The Law Association of Zambia has condemned UPND president Hakainde Hichilema for accusing some Constitutional Court Judges of corruption without valid evidence.

In a statement today, LAZ president Linda Kasonde stated that it was wrong for HH to start accusing judges of corruption without lodging in a complaint with relevant authorities like the Judicial Complaints Commission where he could present his evidence against them.

Kasonde stated that the issuance of careless and unsubstantiated allegations of corruption against public officers had the potential of creating anarchy and eroding public confidence in institutions such as the Judiciary.

“The Law Association of Zambia is gravely concerned at very serious allegations that have been leveled against members of the Judiciary by United Party for National Development president Mr Hakainde Hichilema. In particular, LAZ is concerned about allegations of corruption on the following judges of the Constitutional Court: Judge Anne Mwewa Sitali, Judge Palan Musonda and Judge Mungeni Mulenga,” Kasonde stated.

“LAZ strongly condemns the making of any unsubstantiated claims, particularly of corruption, against any member of the judiciary. As LAZ has advised on several occasions, any member of the public with evidence of corruption against any judicial officer or public servant should lodge a complaint with the relevant authorities, such as the Judicial Complaints Commission, together with substantiated evidence.”

Kasonde implored the UPND leader to desist from making allegations against judicial officers without caution and consideration in future.

“LAZ, like any concerned member of the public is interested in the preservation of the Judiciary as an institution that is mandated to uphold the rule of law, justice and integrity in the nation. Judicial officers by virtue of their positions cannot publicly defend themselves. We therefore implore the UPND and the public in general to desist from making allegations against Judicial officers without caution, due care and consideration as careless and substantiated allegations have the potential of creating anarchy and eroding public confidence in this institution,” stated Kasonde.