Court rules inauguration of Zambian President Edgar Lungu can go ahead
LUSAKA — Zambia’s Supreme Court has rejected an application by the main opposition party to stop President Edgar Lungu’s inauguration, set for Tuesday after August’s contested election, a lawyer for the opposition leader said on Monday.The election row — which followed violence between rival campaign supporters in what is otherwise considered one of Africa’s most stable democracies — could damage Zambia’s ability to attract investment critical to reviving the economy."The court has declined to grant the application on grounds that as a single judge, he has no jurisdiction," Keith Mweemba, a lawyer for opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema told journalists.Lungu’s inauguration after the August 11 election was postponed because Hichilema challenged the result in court, saying the vote was rigged.A law introduced in January says the winner of a presidential vote cannot be sworn in if their victory is contested in court.On Friday, the Lusaka High Court threw out an attempt by opposition ...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.