Kasume accuses Lusaka of backlash against constitutional bill

Justice Minister Princess Kasune has blamed Lusaka for the strong opposition to Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 of 2025, saying that other provinces were more willing to talk and consult.

While speaking on Diamond TV, Kasune mentioned that the negative reactions to the proposed changes in the constitution were mainly fueled by critics in Lusaka, unlike in Eastern and Southern provinces, where people—including traditional leaders—requested more time to review and understand the Bill.

“Some people genuinely wanted more information and discussion,” she stated. “However, in Lusaka, we faced strong resistance—even before the details of the Bill were fully revealed. Some were quick to spread false information, saying the Bill was meant to extend the President’s term or raise the electoral threshold.”

Her remarks came after a ruling from the Constitutional Court that stopped the amendment process, citing a lack of legitimacy and insufficient public involvement. The court highlighted the importance of a wide-ranging, expert-led, and clear consultation process.

This ruling was a result of a petition from former Lumezi MP Munir Zulu and Tonse Alliance youth chairperson Celestine Mukandila, who claimed the government was hastily pushing the Bill through Parliament without getting national agreement.

Earlier, President Hakainde Hichilema instructed the Justice Ministry to pause the process after discussions with various stakeholders, which led to the court’s involvement.

Now that the Bill is legally on hold, there is increasing pressure on the Ministry of Justice to restart the process—this time making sure that regular Zambians are included in the constitutional reform discussions.