‘Be not intoxicated by your office,’ Justice Mutuna counsels 14 new magistrates

With solemn oaths taken and robes newly donned, fourteen magistrates entered judicial office on Thursday, reminded from the onset that the power they assume must be exercised with humility, fairness and service to the public.

Presiding over the swearing-in ceremony in Lusaka, Supreme Court Justice, Nigel Kalonde Mutuna, cautioned the incoming judicial officers that the bench was not a pedestal but a seat of responsibility.

He administered the oath to one Resident Magistrate and thirteen Class III Magistrates.

Justice Mutuna underscored that the Constitution demanded justice that was timely, impartial and accessible to all. Citing Article 118, he stressed that courts exist to serve the people—not to intimidate them—and warned that delays and discriminatory practices undermine public trust in the justice system.

He encouraged the new magistrates to promote alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, noting that mediation often resolved conflicts more effectively than adversarial litigation, particularly in family or professional disputes where relationships must be preserved.

In one of the most reflective moments of his address, Justice Mutuna urged the magistrates to guard against being “intoxicated” by the respect and authority of their offices. He called on them to remain humble, respect every litigant regardless of appearance or status, and remain open to learning from unexpected sources.

“Exhibit humility as you discharge your functions,” he said. “You will be amazed at how much you can learn from those you least expect.”

He also encouraged them to find fulfilment in the judiciary, describing the profession as demanding but deeply rewarding when carried out with integrity and commitment.

Those sworn in were Resident Magistrate Mable Njekwa Mwaba and Class III Magistrates Amos Kasongo, Lawrence Phiri, Kasanga Muzala, Edmond Chipunda, Bertha Thandiwe Moyo, Ben Lucas Zulu, Mwamba Chisanga, Maudy Chilongo, Masola Simushi, Julia Zimbah, Elisha Thomson Banda and Joseph Kambenja.

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