Lawyer abandons high-profile case, citing threats to life and property

By Twink Jones Gadama

Lawyer Gift-Dick Chimowa has withdrawn from representing human rights lawyer Alexius Kamangila in a high-profile case involving allegations of corruption in opposition to Justice Kenan Manda of the High Court (Commercial Division).

Chimowa’s determination comes after he claimed to have obtained threats to his life and property, which he believes are linked to his involvement within the case.

According to Chimowa, the threats started on February 12, 2025, when unknown people adopted him after a mediation session on the High Court in Lilongwe. He alleges {that a} black saloon car trailed him by way of the town’s roads, leaving him feeling weak and intimidated.

The state of affairs escalated two days later, on February 14, 2025, when Chimowa’s car was damaged into in Blantyre, ensuing within the theft of his laptop computer and court docket paperwork.

Chimowa has since reported the incidents to the police, however no official remark has been made on the matter.

Fearing for his security, Chimowa has written to the Malawi Law Society (MLS) and the High Court, informing them of his determination to withdraw from the case.

The case in query entails allegations of corruption made by Kamangila in opposition to Justice Kenan Manda.

Kamangila has been vocal about his criticisms of the judiciary, estimating that at the least 10% of judiciary employees, together with judges and court docket personnel, have interaction in corrupt practices.

The High Court has since issued an injunction in opposition to Kamangila, prohibiting him from making additional allegations in opposition to Justice Manda.

Chimowa’s withdrawal from the case raises considerations in regards to the security and safety of legal professionals and human rights advocates in Malawi.

The incident highlights the challenges confronted by those that dare to talk out in opposition to corruption and injustice within the nation.

As the case continues to unfold, many are left questioning in regards to the implications of Chimowa’s withdrawal and the impression it can have on Kamangila’s combat in opposition to corruption.

One factor is for certain, nonetheless: the necessity for a secure and safe atmosphere for legal professionals and human rights advocates to function with out worry of intimidation or reprisal.