LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The state through the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), has announced plans to challenge the High Court’s decision to release Richard Chimwendo Banda, Secretary General of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
This move comes after Justice Kenyatta Nyirenda ordered Chimwendo’s immediate and unconditional release, citing his detention beyond the statutory remand period as unlawful and unconstitutional.
Chimwendo’s lawyer, George Jivason Kadzipatike, had applied for judicial review, arguing that his client’s detention exceeded the 30-day limit under Malawi’s Criminal Procedure and Evidence Code.
The court stayed the remand warrant issued on December 15, 2025, and set an inter partes hearing for January 23, 2026.
The government’s decision to challenge the ruling has sparked debate, with some questioning the fairness and consistency of justice in Malawi.
The case has drawn significant attention, highlighting concerns about judicial efficiency and the protection of human rights.