Event Summary
On 27 October 2025, Zambia’s Technical Committee—mandated to consult citizens and draft constitutional amendments—launched provincial public sittings scheduled to run until 13 November 2025. However, a broad coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs) under the Non-Governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has rejected the Committee’s Terms of Reference, declaring a boycott of submissions and participation. NGOCC argues the process lacks legitimacy and inclusiveness, echoing concerns that it replicates the controversial Bill 7 previously rejected by stakeholders. Opposition figures, including Harry Kalaba, have criticized procedural barriers such as English-only hearings and mandatory written submissions, which exclude non-English speakers and those with limited literacy. Despite these objections, the Technical Committee continues consultations nationwide. Specifically, CSOs have voiced three main concerns. First, the TORs replicate much of the rejected Bill 7, suggesting the process is not genuinely consultative. Second, the short time frame and reliance on provincial sittings hinder broad inclusion. Third, the Committee’s independence and composition do not inspire confidence that divergent public views will be reflected. Many CSOs have demanded the withdrawal or amendment of the ToRs, an extended timeline, decentralized hearings in local languages, and an independent oversight body to guarantee transparency.
These developments signal a shrinking enabling environment for civil society engagement in constitutional reform, raising fears of tokenistic participation and eroded public trust.