By Draxon Maloya

A dramatic turn of events unfolded on Monday in Mzuzu’s Children’s Court as Sara Lweya, a 40-year-old mother of five, was sent to a 72-hour remand for undermining the court order.

Lweya lost custodial rights to her children, aged 13 to 2.5 years, in favor of her husband Andrew Kalumbi, who alleged infidelity.

However, four of the children fled their father’s home to stay with their mother, prompting First Grade Magistrate Patrick Mwamale to order an assessment to determine the suitable caregiver.

Jennifer Mkandawire, Executive Director of the Foundation for Children’s Rights, expressed disappointment at Lweya’s imprisonment.

“Jailing the mother will further traumatize the children. We advocate for her release, allowing her to await assessment just like the father,” said Mkandawire.

Mkandawire emphasized the need to protect the children’s fundamental rights, severely impacted by their parents’ separation