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The United National Independence Party (UNIP) has strongly opposed the ongoing delimitation exercise, describing it as “totally illegal” and a “futile exercise.”
UNIP President, Trevor Mwamba, said the process stems from a flawed Bill 7, which was ruled unconstitutional but was still pushed through Parliament.
Speaking in an interview with Zambia Monitor, Mwamba said UNIP’s stance was based on the belief that amending the constitution so close to the general elections was inappropriate — a position echoed by civil society, traditional leaders, and other national stakeholders.
He argued that the delimitation process lacked legitimacy and should not be dignified with comment, adding that the party would not participate in what it considers an “abhorrent exercise.”
“The whole process of Bill 7 was ruled unconstitutional, and yet the administration deliberately ignored that and pushed it through Parliament. This is a clear contempt of court,” Mwamba said.
He explained that the party’s concerns go beyond the delimitation issue itself, noting its broader implications on Zambia’s democratic governance.
According to him, UNIP believes the process is an attempt to undermine the will of the people.
“We cannot justify and comment on an illegal act. That is the position of my party — that is my position,” he added.
Mwamba also noted that traditional leaders, including Senior Chief Mwamba of Kasama in the Northern Province and Chief Mpezeni of Eastern Province, have spoken against the process, reinforcing UNIP’s stance that the exercise was illegal.
He reiterated that UNIP would not legitimize the process with commentary, calling it futile.
“The elections are too close, and the delimitation process will impact the constituencies and the overall democratic process,” he said.
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