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The Judiciary of Zambia has denied false social media claims alleging that Chief Justice Dr. Mumba Malila has resigned.
In a press statement issued on Monday, Judiciary of Zambia Deputy Director for Corporate Communications Kalumba Slavin, said the information circulating online claiming that Malila had resigned on account of an alleged disagreement relating to the passage of over 70 Bills by Parliament was fake.
“The public is advised that the statement being circulated is fake. The signature attributed to the Hon. Chief Justice is forged, and the format used does not reflect the official communication standards of the Judiciary,” the statement read.
Slavin noted that the Chambers of the Chief Justice operated with its own distinct letterhead, separate from that of the Office of the President or any other institution.
She advised that any document purporting to originate from the Chambers should be verified through official Judiciary communication channels.
“While acknowledging that citizens are entitled to freedom of expression, the Judiciary said such freedom must be exercised responsibly,” Slavin stated.
She said the spread of misinformation had the potential to mislead citizens, undermine public confidence in State institutions, and create unnecessary alarm.
Slavin also warned that those who abused social media platforms for harassment, exploitation, disinformation, fraud, or the deliberate spreading of falsehoods may face legal consequences.
“Those who abuse these platforms must be aware that their actions may attract legal consequences, as the law provides mechanisms to hold individuals accountable for such conduct,” she said.
Slavin reaffirmed the Judiciary’s commitment to upholding transparency, the rule of law, and the integrity of its offices, and urged the public to rely on verified information issued through official Judiciary platforms.
She was responding to a letter dated May, 7, 2026, addressed to President Hakainde Hichilema and purporting to be from the Chief Justice’s Chambers, stating that it was a formal notice of resignation from the office of Chief Justice.
The letter cites continued concerns regarding the passage of laws in Parliament by Members of Parliament whose eligibility to participate remains in question and notes the author’s conscience was not at peace on these matters.
It also expressed concern over growing public perception surrounding the handling of politically sensitive matters before various courts and the impact on the reputation and integrity of judicial officers and the Judiciary as a whole.
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