Judiciary Praised for Election Readiness Ahead of August Polls

The African Union Commission's Pre-Election and Needs Assessment Mission has expressed satisfaction with the Zambian Judiciary's preparedness ahead of the August general elections, particularly in handling electoral disputes.

In a statement issued by Deputy Director of Corporate Communications Kalumba Chisambisha-Slavin, Chief Justice Dr Mumba Malila SC told the AU delegation, led by Demeke Mekonnen Hassen, that the Judiciary is firmly committed to resolving all election-related matters within the statutory 90-day period. He noted that all petitions in the previous cycle were concluded on time despite significant challenges, and warned that the recent constitutional amendment increasing the number of constituencies could generate a higher volume of petitions. This makes continuous judicial training and the swift induction of newly appointed judges essential.

Constitutional Court President Justice Professor Margaret Munalula confirmed that the Court had refined its rules to improve the handling of presidential election petitions and ensure timely delivery of substantive justice.

Justice Maria Mapani Kawimbe, who chairs the Advisory Committee on Elections Management established in 2023, said the Committee had modernised the High Court election petition rules dating back to 1968 and improved Local Government tribunal procedures. It has also produced a Handbook for Adjudicators, a Digest of Election Law Cases and a set of Frequently Asked Questions to guide both new and experienced judges through the petition process.

The AU Mission commended Zambia for its long-standing record of peaceful political transitions and expressed confidence in the country's electoral preparedness.