Malawi Freedom Network 
By Staff Reporter
Economist and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) strategist Collins Magalasi will remain in custody until September 11, 2026, when the magistrate’s court is expected to deliver its ruling on his application for bail.
Magalasi appeared before the magistrate’s court on Friday afternoon as the court considered his bail application arising from charges of theft and money laundering linked to the purchase of the Amaryllis Hotel.
The court, however, granted Magalasi permission to obtain medical treatment from a hospital of his choice after his lawyer, Andy Kawonga, raised concerns over his client’s health.
Kawonga told the court that Magalasi had already been feeling unwell when he was arrested on Monday and that his condition had continued to trouble him during his time in custody.
The lawyer argued that allowing Magalasi to seek medical attention was necessary and would be consistent with the interests of justice.
The application was opposed by senior State advocate Luckia Cassim Jafali, who questioned why the request had been brought before the court without what she considered sufficient supporting evidence.
Jafali described the application as a surprise and argued that Magalasi could have presented evidence demonstrating that he was ill and required medical treatment.
After considering arguments from both sides, senior resident magistrate Shukuran Kumbani ruled in favour of the medical request.
The ruling means Magalasi can access treatment at a hospital of his choice while he remains in custody pending the court’s decision on his bail application.
The September 11 ruling will therefore determine whether Magalasi will be released on bail as he awaits further proceedings in the case.
The charges against Magalasi relate to the acquisition of the Amaryllis Hotel, a matter that has attracted considerable public and political attention.
His continued detention also places the spotlight on the court process as prosecutors and the defence present their respective positions on whether he should be released pending trial.
For now, Magalasi remains in custody, with the court having separated the immediate question of his health from the substantive question of bail.
The case will return to court on September 11, when the magistrate is expected to pronounce the ruling on the bail application.
Picture: Collins Magalasi with his lawyer, Andy Kawonga, outside the court.
Read also: Youth-decide champions young voices at MEC 2025 elections launch with national youth manifesto
Read also: Kalindo sounds alarm: “Chakwera kneels before citizens while selling Malawi for cash handouts
Read also: Chakwera must fire all responsible for political violence or resign immediately
