Law society cautions against pre-election reforms

The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) has issued a cautionary statement to the government, advising against initiating constitutional reforms so close to the upcoming general elections. LAZ President Lungisani Zulu emphasised that such late-stage amendments could encounter significant political resistance and public scepticism, The Lusaka Times reports. Zulu highlighted that LAZ had consistently urged the United Party for National Development (UPND) Government to establish a clear roadmap for constitutional reforms immediately after taking office. He noted that the early stages of governance presented an ideal opportunity to draft a Constitution that reflected broad-based consensus. Despite these persistent appeals, the government did not act on LAZ’s recommendations. Now, with approximately 18 months remaining before the next general elections, political tensions are escalating. Any attempt to amend the Constitution at this juncture risks being perceived as politically motivated or designed to favour the ruling party. The issue of constitutional reform in Zambia has a complex and contentious history. Over the past decades, multiple attempts have been made to amend the Constitution, often leading to public debate and division.