President Hakainde Hichilema has assented to Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 (Bill 7) of 2025, describing the moment as a historic milestone that belongs to all Zambians, regardless of political, religious, or social affiliation.
Speaking during the assent ceremony, President Hichilema said the day marked the completion of a national process that should be recorded in Zambia’s history as a collective achievement.
The Head of State emphasized that the constitutional amendment process was never intended to benefit a particular political party, leader, church, or group, but the entire nation.
“Today is a great day in the history of our country, and an indelible ink has been printed in the annals of history. This is a process that does not belong to one person, one party, or a few individuals, but to all Zambian citizens,” President Hichilema said.
He dismissed claims that Bill 7 sought to introduce contentious provisions such as extending the presidential term to seven years, removing the 50 percent plus one requirement, or abolishing the running mate clause.
“There was never an intention to increase the presidential term to seven years, remove the 50 percent plus one provision, or abolish the office of the Vice President,” he stated.
President Hichilema stressed that the purpose of the amendment process was to address non-contentious issues and strengthen the Constitution by adding value rather than taking away existing safeguards.
The President drew parallels with Africa’s push for reform of the United Nations Security Council, saying inclusion is essential for fair and representative decision-making.
President Hichilema acknowledged that the Bill 7 debate was at times heated, but said robust and even fractious debate is a hallmark of a healthy democracy.
“The debate was heavy—yes, fractious at times—but that is the nature of a healthy democracy, and we welcome it. This is the democratic path we chose, where issues are debated and views exchanged,” he added.
He stated that constitutional amendment is governed by law and must always be conducted within the confines of dialogue and respect.
“As Zambians, we must ensure that processes like amending the Constitution do not divide us, but strengthen our democracy through dialogue and understanding,” President Hichilema remarked.
With the assent to Bill 7, the Head of State called on citizens to move forward together, emphasizing unity, inclusion, and constructive engagement as the country continues on its democratic path.
