CCLJ commends choice of chief justice

The Center For Constitutionalism And Legal Justice Has Commended President Hakainde Hichilema On His Choice Of Chief Justice Of The Republic Of Zambia.

Centre Director Isaac Mwanza Says Justice Mumba Malila, State Counsel Is Among The Oldest Serving Members Of The Supreme Court Bench Who Joined The Supreme Court Bench Much Earlier Than Even The Current Acting Chief Justice.

Mr. Mwanza Says The Appointment Of Justice Malila Is A Rare Expression Of Appointment On Merits On The Part Of President Hichilema In Which He Recognizes And Rewards Experience.

He Mentions That The President Could Have Appointed Among So Many People Who Meet Minimum Qualification, Including Those Who Have Never Argued A Single Case From The Time They Were Admitted To The Legal Bar But The President Chose Experience Over Political Experience.

He Charges That Once Justice Malila Is Ratified And Sworn In, Expectations Are That He Shall Promote Effective And Efficient Delivery Of Justice But Should Also Strive To Rise Above Any Personal Interests To Defend The Rights And Liberties Of All Zambians.

He Notes That Justice Malila Is Expected To Defend The Independence Of The Judiciary And Build The Capacity Of Existing Courts Rather Than Get The Temptation To Create More Parallel Courts.

He Says The Center Believes That Mr. Malila Must Show Leadership Among Judges Who Are On Social Media By Avoiding Displaying Their Political Views Publicly Which Prejudice The Manner The Public May Look At Judges.