Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has stirred significant controversy following the dismissal of three top judges, days after they were suspended over claims of judicial misconduct. The judges—Justice Annie Sitali, Justice Mungeni Mulenga, and Justice Palan Mulonda—had previously ruled against Hichilema in a presidential petition from 2016 and participated in a contentious decision that allowed former President Edgar Lungu to run for office in 2021 despite prior terms.
This latest action against the judges was characterized by the presidency as an immediate removal based on a recommendation from the Judicial Complaints Commission (JCC). However, critics argue that Hichilema is encroaching on judicial independence, framing these dismissals as retaliation for unfavorable judicial rulings.
Political analysts and commentators express a split opinion on the matter. Advocate Makenbi Zulu labeled the dismissals as an "illegality," emphasizing the danger of punishing judges for executing their judicial duties. Others, like social commentator Laura Miti, acknowledge the judges’ prior misconduct while cautioning against the perception of revenge in Hichilema's decision.
Prior to this, calls for the judges' removal were dismissed by the JCC, highlighting a discrepancy in the treatment of complaints within Zambia’s judicial system. With the nation gearing up for a contentious 2026 electoral showdown between Hichilema and Lungu, concerns about political stability and judicial integrity loom large.
As the political landscape evolves, experts note the need for reform in the appointment process for judges to ensure the independence of the judiciary in lieu of executive influence.
