Zambia Courts Shut Ahead of Election Petition Deadline

Sun Sep 06 2026 01:37:43 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Zambia’s courts are sealed before the deadline to file a petition against the presidential election results, raising concerns over access to justice.

Court venues across Zambia, including the High Court and Supreme Court, have been closed with armed police guarding the gates as the deadline for filing an election petition approaches. Opposition leader Brian Mundubile, after securing 38% of the vote, plans to challenge the results amid threats and ongoing unrest. The closures have sparked criticism over judicial independence and raised worries that the last‑minute petition could delay President Hakainde Hichilema’s inauguration on 1 September. Law associations and political observers warn that the move threatens access to justice and could impact the nation’s democratic process.

Zambia Courts Shut Ahead of Election Petition Deadline

Court buildings in Lusaka and other cities have been sealed off as the window for filing a petition over the presidential election’s outcome draws to a close.

Opposition candidate Brian Mundubile said he would challenge the election result.

The opposition’s Brian Mundubile, who finished second with 38% of the vote, plans to contest the results in court. Incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema secured 60% and is set to be inaugurated on 1 September.

Mundubile has been kept in a secure location after a series of violent incidents, including the shooting of an opposition figure and the arrest of several rivals.

Lawyers who arrived at the courts on Monday were told to leave, and armed personnel approached vehicles, citing “security” concerns. The High Court, Supreme Court and constitutional bodies have all been closed.

The Ministry of Justice sent a directive to staff to stay off-site, with no official explanation of the closures or expected reopening date.

Critics say the shutdown threatens access to justice and could be a tactic to block Mundubile’s petition during the critical seven‑day period leading up to an election nullification.

The Law Association of Zambia and rights groups urge an independent investigation of the closures and the incidents that sparked the political turmoil.

Despite these disruptions, preparations for Hichilema’s inauguration continue, with media invited to inspect arrangements at National Heroes Stadium.

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