President Hichilema Swears In Record 40 Judges, Clerk of Parliament

President Hakainde Hichilema has sworn in 40 judges to the Supreme Court, Constitutional Court, Court of Appeal and High Court , the largest judicial appointment in Zambia’s history. He described the move as a major step towards improving access to justice.

Among those elevated to the Supreme Court are Chalwe Mchenga, Abha Patel, Gertrude Chawatama and Butler Sitali. The Constitutional Court welcomed Pixie Yangailo, Vincent Siloka and Gertrude Imbwae, while Charles Zulu was sworn in as Deputy President of the Court of Appeal alongside six other judges.

The President also appointed Loveness Mayaka as Clerk of the National Assembly.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Hichilema urged the judiciary to speed up the delivery of justice, warning that delays harm citizens, businesses and national development. He said the unprecedented number of appointments was designed to ease pressure on the courts and ensure fair access to justice for all.

Notably, 26 of the new judges are women, a milestone the President hailed as an investment in justice and gender representation.

Mr. Hichilema also cautioned judges against discussing official matters on social media, stressing the need to uphold integrity and professionalism at all times.