Elders unveil National Conference to reset Zambia’s governance

… Akashambatwa Mbikusita-Lewanika says stakeholders are uniting to build a collective reform agenda

By Emmanuel Mwamba Verified (EMV) Reporter

Preparations for a proposed National Conference aimed at reshaping Zambia’s governance and economic direction are progressing well, the Council of Elders for Ethical Leadership, Democracy and Development (CEELDD) has announced.

In a statement issued yesterday, CEELDD said the conference was intended to offer a clear, unified and values-driven alternative government for Zambia by bringing together political parties, civil society organisations, faith-based institutions and other stakeholders under a shared national vision.

Speaking as Chairperson of the National Conference Planning Steering Committee, Prince Akashambatwa Mbikusita-Lewanika said the initiative was grounded in collective action and national unity.

“We are approaching this exercise with full confidence that nothing is impossible if citizens come together, think together, plan together, act together, and resist undemocratic forces together,” Prince Mbikusita-Lewanika said.

The Planning Steering Committee was established in January 2026 and has since been holding consultations with a wide range of groups across the political and social spectrum.

According to CEELDD, the committee’s mandate is to facilitate dialogue, build consensus and agree on a collective path forward for the country at a time when many Zambians are calling for deeper reforms.

Prince Mbikusita-Lewanika said the committee will continue meeting in the coming months to finalise the programme and content of the National Conference.
He said the conference was expected to attract high-profile participation, including a global figure as guest of honour and distinguished academicians who would serve as lead presenters on key thematic areas.

Prince Mbikusita-Lewanika noted that the conference would not be limited to political discussions alone, but would focus on broad structural issues affecting the country (Zamba).

These include resetting the governance system, restructuring the economic framework and addressing long-standing national challenges that have remained unresolved for decades.

Prince Mbikusita Lewanika invited political parties, civil society organisations, faith-based institutions and other concerned groupings to formally send delegates to the National Conference.

Prince Mbikusita-Lewanika stressed that inclusive participation was essential if the process is to reflect the aspirations of the wider population and produce outcomes with national legitimacy.

Prince Mbikusita-Lewanika emphasised that the initiative was not centred on promoting an individual leader, but on building consensus around a shared reform agenda.

Prince Mbikusita-Lewanika said the conference would seek agreement on a minimum programme for change that can guide Zambia’s future political and economic development beyond electoral cycles.

“All Zambians are urged to join in this effort to bring about radical change and build a better future for our country,” he said.

Prince Mbikusita-Lewanika said the National Conference was expected to culminate in the adoption of a Fourth Republican Constitution, shortly after Thursday, August 13, 2026.
He said the Council of Elders remained committed to promoting ethical leadership, democratic values and sustainable development.
Prince Mbikusita-Lewanika said the National Conference represented a critical opportunity for Zambians to collectively redefine the nation’s trajectory.