By Suleman Chitera
There is renewed hope that the high-profile legal dispute involving Asko Pesola, Kalibu Academy, and Kachanga Mosque will be resolved outside the courtroom following productive dialogue between the parties.
The case, in which Asko Pesola and Kalibu Academy applied for an order of interlocutory injunction before Honourable Justice Tembo to restrain Kachanga Mosque from performing the Adhan on the minaret, appears to be edging toward an amicable conclusion.
This follows a second stakeholder meeting held on Saturday at Kalibu Academy, attended by representatives from both sides. The engagement focused on identifying a lasting solution to the differences between the parties, while also promoting peaceful co-existence, mutual respect, and understanding of religious and cultural diversity.
Both sides expressed optimism after the meeting, indicating that progress had been made and that the nation would be formally informed once all resolutions and details from the discussions are fully compiled.
Speaking after the meeting, Counsel Elija Magona, who was accompanied by Asko Pesola, Stanley Banda, and Thomson Mulinga, commended the Muslim community for maintaining peace and restraint throughout the dispute.
On the other side, Sheikh Dinala Chabulika, representing the Muslim Association of Malawi, alongside Senior Counsel Cassius Chidonthi, emphasized the importance of embracing diversity and religious tolerance. They were accompanied by Counsel Masuroor Abdullah, Counsel Moris M’baya, Counsel Smart from Mangochi, and Mussa Kachala.
Sheikh Chabulika reiterated that the Adhan is an integral and non-negotiable part of Muslim prayer, underscoring the need for dialogue and understanding rather than confrontation.
The ongoing talks are being viewed as a positive step toward preserving social harmony and reinforcing Malawi’s long-standing tradition of peaceful religious co-existence.
