By Jones Gadama
The High Court in Lilongwe has convicted police officer David Chitsike of manslaughter in the 2022 shooting of Chikondi Makawa, a 36-year-old gym trainer.
Makawa was shot at a bar in Gateway Mall, Lilongwe, after failing to pay for a bottle of water he had ordered.
Justice Annabel Mtalimanja concurred with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) that Chitsike used excessive force against Makawa, who suffered from bipolar disorder, despite his surrender.
The court’s ruling marks a significant victory in the pursuit of professional police conduct, according to Nicely Msowoya, Chief Legal Officer for the Independent Complaints Commission (ICC), which investigated the case.
The ICC’s investigation found that Chitsike’s actions were unjustified and disproportionate to the situation.
The court’s conviction of Chitsike sends a strong message that police officers will be held accountable for their actions, particularly when they result in harm or death to innocent civilians.
An earlier investigation by the Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) recommended that Makawa’s family pursue civil claims for compensation.
The MHRC’s investigation found that Makawa’s rights were violated, and that the police officer’s actions were in contravention of the country’s human rights laws.
The court has ordered all parties to submit final written submissions to guide the judge in sentencing Chitsike, whose bail has been revoked.
The sentencing hearing is expected to take place in the coming weeks.
The conviction of Chitsike is a significant step towards justice for Makawa’s family and friends.
It also serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and transparency within the police service.
In a statement, the ICC’s Nicely Msowoya welcomed the court’s ruling, saying it marked a significant victory in the pursuit of professional police conduct.
“This ruling sends a strong message that police officers will be held accountable for their actions, particularly when they result in harm or death to innocent civilians,” Msowoya said.
The case has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, with many calling for greater accountability and transparency within the police service.
The conviction of Chitsike is a significant step towards addressing these concerns and ensuring that justice is served.
