Member of Parliament Baba Steven K. Malondera has raised serious concerns over the continued detention of Malawi Congress Party (MCP) Secretary General Richard Chimwendo Banda, saying the situation threatens justice, constitutional order and public trust in state institutions.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Malondera said it has been 27 days since Chimwendo Banda was arrested on 12 December on allegations of attempted murder, yet no formal charges have been brought before any court. He noted that the MCP Secretary General voluntarily presented himself to police after learning that authorities were looking for him.
“This is not a matter of political opinion but a matter of record,” Malondera said, describing the delay as troubling and unacceptable.
He also questioned the handling of a bail application made on 24 December. According to Malondera, the presiding judge, Justice Mzondi Mvula, indicated that a ruling would be communicated via email, but no decision has been delivered to date.
“Silence has replaced due process. Delay has substituted justice,” Malondera said, adding that the lack of a timely ruling undermines confidence in the justice system.
Speaking in his capacity as MCP Director of Youth, Malondera said he has spent weeks urging young party supporters to remain calm and respect the rule of law, despite growing anger and frustration among the youth.
“Patience is not infinite, especially when it appears to be met with deliberate inertia,” he said, while warning that detention without charge or trial is illegal and unconstitutional.
Malondera argued that holding a citizen for nearly a month without charge violates the Constitution and principles of natural justice, and sets a dangerous precedent that could affect any Malawian regardless of political affiliation.
He called on both the State and the Judiciary to act urgently, transparently and lawfully, warning that justice delayed is justice denied.
At the same time, he appealed to MCP youth and all young Malawians to remain peaceful and disciplined, stressing that restraint should not be mistaken for weakness.
“Malawi deserves better. Justice must not hide behind silence, and freedom must never be held hostage by power,” Malondera said.
