The Industrial Relations Court has ordered State House to compensate former Press Officer Brian Banda money amounting to MK103 million for unfair dismissal.

This is according to judgement dated 22 December 2023 seen by this publication.

“The applicant is awarded K103,316,418 being compensation for unfair dismissal and severance allowance and the same must be paid within 30 days,” the court order says.

President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera appointed Brian Banda as State House Press Officer in August 2020 and was relieved from his duties in 2021.

Banda was replaced by Anthony Kasunda, former Blantyre City Council spokesperson.

Meanwhile, the Attorney General Thabo Chakaka Nyirenda has hinted that the state will appeal the ruling.