Chief Justice Condemns Violence at Supreme Court After Davies Mwila’s Alleged Assault

Chief Justice Dr Mumba Malila has condemned violence on the Supreme Court grounds as “flagrant lawlessness” after former Patriotic Front secretary general Davies Mwila alleged that he was attacked following court proceedings involving an election petition.

In a statement issued by the Judiciary, Dr Malila described the incident as a direct assault on the administration of justice and the sanctity of the Judiciary.

The condemnation follows allegations by Mwila, who said he and his colleagues had attended court to show solidarity with Lima Member of Parliament Kelvin Kaunda in connection with an election petition.

Mwila said that as they were leaving the court premises after proceedings, some individuals began shouting remarks at him, leading to an altercation with Clement Tembo. He alleges that he was attacked and assaulted during the confrontation.

The full circumstances of the incident, including what triggered the altercation and who was responsible for any assault, remain unclear. The allegations have not been independently verified, and the police investigation is ongoing.

Mwila has given those he accuses of attacking and harassing him 30 days to publicly apologise. He has also urged the individuals involved to report themselves to the police.

The Judiciary said courts remain open and accessible to members of the public, but visitors are expected to conduct themselves with decorum, respect and dignity. It warned that unruly behaviour and violence would not be tolerated within court premises.

It further disclosed that security at Judiciary facilities had been intensified to protect judicial officers, staff and members of the public.

Law enforcement agencies are investigating the incident, according to the Judiciary, which said those found responsible would be dealt with to the fullest extent of the law.

The incident has drawn attention to the need to maintain order and protect the integrity of court proceedings, particularly when politically sensitive matters are before the courts.