Mutharika finally appoints new Malawi chief justice: Andrew Nyirenda SC

President Peter Mutharika has named Supreme Court Judge, Andrew Nyirenda SC as the new chief justice, ending weeks wait for a substantive leader of the Judiciary.

Nyirenda is already acting chief justice and head of the judiciary following the retirement of Justice Anastansia Msosa, 65.

Office of President and Cabinet announced on Thursday that the President exercised his powers conferred upon him in the constitution to appoint the new chief judge “with immediate effect”.

Section 111 (1) of the Constitution says the Chief Justice shall be appointed by the president and confirmed by the National Assembly.

Nyasa Times understands that the government vetting machinery recommended Justice Nyirenda to the President while names of Justice Maxon Mbendera, Justice Jane Ansah and Justice Dunstain Mwaungulu were shot down.

Ansah reportedly spends most time travelling to UK where her family lives.

Mbendera is was clearly feared that parliament will not approve his appointment.

While Mwaungulu was considered a risk for being unpredictable and rebellious, National Intelligence Services source told Nyasa Times.