By Mercy Matonga
Civil society organisations (CSOs) under the banner of National Advocacy Platform (Nap), in collaboration with the National Anti-Corruption Alliance, have called for the reduction of presidential powers on the appointment of office-bearers for institutions of significant autonomy.
This was said in a joint statement by the CSOs, who were commenting on the Judicial Reform Bills, which are expected to be tabled in Parliament during the current meeting.
They urge parliamentarians to address gaps and improve some provisions of the bills to ensure that there is a reduction in the President’s discretionary powers in appointing and removing members of the Judicial Service Commission.
They say this would prevent potential abuse.
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They also call for the adoption of a transparent, law-based process for handling complaints against judicial officers, among other recommendations.
“We urge members of Parliament to consider the recommendations of civil society organisations during their deliberations. This reform is not merely a legal profession issue; it is a public imperative that directly impacts Malawians’ access to justice.
“We, as civil society organisations, remain committed to advocating for a judicial system that serves the people with integrity, transparency and accountability,” the statement reads.
The CSOs further recommended that Parliament establish uniform appointment processes for all judicial roles, including those of Attorney General and Solicitor General, with detailed procedures codified in law.
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They have also called for the expansion of the Judicial Service Commission’s composition to include diverse voices and ensure gender equity.
Speaking to The Daily Times, Nap Chairperson Benedicto Kondowe said their calls have been made
as they have identified some gaps in processes.
“We will continue to advocate for the necessary reforms through various channels, including public awareness campaigns, engaging with the media and organising further consultations with stakeholders.
“Additionally, we will closely monitor the progress of the reform process and hold policymakers accountable,” Kondowe said.
On November 15 this year, the Ministry of Justice published the Judicial Reform Bills, which have been advocated for years and are set to be tabled during the current meeting of Parliament.
The Judicial Reform Bills, among other things, aim to improve judicial accountability.
Their introduction comes at a time of increased scrutiny on the judiciary following allegations of misconduct among senior judges.
On Saturday, the Malawi Law Society and other stakeholders, including Nap and National Anti-Corruption Alliance, reviewed the published bills and expressed anxiety when they learnt that the bills are expected to be tabled during the current meeting of Parliament.
Among other things, the stakeholders recommend that members of the public should be represented in the Judicial Service Commission.
