The roll-out of a digital case management system by the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) will facilitate better case management and reduce delays in public prosecutions, enhancing respect for human rights standards.
This came to light when Human Rights Commission of Zambia (HRC-Z) Chairperson, Dr. Pamela Towela Sambo paid a courtesy call on the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Mr. Gilbert Phiri, Monday 2nd February 2026.
The Chairperson was accompanied by the Vice Chairperson, Dr. Felicity Kalunga, Commissioner Bishop Emmanuel Chikoya, Commissioner Panic Malawo Chilufya, Commissioner Laura Miti, and Commissioner Father Joe Komakoma. The Secretariat, led by Director General, Ms. Mbololwa Wamunyima, was also part of the delegation.
During the courtesy call, Dr. Sambo highlighted human rights concerns arising from delays in bringing accused persons promptly before court.
She also expressed concern over delayed trials and adjournments resulting from the challenges encountered during the gathering and processing of evidence as well as in securing prosecution witnesses.
Dr. Sambo said the delays impact on the rights of accused persons, particularly the rights to a fair trial, secure protection of the law and personal liberty.
The DPP disclosed that the roll-out of the digital case management System would significantly improve the management of criminal matters by enhancing docket integrity, real-time docket tracing and supervision.
Mr. Phiri added that the system was being piloted in Lusaka district and plans were underway to roll it out to other districts within the year 2026.
He said there were also other measures being implemented to enhance NPA’s efficiency including increasing the number of Public Prosecutors countrywide.
The two institutions liaised on a number of areas of law and policy reform to enhance their collaboration in the promotion and protection of human rights.
