By Staff Reporter

LILONGWE — The High Court in Lilongwe has granted bail to Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) executive director and activist Sylvester Namiwa, subject to a number of conditions aimed at ensuring his continued attendance before the court and protecting the integrity of the ongoing proceedings.

High Court Judge Mzondi Mvula delivered the ruling this morning after hearing Namiwa’s bail application last week.

Under the bail order, Namiwa has been directed to pay a cash bond of K5 million and provide two sureties, each bonded at K10 million on a non-cash basis.

The court has also imposed a number of reporting and conduct conditions on the activist.

Namiwa has been ordered to report to Area 30 Police Station every fortnight on Mondays and to continue residing at Kaphiri while the case is proceeding.

He must also surrender a photocopy of his National Identity Card to the police as part of the bail requirements.

In another significant condition, Judge Mvula ordered Namiwa to refrain from commenting, either directly or indirectly, on matters relating to the case currently before the court.

The court further directed him not to hold or participate in press briefings concerning the case, a condition intended to prevent public commentary from interfering with the judicial process.

Namiwa has also been ordered to surrender his passport to the court. However, the judge clarified that should the need to travel outside the country arise, he may apply to the court for permission.

Judge Warns Against Misinformation

During the ruling, Judge Mvula expressed concern over what he described as misinformation surrounding the case, stressing the importance of allowing the judicial process to proceed without external influence.

The judge emphasized that courts are required to remain impartial and make decisions based on the law and evidence presented before them, rather than public pressure, political considerations or other external influences.

The remarks come amid public discussion surrounding Namiwa’s arrest and subsequent bail application, with various claims and interpretations of the proceedings circulating in the public domain.

Judge Mvula’s comments serve as a reminder that the determination of matters before the courts rests with the judiciary and that parties involved in court proceedings are expected to respect the legal process.

Namiwa Remains Bound by Court Conditions

Although the court has granted Namiwa his freedom pending the conclusion of the case, the conditions attached to the bail are legally binding.

Failure to comply with any of the conditions could expose him to further legal consequences, including the possibility of having his bail reviewed or revoked.

For now, Namiwa is expected to remain at Kaphiri, report regularly to Area 30 Police Station and avoid public statements or press briefings relating to the matter unless permitted by the court.

The granting of bail does not amount to an acquittal or determination of the allegations against him. The substantive case remains before the High Court, where it will continue in accordance with the law.

The ruling therefore allows Namiwa to remain out of custody while the judicial process continues, subject to the conditions imposed by Judge Mvula.