Extension of presidential term limits and it’s consequences for political leadership in Zambia: an analysis of public perceptions in Lusaka district.

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to establish the extension of presidential term limits and its consequences for political leadership in Zambia’s Lusaka district. The objectives of the study were to investigate the root cause of extension of presidential term limits in Zambia’s political space since 1964, to establish the perceptions of Zambians on the extension of presidential term limits in Lusaka District and to describe how to enhance positive public perceptions in politics in the light of the usual attempts to extend presidential term limits in Zambia. The research employed a qualitative approach. Data was gathered using semi-structured interviews and documentary/content analysis. A case study design was used The target population included: members of political party groups such as Patriotic Front, United Party for National Development, National Democratic Party, Democratic Party as well as secretary generals of the same political parties, political scientists, lecturers in political science from the university of Zambia and civil society organizations such as Non-Governmental Organization Coordinating Committee, Young African Leaders Initiative and Alliance for Change, a sample of 20 people was used in the study. Purposive sampling techniques was used to select the participates. The research employed semi-structured interviews and document analysis. Data was analyzed thematically. The study found the following findings: causes of the extension of presidential term limits in Zambia’s political space since 1964 was linked to selfishness of the politicians; People were not happy about the extension of presidential term limits and current status quo should stand where a president serves only two terms in office should stand; Zambians don’t want the extension of presidential term limits because the political space is already polarized were the ruling polity yields enormous power to manipulate the electrical process as this would keep them in power perpetually. The study concluded by recommending that Current status quo should stand where a president serves only two terms in office should stand; Zambian citizens should be educated and well informed on the constitution of the country. People’s participation in politics should be enhanced and there should be a consensus agreement between people and the government. Keywords: Extension, Presidential term, limits, Consequence, political leadership, Zambia, Lusaka district