Instead of undermining the integrity of the Judiciary, President Hichilema should promote civic engagement within our democracy, encouraging citizens to campaign for or against Edgar Lungu!
Lusaka, July 9 – The decision by the Judiciary to dismiss the preliminary objections raised by former President Edgar Lungu regarding his eligibility to contest in future elections makes very sad reading for everyone who loves democracy.
Also Read: Zambia’s Multiparty Democracy: A Hollow Celebration, Exposed by Hichilema’s Rise to Power! Democracy should not be reduced to manipulated voting as the case was in Kabushi and Kwacha by-elections. Democracy should, instead, represent sensible forms of citizens’ participation.
This is because democracy ought to be premised on a strong institutional framework which, clearly, has now been compromised. How can a highest court of appeal accept an appeal case disguised as a new case?
Prior to the said case, a series of prejudicial statements we made by President Hakainde Hichilema regarding former President Edgar Lungu’s eligibility to stand for President in 2026. They have been at the centre of the current controversy and have raised significant concerns about the state of democracy in the country.
We are discussing this issue because it is imperative for President Hichilema to uphold democratic values and respect the democratic process. The resilience of Zambia’s democracy hinges on the integrity of its governance institutions, which the Head of State has regrettably compromised.
The use of unpresidential and inappropriate language by President Hichilema such as “kutumpoko!” merely because of Edgar Lungu’s decision to stand again in 2026 is not only undemocratic but unacceptable for a national leader.
This behaviour, seemingly aimed at undermining the very fabric he is meant to protect, should not, however, come as a surprise. President Hichilema won’t stop at anything short of preserving his grip on his hold on to his waning political power. Political discourse, however, must remain respectful and constructive, avoiding threats and unconstitutional tactics.
The eligibility of President Edgar Lungu to stand for re-election in 2026, as earlier determined by the Constitutional Court, must be upheld out of respect for the Judiciary. The defense of his right to contest future elections should be rooted in a commitment to the rule of law, not personal opinions about his previous presidency.
Instead of undermining the integrity of the Constitutional Court, President Hichilema should promote civic engagement within our democracy. He should encourage all citizens to participate actively in the democratic process – by running for office, campaigning against candidates they oppose, and shaping the political landscape.
There is an urgent need for all Zambians to demonstrate patriotism by protecting and upholding democratic values, fostering civic engagement, and ensuring that political discourse remains respectful and inclusive. As we navigate our political future, a steadfast commitment to defending democracy and preserving national sovereignty will be crucial in shaping our path forward.
Also Read: Accountability for the Zambia Police’s incompetence rests with President Hichilema! Woodpecker’s Digest perceives the suggestion by President Hichilema of involving the Zambia Army in maintaining law and order as a deliberate step towards distancing the country from democratic norms.
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