CSOs Commend President Hichilema for Launching a Constitutional Reform Committee

An association of civil society organisations (CSOs) has commended President Hakainde Hichilema for establishing a Technical Working Group to lead discussions on constitutional reforms. The committee aims to end past cycles of politically motivated amendments and instead build a legitimate, people-centred, and resilient constitution.

In a joint statement issued on Tuesday, Chapter One Foundation Executive Director Josiah Kalala emphasised that a transparent and independent process is vital for accountability.

“The government has the important duty of facilitating this process by providing adequate resources while ensuring the committee’s full operational independence,” he said.

Kalala added that transparency and accessibility are essential for building public trust and engagement - key to enhancing participation and strengthening democracy.

The CSOs called for a clear, comprehensive roadmap from all stakeholders before the committee begins its work, stressing that it should not be constrained by the upcoming 2026 general election.

They also urged the committee to ensure fair representation of all Zambians, including women, youth, persons with disabilities, and rural communities.

“We urge the members of the committee to approach this task with the integrity required of national duty, setting aside all personal interests and ambitions, political and other biases, to focus solely on the best interests of Zambia and its people,” Kalala said.

The organisations further recommended that a risk assessment and mitigation plan be developed to safeguard the legitimacy and integrity of the process, warning that without such measures, it could be open to abuse.

The CSOs concluded that the new committee represents a crucial opportunity to deliver a constitution that reflects the collective will of Zambians and strengthens governance. Kalala cautioned, however, that:

“We need a durable constitution, not a rushed political amendment.”