THE government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting an independent and well-researched justice system to safeguard Zambia’s democratic values ahead of the 2026 General Elections.

Speaking at the 4th National Annual Prosecutors Conference organised by the National Prosecutions Authority (NPA) in Lusaka, Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha urged over 500 prosecutors to serve as guardians of democracy by ensuring cases are processed expeditiously, emphasising that this is both a moral and constitutional duty.

He emphasised that democracy extends beyond the electoral process or citizen participation in elections, it also places responsibility on relevant authorities to protect the rule of law.

“Democracy does not end with the right of citizens to vote; it goes further to place responsibility on our institutions, to protect the rule of law,” he stated.

Earlier in his opening remarks, Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Gilbert Phiri, called on prosecutors to commit to building a system where the law is not just a mere document but a true shield against violence towards women in elections.

And Gender Division Permanent Secretary, Mainga Kabika, noted that the President has ensured that the government’s system responds to the people’s needs, citing the President’s call for the inclusion of women in decision-making spaces.

UNDP Resident Coordinator, James Wakiaga, commended the country’s justice sector for its continued commitment to upholding justice, accountability and institutional integrity, emphasising that prosecutors play a critical role in constitutional democracies like Zambia.