By William Kazembe - Lilongwe

After spending more than 2 week at Maula Prison, the Center for Democrac and Economic Development Initatives (CDEDI) Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa, has written to the Officer-in-Charge of Maula Prison requesting information on conditions and services at the facility. 

The call comes barely days after Namiwa was released from prison following he arrest in August on publication on false news likely to cause harm. 

Speaking in Lilongwe on Wednesday, Namiwa said CDEDI wants details about the prison's capacity, as well as the suppliers of maize and beans provided to inmates.

"We need authorities to disclose the suppliers of soap and blankets and explain how frequently inmates receive the essential items during their stay at the prison," Namiwa added. 

In addition, Namiwa has requested information on the doctors who visit the facility and assess the quality and quantity of food served to inmates.

The CDEDI Executive Director has further sought an update on the prison's backup water supply system, particularly the condition and status of plastic water tanks installed around the facility. 

Namiwa said the information is being sought to ensure that Maula Prison effectively fulfils its role as a rehabilitation centre, giving people who have fallen on the wrong side of the law an opportunity to reform and return to society as responsible citizens.

This was CDEDI's first press conference after Namiwa was released on bail.