Pepperdine Sudreau Global Justice Institute completed a three-day Prison Project in Malawi, marking the first time its full program was held outside Uganda, according to an April 22 announcement. The event coincided with the country’s first formal plea agreement and brought together law students, attorneys, and judicial leaders from across Africa.
The project is significant as it addresses long-standing challenges in Malawi’s justice system, such as prolonged pretrial detention and limited access to legal representation. By involving Pepperdine law students and legal professionals in reviewing criminal cases, the initiative aims to reduce court backlogs that often leave individuals waiting years for trial.
During the three days, seven capital cases were resolved. Seth Bamburg (‘14, JD ’17), executive director of the Sudreau Global Justice Institute, said: “To see a powerful tool implemented into a justice system in real time was an almost indescribable moment. The judge who accepted the first plea bargain was a judge who had advocated for this tool for 24 years, so it was an incredible honor to partner with the leaders of Malawi’s justice system to see this dream realized.” He continued: “I’m confident that the momentum and historic collaboration from this week will build a very strong foundation for Malawi to fully integrate plea bargaining into their day-to-day criminal justice process.”
Malawi’s Chief Justice Rizine Robert Mzikamanda described the occasion as a “momentous and historic day for the criminal justice system,” saying: “Plea bargaining in a structured manner is an important vehicle for improving access to justice and for achieving justice for all.” Mzikamanda also thanked Pepperdine University: “We cannot thank you enough.” He pointed out ongoing challenges such as prison overcrowding—nearly 3,000 inmates are held in facilities built for about 1,000—and increasing case backlogs.
Law students involved found personal meaning in their participation. Emma Joy McArthy said: “We worked with people who were pleading guilty to really horrific things. That was difficult at times, but it was also a reminder that everyone has inherent worth and value that goes beyond the worst thing they’ve ever done.” Max Stone added: “The idea of governments holding people in prison without due process is something that really troubles me… one decision—choosing to participate—could actually help change someone’s life.” Josh Finlayson emphasized teamwork among judges, prosecutors, prison officials and defense counsel during implementation.
As Finlayson reflected on expanding these efforts across Africa he said: “Representing Pepperdine as a law student during Sudreau’s first Prison Project outside of Uganda felt like standing on the shoulders of those who had spent years building the foundation for this work. The program’s success in Malawi makes me excited for Sudreau to expand their plea bargaining initiative to more countries across Africa, bringing greater access to justice to many more people.”