Chipenzi hails ConCourt decision

McDonald Chipenzi

McDonald Chipenzi has commended the decision by the constitutional court to extend the of days for the hearing of the Presidential Petition, describing it as a positive step towards promoting Electoral Justice in Zambia.

The former Foundation for Democratic Process (FODEP) executive director says the Constitutional Court exhibited a rare trait of responsiveness by exercising its responsibility and judgement correctly in interpreting the start and end of the 14 days provided for in the constitution.

“The Court’s quick realization and guidance on the trial period helped prevent, what would have been called an assault on electoral justice in the country,” Chipenzi said in a statement.

“Had the court insisted on trying, concluding and passing judgement on the presidential petition on the same day, then, it could have meant the snapping of the only ray of hope many citizens who feel aggrieved with the outcome of the 2016 general elections deposited in the Court.

“The extension of the time which came against some strong opposing legal current, will now accord the petitioners and respondents enough time to argue their case before the constitution court can make the judgement.”

Chipenzi observed that this being a crucial process of peaceful resolution of electoral disputes and being the first of its kind since 2001, due diligence is required to arrive a judgement that may satisfy majority citizens

He said it is the expectation of every citizen that the Constitutional Court will dispense justice fairly and freely to both the aggrieved and the defendants without fear or favour.

He called on Zambians to remain united, peaceful and expectant as the court deals with the petition.