need for constitutional reforms but argued that with less than 19 months to the elections, any changes could be seen as an attempt to benefit the ruling party.

Caritas Zambia also noted the lack of a clear roadmap for the constitutional review, cautioning that without broad consensus, the process could lack legitimacy.

“We call on the government to prioritize transparency, accountability, and stakeholder engagement in any constitutional reform process. This will ensure that the voices of all Zambians are heard and valued,” the statement read.

The organization stressed that postponing the reforms would help maintain the credibility of the process and ensure that constitutional changes serve the interests of all Zambians, rather than being politically motivated.

Also Read: Democracy on Mute: When Governments Fear the People’s Voice! A government that silences protest doesn’t protect democracy – it protects itself from democracy.

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