Chief Justice Mumba Malila says security has been heightened at the Judiciary following the alleged assault on former Patriotic Front (PF) secretary-general Davies Mwila at the Supreme Court grounds.
Meanwhile, Mwila has given his alleged attackers 30 days to apologise, saying he did not harm anyone during the incident.
Mwila, who described himself as a senior citizen, said he deserved to be treated with dignity.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Chief Justice Malila condemned the incident, describing it as a direct assault on the administration of justice and the sanctity of the Judiciary.
He said law enforcement agencies were investigating the matter and that those found responsible would be dealt with to the fullest extent of the law.
“Members of the public are expected to behave with the utmost decorum, respect, and dignity befitting the halls of justice. Unruly conduct and violence will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” Malila said.
The violence erupted shortly after proceedings in the Lima constituency election petition were adjourned, prompting the Chief Justice to warn that disorder and violence would not be tolerated within court premises.
The case involves United Party for National Development (UPND) candidate Lee Mukupa, who is challenging the election of New Republican Party (NRPUP) candidate Kelvin Kaunda as Lima Member of Parliament.
Kaunda won the seat with 22,760 votes against Mukupa’s 8,041.
Mwila, who attended the proceedings in solidarity with Kaunda, was allegedly attacked following a confrontation with individuals he identified as UPND supporters.
He is alleged to have mocked their “salt sana” slogan by making remarks about them being on empty stomachs.
However, Mwila maintained that he had remained calm throughout the confrontation and had not assaulted anyone.
“I have given the people who attacked me one month to come and apologise because I have not hurt anyone,” he said.
“All those who were involved, they have to report themselves to the police,” he added.
Mwila said he and his colleagues had attended court to show solidarity with Kaunda, but some individuals shouted remarks at him as they left the premises.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
The post Judiciary heightens security after attack on former PF secretary-general Mwila first appeared on Zambia Monitor.