Publication

This publication details the challenges to Zambia's transition to a multiparty democracy by focusing on the national elections of 2006. The authors argue that Zambia has been trapped in a transitional space between actual democracy and autocracy since 1991. The article outlines Zambia's attempts at crafting a democratic constitution, noting the role of the fractured opposition, the civil society and former presidents in shaping the public debate. The authors maintain that positive change in the post-election period will depend on strong pressure from civic groups, regional institutions and Zambia's international partners to compel the elite to adopt both regional and international democratic instruments.