By 
Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) leader, Edith Nawakwi, has claimed that Zambia’s judiciary is under siege with President Hakainde Hichilema at the helm.
Nawakwi raised concerns about recent developments, particularly the suspension of three judges just days before a scheduled Constitutional Court hearing.
Speaking to journalists at the Supreme Court, where she was showing solidarity with former President Edgar Lungu during his eligibility case, Nawakwi expressed alarm over the state of justice in the country.
She pointed out that affidavits were allegedly being typed in just 30 minutes, with verdicts passed in 10 minutes, raising serious questions about the integrity of the system.
“The presence of armed police barricading the court premises and restricting public access, including law students, is equally disturbing,” she said, recalling that even during the first republic under Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, court hearings were open to the public and the premises were accessible.
Nawakwi stated that the situation was critical and that the world was watching, noting that this unprecedented development undermined the principles of fair justice.
“The international community is taking note of the erosion of justice in Zambia, which may have far-reaching consequences,” she added.
Nawakwi also warned that the judiciary’s credibility was at risk, and its rulings might not be recognized internationally.
She reiterated that the restrictions on public access, combined with rushed verdicts, undermined the transparency and impartiality of the justice system.
“The people of Zambia deserve better and the international community is watching closely,” Nawakwi concluded.
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