In a significant development within Malawi’s opposition politics, the High Court of Malawi has granted an interim restraint order temporarily barring former President Lazarus Chakwera from exercising his duties and functions as President of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
The order, issued by Honourable Justice Zione Ntaba in the Civil Division, stems from Civil Cause No. 123 of 2025. The claimants are Moses Kunkuyu and 15 others, while the respondents are the MCP, represented by its President, Lazarus Chakwera.
The court’s decision follows an application highlighting ongoing internal disciplinary and constitutional processes within the MCP. The claimants allege matters requiring Chakwera to respond under the party’s internal mechanisms.
In the ruling, the court stated: “Upon reading the application filed herein; and upon considering that the Respondent, being the President of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), has matters to answer within the party’s internal disciplinary and constitutional processes; it is hereby ordered that the President of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), whether acting personally or through agents, officers, or any person acting under his authority, shall temporarily cease exercising presidential duties and functions of the party.”
The restraint is pending the determination and conclusion of the internal party proceedings. The court emphasized that the order aims to “preserve the integrity of the party’s internal processes, maintain order, and prevent any undue influence or interference with disciplinary proceedings.”
The interim order is set to subsist for a period of 60 days or until further directive by the appropriate authority or organ seized with the matter.
This development comes amid reported internal divisions within the MCP following the party’s defeat in the September 2025 general elections, where Chakwera conceded to President Arthur Peter Mutharika. Moses Kunkuyu, a prominent MCP figure and former Minister, has previously been appointed as Leader of Opposition, signaling efforts to navigate post-election challenges.
Neither Chakwera nor MCP officials have issued an immediate response to the court order. Political analysts suggest this could intensify debates over leadership renewal within the party ahead of future elections.
The case underscores the role of judicial oversight in ensuring fair internal party governance in Malawi’s multi-party democracy. Further hearings are expected as the internal proceedings progress.
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