We, the undersigned, urge the United Party for National Development (UPND) government to pause the ongoing constitutional amendment process until after the 2026 general elections.

Why this matters:

1. Preserving Democratic Integrity: Constitutional amendments are foundational and should reflect the will of the people. Conducting this process during an election cycle risks undermining public trust and transparency.
2. Ensuring Fair Representation: Postponing the amendments allows for broader consultation and participation, ensuring that all voices are heard in shaping the nation's future.
3. Focusing on Immediate Priorities: With elections approaching, the government’s focus should remain on addressing pressing national issues and ensuring a fair electoral process.

We believe that delaying the constitutional amendment process until after the elections will uphold democratic principles and foster unity among Zambians.

Proposed amendments include:

• Constituency delimitation to improve delivery services
• Guaranteed parliamentary seats for women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
• Elimination of costly by-elections.
• Increase the number of nominated members of parliament
• Elections to be conducted under a first-past-the-post electoral system
• Actualization of delimitation of constituencies and wards to be determined by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ)

Corruption continues to hinder Zambia’s development, but it is currently missing from the list of proposed amendments. We believe that implementing annual public asset declarations by elected officials could help address this issue. Delaying the amendment process will provide people with the necessary time to identify other needed amendments.

The speed of the constitutional amendment process leads us to believe that it is driven by political motives.

Join us in signing this petition. Make your voice heard! Your signature matters. Let’s stand together and prevent the UPND government from amending the constitution before the 2026 elections.