Zomba High Court has issued a ruling allowing the release of five elderly prisoners currently held at Zomba Central Prison. This decision pertains to inmates involved in serious offenses, granting them the opportunity to return to their homes while their legal cases continue to be addressed.

The affected prisoners are housed in a specialized section of the prison designated for elderly inmates. Despite their lengthy imprisonment, their cases had not yet been reviewed.

Concerns about the well-being of elderly inmates have led the Legal Aid Bureau, represented by Assistant Director Zaheed Ndeketa, to conduct an assessment. The Legal Aid Bureau has now taken on the responsibility of managing their cases and providing necessary support.

The inmates released include Jim Kalunga, aged 84, who was imprisoned on July 23, 2023, James Kabish and Master Michael, who were imprisoned in May 2022, Mayeke Julius, who was imprisoned in November 2022 and Witness Kambona, who was imprisoned in 2011.

The released individuals will be cared for at Zomba Central Prison alongside other elderly inmates to ensure they receive appropriate attention and support due to their advanced age.

Legal Aid Bureau Malawi