Zambia shuts down its court system

Rights organisations and the Zambian Law Association called for an urgent explanation on Thursday after the government ordered a complete shutdown of the nation’s court system, halting all judicial proceedings nationwide. Officials cited unspecified security concerns, but the abrupt closure left pending cases in limbo and prompted protests outside the High Court in Lusaka, where lawyers demanded clarity on the duration and legal basis for the measure.

In neighbouring Guinea, rescue teams continued efforts to recover bodies after a massive landfill collapse on Monday claimed dozens of lives, with officials estimating the death toll could rise as recovery operations progress. The disaster, triggered by heavy rains that destabilised the waste heap, has left the community in shock and prompted calls for stricter waste‑management regulations.

Meanwhile, Nigeria mourned the passing of veteran Nollywood actor Ogogo, who died of cancer earlier this week. A funeral attended by thousands of grieving fans and local dignitaries was held in his hometown, where he was laid to rest amid heartfelt tributes to his contributions to the film industry. Authorities confirmed the burial proceeded in accordance with the family’s wishes, concluding the week’s series of somber events across the region.