Malawi's top court told businessman Leston Mulli to pay back K3 billion to the government. His companies Sunrise Pharmaceuticals and Chombe Food Products must return the money within 30 days. The court also wants interest payments added to the total amount. This ruling overturns an earlier court decision from 2013 that gave Mulli the money. The original payment came after protests happened on July 20, 2011.
Attorney General Thabo Chakaka-Nyirenda asked the Supreme Court to review the case. He said the first court gave Mulli money without proper legal steps. The lower court never held a full trial or questioned witnesses under oath. No independent experts checked the damage claims either. Six Supreme Court judges agreed with the Attorney General's arguments.
Deputy Chief Justice Lovemore Chikopa led the court panel that made the decision. Other judges on the case were Sylvester Kalembera, John Katsala, Dorothy Nyakaunda Kamanga, Charles Mkandawire, and Healey Potani. The court also ordered Mulli's companies to pay all legal fees. These costs cover both the recent appeal and the earlier court case. The businessman must cover expenses for both sides of the legal fight.
Attorney General Thabo Chakaka-Nyirenda asked the Supreme Court to review the case. He said the first court gave Mulli money without proper legal steps. The lower court never held a full trial or questioned witnesses under oath. No independent experts checked the damage claims either. Six Supreme Court judges agreed with the Attorney General's arguments.
Deputy Chief Justice Lovemore Chikopa led the court panel that made the decision. Other judges on the case were Sylvester Kalembera, John Katsala, Dorothy Nyakaunda Kamanga, Charles Mkandawire, and Healey Potani. The court also ordered Mulli's companies to pay all legal fees. These costs cover both the recent appeal and the earlier court case. The businessman must cover expenses for both sides of the legal fight.
