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The Continental Leadership Research Institute (CLRI) has urged Government to broaden stakeholder engagement—including civil society, political parties, youth, women, and marginalised groups—to ensure that ongoing electoral reforms remain people-centred.
The call comes as the Government advances the Electoral Reform Bill, which seeks to strengthen the country’s democratic framework.
In a statement issued in Lusaka on Wednesday, CLRI Executive Director, Mundia Hakoola, welcomed efforts to introduce and progress the Bill, saying it presented a crucial opportunity to align the electoral legal framework with constitutional provisions and evolving democratic standards.
He noted that recent constitutional amendments had made it necessary to review subsidiary legislation, including the Electoral Process Act.
“Over the years, Zambia’s electoral processes have generated valuable observations and lessons from stakeholders, including civil society, election observers, and citizens,” Hakoola said.
He said these experiences had highlighted areas requiring continuous improvement, refinement and legal clarity.
Hakoola added that the Electoral Reform Bill should be viewed not simply as a legal adjustment but as a response to practical realities and gaps observed over time.
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“Electoral reforms remain a critical pillar in consolidating democracy, enhancing transparency, and building public trust in electoral processes,” he said.
He commended Government and key stakeholders, including the Electoral Commission of Zambia, for initiating the reform process, but emphasised that “the success and legitimacy of the Electoral Reform Bill will depend on the extent to which it is inclusive, consultative, and transparent.”
In addition to broad engagement, Hakoola called for the incorporation of lessons learned from past elections, strengthened electoral integrity mechanisms, safeguards for democratic participation and clear public communication to enhance citizen awareness.
He further urged Parliament and relevant authorities to ensure that the Electoral Reform Bill aligned with constitutional principles, regional democratic norms and international best practices.
“As Zambia continues to build on its democratic gains, CLRI remains committed to supporting reforms that promote credible elections, peaceful political participation, and accountable leadership,” Hakoola said.
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