Courts across Zambia remain closed today, prompting sharp criticism from legal and civil society groups who warn the shutdown risks undermining constitutional rights to challenge the August 13 presidential election results.
The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ), the Non-governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC), and civil society leader Laura Miti have all raised alarms as the constitutionally mandated seven-day window for filing a presidential election petition nears its end. They argue the unexplained closures could interfere with citizens’ access to justice at a critical moment.
LAZ Calls for Urgent Reopening
LAZ President Arnold Kaluba urged authorities to reopen the courts immediately, stating the move could disadvantage individuals seeking to exercise their constitutional and statutory rights.
Kaluba expressed particular concern over the heavy presence of armed military personnel around court premises in Lusaka, with some areas sealed off using tape marked “Crime Scene.” He noted that no formal public explanation has been provided about the reasons for the closures, their geographic scope, expected duration, or any alternative arrangements to maintain access to justice.
He highlighted the sensitive timing, pointing to Article 103(1) of the Constitution, which allows a person seven days to petition the Constitutional Court to nullify the election of a President-elect.
“The closure of the Courts during this constitutionally prescribed period creates a real risk that persons seeking to exercise this constitutional right may be prejudiced by uncertainty regarding access to Court registries, filing facilities and judicial officers,” Kaluba said.
Civil Society Leaders Seek Transparency
Laura Miti acknowledged government’s responsibility to protect national security and its right to withhold certain details during periods of heightened threat. However, she insisted that a blanket explanation is insufficient, especially given the timing.
“Government has the critical duty to look out for the security of the nation. No question,” Miti said. She stressed that the need for a clear public account is greater because the opposition’s window to file an electoral petition is closing.
NGOCC Board Chairperson Beauty Katebe added that the closures have left courts inaccessible to the public with no timeline for reopening. She described the coincidence with the seven-day petition period as particularly troubling.
“By shutting the very institution citizens must approach to exercise this right, the Judiciary risks obstructing a process the Constitution guarantees,” Katebe stated.
Broader Implications for Access to Justice
The closures come at a pivotal point in Zambia’s post-election period. Stakeholders warn that without prompt reopening or clear alternative filing mechanisms, the constitutional right to challenge election results could be effectively curtailed. Calls for transparency, a defined timeline, and continued access to court registries and judicial officers have intensified.
As the seven-day window under Article 103(1) draws to a close, pressure continues to mount on authorities to restore normal court operations and provide the public with a full explanation.
