By Staff Reporter

The High Court has ordered the Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) to resolve its leadership dispute within 30 days through an out-of-court settlement and agree on a roadmap for holding an Annual General Meeting (AGM).

The directive follows a legal challenge filed by HRDC members Sammy Aaron and Henderson Mhango, who questioned the legitimacy of the organisation’s current leadership.

The claimants argued before the court that HRDC’s leadership should derive its mandate through a constitutionally recognised Annual General Meeting rather than through appointments they described as having been obtained “through the backdoor.”HRDC worry of violence, Smartmatic misinformation

In his ruling, High Court Judge Pemba said the matters raised by the claimants were substantive and warranted serious consideration.

The judge directed all parties to engage in an inclusive dialogue aimed at resolving the leadership impasse and establishing a clear transition process. He further indicated that, should consensus fail, the organisation’s membership must proceed with holding an AGM as the constitutional mechanism for electing legitimate leaders.

The court’s decision is expected to provide an opportunity for HRDC to address internal governance concerns while avoiding prolonged litigation that could affect the organisation’s operations.HRDC’s “Natural Death” Was Self-Inflicted

The leadership wrangle has sparked debate over accountability and adherence to the coalition’s constitution, with members calling for transparent and democratic processes in the selection of office bearers.

The outcome of the court-mandated discussions over the next 30 days is expected to determine the future direction of HRDC and whether the organisation will proceed with an Annual General Meeting to elect a new leadership in line with its governing constitution.HRDC’s Selective Outrage: Who Really Owes Malawi an Apology?