The High Court in Blantyre has today declined an application for judicial review by former deputy chief executive officer (CEO) of National Oil Company (Nocma), Helen Buluma, against the Ombudsman’s decision.

The decision of September 30 2022 by Ombudsman Grace Malera declared that Buluma’s purported employment as deputy CEO was illegal and it should, therefore, be considered that she was not in employment and should not be paid emoluments, terminal benefits or other payments.

The court’s decision to decline the application means that the Ombudsman’s decision that Buluma was never in employment with Nocma as deputy CEO and should not be paid the terminal benefits and others, stands.

Justice Mike Tembo of the Civil Registry said in his ruling that the Buluna case was not fit for consideration at a full hearing.

“There are no serious issues fit for further investigation at a full hearing on judicial review. The application for permission to apply for judicial review is accordingly declined,” said Tembo.

The Ombudsman in her determination last year further observed that Buluma was handpicked for the job by former president Peter Mutharika and that recruitment processes were not followed, making the appointment illegal.

Source:NPL