Zimbabwean politician and lawyer David Coltart has questioned Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema over a controversial judicial development.
Coltart raised concerns after reports emerged about the closure of Zambia’s High Courts. The development comes amid tensions surrounding disputed electoral processes.
The outspoken Zimbabwean had previously congratulated Hichilema following his election victory. However, recent events appear to have prompted Coltart to scrutinise developments more closely.
Coltart demands answers from Hichilema
Taking to X, Coltart directly addressed the Zambian president over the reported court closures.
“President @HHichilema I hope this story is false,” Coltart wrote.
He then urged Hichilema to investigate the situation and address growing concerns surrounding judicial independence.
“I urge you to investigate what is happening as this looks bad,” he added.
Coltart also warned that the situation could damage Hichilema’s standing among democrats across Africa.
“It makes it hard for democrats across Africa to support your government,” he said.
His comments represent a notable shift from his earlier support for Hichilema. Coltart had initially welcomed the Zambian leader’s election and democratic mandate.
David Coltart’s stance on Hakainde Hichilema appears to shift as he questions Zambia’s disputed elections and High Courts closure.
Judicial independence under scrutiny
Coltart’s latest intervention highlights growing concerns about the relationship between politics and judicial institutions.
He argued that there could be no legitimate reason for interfering with the judicial process.
“There can be no justification for the interference with judicial process,” Coltart stated.
The comments are particularly significant because Coltart understands Zimbabwe’s political and legal landscape. He has repeatedly advocated for strong democratic institutions and judicial independence.
Therefore, his criticism carries weight beyond Zambia’s borders.
The reported court closures could further intensify debate about Zambia’s democratic credentials. They may also raise questions about how electoral disputes are handled through the courts.
For now, Coltart wants clear answers from Hichilema.
His intervention also signals that international supporters are watching developments in Zambia closely. Meanwhile, pressure will likely grow for the government to explain the circumstances surrounding the courts.
The post ‘I hope this story is false’: David Coltart questions Hakainde Hichilema appeared first on iHarare News.
