Zambian student unions back constitutional amendments, urge youths, marginalized groups’ inclusion (video)

Three higher education student unions in Zambia have expressed support for the proposed constitutional amendments, while urging the government not to neglect the voices of youths, women, and marginalized groups.

The unions—University of Zambia Students Union (UNZASU), Levy Mwanawasa University Students Union (LEMUSU), and Copperbelt University Students Union (COBUSU)—made their stance clear during a media briefing at the University of Zambia (UNZA) Main Campus in Lusaka on Sunday.

UNZASU president, Dickson Mutambo, LEMUSU vice president, Gerald Hamwanza, and UNZASU Secretary-General, Titus Chisha, all spoke at the event, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in the constitutional review process.

Mutambo highlighted that young people, who make up 70 percent of Zambia’s population, are largely students, and their voices must be included in governance decisions.

He pointed to Article 79 of the Zambian Constitution, which calls for citizen participation in governance.

“The amendment of the Constitution aligns with Article 79, which emphasizes the importance of involving all citizens in decision-making processes,” Mutambo said, stressing that the government must ensure the rights and interests of all citizens are represented.

He further called for youth empowerment initiatives, such as reserving seats for young people in Parliament and local government, as well as educating young people about their rights and responsibilities.

“Prioritizing youth participation and empowerment will create a more inclusive and representative democracy that reflects the needs and aspirations of all Zambians,” Mutambo advised.

Hamwanza and Chisha echoed Mutambo’s message, emphasizing that the Constitution belongs to all Zambians and should reflect the interests of the collective, not just individual or elite groups.

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