By GRACE CHAILE
COURT proceedings at the Lusaka Subordinate Court were yesterday disrupted because of a water shortage that hit the court premises, leading to the adjournment of several cases.
Chief Resident Magistrate Davies Chibwili confirmed the situation, stating that efforts were underway to resolve the issue and have water restored.
One of the affected cases was that of former Lusaka Province Minister Bowman Lusambo, who is facing charges related to the possession of tainted properties. When the matter came up for continued cross-examination of the defence, Lusambo’s legal team requested an adjournment. Defence counsel Charles Changano informed the court that both the defence and prosecution were prepared to proceed.
However, upon arrival, they were advised that the lack of water posed health and sanitation concerns, particularly in the holding cells. “We were informed that water was a challenge, and the situation could inconvenience our client (Lusambo). The sanitation in the holding cells is not conducive. We have agreed to adjourn the matter to Friday to allow time for the situation to be addressed,” Mr Changano said.
The State did not object to the request and Magistrate Chibwili granted the adjournment, acknowledging the concerns. He assured all parties that steps were being taken to restore water supply at the court.
Other cases affected by the water shortage included that of Patriotic Front secretary general Raphael Nakacinda, who is facing sedition charges linked to his alleged remarks about the government importing maize contaminated with aflatoxins.
The case involving Ndozo Lodge proprietor Chrint Sichamba, his wife, and son, who have pleaded not guilty to 15 counts of possessing property suspected to be proceeds of crime was also delayed.
