The Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has called for the immediate release of its Secretary General, Richard Chimwendo Banda, who is currently on remand at Maula Prison over alleged attempted murder charges.
Speaking to Zodiak Online, MCP Director of Youth, Steven Baba Malondera, described the situation as unfortunate, noting that nearly a month has passed without formal charges being brought against Chimwendo Banda.
“We are concerned that a bail ruling application was made on 24 December, and Justice Mzondi Mvula indicated that the ruling would be communicated via email. However, to date, no ruling has been delivered,” Malondera said.
On Monday, Chimwendo Banda’s lawyer, George Jivason Kadzipatike, raised similar concerns, criticizing the court for delays in delivering a ruling on the bail application that was filed several weeks ago.
Meanwhile, Judiciary Spokesperson Ruth Mputeni said a ruling on the bail application will be delivered in due course, emphasizing that the court is following standard procedures before reaching a decision.