Hichelema announced that the country had agreed to amend the Constitution before the August 2026 General Election, citing the need to address inconsistencies and gaps within the national legal framework. However, this declaration has triggered a flurry of debate, with many questioning when such an agreement to amend the Constitution was ever made, as the President suggests.

A number of stakeholders have also raised concerns about the rushed timeline. With just 15 months left before the elections, they argue that the timeframe is far too short to engage all necessary parties and ensure a thorough, consultative process. Critics are calling for more time to reach a national consensus, fearing that the rush to amend the Constitution could compromise its legitimacy and the overall inclusivity of the process.

--ChannelAfrica--