FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
As Caritas Zambia, we wish to contribute to the ongoing discussion on the proposed amendments to the Constitution of Zambia. Our position is guided by the wisdom of our Catholic bishops, as expressed in their pastoral statement on the state of the nation, issued on November 19, 2024. When they addressed the issue of the Electoral and Constitutional Reforms (Para.1.4), they said the following and we quote: “We have noted the ongoing efforts by the Electoral Reform Technical Committee appointed by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to review laws relating to electoral process and take submissions from members of the public on the same. We affirm that electoral reforms in a developing democracy like ours are critical. However, in view of the proximity of the 2026 general elections - only about 19 months remaining, we invite the Government to reflect further on the prudence of continuing with this exercise lest it raises legitimate suspicions of attempting to give undue advantage to the party in power.
In the same measure, we have noted that no roadmap on the review of the Constitution has been agreed upon to date. We accordingly urge the Government to seriously consider postponing the amendment of Zambia's Constitution to the post-2026 election period. This is because it is too late to build the kind of consensus that is required for such a serious exercise.” We acknowledge the importance of amending the constitution in a developing democracy like ours. However, we share the bishops' concern that the proximity of the 2026 general elections, with only about 19 or less months remaining, raises legitimate suspicions of attempting to give undue advantage to the party in power.
Furthermore, we note that no roadmap on the review of the Constitution has been agreed upon to date. In light of this, we urge the government to seriously consider postponing the amendment of Zambia's Constitution to the post-2026 election period.
This postponement is necessary to allow for the building of consensus, which is essential for such a critical exercise. Rushing into constitutional reforms at this time may undermine the integrity of the process and the credibility of the outcome.
We, therefore, call on the government to prioritize transparency, accountability, and broad stakeholder engagement in any constitutional reform process. This will ensure that the voices of all Zambians are heard and valued.
Let us work together to build a more just and equitable society for all Zambians.
Issued by:
Rev. Fr. Dr. Gabriel Mapulanga
Caritas Zambia Director
Download the entire CARITAS Zambia Response On The Proposed Amendment Of The Constitution Statement issued on Wednesday, 17th March, 2025 posted here: https://caritaszambia.org/phocadownload/general/Caritas-Statement-On-Constitution-Amendment.pdf
