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Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema has approved constitutional changes expanding parliament just months ahead of the 2026 elections, triggering sharp debate at home. The new law increases lawmakers from 167 to about 280, creates additional constituencies, reserves 40 seats for women, youth, and people with disabilities, and expands presidential appointments. While Hichilema argues this improves governance and service delivery, critics contend the move was rushed and will unfairly benefit his ruling party in the August 2026 polls. Opponents, including civil society and the Catholic Church, suggest the redrawing of boundaries targets the ruling party’s strongholds to entrench its power. The reform also raises fiscal concerns, coming as Zambia continues its recovery from a severe debt crisis.
Reuters