Event Summary
On 14 October 2025, President Hakainde Hichilema swore in a 25-member Technical Committee to lead nationwide consultations and propose amendments to Zambia’s Constitution, following its formal establishment on 2 October under Articles 92(1), 92(2)(f), and 92(2)(j). Chaired by retired Supreme Court Judge Christopher Mushabati, with Dr. Lindiwe Banda as Vice Chairperson and Spokesperson, the Committee includes representatives from the judiciary, civil society, academia, traditional leadership, faith-based groups, and legal professionals. President Hichilema emphasized that the process must be inclusive, consultative, and cost-effective, aiming to reflect the voices and lived experiences of all Zambians.
The swearing-in comes after sustained public and civil society critique of Bill 7 of 2025, which many argued was fast-tracked with inadequate consultation and limited transparency. The pushback from CSOs, faith-based organizations, legal associations and citizen groups had urged the government to adopt a broader, participatory approach instead of rushing predetermined outcomes.
Civil society issued a joint statement which cautiously welcomed the swearing-in as a milestone in terms of ensuring inclusiveness but emphasized that the process will only be seen as legitimate if it adheres to key principles, including transparent Terms of Reference, open access to draft documents, inclusive consultations at all levels, protection for dissenting voices, independence from political influence, and meaningful participation of women, youth, persons with disabilities, and marginalized communities. This has been reiterated by a coalition of Faith Based Organizations. If conducted transparently, the constitutional review process could contribute to fostering a more supportive political culture—one that encourages meaningful state engagement with civil society organizations in policymaking and promotes inclusive dialogue in governance.
This initiative is part of Zambia’s long history of constitutional reform, yet it stands out for its deliberate emphasis on inclusion, consultation, and transparency. Unlike past processes such as those leading to the 2016 amendments and the failed Bill 10 of 2019 this effort has been met with stronger public involvement and sustained civil society oversight. The active participation of diverse groups, including youth, women, traditional leaders, and faith-based organizations, signals a potential shift toward more citizen-driven governance.