By Burnett Munthali
In a recent Facebook post, prominent Malawian lawyer Alexius Kamangila raised critical questions about the effectiveness of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and its response to complaints received since 2020. His inquiry was directed toward His Honour Judge Nebi, asking how many complaints the JSC has received over the past few years and what actions have been taken in response.
Kamangila’s question reflects growing concerns about the transparency and accountability of Malawi’s judicial system. He emphasized that it is not enough for the JSC to passively wait for complaints, suggesting that the commission should proactively address issues affecting the integrity of the judiciary. He highlighted the need for tangible results in addressing public grievances and holding the judiciary to higher standards.
Kamangila also linked his inquiry to the ongoing controversy surrounding the appointment of Henry Kachaje as CEO of the Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA). Kachaje’s appointment, which has been mired in controversy over his qualifications, is a key example cited by concerned citizens about the judiciary’s involvement in what they see as protecting criminality. Kamangila’s post reflects frustration with the legal processes that allowed Kachaje to remain in his position despite evidence suggesting he was unqualified at the time of applying for the role.
He did not hold back in his criticism, calling for the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) to arrest not only Kachaje but also the judge who issued an injunction protecting him, as well as any officials who facilitated his questionable appointment. Kamangila believes that such actions contribute to the wider problem of corruption in Malawi and are hindering the country’s progress. “Ku Malawi we protect criminality and wonder why the country isn’t progressing,” he remarked, reflecting the sentiment shared by many Malawians concerned with the state of governance and justice.
Returning to his central question to Judge Nebi, Kamangila asked why the JSC should wait for complaints before acting on issues affecting the integrity of the judicial system. His criticism suggests that a more proactive approach is necessary to restore public confidence in the judiciary.
Kamangila’s post is resonating with a public increasingly frustrated with the slow pace of judicial reform and the perception that certain individuals or officials are being shielded from accountability. His comments serve as a rallying call for greater scrutiny of the judiciary and other institutions responsible for upholding the rule of law in Malawi.
In conclusion, Kamangila’s inquiry underscores the importance of holding the JSC accountable for its actions—or lack thereof—since 2020, and his remarks about Kachaje’s appointment are a stark reminder of the deep-rooted challenges Malawi faces in combating corruption. As citizens wait for a response from the JSC, the lawyer’s bold stance is likely to fuel further debate on the need for systemic reforms within the country’s legal and governance structures.
