By 
The Tonse Alliance has again raised the alarm on the UPND government’s push to amend the Constitution before the 2026 general elections, questioning its real intentions.
Alliance Spokesperson, Sean Tembo, expressed believe that the current government moves were self-serving, aimed at securing a win in the 2026 elections rather than benefiting the Zambian people.
Addressing a media briefing in Lusaka on Thursday at his residence, Tembo said the UPND government should wait until after the elections to amend the document.
He argued that the government’s desperation to amend the Constitution now suggests it is trying to manipulate the system to their advantage.
“This concern is not unfounded, given the potential implications of constitutional amendments on the country’s democracy and governance,” Tembo said.
He emphasized the need for caution and transparency in the process, ensuring that any changes aligned with the best interests of the Zambian people, highlighting concerns about the government’s economic policies.
Tembo said the Tonse Alliance was protesting because it believed the President’s intentions for the Constitutional amendment process were not genuine.
He stated the motivations behind the planned Constitutional amendments remain unclear, fueling concerns about the President’s intentions and the potential impact on Zambia’s democracy.
“We are going ahead with the planned protest on March 19, 2025 especially that we have followed the requirements under the Public Order Act which only required seven days of notification and not a Police permit,” Tembo said.
Meanwhile, former President Edgar Lungu has urged Zambians to stand firm against the UPND’s proposed constitutional amendments, claiming they are designed to politically benefit President Hakainde Hichilema in the 2026 elections.
Lungu described the amendments as politically unhealthy, undemocratic, and unnecessary, especially considering that the UPND had once strongly opposed Bill 10 in 2020.
In a Facebook post on Thursday, Lungu warned that as the 2026 elections approach, the UPND would likely become more politically desperate, but Zambians must not allow them to selfishly alter the Constitution.
He emphasized that the Tonse Alliance, along with opposition parties, religious organizations, civil society groups, scholars, and other stakeholders, would continue to resist any constitutional changes that undermined democratic values and good governance.
Lungu further urged Zambians to ensure their participation in the 2026 elections by acquiring National Registration Cards (NRCs) and voter’s cards to safeguard their right to vote on August 12, 2026.
Reflecting on the recent celebrations for Women’s Day and Youth Day, Lungu praised the participation of the Alliance’s women and youth members.
He commended their resilience, highlighting their unwavering commitment to a better Zambia despite the allegedly hostile political climate in places like Lundazi, Kitwe, and Lusaka.
Lungu concluded with a message of unity, encouraging Zambians to work towards gender equality and support the youth in shaping a brighter future, stating, “Imiti ikula empanga,” meaning today’s seedlings are tomorrow’s forest.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments