Zambia plans to enlarge its parliament through constitutional amendments that critics say could favour the ruling party ahead of the August 2026 election. President Hakainde Hichilema says some constituencies are too large and should be split for better service delivery; opponents warn this may amount to gerrymandering. Economically, Zambia is restructuring about $13 billion in external debt, and the IMF says most debt deals have been agreed and macroeconomic stability restored.
Zambia Expands Parliament Ahead of 2026 Vote — Critics Warn of Gerrymandering as Debt Deal Advances
Zambia will expand its parliament through constitutional amendments that the opposition says could advantage the ruling party ahead of the August 2026 election.
President Hakainde Hichilema, who has indicated he will seek a second term in 2026, argues that several constituencies are too large for effective service delivery and should be split into smaller units. Opposition leaders and civil society groups counter that the redrawing of boundaries risks gerrymandering — creating more seats in areas where the ruling party already enjoys strong support.
Observers point to recent examples elsewhere in Africa, where leaders in countries such as Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire and Uganda have faced accusations of using constitutional changes to extend political advantage or remain in power.
Economic Context
Zambia, Africa's second-largest copper producer, is also navigating a major economic recovery. The government is restructuring roughly $13 billion in external debt after becoming the first African country to default during the COVID-19 pandemic. The IMF said last week that Zambia had reached agreements on most of its debt restructuring and had “restored macroeconomic stability.”
The constitutional amendments and the timing of electoral reforms are likely to shape debate across Zambia as voters, parties and international partners assess both governance reforms and the broader effort to secure long-term economic stability.
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