25/06/2025
I am not here to extend my term or drop 50+1, Hichilema sets the record straight
PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema says that his government has no hidden plans to manipulate the Constitution for personal gain, whether it is extending his stay at State House or scrapping off the 50+1 electoral system.
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Speaking during a meeting with three church mother bodies at State House yesterday, President Hichilema addressed head-on the wildfire of rumours surrounding the constitutional amendment process, which some oppositions have claimed was a backdoor scheme to tighten his grip on power.
The Head of State clarified that the government’s intention is not mischief, but rather a genuine effort to clean up problem areas in the current constitution, especially those that have previously ignited political tension, bloodshed and national division during elections.
“You hear the issues about, no, HH wants to extend his term by 7 more years. No, none of that,” said the Head of State.
“HH and his government want to drop the running mate? No. HH wants to drop the majoritarian system, 50 plus 1? No.”
The President reminded the nation of the violence and tears that have stained past electoral processes, saying that constitutional reform is part of building a fairer and more inclusive Zambia, especially for women and people living with disabilities.
While admitting the process may not please everyone, President Hichilema maintained that it is a step in the right direction.
“Are the numbers enough? Maybe not. But it's a good start,” he said, referencing the push to increase participation of underrepresented groups.
This follows the political temperatures that rose over the content and motives of proposed constitutional amendments, with some critics alleging an agenda to tilt the playing field.
But the President insists that this is not about consolidating power, it is about deepening democracy.
"The proposed amendments are aimed at tackling important governance challenges, such as ensuring the equitable distribution of resources through the creation of more constituencies, they also seek to increase the representation of women and youth in the National Assembly, while reducing unnecessary by-elections, which can be costly and disruptive,” the President said.
“Additionally, government aims to establish a mechanism whereby an Attorney General is present during electoral transitions, ensuring continuity and adherence to the constitution.
Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of the Church mother bodies, Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia (EFZ) executive director bishop Andrew Mwenda expressed concern over the lack of inclusiveness in the current process.
Bishop Mwenda called for greater public involvement and a more open approach to constitutional reform.
“The Church has a vital role to play in promoting the welfare of our nation and scripture mandates that we work hand-in-hand with the government to achieve this goal however, our commitment to the well-being of Zambia is evident in our unwavering dedication to creating a more just and equitable society,“ said Bishop Mwenda
But the President noted government’s receptivity to public input in shaping the constitutional review process...https://kalemba.news/politics/i-am-not-here-to-extend-my-term-or-drop-501-hichilema-sets-the-record-straight/
By George Musonda/ Sharon Zulu
Kalemba June 25, 2025
