JCC calls for reforms in the appointment of judges

The Judicial Complaints Commission (JCC) has called for reforms in the way Judges are appointed to the bench in the country.

JCC Chairperson, Vincent Malambo says there is need for a transparent and merit based system to appoint Judges in the country through a broader participation to ensure equity in the delivery of justice that will give public confidence in the system.

Mr Malambo says one of the cases the commission handled indicates a clear failure of the judicial appointment system where a complaint was already known before ratification of a named judge.

He notes the need to send a clear message that there is no place for corrupt judges in Zambia.

Mr Malambo says the general public can help by providing information during the verification stage in the appointment of judges so that people of integrity and credibility are appointed to the bench.

And receiving the reports at State House today, President Hakainde Hichilema said appropriate action will be taken in line with the provisions of the law.

The Head of State says no person in the country is above the law and that judges found to be corrupt will be dealt with in line with the constitutional provisions.

President Hichilema assured the JCC that his administration will not interfere with the operations of the Judiciary, but will ensure that erring and compromised judges are appropriately dealt with by law.

The President notes that Judges are held in high esteem by society and viewed as infallible to corruption.

Mr Hichilema hoped that the work of the JCC would be able to foster public confidence in the judiciary with regards to appointment of judges and delivery of justice.