Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema has recently dismissed three top judges from the Constitutional Court, a move that has sparked significant controversy and accusations of political interference in the judiciary. This decision follows their previous suspension over allegations of judicial misconduct and comes amid rising political tensions as Zambia approaches the 2026 elections.
Details of the Dismissal
The judges—Justice Annie Sitali, Justice Mungeni Mulenga, and Justice Palan Mulonda—were involved in key rulings that dismissed Hichilema’s challenge against the election victory of former President Edgar Lungu in 2016. They also participated in a contentious ruling that allowed Lungu to run for the presidency again in 2021, despite having already served two terms. Their removal was announced in a presidential statement, citing a recommendation from the Judicial Complaints Commission (JCC), which had investigated them following a complaint from a private citizen.
Reactions and Implications
The dismissal has elicited mixed reactions from the public and political analysts. Some view it as a justified response to the judges’ alleged misconduct, while others, including Lungu’s lawyer Makebi Zulu, have condemned it as an “illegality” and an example of executive overreach that undermines judicial independence. Political commentator Laura Miti expressed concern that the president’s actions appear to be motivated by revenge rather than genuine legal concerns.
Political analyst Sishuwa Sishuwa highlighted a broader issue, suggesting that the appointment process for judges, which is heavily influenced by the executive branch, leads to a persistent problem of incompetence within the judiciary.
Conclusion
The sacking of these judges not only raises questions about the independence of Zambia’s judiciary but also sets the stage for heightened political tensions as the country gears up for future elections. The implications of this decision could resonate throughout the political landscape, affecting both public trust in the judicial system and the dynamics of the upcoming electoral contest.
Zim GBC News©2024