FORMER Vice President Enock Kavindele has suggested that Zambia should replace the current two-term presidency with one term of seven years, arguing that this would help presidents focus better and speed up development.
Kavindele said giving a president one long term with no chance of running again would remove political pressure and stop leaders from spending time on campaigns instead of working.
He made these suggestions when speaking to the Technical Committee on Constitutional Amendments in Lusaka.
According to ZANIS, Kavindele explained that a president who knows they only have seven years would work faster, make firm decisions, and concentrate on finishing national projects.
He added that removing the need to seek re-election would allow leaders to make bold decisions and plan for the long term, which would lead to steady development.
Kavindele also proposed that the President should be allowed to appoint cabinet ministers from outside Parliament. He said this would help government perform better, because the President would be free to pick skilled people from anywhere in the country, not just elected MPs.
“The absence of a re-election agenda would create room for bold policy decisions and long term planning, ultimately benefiting citizens through faster and more consistent development,” said Kavindele.
“The proposed model would push any future president to maximise every year in office, a system that will promote discipline, accountability and measurable progress.”
Former Cabinet Minister William Harrington also suggested that Members of Parliament should serve no more than two terms.
“If the president is limited to just two terms then it is only fair and logical that MPs operate under the same limitations,” he stated.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba, November 14, 2025
