Sangwa launches MNR
By Mast Reporter
CONSTITUTIONAL lawyer John Sangwa has announced the formation of the Movement for National Renewal (MNR), a civic platform aimed at mobilising citizens to rebuild the nation on the foundations of integrity, truth, and constitutional discipline.
In a statement issued yesterday, Sangwa said the MNR would serve as a vehicle for citizens to participate meaningfully and responsibly in democratic processes leading up to the 2026 general election and beyond.
“For legal and constitutional reasons, the MNR is, at this stage, a civic platform, not a political party,” he said. “Our first national goal is to build a movement of at least one million citizens committed to renewal, people ready to live and lead by the Constitution. We aim to reach this milestone by 31 December 2025, marking a new chapter of civic readiness and shared responsibility,” he said.
Sangwa said once the movement achieves this level of national organisation, members will decide, through broad consultation, whether to transform it into a political organisation that gives their ideals political expression.
He said the initiative seeks to restore citizens’ confidence in democratic governance and reawaken civic responsibility among Zambians.
“As a people, we must return to the fundamentals of our Constitution and rebuild a nation founded on honesty, justice, and accountability,” Sangwa said.
Meanwhile, Sangwa also announced his decision to step away from active legal practice at Simeza, Sangwa & Associates, the law firm he co-founded and served for more than three decades.
“This decision takes effect immediately,” he said. “We cannot rebuild Zambia without sacrifice and my decision to step away from the firm I founded is one such sacrifice: an offering of personal comfort for the greater purpose of national renewal,” Sangwa said.
He paid tribute to his partner and co-founder, State Counsel Robert Simeza, describing him as a pillar of integrity and leadership in the legal fraternity.
“I thank my partner and friend, Robert Simeza, for 39 years of friendship and 31 years of partnership bound by shared values, mutual respect, and a belief that the law is a noble calling in service of justice and the public good,” Sangwa said.
“Together, we built Simeza, Sangwa & Associates on principles of integrity, courage, and professional excellence. His wisdom, steady leadership, and unwavering commitment to these ideals continue to be a source of pride for the firm and the legal profession,” he said.
Sangwa, who has been a prominent voice on constitutional matters, said the MNR’s mission is to inspire a new generation of citizens committed to truth, accountability, and the rule of law.
