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By Peter AdamuPresident Edgar Lungu has taken a bold decision and has since written to the National Assembly nominating a new Chief Justice in Ireen Mambilima taking over from Lombe Chibesakunda who has controversially acted in that capacity for three years.
Chibesakunda's nomination was rejected by the National Assembly on account of illegibilty because of her age but she continued until now when Zambia elected a new President.
A source at parliament has disclosed in an exclusive interview with Zambia Reports that President Lungu has nominated Deputy Chief Justice Ireen Mambilima who is also Electoral Commission of Zambia chairperson as New Chief Justice.
Another source at the Law Association of Zambia who has confirmed seing the letter said the move was long over due.
"We are very excited as LAZ as you are aware that we have even sued the state over the matter because Madam Lombe Chibesakunda does not qualify as she retired long time ago," the source said.
On the nomination of Mambilima as Chief Justice, the LAZ source said Mambilima was the substantive Deputy Chief Justice but was just seconded to ECZ.
"She was ratified by Parliament as Deputy Chief Justice so the rules of natural justice entails that she is the next Chief Justice. The President has made an excellent decision," the source said.
President Lungu is winning the hearts of many Zambians including those who did not vote for him by making decision widely viewed are in the interest of the nation. He appointed Inonge Wina as the country's first Vice-President much to the delight of the country.
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