Mutharika for judiciary independence

Malawi's Chief Justice Lovemore Munlo should be one of the happiest people in the country after President Ngwazi Dr Bingu wa Mutharika appointed four judges to help him in his job of discharging justice in Malawi. Pic exclusively by Malawi Digest.

By Our Reporter

Malawi State President Ngwazi Dr Bingu wa Mutharika on Wednesday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the independence of the judiciary in the country for it to freely interpret the country’s laws.

Ngwazi Dr Mutharika made the remarks at Sanjika Palace in Blantyre during the swearing in ceremony of the newly appointed Supreme Court and High Court judges.

The judges are Justice Edward Twea of the Supreme Court of Appeal, and Judges Maxon Mbendera, Joe Chirwa, Godfrey Mwase, and Kenani Manda of the High Court.

The State President appointed them on September 12 this year in accordance with the Malawi Constitution.

Ngwazi Dr. Mutharika observed that even though the judiciary was an integral part of government, it was important that the branch remained independent of the other branches of government for it to freely interpret the country’s supreme law for the benefit of national development.

He urged judges in the country to use holistic approach on certain issues which are of national interest but often misinterpreted by other circles.

Dr Mutharika disclosed that it is against this background that his government plans to construct an ultra-modern high court complex in Lilongwe to ensure that judiciary just like the other branches of government is properly housed.

“When that is done, I will be proud that all the three branches of my government are properly housed for them to deliver their services in a comfortable environment,” he said adding “I want to build something that will catch the eye of every passerby.”

President Ngwazi Dr Bingu wa Mutharika also urged the newly appointed judges and all other judges in the country to maintain good family relationships for them to excel in their career, saying individuals with contented spouses have proved to be effective in their undertakings-Malawi Digest.