By PF Media Directorate
Respect the Chiefs, Respect the People: A Call for Inclusive Governance
Commentary on the Developments Surrounding Bill No. 7
The Zambian Constitution is not merely a legal document—it is a sacred covenant between the government and the people it serves. In a country where traditional leadership plays a vital role in governance, any attempt to amend the Constitution must be anchored in inclusive dialogue and consensus. It is, therefore, troubling to observe recent developments surrounding Bill No. 7, which we categorically declare as Brought In Dead (BID) due to its lack of legitimacy and popular backing.
The United Party for National Development (UPND)’s increasing desperation to project a façade of inclusivity—particularly in attempting to show that Luapula Chiefs support this bill—is both deceptive and dangerous. The PF wishes to raise serious concern over misleading media statements that suggest unified traditional leadership backing for Bill 7, when in reality, many Chiefs were neither consulted nor informed.
This concern was heightened by a recent statement published in the Times of Zambia on 29th May 2025, which purported that Luapula Chiefs endorsed the bill. We now know this was not the collective voice of the traditional leadership but rather a solo communique issued by Chief Chisunka, a Chief whose lineage ties to Luapula Province are only maternal. His unilateral statement has sparked confusion and false representation.
In a clear and courageous rebuttal, His Royal Highness Chief Mabumba VIII of Mansa District has formally distanced himself —and indeed other Luapula Chiefs—from the said endorsement. Chief Mabumba stated unequivocally that the document was neither shared with nor approved by the broader Council of Chiefs. This breach of procedure and etiquette undermines the credibility of the consultation process.
The Constitution of Zambia is not a partisan playbook. It must reflect the will of all Zambians—urban and rural, elite and commoner, government and traditional leadership alike. Morality in governance dictates that what is right must be upheld irrespective of political gains. Justice, after all, is not justice unless it is inclusive, fair, and blind to manipulation.
In the spirit of fairness and nationhood, the government is urged not to rush the process of constitutional amendment. The constitution belongs to all Zambians, and any changes to it must follow transparent, inclusive, and consultative procedures. The proposed amendments in Bill 7 are largely electoral in nature, yet Zambia’s democratic needs go far beyond elections.
Moreover, certain processes—such as the delimitation of constituencies—are already provided for under Article 58 of the Constitution and do not require a constitutional amendment. What is needed now is transparency and a comprehensive report outlining what exactly is being proposed and why.
Let it be clear*traditional leaders are not ceremonial figures to be bypassed or manipulated.* They are custodians of culture, community voices, and essential stakeholders in the governance of this Republic. If justice perishes, the meaning of life is lost. Leadership is not power—it is a call to serve, to uphold humanity, and to listen to all voices, especially those often marginalized.
The government must pause, reflect, and listen.Only then can we build a Zambia where the Constitution truly belongs to the people
Issued by: PF Media Directorate
