Namiwa walks free – but remains gagged over ‘President in two months’ claim

Jailed activist Sylvester Namiwa has finally swapped his prison cell for the comfort of his own home, after being released from Maula Prison following days of frustrating bureaucratic delay.

CDEDI spokesperson Promise Thom confirmed the development, revealing that outstanding bail paperwork – which had remained unsigned by a police official – had now finally been signed off, clearing the way for Namiwa’s release.

The High Court in Lilongwe had granted Namiwa bail on Friday, but he remained behind bars even after the ruling because certain documents relating to the bail process had not yet been signed.

On his first night home after spending more than three weeks in custody, Namiwa is reported to be in high spirits, and had reportedly requested a delicious meal to mark his long-awaited return.

However, the newly freed activist was unable to offer any comment on his case, after being placed under a High Court gagging order relating to his explosive claim that Vice President Jane Ansah would become President within two months – remarks that ultimately led to him being indicted on a charge of treason.

Namiwa’s release brings to an end a gruelling few weeks behind bars for the activist, though his ordeal in the courts is far from over, with his treason trial set to begin on 8 September.