The Electoral Commission of Zambia declared incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema the winner of the August 13 presidential election. His closest challenger, Brian Mundubile, received 38% of the vote according to official results. Mundubile and his National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity (NRPUP) have announced multiple times that they will challenge the election outcome and "shall not relent" despite obstacles.

However, since August 24, all courts in Zambia have remained closed until further notice, with officials citing "security concerns." This unprecedented closure has raised serious questions about opposition access to judicial election safeguards during a critical post-election period, especially as reports of irregularities continue to emerge.

The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) has called for the urgent restoration of court access and alternative arrangements for urgent cases. LAZ President Arnold Kaluba emphasized that security measures must not undermine access to justice or judicial independence, stating that such measures must be lawful, proportionate, and respect the judiciary's constitutional autonomy.

Zambia's Chief Justice Mumba Malila acknowledged on August 25 that he received documents described as a presidential election petition via his private email address, marking a new development in the ongoing dispute.

Hichilema's chief communications specialist, Clayson Hamasaka, described the security measures as "intelligence-led and preventive," involving multiple government institutions beyond the courts, aimed at protecting officials, institutions, and the public.

Concerns about access to justice and public confidence remain strong. Maurice Nyambe, Zambia Executive Director of Transparency International, highlighted the need for stronger, accessible, and trusted institutions to peacefully resolve political disputes. He warned that delays in the right to a fair trial increase risks of arbitrary detentions and block access to remedies.

Weeks after the election, Zambia’s election story remains unresolved, underscoring the ongoing test for democracy in the country.

Sources