UPND ASKS CONCOURT TO DISMISS THE ELIGIBILITY PETITION
The United Party for National Development (UPND) Secretary General Batuke Imenda and President Hakainde Hichilema have petitioned the Constitutional Court to dismiss a challenge against the President’s eligibility for the upcoming General Election, labeling it an abuse of the court process.
In their defense, submitted through lawyers Michael Moono and State Counsel Mulambo Haimbe, they contend that the issues raised in the petition are already being addressed in another court, thereby calling for its dismissal with costs.
They have also raised questions regarding the court’s jurisdiction and the petitioner’s legal standing to initiate the case.
Moreover, the respondents refuted allegations that President Hichilema’s adoption by UPND was improper.
They affirmed that the party held intra-party elections from January to April 2026, culminating in a General Assembly and National Convention from April 14 to 16, where he was legitimately adopted in accordance with both party procedures and legal requirements.