Скачать или смотреть Zambia’s Parliament Approves Controversial Constitutional Amendment Ahead of 2026 Elections

Zambia’s Parliament has approved a contentious constitutional amendment, known as Bill 7, just months ahead of the 2026 general elections. The amendment was passed with the required two-thirds majority after lawmakers fast-tracked the process by suspending certain parliamentary procedures, allowing the bill to clear all stages in a single sitting.

The changes introduce adjustments to the composition of the National Assembly, electoral procedures, and the handling of parliamentary vacancies, including limiting by-elections close to a general election. The government argues that the reforms are necessary to modernize governance, improve representation—particularly for women—and close legal gaps in the existing constitution.

However, the timing and manner of the amendment’s passage have sparked sharp criticism from opposition parties, legal experts, and sections of civil society. Critics contend that the process lacked sufficient public consultation and warn that some provisions could undermine democratic accountability or tilt the political playing field ahead of the elections.

As the bill awaits presidential assent, it has intensified debate about constitutional reform, democratic legitimacy, and electoral fairness in Zambia, with its full impact expected to shape the political environment leading into the 2026 polls.