Dickson Jere supports new Zambia Lands and Environment Court

Dickson Jere, a prominent Zambian lawyer and former Presidential Press Aide, has expressed support for the planned establishment of a specialized Lands and Environment Court within the High Court. Jere noted that land-related cases have historically congested the court system, making specialized attention necessary for more expeditious resolutions.

However, Jere emphasized the need for synchronization between the new court and the existing Lands Tribunal. He raised concerns regarding the current efficiency of the Lands Tribunal, noting that its effectiveness is hindered because members are part-time and do not sit daily across the country.

Beyond judicial changes, Jere argued that land disputes in Zambia are often administrative in nature. He attributed many issues to inadequate management processes at various levels, specifically citing local authorities and councillors who may treat land as a commodity for political survival. He also noted that while the 2016 Constitutional Amendment established a Lands Commission, successive governments have failed to operationalize it.