03/12/2025
BILL SEVEN (7)
The 2025 Amendment Bill is one of the most important reforms young Zambians should pay attention to. It has the power to shape how youth engage in politics, access leadership opportunities, and influence national decisions for decades to come.
Below is a personal analysis focused purely on how these changes affect young people both positively and negatively.
🟢 THE GOOD SIDE — OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
1. Guaranteed Youth Representation in Parliament
The Bill introduces a Mixed-Member Proportional Representation system, meaning political parties must include:
✅youth
✅women
✅persons with disabilities
Why this matters for youth:
✅Young people finally get structured, guaranteed entry into Parliament
✅It reduces the “you must know someone” barrier
✅Youth voices will be part of national decision-making, not just campaign crowds
This is a major win for youth inclusion.
2. More Parliamentary Seats = More Chances for Youth Candidates
Increasing constituencies from 156 to 211 creates new political space.
This gives young people:
✅more opportunities to contest
✅better chances to gain leadership roles
✅more representation in rural and urban areas
Youth who feel “there is no space for us” now have a wider political landscape.
3. Alignment of Terms to 5 Years Creates Stability
With Parliament and councils aligned to a single cycle, young leaders can:
✅plan long-term development projects
✅enter political space with clear timelines
✅prepare campaigns more effectively
This stability empowers strategic youth leadership.
4. Clearer Election Rules Protect Young Candidates
Youth candidates are often victims of:
✅disqualifications
✅unclear deadlines
✅legal delays
Clarifying nomination rules and petition timelines protects young aspiring leaders from manipulation.
5. More Emphasis on Inclusion Strengthens Youth Movements
For the first time, youths are not being considered as “future leaders”
✅the Bill treats youth as current leaders who deserve