LUSAKA-(MaraviPost)-Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has appealed for calm as the country prepares for nationwide protests against proposed constitutional amendments.
He urged citizens to avoid politically motivated unrest, warning that rising tensions could destabilise the nation ahead of next year’s general elections.
The planned demonstrations come in response to a controversial proposal to expand the number of parliamentary constituencies from 156 to 211.
According to the government, the expansion aims to ensure fairer representation and address rapid population growth in several regions.
However, critics argue that the move is politically strategic and could benefit the ruling party in the 2026 elections.
Opposition leaders claim that implementing such significant changes so close to elections risks undermining public trust in the political process.
Civil society groups have also expressed concern, saying the reforms could impose a financial burden on a country already battling high living costs.
Hichilema insisted that the amendments follow constitutional provisions that require periodic adjustments to constituency boundaries.
He emphasised that the reforms are being introduced through established legal channels that allow for public consultation and feedback.
The president also urged Zambians to express their views peacefully and to avoid being manipulated by political actors seeking to create chaos.
He warned that violence or disorder during protests could further strain the country’s social and political fabric.
Hichilema reminded citizens that disagreements over national issues should be addressed through dialogue and democratic engagement.
His call for calm comes at a time when Zambia is grappling with heightened political temperatures ahead of the 2026 polls.
The opposition has accused the government of consolidating power through legislative reforms, a charge the administration firmly denies.
Analysts note that the controversy over the constitutional amendments has become one of the most divisive issues of Hichilema’s presidency.
They warn that unless managed carefully, the debate could widen political fault lines and trigger instability.
As protests loom, both supporters and critics of the reforms are preparing for a defining moment in Zambia’s democratic trajectory.
Hichilema reiterated that maintaining national unity is more important than political differences.
He appealed to Zambians to respect the rule of law and uphold the country’s reputation as one of the region’s most stable democracies.
But with emotions running high, it remains uncertain whether the president’s call for calm will be enough to cool the political climate.
