A planned student demonstration at the University of Malawi (UNIMA) has been put on hold following a stakeholders’ meeting held on Tuesday at the Zomba District Council. The meeting brought together various parties, including former UNIMA Students Union President Humble CS Bondo, the University’s Deputy Registrar Alfred Arteta Banda, the District Commissioner, senior police officials, and other observers.
The gathering focused on the delayed handling of Bondo’s academic appeal, which, according to a court order issued by Judge Zione Ntaba, was supposed to be processed between April 2 and May 2, 2025. However, the University had not yet taken action, leading to growing concerns among Bondo and other concerned stakeholders.
During the meeting, Bondo expressed his dissatisfaction with the delay, emphasising the importance of following legal procedures and ensuring student rights are respected. The University acknowledged the concerns raised and committed to processing Bondo’s appeal by Thursday, with a final decision to be made by Friday, July 11, at 4:30 PM.
Bondo agreed to call off the demonstration temporarily, stating that this gesture was in the interest of progress and public trust. He also requested that the University’s commitment be officially recorded in the meeting’s minutes and that a copy be shared with him on Wednesday by 8:00 in the morning.
“I am choosing to give the University the benefit of the doubt,” Bondo said. “But this is not a time for delays or confusion. We expect transparency and fairness,” he added.
As things stand, the University has assured all parties that the appeal will be handled promptly. If the decision is not delivered as promised, Bondo noted that further action may be taken, including peaceful demonstrations or other forms of protest.
All eyes now turn to Friday as students and stakeholders await the outcome.
As part of the demonstrations, dubbed “JADGIL,” Bondo had earlier planned to stage a vigil at the University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Samson Sajidu.
The university has yet to comment on the matter.
