ZOMBA— In a case that strikes at the very heart of Malawi’s judicial authority, the University of Malawi has been accused of openly defying a binding High Court order to release the examination results of former prominent student leader Humble CS Bondo.
The order, served on August 13, 2025, leaves little room for interpretation. In proceedings before Honourable Justice Zione Ntaba, the University’s own counsel, a Mr Mtokale—after direct consultation with Registrar Mr. Matululu—committed on the record that Bondo’s results would be processed, presented to Senate, and withheld only pending the outcome of his Judicial Review.
Permission for judicial review has since been granted by Honourable Justice Kenyatta Nyirenda who has also stayed Bondo’s two-year suspension in full, restoring him to his pre-suspension status and therefore entitled to receive his results without delay.
Yet, according to Bondo, the Registrar and his agents are for all intents and purposes refusing to comply. “A court order is not a suggestion—it is a command,” Bondo said. “No institution is above the law; no leader is above accountability.”
Bondo, who rose to prominence as a vocal defender of student welfare, alleges the obstruction is rooted in personal vendetta. He cites a confession by Deputy Registrara Ateta Banda during a stakeholders meeting—attended by the Zomba District Commissioner and senior police brass—that his troubles stemmed from his pro-students’ leadership rather than the charges levied against him.
Bondo has now issued a public appeal: “I call upon the Chancellor of the University, His Excellency Dr. Lazarus Chakwera, the Minister of Higher Education, Dr. Jessie Kabwira, and youth and education activists—including Mr. Benedicto Kondowe and Mr. Charles Kajoloweka—to intervene decisively and without delay, using every lawful means at their disposal to ensure compliance with the Court’s order.”
Legal experts warn that the University’s actions could trigger contempt proceedings. “When a court order is ignored, it undermines the entire justice system,” said a senior Malawian attorney, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss ongoing legal matters.
Graduation ceremonies are slated for the end of this month. For Bondo, every day of delay narrows his chance to move forward with his career. “I have a future to protect and justice to secure,” he said. “This is about more than my results—it’s about whether the rule of law means anything in Malawi.”
As of press time, neither Vice Chancellor Professor Samson Sajidu nor Registrar Matululu had responded to repeated requests for comment.
“The University’s credibility is on trial here,” Bondo added. “The time for accountability… is now.”
