BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-A Blantyre court has ruled that Dutch national Wim Akster has a case to answer on five counts of sodomy and gross indecency.
The Chief Resident Magistrate Court, led by Magistrate Paul Chiotcha, determined that the State has presented sufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case against Akster.
Akster, a former Finance Director at Timotheos Foundation, is accused of sexually abusing beneficiaries of a bursary scheme, including former employees.
The charges relate to allegations of having carnal knowledge of another man against the order of nature, as well as forcing individuals to engage in acts such as kissing and fondling private parts.
The court heard testimony from seven witnesses, all of whom were cross-examined by the defence team.
Akster has denied all charges, and his lawyer, Micheal Goba Chipeta, has requested 21 days to consult with his client on the way forward.
Magistrate Chiotcha granted the request, and the case is expected to return to court on May 20, 2026, with Akster remaining on bail.
The case has sparked controversy, with some arguing that it highlights the need for Malawi to reconsider its laws on same-sex relationships.
Akster had previously petitioned the Constitutional Court to decriminalise homosexuality, but the court dismissed the application.
The State is being represented by Victor Jere, who has accused Akster of employing delaying tactics in the case. The defence team has denied these allegations.
The trial is being closely watched by human rights groups and the international community, with many calling for justice for the alleged victims.
