Zambia Courts Seal Off Ahead of Election Petition Deadline

In Lusaka and across the country, court premises have been cordoned off by police as the deadline to file an election petition nears. Five days after the November 13 presidential vote, opposition leader Brian Mundubile announced his intention to challenge the results in court, citing alleged irregularities.

Policemen have closed the High Court, the Supreme Court, and several local courts. Lawyers who arrived at the sites were asked to leave, and one was threatened by armed men who identified themselves before telling him to depart.

Mundubile finished second with 38% of the vote, while incumbent Hakainde Hichilema secured a second term with 60%. The petition deadline—Monday—must be met for the court to consider the challenge, which could affect Hichilema’s scheduled inauguration on September 1.

The post‑election period has been marred by controversy: opposition figures have been arrested, a former minister was killed in a security raid, and rights groups call for an independent investigation.

Amnesty International described the killing as “deeply alarming” and demanded a prompt, thorough investigation. The Zambia Law Association echoed these concerns, calling for transparency in the judicial process.

European Union observers noted that a heavy military presence and reports of intimidation could have turned the election into an uneven contest. They urged maximal transparency and criticized the lack of published polling‑station results.

Despite the tense legal backdrop, arrangements for the September 1 inauguration are progressing. A cabinet official will inspect the National Heroes Stadium, where the ceremony is expected to take place.

All eyes remain on the judiciary and the fate of Zambia’s democratic process.