LAZ Welcomes Reopening of Courts

By Justine Akakulubelwa

The Law Association of Zambia – LAZ has welcomed the reopening of the courts saying the move will restore access to justice and registry services for legal practitioners, litigants and members of the public.

Briefing the media in Lusaka today, LAZ President ARNOLD KALUBA, however said the reopening of the courts does not resolve questions surrounding the interruption or its impact on litigants and legal practitioners.

Mr KALUBA said the three-day closure has raised concerns over access to justice.

He said LAZ has taken note of a public statement from State House indicating that the Executive did not sanction or direct the closure of the courts, adding that the Association has no reason at this stage to doubt the assertion.

Mr. KALUBA has called on the Judiciary to immediately issue clear directions on how applications, filings and deadlines affected by the closure will be treated, including safeguards for those unable to comply.

He said while genuine security concerns may justify restricting physical access to court premises, such measures must be proportionate and accompanied by alternative arrangements for urgent applications and essential filings.