Fri, 11 Aug 2017 11:22:57 +0000
By Aaron Chiyanzo
THE Judiciary has banned cadres from entering or going near the Lusaka High Court premises on Monday as the awaited treason case for UPND leader Hakainde Hichilema comes up, where he is expected to take plea.
In a statement made available to the Daily Nation, Judiciary public relations officer Veronica Chisambisha said cadres had been advised to stay away from the court premises to ensure security.
Ms Chisambisha said that the ban included all supporters to stay away due to limited space in the court premises.
She explained that the Judiciary would accredit all persons who would have access to the public gallery in the courtroom.
“No party cadres from any political party will be allowed onto the court premises or in their vicinity.
Organisations and political parties are free to approach the office of the chief registrar to obtain accreditation for their members.
“The office of chief registrar will also facilitate accreditation for counsels, journalists and observers,” said Ms Chisambisha. Ms Chisambisha also emphasised that as per circular of August last year, no party regalia would be allowed on the court premises.
She pointed out that cellphones, tablets, ipads, cameras or such similar devices would not be allowed in the Supreme Court room number one.
“This measure applies to journalists and legal counsels. Any breach of the said measure may result in accreditation being cancelled and the person in breach being ejected from the court premises,” she warned.
Ms Chisambisha said that only persons with court business, and those accredited, should come to the court on Monday, August 14.
“Trial in all listed cases will start on such dates as will be set by the judges during the opening of the session. A total of 30 cases will be presided over by two judges,” she said.
