President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera has called on the newly appointed High Court Judges to demonstrate effectiveness and fairness in their duties to ensure that justice is served to the people of Malawi. Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony held at Kamuzu Palace, President Chakwera emphasized the crucial role of systematic organization and temperament in the judiciary, stressing that these attributes are essential for those holding such esteemed positions.
In his address, President Chakwera underscored the need for the judges to meet the high standards required for their responsibilities, urging them to safeguard their minds and ensure that their experience, integrity, and professionalism align with the expectations of their roles.
“Safeguard your minds, and ensure that your experience, integrity, and professionalism align with the expectations of your roles,” President Chakwera urged the judges.
The ceremony was also attended by Colleen Zamba, Secretary to the Office of the President and Cabinet, who reiterated the constitutional authority granted to the President to appoint judges. She cited Section 111(2) of the Constitution, which empowers the President to appoint all judges based on recommendations from the Judicial Service Commission. Zamba also referenced Section 111(6), which defines a “judge” as a Justice of Appeal, Acting Justice of Appeal, Judge of the High Court, or Acting Judge of the High Court.
Chief Justice Rizine Mzikamanda welcomed the appointments, expressing confidence that they would enhance the judiciary’s efficiency. He disclosed that the judiciary aims to increase the number of judges from 58 to 90 to improve service delivery across the country, a move that aligns with the ongoing efforts to strengthen Malawi’s judicial system.
The newly appointed judges, who took their oaths at the ceremony, include two men and two women: Justice Kondwani Banda, Justice Madalitso Chimwaza, Justice Trouble Kalua, and Justice Edna Bodole. Their appointments are seen as a significant step toward bolstering the judiciary’s capacity to handle cases efficiently and fairly, ensuring that justice is accessible to all Malawians.
As they embark on their new roles, the judges are expected to play a pivotal role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice prevails in the country, in line with the expectations set forth by President Chakwera and the nation at large.
