‘Attack on Davies Mwila Strikes at the Dignity of the Courts’ - Amos Chanda

Former State House press aide and diplomat Amos Chanda has described the confrontation involving former Patriotic Front secretary-general Davies Mwila at the Supreme Court in Lusaka as an affront to the dignity of the Judiciary, calling for swift police action against those responsible.

Chanda argues that the location of the incident makes it particularly serious, as it occurred at the country’s highest court.

He points to Chief Justice Mumba Malila’s condemnation of the incident as “flagrant lawlessness” and an assault on the administration of justice, saying the response from the Judiciary was appropriate.

Chanda argues that violence within court premises threatens the respect and order expected at institutions responsible for administering justice.

He also raises concern that such conduct could extend beyond members of the public to witnesses, observers and, potentially, judicial officers if it is not addressed.

The commentator calls on the Zambia Police Service to act on the Chief Justice’s demand for those responsible to be arrested. He says the videos capturing the incident could assist efforts to identify the individuals involved.

Chanda further notes that the United Party for National Development (UPND) has condemned the incident and distanced itself from those involved.

He concludes that restoring the dignity of the courts requires urgent action to ensure that political disagreements do not lead to violence within judicial premises.

The incident occurred after proceedings in the Lima Constituency election petition were adjourned. Mwila had attended the hearing in support of Member of Parliament Kelvin Kaunda.

The circumstances surrounding the confrontation and the responsibility of those involved remain matters for investigation. The police had not publicly named any suspects in reports regarding the incident.