DPP, Phiri, seeks court approval for electronic service of court documents in defamation case against Mutambo

Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Gilbert Phiri, SC, has asked the Lusaka High Court to allow him to serve court documents electronically in a defamation lawsuit he has filed against UK-based Zambian social media influencer, Lillian Mutambo.

Phiri, through his lawyers, applied for leave to serve the writ of summons outside Zambia and for substituted service via email and courier.

He argued that Mutambo was domiciled in the United Kingdom and may be difficult to reach for personal service.

According to documents before court, the DPP commenced the lawsuit after Mutambo allegedly published false and malicious statements on her Facebook page, Lily Mutamz TV, on October 7, 2025.

The posts accused Mr Phiri of favouring Maria Zaloumis, popularly known as “Zed Farmer,” by reducing her charge from murder to manslaughter and granting her bail in a case involving the death of Enock Simfukwe.

Mutambo, who described herself as Mr Phiri’s former student, further labelled him a “bully,” “narcissist,” and “corrupt,” alleging that he used his office to protect Zaloumis and other politically connected individuals.

The posts were viewed more than 1,500 times and widely circulated on social media.

In his affidavit, Mr Phiri said the remarks injured his reputation, undermined his integrity in the administration of justice, and amounted to a tort committed within the jurisdiction of the Zambian courts.

He also outlined several additional statements Mutambo allegedly published, including claims that he bullied her as a teacher, mocked her appearance, and acted out of personal bias in Zaloumis’ case.

She further implied that the justice system had been compromised for political interests.

Phiri told the court that he intends to serve Mutambo through her known email address, lilymutamztv@gmail.com, which she uses on her Facebook and YouTube platforms, both operating under the name Lily Mutamz TV.

He added that he would also use courier service via DHL as a supplementary measure, although personal receipt at her physical address could not be guaranteed.

“I have a right of relief against the intended defendant,” Phiri stated in his affidavit, arguing that electronic service was the most practical and effective method under the circumstances.

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