09/07/2025
The Malawi Prison Service reports a rapidly growing inmate population, partly due to delays in prosecuting and sentencing murder suspects.
Spokesperson Steve Meke reveals that 1,061 murder suspects are currently in custody, awaiting trial for an extended period.
According to Meke, this is contributing to the congestions in the country's prisons.
To tackle this challenge, the Malawi Prison Service is collaborating with other stakeholders in the criminal justice system to implement measures like camp courts.
These initiatives aim to reduce the number of murder suspects in prisons and alleviate the strain on resources.
Civil rights activists have long advocated for improved prison services, but progress remains limited.
They emphasize that the root cause of the problem lies in the inadequacy and corruption within the justice system, hindering equal access to justice for all.
Stakeholders suggest that the Malawi Prison Service and partners must continue working together to address systemic issues contributing to delays.
By implementing effective solutions and promoting access to justice, Malawi can strive towards a more efficient and equitable justice system.
In an effort to mitigate overcrowding, the Malawi Police Service is constructing a new prison in Chitedze, Lilongwe.
This initiative aims to provide additional capacity and help alleviate the strain on existing facilities.
(By Samson Chalowa - Lilongwe).
