LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The late Allan Witika’s murder suspect Lester Maganga will remain in police custody for the next three months until the law enforcers complete investigations.
This follows the High Court Judge Mzondi Mvula’s verdict on Thursday by turning down Maganga’s bail application who is being accused of murdering Coca-Cola Beverages Sales Manager Wittika.
Justice Mvula observed that there is a need to allow the State to exhaust its investigations within 90 days from the day Maganga was arrested as permitted by the law.
“It has been argued that the accused is well travelled, well connected with ‘the powers that be’ which he can use to interfere with the witnesses and investigation processes,” said Mvula.
He finalized reading his ruling with a clear order, saying: “Let it be known that I shall remand in custody Lester Maganga on these terms. That’s my order!”
Last month, Maganga through his lawyer Innocent Kubwalo submitted a bail application saying the suspect has the right to it regardless of what crime he is being suspected to have committed.
However, the development means that Maganga will continue to be at Maula prison where he has been remanded up until after 90 days when the court says he could then be eligible for bail after applications.
The court has since advised the state to conclude its investigations of the matter by January 23, 2024, as the resumption of the hearing of the case is slated for January 24 next year.
Maganga is Information Minister Moses Kunkuyu’s Personal Assistant (PA).
