Commonwealth Magistrates’ and Judges’ Association (CJMA) has hailed Malawi’s judicial transformation, stating that the country is set to reshape its judicial practice and regulation following the passage of the reform Bills.
In its April 2025 edition of CJMA News, the association noted that through the enactment of the Bills, Malawi achieved a historic moment in its legal history to overhaul the judicial system under the modern Constitution.
Reads the publication: “The successful passage of these reform bills is the result of persistent collaboration between the Malawi Law Society, led by [immediate past president] Patrick Mpaka, civil society, the church, the business community and all three branches of government.
“The reforms aim to modernise Malawi’s Judiciary, addressing long-standing challenges and enhancing the administration of justice for all citizens.”
According to the newsletter, the passage of the judicial reforms is a major milestone for Malawi and reflects a broader commitment to strengthening the rule of law and human rights.
Parliament passed the three Judicial Reforms Bills which include Judicial Service Administration Bill, Constitution (Amendment) Bill and the Courts (Amendment) Bill on December 20 2024 before President Lazarus Chakwera signed them into law on January 24 2025.
However, the association said while the reforms were a positive step forward, their successful implementation will depend on the continued cooperation of all sectors of society and the government.
Ministry of Justice spokesperson Frank Namangale said the country and the ministry in particular was honoured and proud of the global recognition.
He said: “It has always been and remains the wish of President Lazarus Chakwera to see the rule of law prevail and promoted, and these Bills are exactly for that purpose of entrenching the rule of law.”
On his part, Malawi Law Society (MLS) president Davies Njobvu said the recognition highlights the efforts made by the previous MLS leadership in contributing to judicial reforms, promoting transparency and ensuring accountability.
“They did tremendously well and set very high standards which have earned international recognition. It is further commendable that their work was a collaborative effort involving with civil society, the business community, and the government who are all important stakeholders in justice delivery and realisation of our constitutional goals and ambitions,” he said.
The laws are expected to address several key areas of the legal system that have long been in need of improvement.
