By Burnett Munthali
The High Court in Lilongwe has dismissed an application by lawyers representing Peter Mutharika’s former presidential aide, Norman Chisale, to have charges of accumulating unexplained wealth thrown out.
The case was heard before the High Court, which was sitting as the Financial Crimes Division.
Speaking after the court session, Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Masauko Chamkakala stated that the defence argued the alleged crimes were committed before the Financial Crimes Act was enacted.
According to the defence, this meant that Chisale could not be prosecuted under the current law, and therefore, the case should be dismissed.
However, Chamkakala explained that the court ruled in favor of the prosecution.
He said the court found that other legal instruments in place at the time still criminalized the alleged offense.
As a result, the court determined that the charges against Chisale were valid and could proceed.
Chamkakala further stated that the prosecution had amended the charge sheet following concerns raised by the defence.
The amendments were made to provide clarity on the two charges Chisale is facing.
These charges include money laundering and possession of wealth that exceeds what can be legally declared.
Lawyers representing Chisale were not available to comment on the ruling.
Meanwhile, the case is set to continue on Tuesday this week.
During the next court session, the prosecution is expected to start parading witnesses to support their case.
This development marks a critical moment in the ongoing legal battle against Chisale, who has faced several legal challenges since his tenure as a presidential aide.
The outcome of this case could set a precedent for similar financial crime cases in the country.
