Lawyer accuses Malawi Law Society of bias
Counsel Tupochele Mponda says the society has been inconsistent in its criticism of presidential actions.
Counsel Tupochele Mponda has accused the Malawi Law Society (MLS) of political bias for criticizing President Peter Mutharika's suspension of Parliament. Mponda stated that the MLS remained silent when former presidents made similar decisions but has now challenged Mutharika.
Mponda defended Mutharika's decision, citing constitutional powers under Section 59 (1) and (2) for presidential authority over Parliament. She pointed to prorogations by Bingu wa Mutharika in 2010 and 2011, and by Lazarus Chakwera between 2020 and 2025, which she claims did not draw similar MLS condemnation.
The lawyer challenged the MLS to explain its differing treatment of administrations and to seek judicial intervention if it believes the President violated the Constitution. Mponda warned that selective criticism could undermine public confidence in the society's independence and credibility.
Why it mattersCounsel Tupochele Mponda claims the Malawi Law Society's selective criticism could undermine public confidence in its independence and credibility.