Zambian President Suspends Judges Amid Allegations of Political Interference
Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema has suspended three judges over claims of misconduct, which has led to accusations that he is interfering with the judiciary as the country approaches the 2026 elections. Critics argue this move is politically motivated, especially since the suspended judges previously ruled against Hichilema when he contested the election results in 2016. They also participated in a controversial decision that allowed former President Edgar Lungu to run again in the 2021 elections, despite having already served two terms .
As Zambia gears up for elections, tensions are rising between Hichilema and Lungu, who are expected to compete again. The judges—Justice Annie Sitali, Justice Mungeni Mulenga, and Justice Palan Mulonda—were set to rule on Lungu’s eligibility to run in 2026 before their suspension. The presidency stated that the suspensions were based on a recommendation from the Judicial Complaints Commission (JCC), which had investigated the judges following a complaint from a private citizen .
Lungu’s party, the Patriotic Front (PF), has condemned the suspensions as illegal, warning that it threatens the integrity of Zambia’s judiciary. Activists also express concern over Hichilema’s actions, claiming they undermine judicial independence .
Political commentator Laura Miti stated that while the judges might deserve to be dismissed for their previous decisions, Hichilema’s motivations appear to be rooted in revenge . The judges will now face a disciplinary process, which could lead to their removal or reinstatement. Critics point out that the president’s authority to appoint and dismiss judges poses a risk to the judiciary’s independence .
This situation reflects deeper issues within Zambia’s political landscape, where the line between justice and politics often becomes blurred, making it vital for citizens to remain vigilant about their judicial system .
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cq647yv3rj2o