Summary:
This case, filed on behalf of the Malawi Human Rights Defenders Coalition, challenges the practice of awarding excessive legal costs against public interest litigants, particularly civil society organisations and individuals pursuing accountability or constitutional litigation.

The case alleges that such punitive cost orders are used in a manner that deters legitimate public interest litigation, restricts access to justice, and undermines civic space. The application argues that the practice violates freedom of association, freedom of expression, the right to property, and the right to an effective remedy.