Law association harps on dangers of inconsistent rulings by Zambia’s courts, reiterates need for fairness, justice

The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) has called on Zambians, particularly those affected by the Constitutional Court’s ruling barring former President Edgar Lungu from contesting the 2026 elections, to respect the court’s decision.

The Constitutional Court determined that Lungu, the 1st Respondent in the case, was ineligible to contest future elections, having already served two terms as Republican President.

Commenting on the ruling in a statement issued Tuesday in Lusaka, LAZ President Lungisani Zulu noted that the decision departs from the Court’s earlier rulings in cases such as Daniel Pule and Others vs Attorney General and Others, Bampi Aubrey Kapalasa and Another vs The Attorney General, and Legal Resources Foundation vs Edgar Lungu and the Attorney General.

Zulu expressed concern over the potential risks posed by inconsistent rulings from the apex court, cautioning that such fluctuations could erode public confidence in the Judiciary.

Read More: Constitutional Court’s decision barring ex-president Lungu from future elections is victory for rule of law —Govt

Nevertheless, he stated the importance of respecting the Court’s authority:

“Under Part 8 of the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Act No. 2 of 2016, judicial authority, derived from the people of Zambia, is vested in the courts, which have the final say on constitutional interpretation,” he stated.

Zulu further stressed that the Constitutional Court plays a critical role in settling constitutional disputes and underscored the need for citizens to uphold the integrity of governance institutions, including the judiciary.

“At the same time, in line with Article 118 of the Constitution, we strongly remind the Judiciary to ensure that judicial power is exercised in a just and fair manner,” he added.

Zulu expressed hope that consistent and fair judicial decisions would enhance accountability and maintain public confidence in the Judiciary, a cornerstone of Zambia’s democratic governance.

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