Delimitation is lawful, but trust is earned
By Dr Lawrence Mwelwa
THE Chinese say, “A person without trust is like a cart without wheels.” No one disputes that delimitation is lawful; the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) is mandated to adjust constituencies, wards, and polling districts for fair representation. But when the foundation of delimitation—population data, voter distribution, and demographic statistics—is questioned, trust in the process collapses. A government that wishes to lead with integrity must remember another ancient truth: “The wise adapt themselves to circumstances, as water molds itself to the pitcher.” If recent reports of census manipulation, voter roll irregularities, and the dismissal of key statistical officers are left unaddressed, how can people trust that delimitation is not being used as a tool for political advantage? Trust is not built on silence but on transparency.
“To know the road ahead, ask those who have travelled it.” Throughout history, nations that manipulated their numbers in pursuit of power have faced backlash and instability. Census data is the backbone of delimitation—it dictates resource allocation, political representation, and long-term national planning. But if a government alters figures to suit its agenda, it risks eroding the very legitimacy it seeks to protect. The people’s concern is not against delimitation itself but against the possibility of hidden motives. If the government means well, then it should bring a clean, single-item amendment—no unnecessary additions, no room for doubt. As the saying goes, “Clear waters have no fish; murky waters hold hidden dangers.” A process that lacks transparency invites speculation and resistance.
The world has seen how laws, even when introduced with good intentions, can be used as instruments of control. The Chinese proverb warns, “A dike a thousand miles long can collapse because of an ant hole.” Even a minor breach in the trust of the people can lead to significant consequences. If this government truly believes in fair governance, then let it openly declare that no other constitutional amendments will be attached to delimitation. A ruler who fears scrutiny has something to hide, but “A straight foot is not afraid of a crooked shoe.” If delimitation is purely about representation, there should be no fear in addressing public concerns directly and transparently.
To those who believe this skepticism is misplaced, remember: “He who does not trust enough will not be trusted.” If the government genuinely enjoys the confidence of the people, it should have no difficulty proving its sincerity. A simple and honest approach benefits all—opposition, government, and citizens alike—because trust in democratic processes is essential for national stability. The people’s demand is simple: bring a clean, single-item delimitation bill, with nothing more and nothing less. Anything beyond that invites unnecessary suspicion.
With deep respect for the Executive and an earnest appeal to Members of Parliament: “A single conversation across the table with a wise man is worth 10 years of study.” Listen to the people, for their concerns are not misplaced. A leader’s greatness is not measured by how much power they consolidate but by how fairly they wield it. “Govern the nation as you would cook a small fish—gently and without unnecessary disturbance.” The future of Zambia is not a gamble, and democracy should not be traded for short-term gains. Let wisdom guide this moment, for history never forgets the choices made today.
