REBUTTAL TO CALLS FOR REMOVAL OF PRESIDENTIAL TERM LIMITS- Brebner Changala

The national conversation surrounding constitutionalism and governance in Zambia has intensified following controversial remarks made by Kazungula North Member of Parliament Dr. Clement Andeleki. Dr. Andeleki publicly called for the removal of presidential term limits, asserting that the current two-term restriction hampers long-term national development and continuity. However, these remarks have triggered sharp rebukes from various stakeholders, notably veteran governance activist and analyst Brebner Changala. Mr. Changala vehemently dismissed the legislator's propositions, describing them as retrogressive and dangerous to Zambia's hard-earned democratic credentials. Speaking from Lusaka, Changala contended that floating ideas of eliminating term limits serves narrow political agendas rather than public welfare. He warned that tampering with fundamental constitutional safeguards under the guise of administrative continuity opens the floodgates for creeping authoritarianism and lifetime presidencies, which Zambia fought hard to reject during past historical epochs. Legal and political observers note that the debate arrives at a sensitive juncture for the country's political landscape. While proponents of extended terms argue that major infrastructural and economic policies require extended horizons beyond ten years to mature, critics maintain that term limits are non-negotiable pillars of democratic accountability. They prevent stagnation, encourage leadership renewal, and ensure that power remains domiciled with the citizens rather than individual political elites. Civil society organizations and opposition figures have similarly joined the chorus condemning the discussion, reminding leaders that the Zambian Constitution is a social contract that must not be manipulated to suit political expediencies. As public outcry mounts across various media platforms, pressure is mounting on legislative leaders to clarify whether these statements represent official poli