Lusaka, Zambia – January 16, 2025 – In a dramatic turn of events, Davis Chishala, convicted of murder in 2014 and sentenced to death, walked free today following a landmark ruling by retiring Supreme Court Judge Evans Mweembani Hamaundu. The acquittal, delivered at the Supreme Court, marked Justice Hamaundu’s final judgment on his 65th birthday, culminating a distinguished legal career.
Justice Hamaundu, born on January 16, 1960, has been a pillar of the Zambian judiciary for decades. Admitted to the Bar in 1983, he began his judicial journey in 1996 as a Resident Magistrate and steadily climbed the ranks. In May 2003, he was appointed High Court Judge and, in May 2014, ascended to the Supreme Court bench, where he has presided over some of the nation’s most complex legal cases.
In today’s judgment, Justice Hamaundu overturned Chishala’s 2014 conviction, citing a lack of sufficient evidence and procedural irregularities that undermined the fairness of the original trial. His ruling emphasized the judiciary’s duty to uphold justice and safeguard the rights of all individuals, regardless of the severity of the charges they face.
“This decision underscores the judiciary’s responsibility to ensure justice prevails above all else,” Justice Hamaundu stated. “As I conclude my service, I remain committed to the principles of fairness, impartiality, and the rule of law.”
The courtroom erupted in emotional scenes as Chishala, who had spent more than a decade on death row, was embraced by his family and supporters after the verdict. His acquittal has reignited conversations about the death penalty and judicial reform in Zambia.
Justice Hamaundu’s retirement draws to a close a remarkable career characterized by integrity and dedication. As the legal fraternity bids farewell to one of its most respected members, his final act of acquitting Chishala will undoubtedly stand as a testament to his commitment to justice.
