Parliament Introduces House Detention as New Form of Punishment

The Malawi National Assembly has passed the historic constitutional amendment introducing house detention as new form of punishment

This landmark decision marks a significant shift in Malawi’s justice system, aiming to address practical and humanitarian challenges.

The amendment, presented by Minister of Justice Titus Mvalo, garnered widespread support from both ruling and opposition parties in the house.

The new law provides solutions for public health concerns, such as isolating individuals with contagious diseases, and offers compassionate sentencing alternatives for frail individuals or those with severe health conditions.

“This allows them to serve their sentences at home, maintaining accountability while upholding human dignity,” reads part of the amendment.

Civil society organizations have yet to weigh in on the amendment, which has already sparked criticism from some quarters, arguing that the constitutional change will disproportionately benefit the elite.