Former Vice President Khumbo Hastings Kachali has backed the Mzuzu High Court for extending suspension of Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development Dr. George Chaponda until the commission of inquiry releases its findings into the Zambia maize-gate saga.
On Tuesday Judge John Chirwa refused to vacate the injunction against Dr. Chaponda, saying it was necessary that he remain suspended to allow for smooth investigations into the maize saga.
Writing on his official facebook page, Kachali who is also Member of Parliament for Mzimba said he is pleased with the bold decision by the court over the matter.
“Fellow citizens, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the judiciary in Malawi and especially the Mzuzu High Court for demonstrating independence and professionalism amid unbearable pressure from the Executive Arm of the Malawi Government, as demonstrated by the actions of the suspended Minister of Agriculture.
“This gives me confidence that the enabling systems, for our hard-earned democratic way of life, are functioning properly and maturing,” wrote Kachali.
He added: “No one is above the law in this country. We, therefore, must respect the dictates of our constitution, regardless of one’s position or the power that one wields.”
Meanwhile Attorney General Kalekeni Kaphale has appealed against the injunction.