By Suleman Chitera
Former Minister of Trade and Mzimba Central Member of Parliament Vitumbiko Mumba has extended a gesture of compassion by offering financial and legal assistance to five suspects he shared a police cell with at Lingadzi Police Station last weekend.
Confirming the development on Friday, Mumba’s lawyer Khwima Mchizi said the lawmaker was deeply moved by the plight of his fellow detainees, prompting him to act beyond words.
“The five include a child in conflict with the law. Upon being granted bail, each suspect is set to receive K200,000 as start-up capital for small-scale business, while Honourable Mumba has also undertaken to pay all their legal fees,” said Mchizi.
According to the lawyer, two of the suspects have already been released on bail, while the remaining cases are at various stages of processing.
Mchizi further disclosed that the child in conflict with the law has also been granted bail, but remains in custody due to challenges in securing a surety — a situation Mumba is reportedly following up to ensure the minor’s release.
The move has drawn praise from sections of the public, with observers describing it as a rare show of practical leadership, empathy and social responsibility, particularly at a time when many detainees struggle to access legal representation and basic support.
Mumba’s intervention highlights broader concerns around access to justice, the treatment of vulnerable suspects, and the need for reforms within the criminal justice system — especially for children in conflict with the law.
As the story unfolds, many are watching closely, viewing Mumba’s actions as a reminder that leadership can still be exercised through humanity and solidarity, even in the most unlikely circumstances.
