By The BalanceHub
Zambia’s ongoing electoral reforms continue to spark debate across the country, but an important voice from traditional leadership has stepped forward in support of the initiative. Chitimukulu, one of Zambia’s most respected traditional leaders, has expressed support for the constituency delimitation process being conducted by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ).
The process aims to create 70 new constituencies across Zambia, increasing the number from 156 to 226 constituencies. The initiative is being carried out in accordance with the Zambian Constitution, which requires constituencies to be reviewed periodically to ensure fair representation as populations grow and communities expand.
Why the Delimitation Process Matters
Over the years, many constituencies in Zambia have become geographically large and heavily populated, making it difficult for Members of Parliament to effectively serve the needs of their constituents. Some constituencies cover vast rural areas with poor infrastructure, making development planning and service delivery a major challenge.
By creating new constituencies, the government hopes to:
Improve political representation
Bring development resources closer to communities
Allow Members of Parliament to serve smaller, more manageable populations
Strengthen local development through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF)
The delimitation exercise is therefore seen as a key step toward improving governance and ensuring that citizens are better represented at the national level.
Chitimukulu’s Support for the Process
Speaking during a courtesy call from Mwangala Zaloumis, the Paramount Chief said the initiative has the potential to address developmental challenges affecting large constituencies across the country.
The traditional leader emphasized that many rural communities struggle to access government services because their constituencies are simply too large. According to him, the creation of additional constituencies could help bring development and leadership closer to the people.
However, the Chief also noted that misinformation about the delimitation process has contributed to confusion among some members of the public. He explained that a lack of proper public sensitization has allowed misunderstandings to spread.
He therefore encouraged authorities to educate citizens about how the process works and why it is important for national development.
ECZ Responds to Public Criticism
The ECZ Chairperson, Mwangala Zaloumis, acknowledged that the commission has faced criticism and even insults from some members of the public regarding the delimitation exercise.
However, she made it clear that such criticism does not discourage the commission from carrying out its mandate.
While attending Mass at St John’s Catholic Evangelist Parish in Kasama District, Zaloumis stated that criticism is a normal part of democratic processes.
She stressed that the Electoral Commission of Zambia remains focused on doing what is right for the country and preparing for the upcoming elections.
Preparing for the 2026 General Election
The ECZ Chairperson is currently in Northern Province to oversee Provincial Delimitation sittings, which are part of the broader national consultation process.
These meetings allow stakeholders, community leaders, and members of the public to present views on proposed constituency boundaries before final decisions are made.
The delimitation exercise is also an important step toward preparing for the 2026 Zambian General Election, where voters across the country will elect their leaders.
Ensuring that constituency boundaries are fair and balanced is crucial for maintaining democratic integrity and equal representation.
The Role of Traditional Leaders
Traditional leaders play a critical role in Zambia’s governance system. Their support often helps communities understand government policies and national programs.
By backing the delimitation process, Paramount Chief Chitimukulu has added a significant voice to the national conversation about electoral reform and development.
As the process continues, it will be important for the government and ECZ to increase public awareness, clarify misconceptions, and ensure that citizens fully understand how the changes could benefit their communities.
Conclusion
The delimitation process is more than just a political exercise. It represents an effort to reshape Zambia’s political map in a way that reflects population growth, development needs, and fair representation.
With support from traditional leaders like Paramount Chief Chitimukulu, the process may gain more public understanding as the country moves closer to the 2026 General Election.
For many Zambians, the real question remains: Will the creation of new constituencies lead to better development and improved representation for ordinary citizens?
Comments
Post a Comment