By Jones Gadama
The Malawi Supreme Court of Appeal’s ruling ordering businessman Leston Mulli to refund K3 billion in compensation has sparked a heated debate between the state and the entrepreneur.
Exactly one month after the court’s decision, Mulli and the government are at odds over the refund process.
Attorney General Thabo Chakaka-Nyirenda has warned of further legal action if Mulli fails to comply with the court’s order.
“The government will take all necessary steps to recover the debt,” Chakaka-Nyirenda emphasized, hinting at possible bankruptcy proceedings and garnish orders.
However, Mulli’s lawyers argue that they are waiting for the Supreme Court’s final decision before proceeding with the payment.
According to them, the court’s directive to refund the money within 30 days is contingent upon receiving the court’s judgment.
The K3 billion compensation was awarded to Mulli’s companies, Sunrise Pharmaceuticals and Chombe Food Products, in 2018 for damages suffered during the July 20, 2011 anti-government demonstrations.
The Supreme Court of Appeal has since overturned the High Court’s ruling, citing that the compensation was awarded without trial or independent expert assessment.
The dispute highlights the complexities of Malawi’s legal system and the challenges of enforcing court decisions.
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders are watching closely to see how the government and Mulli will resolve the issue.
