LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Principal Resident Magistrate’s Court in Lilongwe has granted bail to Leader of Opposition in Parliament Simplex Chithyola Banda.

The court ordered Chithyola Banda to pay a MK2 million cash bail bond as part of his release conditions.

In addition, he is required to provide two sureties who are each bonded at MK5 million, non-cash.

As part of the bail terms, the opposition leader must report to police every second Wednesday of the month.

The court further directed Chithyola Banda to surrender his travel documents to the court upon his return from Namibia.

The bail ruling was delivered in Lilongwe following his appearance before the Principal Resident Magistrate’s Court.

Details of the charges against Chithyola Banda were not immediately outlined during the bail hearing, but the court proceeded to consider and grant bail pending further proceedings.

The conditions set by the court are meant to ensure his availability for trial while allowing him to remain out of custody.

Reporting obligations and the surrender of travel documents are standard measures used by courts to prevent flight risk and ensure compliance with judicial processes.

Chithyola Banda, who serves as Leader of Opposition in Parliament, is among several senior opposition figures currently facing court processes.

The matter is expected to return to court on a date to be set as the case proceeds through the legal system.

The court emphasized that bail is not an indication of guilt or innocence and that the accused remains presumed innocent until proven otherwise.

His legal team confirmed they would comply with all conditions set by the court.

The ruling adds to a series of recent bail decisions involving high-profile political figures in Lilongwe’s courts.

The Principal Resident Magistrate’s Court continues to handle the matter under the country’s criminal procedure framework.