MUSOMA REJECTS CALLS TO REMOVE PRESIDENTIAL TERM LIMIT
Zambia Republican Party (ZRP) President Wright Musoma has rejected calls to remove the constitutional limit on presidential terms, describing the proposal as a threat to democratic governance.
Mr Musoma says the renewed debate follows recent calls from some ruling UPND members and sympathisers for President Hakainde Hichilema to remain in office beyond 2031. His remarks come after UPND Proportional Representation MP Florence Chileshe Chama publicly called for support for President Hichilema to remain in office beyond 2031
The UPND has since said the proposal is Chama’s personal view and that the party has not discussed removing the presidential term limit. UPND Deputy Secretary General Gertrude Imenda, however, has not categorically ruled out the proposal.
In a statement, Musoma argues that Zambia should not change the Constitution to accommodate individual political interests, insisting that a president should be able to demonstrate their record within the existing five- and ten-year framework.
He has further called on traditional leaders, the clergy, the Law Association of Zambia, civil society organisations, youth and student groups, and citizens across the country to oppose any attempt to remove the presidential term limit.
The debate has intensified in recent days, with UPND Media Director Mark Simuuwe arguing that Zambians should be free to debate presidential term limits, while other political and civic voices have publicly opposed extending presidential tenure.
Mr Musoma says the focus should instead remain on strengthening Zambia’s democratic institutions and ensuring constitutional safeguards are protected.
22/09/2026
PRESS STATEMENT – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SAY NO TO THE REMOVAL OF THE PRESIDENTIAL TERM LIMIT
Good morning friends and fellow citizens,
Following the disputed general elections, our country is being subjected to daily calls from members of the ruling UPND and their sympathisers demanding the removal of the presidential term limit.
Zambians across the nation are deeply concerned about this. They do not want the presidential term limit to be removed. They are justified! We shouldn’t even be debating this as a country whatsoever
Those calling for its removal do not mean well. They are doing it for selfish motives. What wrong has the term limit committed?
This habit of changing the Constitution to suit individuals drags our country backwards. A President who is serious about development can do wonders in 5 to 10 years.
When you see the President and his team pushing for the removal of the presidential term limit, know that he has failed.
The truth is, those calling for the removal of the term limit are sponsored, and they and their masters are enemies of the country.
The removal of the presidential term limit does not benefit the country in any way. It only benefits the President and his choir team, if truth be told!
So I appeal to all patriotic Zambians – our Royal Highnesses, the clergy, the Law Association of Zambia, Civil Society, our Youth, student unions, and all men and women across this country – to say NO.
To you who want to sell Mother Zambia for your selfish motives for 30 pieces of silver, please search your conscience before it is too late.
Wright Musoma
President – Zambia Republican Party ZRP.