By Wezzie Gausi:
Malawi’s justice and governance institutions are facing renewed scrutiny after a national survey revealed uneven accountability, weak transparency, and systemic delays that are eroding public trust and worsening prison congestion.
The Justice and Accountability Survey of 2025 shows that while most Malawians are aware of democratic governance and oversight institutions, confidence in how these bodies handle cases remains mixed, raising concerns about responsiveness and openness in public institutions.
According to the report, citizens continue to question whether complaints are handled fairly and without interference, particularly in institutions that are tasked with fighting corruption and safeguarding rights.
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The survey notes that satisfaction with case handling varies widely across oversight bodies, pointing to gaps in information sharing, follow-up and the enforcement of decisions.
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“The findings highlight both progress and persistent challenges,” the report states.
Commenting on the findings, Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Charles Mhango said the survey provides clear evidence of where reforms are needed.
“This report gives us an honest picture of how citizens experience justice and accountability. We must strengthen our institutions so that cases are handled fairly, efficiently and in a way that the public can see and understand,” Mhango said.
He said the government would use the survey findings to guide reforms aimed at improving coordination among oversight institutions, speeding up case handling and ensuring that citizens receive timely information on complaints and outcomes.
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Meanwhile, Centre for Human Rights, Education, Advice and Assistance Executive Director Victor Mhango has said delays in the justice system are directly contributing to congestion in prisons.
He said many suspects remain on remand for long periods because their cases are not concluded on time.
“When cases drag on, prisons end up holding people who have not been convicted.
“Delayed investigations and repeated adjournments deny suspects timely justice and place unnecessary pressure on already overcrowded prisons,” Mhango said.
The Justice and Accountability Survey of 2025, which was conducted by the National Statistical Office in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, is intended to inform reforms that are aligned with the Malawi 2063 vision, which places good governance, accountability and transparency at the centre of national development efforts.
