LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Principal Resident Magistrate Roderick Michongwe on Tuesday, June 25, 2024 granted bail to Bon Kalindo for allegedly producing a voice note aimed at disturbing peace in the country.
Kalindo who was arrested on June 20 pleaded not guilty to charges of producing fake news and offensive communication which have potential to disturb peace.
The political activist is alleged to have stated in the voice note that there was a sour relation between President Lazarus Chakwera and late Saulos Chilima, who was vice-president of the country.
According to the State, Kalindo conduct aimed at disturbing peace in the country.
He has been granted bail on condition that he must be his own surety, should not be involved in disturbing peace and should avail himself before court when needed, among other conditions.
Meanwhile, country’s civil rights group under the banner National Advocacy Platform (NAP) is condemning Malawi Police Service for misusing Cyber Security Act to silence dissenting views.
NAP’s condemnation comes amid police political arrests and detentions of lawmaker Kamlepo Kalua, political activist Bon Kalindo, and the most recently, Rev. Kondwani Chimbirima Gondwe.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, June 25, 2024 and signed by NAP chairperson Benedicto Kondowe observes that arrests are detrimental fundamental to freedom of expression in democratic society.
“These arrests , unprecedented since the tragic plane crash involving the Vice President and eight others, appear to constitute a blatant violation of fundamental human rights, undermining the rule of law and the integrity of our justice system.
