The High Court proceedings in the Veterinary Cordon Fence (Red Line) case became heated when lawyers representing activist Professor Job Shipululo Amupanda announced their decision not to proceed with a previously indicated application for the recusal of Judge Shafimana Ueitele. 

This announcement came after Judge Ueitele had granted leave for the application to be filed and for the lawyers to testify under oath regarding their claims.

Judge Ueitele, visibly angered by the reversal, reprimanded the legal team - Mbushandje Ntinda and Kadhila Amoomo, instructing that their withdrawal of the recusal application be submitted in writing.

He stressed that the requirement mirrored their earlier demand for his orders to be formally documented.

The recusal application was reportedly prompted by remarks Judge Ueitele allegedly made in chambers, advising the plaintiff to refrain from calling judges "puppets and stooges." The plaintiff  initially argued that these remarks indicated bias. However, they have since opted to withdraw the application.

The case has also seen other developments, including the invalidation of subpoenas issued by the applicants to Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and incarcerated former Justice Minister Sacky Shanghala, who were called to testify. The subpoenas were deemed irregular as they were issued after the deadline set by the court.

The court has adjourned to allow the applicants time to file the official withdrawal in writing.

 The main case, centers on the constitutionality and alleged discriminatory implications of the Veterinary Cordon Fence.

Government is opposing the application,  scheduled for trial from 20 to 31 January 2025.