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Civil Rights activist Brebnar Changala has accused President Hakainde Hichilema of abusing his authority by dismissing three Constitutional Court Judges.
President Hichilema removed Judges Anne Sitali, Mungeni Mulenga, and Palan Mulonda from the Constitutional Court of Zambia, effective immediately, following a recommendation from the Judicial Complaints Commission (JCC).
Speaking to Zambia Monitor in Lusaka on Monday, Changala said the move was intended to instill fear among remaining judges and future appointees in the judiciary.
He argued that the decision shows the executive overstepping its bounds and undermining the rule of law.
“The recent events surrounding the three judges in Zambia are alarming and raise serious concerns about judicial independence,” Changala stated.
He emphasized that the judiciary plays a crucial role in upholding the constitution and protecting citizens from executive overreach. When judges are removed or intimidated based on their rulings, he said, the integrity of the entire system is compromised.
“The removal of judges under President Hichilema’s administration has become as easy as dismissing a domestic worker or an employee at a construction company,” he said.
Changala stressed the importance of following due legal process and acknowledged the tenure of judges. He warned that politically motivated removals undermine public trust and politicize the judiciary.
“Impeachment should not be used to punish judges for their rulings, as this undermines their independence and ability to make impartial decisions,” Changala said.
Read More: Finally, President Hichilema sacks three suspended Constitutional Court judges
He noted that judicial independence was essential for maintaining a healthy democracy, and its compromise puts the entire system at risk.
Changala urged Zambians to remain vigilant, speak out against such abuses of power, and ensure the judiciary operates independently, free from executive interference.
“The events surrounding the three judges are a wake-up call for all Zambians to defend judicial independence and protect the rule of law. This is a matter of concern for the nation,” he said.
Changala called for measures to shield judges from political pressure and ensure they can make decisions based solely on the law.
He stressed that the executive must be held accountable for its actions, with full transparency in its dealings with the judiciary.
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