Chimwendo Banda to Spend More Days in Custody as Court Defers Bail Ruling

Malawi Congress Party (MCP) Secretary General Richard Chimwendo Banda will spend more days in police custody after the High Court in Lilongwe reserved its ruling on his bail application.

High Court Judge Mzondi Mvula made the decision on Wednesday after hearing submissions from both the defence and the State in a case involving suspects accused of plotting to kill Frank Chawanda.

Judge Mvula said the court requires more time to thoroughly review arguments presented by both parties and indicated that the ruling on whether to grant bail will be communicated to the parties via email once finalized.

During the hearing, Chimwendo Banda’s lawyer, George Kadzipatike, urged the court to release his client on bail, arguing that he is a law-abiding citizen and is not in good health.

However, the State, represented by Dzikondianthu Malunda, opposed the bail application, warning that releasing Chimwendo Banda could compromise the case. The prosecution argued that there is a risk the accused may interfere with government evidence if granted bail.

The court’s decision to reserve its ruling means that Chimwendo Banda will remain in police custody until the bail determination is delivered and takes effect.

The bail application comes amid heightened public interest in the case due to Chimwendo Banda’s senior political position within the ruling party.