Malawi’s Supreme Court Makes 'U-turn' on Death Penalty Ban

BLANTRYE, MALAWI - Malawi’s Supreme Court of Appeal says the death penalty remains constitutional in the southern African country.  The decision reverses a ruling from just four months ago, when the same court abolished the death penalty.  Rights campaigners say the development is disappointing.

The ruling in April stemmed from the petition of a convicted murderer, who wanted the Supreme Court to re-hear his case. In his judgment, Justice Dunstan Mwaungulu, now retired, said Malawi's constitution respects the right to life – and said the death penalty negates that right. He emphasized the sanctity of life, saying without the right to life, other rights do not exist.