LUSAKA – The Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Bill No. 7 of 2025 is scheduled to be tabled before Parliament this morning for debate, determination, and a possible vote. The proposed legislation seeks, among other objectives, to increase the participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in decision-making processes.
Ahead of the critical session, United Party for National Development (UPND) spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa revealed that some Members of Parliament have faced threats from certain church and traditional leaders. He alleged that these leaders have warned MPs they would be ‘de-campaigned’ in future elections if they vote in favour of the bill.
Despite these claims, Mr. Mweetwa stressed that parliamentarians are resolved and united, predicting a landslide vote to pass the bill. “After Honourable Kasune, Minister of Justice, presented the bill yesterday (Saturday) as sponsor, with amendments in line with the technical committee report carrying the aspirations of the people of Zambia, there is now a convergence zone among parliamentarians,” he said.
He asserted that the bill, which incorporates the spirit of the Mushabati Technical Committee Report, the draft bill, and various public submissions, would not be forced on citizens. Mr. Mweetwa also dismissed a purported select committee report circulating on social media that listed about 22 MPs and suggested the bill’s fate depended on their support. He urged the public to ignore the document, arguing that the majority of MPs support the bill and that surrounding criticism is politically motivated.
