The Constitutional Court is expected to deliver judgment at 14:00 hours today in a petition challenging President Hakainde Hichilema’s candidature in the August 13 General Election.
UPND member Charles Longwe is seeking to nullify the Electoral Commission of Zambia’s acceptance of President Hichilema’s nomination, arguing that the party’s adoption process was conducted by officials whose mandates had allegedly expired.
He has also questioned the validity of meetings that reportedly endorsed the President’s candidature.
The petition is against UPND Secretary General Batuke Imenda, President Hakainde Hichilema, the Electoral Commission of Zambia, the Registrar of Societies and the Attorney General.
All five respondents have opposed the action and asked the court to dismiss it with costs, arguing that the nomination process complied with the law and that the issues raised relate to UPND’s internal affairs rather than the President’s constitutional eligibility.
Following submissions from both sides, the Constitutional Court adjourned the matter and is scheduled to deliver its judgment this afternoon.
By Josphat Hamakala
