MARY LEMBA
Ndola
MILENGE Town Council chairperson Clement Mwila says the removal of term limits for mayors and council chairpersons in Act No 13 of 2025, formerly Bill 7, will allow communities to retain leaders who perform exceptionally.
Mr Mwila says the previous legal framework, which limited council leaders to two terms, was restrictive and unfair, compared to provisions applied at higher levels of leadership.
In an interview, he said the previous law forced out leaders whose performance remained satisfactory and enjoyed the confidence of the electorate.
“The two-term limit was like a political death sentence for council chairpersons and mayors because even when people were satisfied with your leadership, you were compelled to step aside,” Mr Mwila said.
He said the new law gives communities authority to determine who should lead them, based on performance, commitment and public approval, rather than statutory limits.
Mr Mwila said the change will also create space for younger and aspiring leaders to participate in governance, while allowing experienced leaders to continue serving if they remain energetic and productive.
He said leadership at local government level should be guided by service delivery and accountability to the people, adding that regular elections will ensure leaders remain answerable to their constituents.
“If the people have assessed your work and still believe in your leadership, the law now allows them to renew that mandate,” Mr Mwila said.
He said the removal of term limits will benefit council chairpersons and mayors who have already served two terms but remain popular in their communities, as it ensures continuity in development programmes and effective implementation of council projectsMr Mwila commended the New Dawn administration for enacting the law, which demonstrates responsiveness to concerns raised by local authorities and reflects a commitment to strengthening grassroots governance….https://enews.daily-mail.co.zm/welcome/home
