A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal
Judicial Independence Through Accountability: Why and How to Remove Judges in Zambia
Authors: Phiri, Christopher
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Publication year: 2025
Journal: Journal of African Law
ISSN: 0021-8553
eISSN: 1464-3731
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/s0021855325000026
Web address : https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-african-law/article/judicial-independence-through-accountability-why-and-how-to-remove-judges-in-zambia/BA1095C3132AC45E9799C2CF3FE557F1
Self-archived copy’s web address: https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/491427253
Zambia has recently witnessed the removal of four High Court judges within a period of less than two years, raising questions about the country's commitment to judicial independence. This article examines the extent to which the current legal framework governing the removal of judges in Zambia coheres with the principles of judicial accountability and independence. Drawing upon insights from relevant international standards and scholarly literature, the article posits that the removal of judges is not only a necessary mechanism for judicial accountability but should also be seen as an essential safeguard for judicial independence. Its analysis suggests that some of the grounds for removal and the lack of adequate procedural safeguards within the current legal framework pose threats to both judicial accountability and independence. The article concludes with a call for necessary legal reform, urging policymakers to bring the framework in line with relevant international standards.
Downloadable publication This is an electronic reprint of the original article. |