Malawi Freedom Network 
By MFN News Desk Team Published: 13 October 2026
Comrade Jumbe has called for a nationwide referendum on the use of the death penalty in Malawi following the tragic death of six-year-old Jeniffer Mtambo of Mzuzu, arguing that Malawians should be given an opportunity to express their views on whether capital punishment should be enforced.
In an opinion piece titled “The Case for Jeniffer Mtambo,” Jumbe appealed to President Peter Mutharika to initiate a national debate and referendum on the death penalty, citing concerns about murder, violent crime and the protection of children.
The proposal comes amid public grief over Jeniffer’s death, which Jumbe described as a tragedy that has left the country mourning.
Jumbe Appeals for Justice for Jeniffer Mtambo
Jumbe began his statement by extending condolences to Jeniffer’s family, relatives and all those affected by the tragedy.
He said the loss of a young life had raised serious questions about public safety and the responsibility of authorities to protect children from violence.
Jumbe argued that the tragedy should prompt a broader national discussion about criminal justice and the penalties imposed on people convicted of serious offences.
He also expressed support for the death penalty for those responsible for the alleged killing and sexual assault of the six-year-old girl, although the claims and responsibility must be established through due legal process.
President Mutharika Urged to Consider Referendum
At the centre of Jumbe’s appeal is a proposal for a nationwide referendum to allow Malawians to express their position on the use of capital punishment.
He questioned why the death penalty remains unenforced despite its historical presence in Malawi’s legal framework.
“If the death penalty exists in Malawi’s laws but is not being enforced, should the people be given the opportunity to decide its future?” Jumbe asked in his opinion piece.
He urged President Mutharika to consider initiating the proposed referendum, arguing that the public deserves an open and honest discussion about the country’s approach to serious crime.
However, a referendum would require consideration of the applicable constitutional and legal framework, including the procedures governing national referendums and any relevant judicial decisions on capital punishment.
Death Penalty Debate Raises Questions About Justice and Human Rights
Jumbe’s proposal brings renewed attention to a longstanding debate over whether the death penalty should be retained, abolished or put into practice.
Supporters of capital punishment argue that it may provide a stronger response to the most serious crimes and reflect society’s demand for justice for victims.
Opponents, however, raise concerns about wrongful convictions, the irreversible nature of executions, human rights and whether capital punishment effectively deters violent crime.
The debate also raises questions about the effectiveness of criminal investigations, prosecution, sentencing and the protection of vulnerable members of society.
For Malawi, any national discussion would need to consider these issues alongside the rights of victims and the obligation of the justice system to ensure fair trials.
Calls for Stronger Protection of Children
Beyond the question of capital punishment, Jeniffer’s death has highlighted the importance of protecting children from sexual violence and other serious crimes.
Ensuring that allegations of abuse are investigated thoroughly, suspects are brought before the courts where evidence supports prosecution, and convicted offenders receive lawful sentences remains central to delivering justice.
Strengthening child-protection systems, improving public awareness and ensuring that law-enforcement agencies respond effectively to reports of abuse are also important considerations.
Jumbe maintained that the tragedy should encourage Malawians to confront difficult questions about public security and the consequences of serious criminal offences.
His closing message, “My pen is mightier than a sword,” underscored his intention to use public commentary to advocate for changes in the country’s approach to justice.
Must read Imran Jumbe Hails Mutharika for Fresh Chilima Crash Inquiry
Whether the proposed referendum gains political support remains to be seen. For now, Jumbe’s appeal has placed the death penalty debate at the centre of his response to the tragedy involving Jeniffer Mtambo.
