Bill 7 Risks One Party Dominance, Warns Governance Activist Changala LUSAKA — Political and good governance activist Brebner Changala has issued a strong warning that Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 contains provisions that could steer Zambia toward one party dominance. His statement adds to growing concern among legal experts, civil society groups, and opposition figures who argue the bill reshapes the political landscape to favour those in power.
He recalled that the Constitutional Court previously halted an earlier version of the bill, flagging serious legal and procedural concerns. According to Changala, the current iteration reappears without clear evidence that those judicial objections have been addressed. He expressed alarm that lawmakers are advancing the bill through a process many view as opaque.
“Constitutional legitimacy requires transparent correction of flaws, not procedural repetition,” he said. His remarks arrive amid heightened public scrutiny. Citizens across urban and rural communities have voiced concerns through radio discussions, church meetings, and local forums.
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Many fear the bill centralises authority at a time when expectations for greater accountability are rising. Changala’s analysis provides a framework for understanding how technical legal changes could produce significant political consequences. He also highlighted the bill’s potential to weaken parliamentary independence.
If the executive gains broader discretionary powers while the legislature’s oversight role diminishes, he said, Parliament risks becoming a ceremonial body. “Healthy democracies require strong legislatures that can scrutinise appointments, question decisions, and act as genuine checks on power,” he said. Beyond institutional mechanics, Changala warned of deeper societal effects.
He argued that when political competition narrows, public trust declines. Voter participation drops, civic engagement shrinks, and political influence becomes confined to those with access to state resources. “Such trends are difficult to reverse once entrenched,” he said.
“They distort governance, weaken national unity, and create openings for abuse.” Changala insisted that constitutional amendments of this magnitude must emerge from broad national consensus. He criticized the current process for lacking inclusive consultation, public education, and meaningful input from diverse stakeholders. “They must reflect the long term interests of the entire nation.”
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