Lusaka, 10th December 2024 – The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) has called on all citizens to respect the decisions of the country’s courts, following the recent Constitutional Court judgment in the high-profile eligibility case of Michelo Chizombe vs. Edgar Chagwa Lungu and Others – 2023/CCZ/0021.
In a case that has garnered significant public interest, the Constitutional Court ruled that Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, the first respondent, is ineligible to contest any future elections, having already served two terms as President. This decision marks a notable shift from the Court’s earlier rulings in similar matters, including the cases of 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.
Despite expressing concerns over the potential risks associated with inconsistent decisions from the apex Court, which could undermine public confidence in the Judiciary, LAZ emphasized the importance of respecting the Constitutional Court’s ruling. According to Part 8 of the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Act No. 2 of 2016, the judicial authority of the Republic is derived from the people and is vested in the courts of law, which have the final say on all legal interpretations.
LAZ reminded citizens of their duty to respect court decisions, highlighting that the foundation of democracy lies in the respect shown for governance institutions created by the people, such as the courts of law. They also urged the Judiciary to exercise judicial power in a just and fair manner, in line with Article 118 of the Constitution, to foster accountability and preserve public confidence in the Judiciary’s integrity.
The press release was issued by LAZ President Lungisani Zulu in furtherance of the association’s mandate under Section 4 of the Law Association of Zambia Act No. 31 of the Laws of Zambia.
