MLS calls for speedy implementation of judicial reforms

The Malawi Law Society (MLS) has urged the swift formulation of regulations to operationalize the newly gazetted Judicial Reforms laws, which Parliament passed in December 2024.

The new laws aim to enhance judicial accountability to the public.

MLS President Patrick Mpaka made this call during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Lilongwe on Saturday, February 15, 2025.

The workshop focused on evaluating the progress made in drafting, advocating, and passing the Judicial Reforms laws, as well as discussing ways to expedite the formulation of necessary regulations. These regulations are expected to address long-standing challenges faced by court users.

Mpaka urged stakeholders, including civil society organizations (CSOs), religious groups, and the media, to continue pushing for the laws’ implementation, as enforcement rests with relevant authorities.

“As lawyers, we felt compelled to meet with stakeholders who contributed to this law because of widespread public outcry over delays and misconduct by some judicial officers in delivering justice,” Mpaka said.

Speaking on behalf of CSOs, Bacstone Nkhoma, National Coordinator for the National Advocacy Platform, expressed optimism that implementing agencies will fulfill their responsibilities to ensure the laws take effect as soon as possible. He also urged the MLS to translate the laws into Chichewa to improve public understanding.

The new judicial reforms grant implementing agencies the authority to oversee the appointment, discipline, and removal of judicial officers found incompetent or compromised in their duties.