“This is not democracy anymore” – Silumbe sharpens attack

Leadership Movement president Dr Richard Silumbe warned that Zambia’s democracy is under serious threat ahead of next year’s general elections. During an interview, he argued that the multiparty foundation of the nation is being damaged by actions that appear to narrow participation and concentrate power. According to Silumbe, Zambia’s political space is shrinking and this must concern every citizen before the country reaches a point where democratic safeguards become weakened permanently.

He pointed to the push for constitutional amendments as an example of how political control can be adjusted in the background while the public is distracted. In his observation, this is not a routine process but a deliberate attempt to use constitutional change to tilt the electoral ground. Silumbe asserted that very few people realise the danger embedded in a rushed amendment process because the shift is gradual but significant enough to alter democratic environment. In his view, this should not be ignored.

Concerns were raised that essential rights such as freedom of speech, freedom of association, freedom of worship and freedom of assembly have been weakened. As an illustration, he referenced the police dispersal of individuals praying at the OYDC grounds before Independence Day celebrations in Lusaka, describing it as a sign that the environment for free participation is being restricted instead of encouraged. He believes such events reflect a wider shift from openness to control.

Silumbe questioned the credibility and inclusivity of the technical committee guiding the constitutional review, describing the terms of reference as deceptive and not designed for broad contribution. According to him, this framework lacks nationwide ownership and risks reshaping Zambia’s future using a narrow circle of influence. He asked Zambians to recognise the moment and respond accordingly.

The LM leader described the process as a criminal-style constitutional cartel that could trap the public into giving up liberties if not challenged. He urged Zambians to unite against steps that place the nation on this path, stating that allowing the process to proceed in its current form would expose more citizens to arrest or intimidation.

Silumbe also drew attention to regional developments and referenced events in Tanzania as a signal that countries can easily slide into instability when dialogue is reduced. He reiterated that democracy thrives when different voices are allowed in the arena rather than forced out of it. In his assessment, Zambia must avoid a similar pattern by ensuring participation is protected, not closed.

He emphasised that a constitution is not a personal survival mechanism for those in office but a national foundation. According to this view, the country must not allow constitutional structures to be adjusted primarily to protect individual political futures. Instead, he stressed the need for a genuine and lawful process grounded in inclusion and national unity.

Silumbe concluded by calling for citizens to defend the multiparty system through vigilance and refusal to normalise rushed changes. With elections approaching, he encouraged the public to keep focus on the principles that ensure fairness and national balance rather than allow distraction to weaken the national democratic culture.