Malawi opposition leaders treason case adjourned

High Court Judge Esme Chombo has adjourned the treason case involving Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) president Peter Mutharika and six other officials.

The adjournment follows arguments by the Defense Attorney Titus Mvalo that the charges are not clear because the state did not name some people who were involved and the places which the accused are suspected of committing the crime.

Mvalo also argued that treason and mutiny are the same charges and cannot be separated, a notion which was shot down by Judge Chombo.

Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Bruno Kalemba indicated to the court that they will go back and file the fresh charges within a week.

However, Chombo adjourned the case to a later date to be communicated by the registrar.

Among those that are being charged are MPs Vuwa Kaunda, Patricia Kaliati, Goodall Gondwe, Kondwani Nankhuma, Nicholas Dausi and Jean Kalilani.