Court Commits Namiwa’s Treason Case to High Court

The Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) Executive Director, Sylvester Namiwa, has been committed to the High Court of Malawi to answer charges of treason and publication of false news likely to cause a breach of peace.

According to court records, Namiwa is accused of committing the alleged offences during an interview with Luntha Television in July 2026.

Chief Resident Magistrate Austin Banda on Tuesday committed the matter to the High Court for further proceedings, where issues including bail will be determined.

The committal means Namiwa remains in custody and has been remanded at Maula Prison pending the next stage of the case.

Meanwhile, an outspoken supporter of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) from Mvera in Dowa District, Rodgers Kamphangala, has described Namiwa’s arrest and continued detention as unfortunate.

Kamphangala said Namiwa was among individuals who actively campaigned for the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika’s return to power, arguing that such supporters deserved recognition for their contribution.

He claimed that many party foot soldiers have raised concerns over what they describe as a lack of appreciation and engagement from the party leadership.

Kamphangala further alleged that several individuals, including Comrade Ntanyiwa, Bakili Muluzi TV, Bon Kalindo, Lytone Mangochi, Pastor Moses Shumba, Bishop Kachenje, and journalists Burnett Munthali, Suleman Chitera and Jones Gadama, have publicly appealed to the DPP leadership to address their grievances.

He appealed to President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika to intervene in Namiwa’s case, arguing that the activist had made significant sacrifices in support of the party and should be shown compassion.

Kamphangala also urged the President to engage with party foot soldiers and listen to their concerns, saying many are struggling economically despite their political commitment.

He concluded by encouraging the DPP leadership to consider empowering loyal supporters through business capital and other economic opportunities, noting that while not everyone can be employed, sustainable livelihoods could be created through entrepreneurship.