The High Court in Lilongwe has granted an injunction to 22 Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Members of Parliament (MPs) restraining the party from effecting its decision to appoint George Chaponda as the new leader of opposition.

Judge Kenyatta Nyirenda granted the order upon hearing arguments from lawyer for the MPs Wapona Kita and reading sworn statements of Werani Chilenga and Mark Botomani.

Judge Nyirenda has ruled that an interpartes hearing on the matter will be held on July7, 2022.

Earlier on Tuesday, Parliament confirmed that it had received an official communication from DPP on the appointment of Chaponda as new leader of opposition.

Assistant Clerk of Parliament responsible for Protocol and Public Relations, Ian Mwenye said the office of the Speaker does not take any role in the appointment of the leader of opposition.