Do You Know What Zambia's Constitution Says About Accountability and Transparency?

THURSDAY, JANUARY 15, 2026

Transparency and accountability are often spoken of as good governance ideals. However, in Zambia, they are far more than aspirational concepts — they are constitutional guarantees. Our Constitution deliberately embeds accountability across the governance system to ensure that power is exercised responsibly, public resources are protected, and citizens remain at the centre of decision-making.


This blog unpacks key constitutional provisions that speak directly to accountability and transparency, helping citizens better understand their rights and the obligations of those who govern them.

Why This Matters?

Accountability and transparency are not abstract constitutional ideals — they are tools for citizen empowerment. When people understand what the Constitution provides, they are better positioned to engage constructively, demand better governance, and contribute meaningfully to democratic life.


An informed citizenry is the strongest foundation for accountable governance.


Listed below are seven (7) facts!

Accountability Across Government

Did you know?
The Constitution of Zambia provides for accountability across various levels and branches of Government. This means accountability is not confined to one institution or arm of the State. Instead, it cuts across the Executive, Legislature, Judiciary, local authorities, the public service, and electoral processes.


By design, this framework ensures that public officials are answerable for their decisions, actions, and use of public resources, while citizens retain the right to demand explanations and corrective action where governance falls short.

Accountability in Local Government - Article 151

Did you know?
Article 151 of the Constitution guarantees accountability within the local government system.


Local authorities exist to serve communities directly. This provision reinforces the principle that councils must operate transparently, manage public resources responsibly, and remain answerable to the people they serve. It affirms that decentralisation must go hand in hand with accountability, ensuring that power brought closer to the people does not escape scrutiny.

Councillors’ Responsibility to Citizens – Article 156

Did you know?
Article 156 provides that Councillors are collectively and individually accountable to residents in their wards and districts for the performance of their functions.


This means accountability is both shared and personal. Councillors cannot hide behind collective decisions when their individual conduct or performance is in question. Citizens, therefore, have a constitutional basis to engage, question, and demand responsiveness from their elected representatives at local level.

Accountability in Public Administration – Article 173

Did you know?

Article 173 lists accountability for administrative acts as one of the guiding values and principles of the public service.


Public servants are entrusted with implementing laws, policies, and programmes. This provision ensures that administrative decisions are lawful, fair, and open to review. It reinforces the expectation that public officials must justify their actions and remain answerable to the public they serve.

Public Finance and Accountability – Article 198

Did you know?

Article 198 identifies transparency and accountability as guiding values and principles of public finance.


Public resources belong to the people. This constitutional safeguard requires that the collection, allocation, and use of public funds be conducted openly and responsibly. It strengthens oversight and promotes prudent financial management, helping to prevent misuse, waste, and corruption.

Judicial Accountability – Article 118

Did you know?

Article 118 states that judicial authority shall promote accountability.


While the Judiciary must remain independent, this provision underscores that judicial power is exercised in the public interest. Accountability in the justice system promotes fairness, consistency, and public confidence in the rule of law, ensuring that justice is not only done but is seen to be done.

Electoral Accountability – Article 45

Did you know?

Article 45 guarantees the independence, accountability, efficiency, and transparency of elections for the President, Members of Parliament, and Councillors.


Credible elections are the foundation of democratic accountability. This provision ensures that electoral processes reflect the will of the people, free from undue influence, manipulation, or secrecy. It protects citizens’ right to choose their leaders and to hold them accountable through the ballot.