The recent allegations against Judge Ken Manda have sparked a critical conversation about judicial integrity and accountability in Malawi. The students from Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources’ (LUANAR) call for the Chief Justice to reassign their case from Judge Manda highlights a broader crisis of confidence in his ability to serve impartially.
The concerns surrounding Judge Manda are part of a troubling pattern that raises serious questions about his judgment and conduct. The allegations that an ex-parte injunction was issued without the students’ opportunity to present their case suggest a disregard for due process. Such actions undermine the principles of fairness and justice and reflect a potential misuse of judicial authority.
Additionally, Judge Manda has faced scrutiny due to accusations made by human rights lawyer Alexious Kamangila, claiming corruption and irregularities linked to Manda’s judicial conduct ¹. The sheer volume of allegations casts a long shadow over his ability to carry out his duties impartially.
Judicial integrity is paramount in any democratic society, serving as the bedrock upon which citizens place their trust in the legal system. However, when a judge’s impartiality is called into question, it creates a ripple effect that undermines the public’s confidence in the judiciary as a whole.
Resigning would allow Judge Manda to step aside and give the judiciary a chance to restore faith in its integrity. Accountability is a fundamental principle in any institution, particularly one tasked with upholding justice. Resignation would serve as a powerful statement that Judge Manda acknowledges the gravity of the allegations and the potential harm they pose to the judiciary.
The future of Malawi’s judiciary depends on its ability to command respect and trust from the populace. The ongoing controversies surrounding Judge Manda present an opportunity for reflection and reform within the judicial system. By stepping down, Judge Manda would facilitate the necessary changes that could lead to a more robust and credible judiciary.
The legal community must also address the systemic issues that allow such allegations to arise, including fostering transparency, encouraging whistleblowing, and implementing stringent checks and balances. Judge Manda’s resignation could catalyze these necessary reforms.
In light of the serious allegations against him and the growing calls for accountability, Judge Ken Manda’s resignation is not only warranted but necessary. The integrity of Malawi’s judiciary hinges on its ability to uphold the rule of law without bias or impropriety. By resigning, Judge Manda would take a courageous step towards restoring public confidence in the legal system and affirming that accountability is paramount in the pursuit of justice.
