By Burnett Munthali
In a significant development within Zambia’s judiciary, President Hakainde Hichilema has suspended three judges from the Constitutional Court following a report submitted by the Judicial Complaints Commission. The suspensions were confirmed in a press release issued on September 23, 2024, and are effective immediately.
The three suspended judges are Justice Anne Sitali, Justice Mungeni Mulenga, and Justice Palan Mulonda. According to the statement, President Hichilema’s action is in line with powers vested in him under Article 144(3) of the Constitution of the Republic of Zambia.
The suspension is a result of recommendations outlined in the Judicial Complaints Commission’s report, which highlighted concerns surrounding the conduct of the three judges. While the specifics of the report have not yet been disclosed to the public, this decision marks a critical moment in the country’s judicial affairs.
The announcement was signed by Clayson, Chief Communications Specialist at State House, who reiterated that the president’s actions are in accordance with constitutional provisions aimed at maintaining the integrity of Zambia’s legal institutions.
This suspension comes at a time when the judiciary’s role is under intense scrutiny in Zambia, with increasing public interest in how justice is administered, especially at the highest levels. The Constitutional Court plays a pivotal role in interpreting and safeguarding the nation’s laws, and any actions involving its judges are bound to attract widespread attention.
Observers are now awaiting further details on the Judicial Complaints Commission’s findings and the potential implications for the Zambian judiciary.
