Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 is no longer just something politicians were arguing about — it is now law in Zambia. This means real changes have been made to the country’s Constitution, and those changes will affect how Zambia is governed, especially during elections.
This article explains everything in simple language, so young people, students, and first-time voters can clearly understand what happened, what changed, and why it matters.
First: What Is a Constitution?
A constitution is the highest law of a country.
It explains:
- How leaders are chosen
- How government works
- What rights citizens have
- How power is controlled so it is not abused
Every other law in Zambia must follow the Constitution. That’s why changing it is a very serious matter.
What Is Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7?
Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 is a law that changes specific parts of Zambia’s Constitution.
At first, it was only a proposal (a Bill). After debates in Parliament and approval by the President, it officially became law in December 2025. From that point on, the changes it introduced became part of the Constitution.
Why Is This Law Important?
Even if you’re not into politics, this law affects:
- How elections are run
- How many people represent citizens in Parliament
- Who gets a voice in government
- How inclusive leadership can be
These changes will shape Zambia’s political future — including the future young people will live in.
Key Changes Introduced by Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7
Here are the main things the law changed, explained simply:
1. More Members of Parliament
The law increased the number of constituencies in the National Assembly from 156 to 211.
This means:
- More Members of Parliament
- More areas represented
- A bigger Parliament
Supporters say this improves representation. Critics worry about higher government costs.
2. New Electoral System for Better Representation
Zambia has introduced a mixed-member proportional representation system.
In simple terms, this system is meant to:
- Improve representation of women
- Give young people better chances
- Include people with disabilities
Instead of Parliament being made up only of winners from constituencies, some seats will now help balance representation.
3. Changes to By-Elections and Nominations
The law clarified rules on:
- What happens when an MP resigns
- How replacement candidates are chosen
- When by-elections should or should not be held
This is meant to reduce confusion and political manipulation.
4. Harmonised Terms of Office
The law aligned the terms of Parliament and local councils to a five-year cycle.
This helps government plan better and reduces frequent disruptions caused by staggered elections.
5. Legal Clarifications in the Constitution
Other updates include:
- Clearer definitions of legal terms like child and adult
- Rules about vacant seats close to election time
- Qualifications for certain public offices
These changes aim to remove uncertainty in constitutional interpretation.
How Did the Bill Become Law?
The process followed these steps:
- The Bill was introduced in Parliament
- Members of Parliament debated and voted on it
- It passed with the required majority
- The President signed it into law
Once signed, it officially became part of Zambia’s Constitution.
Why Was the Law Controversial?
Not everyone agreed with how the law was made.
Concerns Raised Included:
- Not enough public consultation
- Fear that politicians benefited more than citizens
- Worries about weakening democratic safeguards
- Concerns about the cost of a larger Parliament
Some groups still question the process, even though the law is now in force.
What This Law Means for Young People
For young Zambians, this law matters because it can affect:
- Your future right to vote
- Your chances of being represented
- Youth inclusion in leadership
- The fairness of elections
Decisions made today will shape Zambia for decades.
What Can Young People Do Now?
Even though the law has passed, young people can still:
- Learn what the changes mean
- Hold leaders accountable
- Participate in civic education
- Vote when eligible
- Speak up peacefully and responsibly
Democracy doesn’t end when a law is passed — it continues through citizen participation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 now law?
Yes. It was passed by Parliament and signed by the President in December 2025.
Does this law change the entire Constitution?
No. It only amends specific sections, mainly related to Parliament, elections, and governance.
Will it affect future elections?
Yes. The changes will influence how representation and elections work going forward.
Does it help young people?
The new system is designed to improve inclusion, including opportunities for youth representation.
Is everyone satisfied with this law?
No. There are still debates and concerns, but the law is currently in force.
Final Message to Young Zambians
Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 is a reminder that laws shape the future, and understanding them is a form of power.
You don’t need to be a politician to care.
You just need to be a citizen who wants a fair, inclusive, and accountable Zambia.
Stay informed. Ask questions. Participate.
