What You Need to Know
The electoral commission in Zambia has commenced nationwide consultations regarding the redistricting of electoral constituencies and the implementation of a proportional representation system. These reforms are part of the constitutional amendment enacted in 2025, aimed at enhancing political participation before the upcoming general elections scheduled for August 2026.
Africa-Press. The electoral commission in Zambia has begun nationwide consultations regarding the redistricting of electoral constituencies and the implementation of a proportional representation system, both of which are key reforms outlined in the constitutional amendment of 2025 ahead of the general elections scheduled for August 2026.
The chairperson of the electoral commission, Mwanga Zalomis, stated in an interview with a local source during the “Weekly Interview” program that consultations are ongoing in all 116 districts to gather public opinions before final decisions are made.
The redistricting process will result in the creation of 70 new electoral constituencies, representing a significant restructuring of Zambia’s electoral map. Zalomis explained that the process will consider population size, geographical distribution, historical representation, and fairness.
Concerns about potential manipulation of boundary changes for partisan gain were dismissed, with Zalomis affirming her commission’s commitment to a fair and transparent process. These reforms stem from the 2025 constitutional amendment, which established proportional representation to broaden political participation and adjust constituency boundaries in line with demographic changes.
The amendment aims to enhance representation, reduce disparities between urban and rural constituencies, and modernize Zambia’s electoral framework.
Zambia has undergone significant political changes in recent years, particularly with the introduction of constitutional amendments aimed at improving electoral processes. The 2025 amendment is a response to calls for greater political representation and fairness in elections, addressing historical disparities between urban and rural constituencies. These reforms are crucial for ensuring that the electoral system reflects the demographic changes within the country, promoting inclusivity and transparency in governance.
