By EditorZambia
As Zambia prepares for the August 2026 general elections, the ongoing boundary delimitation exercise by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) represents a progressive and necessary step in strengthening the country’s democracy.
While some concerns have been raised regarding the one day submission period for representations and objections, the broader picture reveals a constitutional, transparent and forward looking process designed to promote equitable representation and effective governance. 
Delimitation is not a political experiment. It is a constitutional obligation. Article 58 of the Constitution of Zambia mandates the Electoral Commission to determine the names and boundaries of constituencies and wards. Article 59 further requires the Commission to review these boundaries at intervals of not more than ten years. This makes the current exercise not only lawful but timely. Population shifts, urban expansion and changing administrative realities make periodic reviews essential to ensure that representation in the National Assembly and local authorities reflects present day Zambia rather than outdated demographic patterns.
At its core, delimitation is about fairness. Over time, some constituencies grow rapidly while others remain sparsely populated. Without boundary adjustments, citizens in densely populated areas risk being under -represented, while those in less populated areas may enjoy disproportionate representation. The Constitution wisely directs the Commission to consider population density, trends, and projections, as well as geographical features, communication networks, and the history and cohesiveness of communities. The aim is to achieve approximate equality in constituency and ward populations while still ensuring adequate representation for urban and sparsely populated areas.
The current framework provides for 211 constituencies, with 55 allocated on the basis of land size and 156 allocated on the basis of population across the 10 provinces. This balanced approach recognises the unique realities of Zambia. Vast rural constituencies cannot be measured by population alone. Distance, terrain, and access to services matter. By allocating constituencies using both land size and population criteria, the exercise ensures that rural communities are not disadvantaged simply because they are sparsely populated.In addition, the proposed structure introduces a more inclusive governance model. Sixty provincial representatives, with each province electing six special members representing the disabled, the youth and women through provincial party lists headed by premier candidates, will broaden representation. Ten experts, one from each province elected through national party lists headed by presidential candidates, further enrich the legislative process with specialised knowledge. These measures demonstrate that delimitation is not merely about drawing lines on a map. It is about deepening participation and ensuring that parliament and local government structures reflect the diversity and aspirations of the nation.
Some sections of the Zambian society have questioned the one day window for submissions and objections. However, the Commission has clarified that this timeline is anchored in the legal framework governing the process. It is important to understand that the submission day is not the beginning of engagement but part of a structured sequence. Preliminary proposals are published in advance, allowing stakeholders including political parties, traditional leaders, and members of the public to study the proposed changes and prepare their representations. The designated submission day ensures order, consistency, and compliance with constitutional timelines.
Efficiency does not mean exclusion. The Commission has reiterated its commitment to transparency and has assured the public that adequate notice will be provided. Public input remains vital, particularly in highlighting local realities that statistical data may not fully capture. Constructive engagement within the stipulated timeframe will ensure that legitimate concerns are considered without derailing the overall schedule leading to the 2026 polls.
Importantly, the Commission has stressed that delimitation decisions are not influenced by political considerations. The exercise is technical and guided by constitutional principles. Safeguarding the independence of the process is critical in building public confidence. Electoral boundaries shape representation for years to come, and their legitimacy must rest on objectivity rather than partisan interests.
The exercise also presents an opportunity to consider practical realignments that enhance service delivery and resource sharing. Realigning certain wards to nearby constituencies can promote administrative efficiency and equitable distribution of national resources. For instance, in Kafue District, whose vastness justifies consideration for an additional constituency, strategic realignment of wards such as Chisankane to Kabwata or Lusaka Central constituencies could foster better coordination and balanced development. Such adjustments are not about favouring one area over another but about rational planning in line with demographic and geographic realities.
Boundary delimitation, sometimes referred to as redistribution, is practiced in democracies worldwide to prevent imbalances in population across districts. Without it, growing urban centres would become increasingly under represented, while boundaries drawn decades ago would fail to reflect new settlements and infrastructure developments. By undertaking this review, Zambia aligns itself with international best practices in democratic governance.
As the country moves closer to the 2026 elections, the importance of credible and fair electoral administration cannot be overstated. Constituency and ward boundaries determine how citizens are represented in the National Assembly and in local councils. They influence how public resources are allocated and how development priorities are articulated. Getting these boundaries right strengthens the foundation upon which elections are conducted.
Rather than viewing the delimitation exercise with suspicion, Zambians should see it as an investment in democratic integrity. It is an opportunity to correct imbalances, accommodate population growth, and enhance inclusivity. The Commission has demonstrated its adherence to constitutional requirements and its commitment to transparency. What remains is for stakeholders to engage constructively, prepare their submissions diligently, and participate within the established framework.
Democracy thrives when institutions perform their mandates with professionalism and when citizens support lawful processes. The delimitation exercise is one such process. It deserves national support as Zambia continues to build a representative, inclusive, and forward- looking electoral system.
