Zambian politicians warn against constitutional changes to consolidate power

Political leaders in Zambia are raising concerns regarding constitutional changes and the relationship between democracy and development. National Democratic Congress (NDC) president Saboi Imboela rejected claims that Zambian women prioritize development over democracy. Imboela responded to remarks by UPND Member of Parliament Florence Chileshe, arguing that development cannot exist without freedom of expression, the right to vote, and the ability to hold leaders accountable.

Separately, veteran politician Dr. Akashambatwa Mbikusita-Lewanika has warned against efforts to consolidate and personalize power through selective constitutional amendments. He criticized calls by ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) affiliates for changes focused on presidential terms. Mbikusita-Lewanika expressed concern that the proportional representation system could be manipulated to empower the presidency and noted the increasing politicization of key national institutions, including the judiciary and the police.