ECL CALLS FOR INDEPENDENCE OF JUDICIARY TO PROTECT RULE OF LAW
FORMER President Edgar Lungu has said commitment to safeguard and respect the Judiciary, rule of law as well as the respect of the doctrine of separation of powers should be adhered to by all.
Former President Lungu says South Africa has become a shining example in the respect of the rule of law, the doctrine of the separation of powers after its Judiciary ruled that its former President Jacob Zuma was eligible to contest the presidency in the upcoming elections under uMkhonto WeSizwe party.
Mr Lungu President said in a world where others were questioning the ability of some countries to put clear and distinct differences between the roles of the Executive, Legislature and the Judiciary, the South African Judiciary had displayed admirable high regard for constitutional integrity.
He said in a statement yesterday that although Zambia’s democracy was a work in progress and would most likely see more reform in the future, Zambia should take a leaf out of South Africa’s book.
“By doing so, we shall strengthen our democracy and foster a more just and equitable society. As, I have always emphasised, the independence of the judiciary is a cornerstone of any democracy. Without it, the principles of justice, democratic governance and rule of law become sharply compromised and completely undermined,” former President Lungu said.
The former President stated that the South African Judiciary had clearly reinstated core fundamentals of democracy and good governance by ensuring that all eligible and qualified candidates were given equal and fair chance to participate in the electoral process.
“As we celebrate the win and qualification of our beloved Copper Queens to the Paris 2024 Olympics, allow me to extend my heartfelt congratulations to President Jacob Zuma and the South African Judiciary on the decision by the Electoral Court of Appeal to allow the former President to contest upcoming elections on the “uMkhonto WeSizwe” party’s Parliamentary candidate list, as commendable, admirable and inspiring,” former President Lungu said.