MWE Correspondent
Zambia’s Parliament has approved a controversial constitutional amendment bill that will significantly expand the size of the country’s legislature, a move that has drawn both praise and criticism from across the political divide.
The bill, passed on December 15, 2025, proposes increasing the number of Members of Parliament from 156 to about 266. It was adopted with the support of more than 130 lawmakers and is now awaiting presidential assent before it becomes law.
Supporters of the amendment say the change is long overdue and aimed at creating a more inclusive political system. Government officials argue that the expansion will open doors for greater participation by young people, women and persons with disabilities, groups that have often struggled to gain adequate representation in Zambia’s political institutions.
According to proponents, a larger and more diverse legislature will strengthen accountability and ensure that Parliament better reflects the country’s social and demographic makeup. They say the reform is consistent with democratic values and could improve public confidence in governance.
Zambia’s National Assembly currently operates under a structure critics say has limited space for broader representation. The proposed changes, supporters argue, are intended to modernize the system and respond to the country’s evolving political and social realities.
However, opposition parties and independent analysts have raised concerns about the long-term impact of the reform. While acknowledging the need for inclusivity, critics argue that the proposed proportional representation model could inadvertently strengthen executive influence over Parliament.
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Political observers note that party-list systems, if not carefully managed, can reduce the independence of lawmakers by giving party leadership greater control over who enters Parliament. In Zambia’s case, some fear this could allow the presidency to exert more influence over the legislative process, potentially weakening oversight and checks on executive power.
The debate comes at a time when constitutional amendments across Africa are often met with public skepticism, especially when they alter the balance of power within government. Civil society groups in Zambia have called for transparency and public engagement as the country moves toward implementing the changes.
President Hakainde Hichilema is expected to carefully review the bill before signing it into law. His decision will be closely watched, as it may shape Zambia’s political landscape ahead of future elections.
As the country positions itself as a stable democracy in the region, the amendment has sparked a broader national conversation about how to balance inclusivity with institutional independence. While the bill promises broader representation, its success will ultimately depend on how it is implemented and whether it strengthens, rather than strains, Zambia’s democratic foundations.
