By Jones Gadama

The Industrial Relations Court (IRC) has ruled that Press Corporation Limited (PCL) must pay 70 percent of the K14.1 billion awarded to its three former executives, despite the company’s application to suspend the earlier ruling pending an appeal.

The three former executives, George Partridge, Elizabeth Mafeni, and Benard Ndau, were awarded significant sums by the IRC on April 25, 2025, after the court ruled in their favor.

According to the court’s ruling, Benard Ndau is set to receive K2.7 billion, George Partridge will get K3.2 billion, and Elizabeth Mafeni will be awarded K8.2 billion.

The court’s decision to order PCL to pay 70 percent of the total award, amounting to approximately K9.87 billion, is a significant development in the case.

The IRC’s ruling suggests that the court is confident in the legitimacy of its earlier determination and is unwilling to entirely suspend the award pending PCL’s appeal. This decision puts pressure on PCL to comply with the court’s ruling and make the required payments to its former executives.

The case highlights the importance of adhering to employment contracts and the potential consequences of failing to do so.

The former executives’ victory in the IRC is a testament to the court’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and ensuring that employers honor their obligations.

PCL’s application to suspend the ruling pending an appeal indicates that the company intends to contest the court’s decision.

However, the IRC’s order to pay 70 percent of the award suggests that the court believes the former executives are entitled to the compensation awarded to them.

The outcome of this case will be closely watched, particularly in the business and labor sectors, as it has implications for employment law and practices in Malawi.

As the situation unfolds, it will be essential to monitor the developments and the potential impact on PCL and its stakeholders.