President Hakainde Hichilema is scheduled to sign Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 into law today, marking the final step in a legislative process that has drawn intense political debate and public scrutiny.

The Bill was passed by the National Assembly on Tuesday after securing overwhelming support from Members of Parliament, with 135 MPs voting in favour and 28 voting against. The approval followed the Third Reading stage in Parliament, where the Bill was adopted after months of deliberations and procedural steps.

Once assented to by the President, Bill 7 will become law, formally amending provisions of the Constitution of Zambia. The amendments are intended to adjust electoral timelines, revise procedures for filling parliamentary vacancies, and harmonise electoral processes with revised administrative arrangements.

According to parliamentary records, the Bill was introduced to address challenges arising from existing constitutional provisions, particularly those related to by-elections and the operational demands placed on the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ). The amendments seek to streamline electoral processes and reduce the frequency and cost of by-elections.

During debate in Parliament, Government representatives maintained that the amendments were necessary to improve governance efficiency and align constitutional procedures with practical realities. Justice Minister Mulambo Haimbe told the House that Bill 7 was designed to close legal gaps that had previously created uncertainty in electoral administration.

The Bill also provides for the introduction of nominated Members of Parliament to represent special interests, including youth, women, and persons with disabilities. Government officials stated that this provision would enhance inclusivity and ensure broader representation in the National Assembly.

Opposition MPs strongly opposed the Bill, arguing that it lacked sufficient public consultation and raised constitutional concerns. They maintained that altering the Constitution without broad consensus undermined democratic principles and could set a precedent for future amendments driven by political convenience.

Civil society organisations and legal bodies have also expressed reservations about the Bill, questioning its timing and the scope of the changes proposed. Some groups petitioned the courts to halt the legislative process, although the Bill proceeded through Parliament following rulings that allowed the legislative process to continue.

Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti presided over the proceedings that led to the Bill’s passage. The Speaker later confirmed that all parliamentary procedures had been followed, including committee scrutiny and debate at all required stages.

With presidential assent expected today, the focus now shifts to implementation. The ECZ is expected to review its operational frameworks to align with the amended constitutional provisions. Government officials have indicated that subsidiary legislation and administrative guidelines may be issued to support the implementation of the new law.

The passage of Bill 7 has emerged as one of the most consequential legislative developments of the current parliamentary session. Supporters argue that it will strengthen governance systems and improve electoral management, while critics warn that it could have long-term implications for constitutional stability.

President Hichilema has previously stated that constitutional reforms should promote efficiency, inclusiveness, and national development. His assent to the Bill will formally conclude the legislative phase and open a new chapter in Zambia’s constitutional framework.

Security was heightened around Parliament during the final stages of debate, reflecting the level of public interest and political sensitivity surrounding the Bill. Authorities have urged citizens to engage peacefully with constitutional issues and to respect democratic institutions.

The Bill’s enactment comes at a time of heightened political engagement across the country, as parties and civic groups position themselves ahead of future electoral cycles. Analysts note that the practical effects of the amendments will become clearer once implementation begins.

The law is expected to take effect upon publication in the Government Gazette.

Thirty-four people have been charged with terrorism following violent disturbances that occurred during a presidential engagement in Chingola, Copperbelt Province, according to court proceedings held before the Chingola Magistrate’s Court.

The accused were arrested after chaos erupted at Chiwempala Market on November 8, 2025, when President Hakainde Hichilema visited the area as part of official duties. Authorities allege that the suspects engaged in coordinated violent conduct aimed at disrupting the presidential programme.

Court records show that the suspects were jointly charged with terrorism, an offence under Zambian law that carries severe penalties upon conviction. The prosecution told the court that the accused persons acted in a manner that endangered public safety, damaged property, and threatened national security during the incident.

The State informed Magistrate Maybin Kapaya that the accused were involved in acts that included violent disruption of a public gathering, malicious damage to property, and riotous behaviour. Prosecutors submitted that the conduct of the accused went beyond ordinary public disorder and met the legal threshold for terrorism.

The court heard that police officers were forced to intervene after the situation at the market deteriorated, prompting the arrest of dozens of individuals suspected to have participated in the disturbances. The accused were later detained and brought before the court for formal charging.

During the initial appearance, defence lawyers objected to the terrorism charge, arguing that the alleged conduct did not amount to terrorism as defined by law. They submitted that the charge was excessive and requested that the court dismiss it or substitute it with lesser offences.

However, the State opposed the application, stating that the seriousness of the incident justified the charge. Prosecutors argued that the disruption of a presidential event constituted a grave threat to public order and national security, warranting the application of the terrorism statute.

Magistrate Kapaya ruled that the matter raised serious legal questions that required a full trial and dismissed the defence’s request to discharge the accused at that stage. The court ordered that the accused remain in custody pending further proceedings.

In addition to the terrorism charge, some of the accused are facing related counts, including arson, malicious damage to property, and riotous behaviour. The prosecution indicated that investigations were ongoing and that further evidence would be presented during trial.

The court set a date for commencement of trial and directed that all procedural requirements be complied with before the matter proceeds. The accused were remanded in custody.

Meanwhile, police officers were seen escorting the suspects into a police truck after the court session, amid tight security at the Chingola Magistrate’s Court.

The incident has attracted national attention due to its political and security implications, coming at a time when Zambia is experiencing heightened political activity ahead of future electoral processes. Authorities have repeatedly warned against violence during political events and public engagements.

Government officials have maintained that the law will be applied firmly against individuals who engage in acts that threaten peace and security. Law enforcement agencies have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of public officials and citizens during official functions.

The case is expected to test the application of terrorism laws in circumstances involving public disorder linked to political events. Legal observers note that the outcome may have broader implications for how such incidents are prosecuted in the future.

The matter returns to court on a later date for continued proceedings.a

SADC Moves to Mediate Madagascar Crisis as Hichilema Named Interim Incoming Chair

Southern African leaders have agreed to intensify diplomatic engagement in Madagascar following renewed political tensions, with President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia elected Interim Incoming Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), subject to confirmation.

The decision was announced by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa during the closing session of the SADC Virtual Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government, which was convened to assess the political situation in Madagascar. Ramaphosa is currently serving as SADC Interim Chairperson.

Leaders at the summit reviewed developments in Madagascar amid concerns about political inclusiveness, governance, and the conditions necessary for credible democratic elections. Although SADC acknowledged a measure of calm in the country, the regional bloc said underlying political issues remained unresolved and required sustained engagement.

President Ramaphosa told the summit that SADC had resolved to deploy a Panel of Elders to Madagascar to engage political actors and help facilitate a smooth and peaceful transition toward democratic elections. He said SADC would remain actively involved until an elected government is installed through a transparent and constitutional process.

The Panel of Elders is expected to play a mediation and confidence-building role, engaging the government, opposition parties, and other stakeholders. Reading the official communiqué, SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi announced that the panel will be led by former Malawian president Joyce Banda.

Madagascar has experienced repeated cycles of political instability over the past two decades, including disputed elections, unconstitutional changes of government, and prolonged transitions. These crises have often resulted in weakened institutions, economic disruption, and strained relations with regional and international partners.

In the current context, SADC leaders expressed concern about reports of political exclusion and limited participation by some opposition figures, several of whom remain outside the country. The regional body said such conditions risk undermining confidence in the electoral process and could lead to renewed instability if not addressed.

As part of its proposed approach, SADC urged Madagascar to consider initiating a national dialogue process that would allow all political actors, including those in exile, to return and participate freely in the country’s political life. Leaders said inclusive dialogue was essential to restoring trust and ensuring long-term political stability.

President Ramaphosa emphasized that SADC’s engagement was guided by its commitment to democracy, constitutional order, and peaceful conflict resolution. He said the bloc’s objective was not to interfere in domestic affairs but to support a process that reflects the will of the Malagasy people.

The election of President Hichilema as Interim Incoming SADC Chairperson places Zambia in a key position as the bloc prepares for leadership transition. While the role is subject to confirmation, it signals regional confidence in Zambia’s leadership within SADC structures at a time when the organisation is dealing with sensitive political situations in member states.

SADC’s intervention in Madagascar follows established regional practice, where diplomatic mechanisms such as mediation panels are deployed to prevent escalation and encourage negotiated solutions. Similar approaches have previously been used in other member states facing political deadlock.

The bloc said it would continue monitoring developments closely and would adjust its engagement based on progress made by Malagasy stakeholders toward dialogue, inclusiveness, and credible electoral preparations.a

Presidential aspirant Makebi Zulu has described the passage of Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 as a breach of public trust and pledged to pursue a new, inclusive constitution-making process if elected in 2026.

Zulu was addressing journalists during a media briefing, where senior party officials and former government ministers were present. The briefing followed days of national debate and criticism surrounding the approval of Bill 7 in Parliament.

Zulu said the events surrounding the bill had shaken confidence in elected representatives and raised serious concerns about governance priorities. He stated that the parliamentary outcome did not reflect the conscience of the people or the founding principles of his political formation.

he noted that the vote on Bill 7 reflected individual moral failure rather than collective party values, adding that political ambition had overridden national responsibility. He said the party’s principles of justice, unity and service remained intact despite the outcome.

He declared his intention to be part of a leadership group that would reclaim public trust and restore constitutional order. Zulu said any future constitution review must be transparent, inclusive and driven by citizens rather than political offices. He said the constitution should emerge from communities across the country and reflect shared national values, including democracy, unity and patriotism.

Zulu said his administration would defend the independence of key state institutions, including the judiciary, Parliament, the Electoral Commission of Zambia and the civil service. He said public institutions should not be used for political advantage and that professionalism must be restored in public service.

He also said his government would repeal laws he described as repressive, including the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act, which he said had been used against citizens instead of protecting them. Zulu said freedoms of expression and assembly were inherent rights and not privileges granted by government.

On governance priorities, Zulu said economic management should focus on citizens rather than political interests. He said Zambia’s natural resources, energy and agriculture must benefit local communities first. He said industrialisation would be central to job creation, particularly for young people.

Zulu said his administration would seek to restore Zambia’s standing internationally through diplomacy based on mutual respect and cooperation. He said foreign partnerships must deliver tangible benefits to citizens rather than a small elite.

He said agriculture, mining, tourism and technology would form the foundation of economic recovery, alongside efforts to reduce the cost of living and restore food security.

During a question-and-answer session, Zulu was asked whether members of Parliament who supported Bill 7 should face disciplinary action. He said political parties operate under established rules, including voting positions on major national matters. He said MPs who acted against agreed party positions had breached trust.

Zulu said party discipline was necessary to restore credibility and said he would support any party decision to separate from members who acted against its principles. He said restoring public confidence was more important than retaining parliamentary seats.

Addressing the substance of Bill 7, Zulu said one of its effects was extending the tenure of Members of Parliament until the day before elections, rather than dissolving Parliament three months prior. He said this benefitted MPs personally while failing to address pressing national challenges.

He said the bill introduced constituency delimitation without clarity on the number of new constituencies or associated costs. Zulu questioned how additional MPs, vehicles, allowances and offices would be funded at a time when farmers had not been paid and shortages of medicines, fuel and agricultural inputs persisted.

Zulu said budget priorities were misaligned, with resources directed toward political expansion instead of development. He said constitutional amendments should not take precedence over food security, health services and economic stability.

He said the bill concentrated power in the presidency and weakened democratic accountability. Zulu said replacing elected MPs through party mechanisms undermined democratic choice.

Responding to concerns about whether elections would still be held in 2026, Zulu said the electoral timetable remained unchanged. He said Zambians would vote on August 13, 2026, and that the constitution review must return authority to the people.

Zulu also addressed questions about multiple presidential contenders within the Patriotic Front. He said competition should not be mistaken for division and described internal contests as a contest of ideas. He said the process would culminate in unity around a single candidate.

On leadership demographics, Zulu said younger voters formed the largest share of the electorate and were drawn to leaders who understood their aspirations. He said youth engagement must be balanced with experience and guidance from older generations.

The briefing ended with closing remarks from party officials, who described Zulu as a servant-leader committed to accountability, unity and constitutional governance.