Justice for Salimu, fair trial for Chirwa: HRCC appeals for restraint

The debate over whether Medram Chirwa, Bishop of Fountain of Victory Church, should be granted bail has prompted a reminder from the Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC) that Malawi’s justice system rests on a fundamental principle: a suspect remains innocent until proven guilty.

HRCC chairperson Robert Mkwezalamba said public concern over the court’s consideration of Chirwa’s bail application risks overlooking the legal safeguards that apply to every accused person, regardless of the seriousness of the allegations they face.

He stressed that decisions on bail are matters for the courts alone and must be determined within the framework of the law.

Chirwa was arrested on suspicion of murdering Tathokoza Salimu, 31, an employee of FDH Bank.

Salimu was found dead inside her vehicle along the Dzaleka-Dowa Road on 21 September 2026 after reportedly being shot in the neck.

The case has attracted significant public attention and heightened emotions, reflecting both the gravity of the allegations and the wider demand for accountability.

A ruling on the bishop’s bail application is expected on 20 November.

For Salimu’s family, however, the legal arguments surrounding bail are secondary to a broader quest for justice.

Relatives say they want the case pursued to its logical conclusion through the courts, with all the facts established and those responsible held accountable.

Their call is not only for justice to be done, but for it to be seen to be done, in a case that has shaken many beyond the immediate community.