Zambia shuts top courts on final day opposition can contest election results

Zambia's top judicial facilities were closed on Monday, with police presence and a directive for staff to stay home, citing security concerns. This action coincided with the final day the opposition could submit a petition to the Constitutional Court contesting the August 13 presidential vote, in which Brian Mundubile placed second to incumbent Hakainde Hichilema. The filing deadline expires in the early hours of Tuesday, seven days after the results were announced.

Independent observers have raised questions about possible inflation of Hichilema's vote count, which he denies. Mundubile, who was recently summoned for questioning over alleged national-security threats, claims the accusations are fabricated. Human-rights lawyers and analysts suspect the court closure may be intended to block the challenge, while the president’s party maintains that Mundubile can still use the legal system. New Heritage Party president Chishala Kateka said the alliance is trying to file the petition despite the obstacles.