The Ndola High Court has ordered the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development to stay its decision to forfeit the liquor licences of Club 1818 and Signature Pub.
The ministry had earlier moved to forfeit the licences on grounds of noise pollution following complaints raised by members of the Indian community residing in the Kanini area.
However, in a ruling delivered before the Ndola High Court, the court granted a stay of execution, temporarily halting the enforcement of the ministry’s decision until the matter is fully heard and concluded.
The court has also granted the applicants leave to commence judicial review proceedings, allowing them to formally challenge the legality of the ministry’s action.
The development brings temporary relief to over 60 workers employed at the two entertainment establishments, whose jobs had been thrown into uncertainty following the forfeiture decision.
The matter will now proceed for a substantive hearing before the High Court.
By Lovemore Sondashi
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