By The Forum

The High Court in Lilongwe will communicate its decision by email on a bail application in the homicide case involving Malawi Congress Party (MCP) Secretary General Richard Chimwendo Banda.

On Wednesday, December 24, 2025, the court heard the joint bail application by Chimwendo Banda and co-accused Alfred Kadula, who are facing attempted murder and abduction charges. The two are seeking bail pending full trial.

Chimwendo Banda was initially remanded at Maula Prison but was later transferred to a private clinic for treatment related to back complications.

Also Read: Ex-minister Chimwendo charged with attempted murder; Mumba, Kabwira get bail

Representing the State, Dziko Ndianthu Malunda told the court that the case could only be committed to the High Court in the week beginning January 5, 2026. Malunda also argued that granting bail risked interference with witnesses and evidence.

However, defence lawyers George Jivason Kadzipatike and Mhwima Mchizi dismissed those concerns, stressing that their client was not a flight risk and should be released on bail while awaiting trial.

Justice Mzonde Mvula cautioned the State against effecting arrests before establishing solid grounds for prosecution. He said the court would review the submissions and deliver its ruling via email once it completes assessing the evidence presented.

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Bail hearing by Nick Youngson CC BY-SA 3.0Pix4free