Update: The Malawian justice system is facing severe criticism after investigations revealed that nearly 300 elderly citizens have been murdered over the past decade following witchcraft accusations, according to Nyasa Times and Nation Online. The Malawi Network of Older Persons' Organisations reports that between 25 and 30 elderly people are killed annually by relatives or neighbours, with perpetrators rarely facing trial despite initial police arrests.
Update: The civil rights grouping Malawi-Led Black Economic and Empowerment Movement has called for the immediate suspension of operations at the Amaryllis Hotel as investigations into its K90 billion purchase continue, Nyasa Times reports. The group announced plans for protest vigils on May 18, arguing that public pension funds used in the transaction must be safeguarded while the parliamentary probe remains unresolved.
In other judicial developments, High Court Judge Masauko Timothy Msungama has been elected to the Appellate Division of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa Court of Justice, according to the Malawi Judiciary. Justice Msungama took his oath during a recent swearing-in ceremony presided over by Kenyan President William Ruto.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has formally raised concerns with South Africa following a recent wave of xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals in several provinces, Pan African Visions reports. Minister George Chaponda announced that emergency repatriation plans have been activated for nearly 600 Malawian citizens, while South African authorities have deployed police to the affected areas to restore order.