More than 85 government lawyers have staged a sit-in at Capital Hill, now entering its second day, disrupting operations at key justice institutions including the Attorney General’s Office, the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, and the Registrar General’s Office.

The legal professionals are demanding a 100% increase in security, non-practicing and telephone allowances, introduction of housing benefits aligned with private sector standards and improved working conditions and career advancement opportunities.

Frustration is mounting among the lawyers who say the government has remained silent since receiving their petition on February 14.

“The Minister (Titus Mvalo) promised to respond by June 4, but we’re still in the dark,” one anonymous protester told our reporter during Wednesday's sit-in. “As long as our legitimate concerns remain unaddressed, we have no choice but to stay put.”

Ministry of Justice spokesperson Frank Namangale confirmed that the lawyers’ demands have been forwarded to the Department of Human Resource Management, but said he could not provide a clear timeline for resolution.

“The ministry has asked HR to consider these demands,” said Namangale.

The current protest follows a 2023 review that adjusted some allowances, but fell short of meeting the lawyers’ expectations.

With no breakthrough in negotiations, the legal professionals vow to continue their sit-in indefinitely, potentially disrupting court operations and justice delivery.

(Written By: Chisomo Chingwalu)