Former President Lazarus Chakwera pardoned FDH Bank owner Thom Mpinganjira on July 6, 2025, as part of celebrations for Malawi's 61st independence anniversary. Mpinganjira received a nine-year sentence with hard labor in 2021 for attempting to bribe five Constitutional Court judges hearing a presidential election case, but served only 122 days at Chichiri prison in Blantyre before release on bail. The businessman appeared among 37 inmates granted clemency and has notified the Supreme Court of plans to withdraw his appeal.
Homeland Security Principal Secretary Steve Kayuni stated the pardoned inmates met requirements and demonstrated good behavior. Center for Human Rights Education Advice and Assistance Executive Director Victor Mhango told local media in July that society must recognize that reformed individuals deserve second chances regardless of their offenses. Presidential pardons continue to spark debates about fairness and justice in the process.
Homeland Security Principal Secretary Steve Kayuni stated the pardoned inmates met requirements and demonstrated good behavior. Center for Human Rights Education Advice and Assistance Executive Director Victor Mhango told local media in July that society must recognize that reformed individuals deserve second chances regardless of their offenses. Presidential pardons continue to spark debates about fairness and justice in the process.
