The Editor Zambia
All is well that ends well. Few phrases better capture the journey and eventual outcome of Zambia’s long-awaited delimitation exercise, which has culminated in the creation of 70 new constituencies.
What began as a subject of heated political debate, clouded by uncalled for suspicion and in some cases outright misinformation, has now settled into one of the most progressive and consequential reforms in the country’s recent democratic history. 
For months, sections of the opposition went to town spreading alarm among citizens, claiming that the exercise was a calculated move to rig the August 2026 general elections.
Such claims, repeated loudly and often, risked undermining public confidence in an otherwise constitutional and consultative process.
Today, however, the facts stand firm and unshaken. The delimitation exercise has been executed within the confines of the law, guided by technical expertise and shaped by nationwide consultations.
The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has announced the addition of 70 new constituencies, expanding Zambia’s parliamentary representation from 156 to 226.
This is not a minor administrative adjustment but a historic recalibration of representation, the largest single increase since independence.
ECZ Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis rightly described delimitation as a delicate exercise of balancing legitimate expectations against constitutional criteria.
Zambia’s geography and population distribution present unique challenges: some regions are vast and sparsely populated, while others are densely settled and rapidly growing. Achieving fairness under such conditions is never straightforward, but it is necessary.
In layman’s terms, adding 70 constituencies simply means bringing Members of Parliament closer to the people since it interprets in shorter distances to constituency offices, quicker responses to community needs, and a more direct line between citizens and their representatives.
For a country with 116 districts, many of which have struggled with underrepresentation, this reform is long overdue.
The distribution of the new constituencies reflects an attempt at equitable development. Eastern and Southern provinces have received nine each, Central and Copperbelt eight, North-Western, and Western seven, while Lusaka, Muchinga, and Northern provinces have gained six each. Luapula, though receiving the least at five, still benefits from increased representation.
Critics have pointed to the timing and cost of the exercise, suggesting that such a major reform so close to elections raises questions.
That perspective is not entirely unexpected; political lenses often magnify suspicion.
However, for those who have followed the delimitation process from inception to completion, the outcome is both justified and necessary.
The exercise was informed by recommendations from the Mushabati Technical Committee on Constitutional Amendments, which conducted extensive consultations across all districts and found strong public support for increased constituencies.
Beyond politics, the practical benefits of this development are immense because more constituencies translate into more development projects at the local level.
Constituency Development Funds(CDF) will now be spread across a wider network, enabling more schools, clinics, roads, and water systems to be built.
This inevitably creates jobs, stimulates local economies, and opens up business opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Increased representation also enhances oversight, ensuring that public resources are better monitored and utilised.
Importantly, the ECZ has clarified that the creation of new constituencies does not disrupt the voting process. Existing polling stations remain valid, and voters will not need new registration cards. This reassurance should further dispel fears that the exercise was intended to manipulate electoral outcomes.
Zambia’s democratic journey has always been marked by gradual but meaningful reforms. From 75 constituencies at independence in 1964 to 156 before this exercise, the expansion has mirrored population growth and changing societal needs.
The leap to 226 constituencies is bold, but it is also a reflection of a maturing democracy that recognises the importance of inclusive representation.
Voices of reason have also emerged from various stakeholders.
The Bishops’ Council of Zambia, through its president Martin Silungwe, has commended the ECZ for the exercise and urged stakeholders to avoid politicising a process designed to benefit future generations. Such calls for unity and objectivity are timely and necessary.
As Zambia heads towards the August 13, 2026 general elections, this delimitation exercise stands as a testament to what can be achieved when institutions work within the law and in the interest of the people.
It strengthens confidence in the electoral system, deepens inclusion, and reaffirms that constitutionalism remains the bedrock of the nation’s democracy.
In the end, what once appeared controversial has proven constructive. What was framed by some as a scheme has emerged as a solution. And indeed, all is well that ends well.
