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UDF deputy director of research Humphrey Mvula, who is facing murder and conspiracy to murder charges and has been at Maula Prison since October 25, was admitted to Kamuzu Central Hospital on Saturday night and medical reports indicate that he is developing a stroke and might suffer a heart failure.
UDF secretary general Kennedy Makwangwala said on Sunday the party had received information that Mvula has not been feeling well ever since his arrest and that his condition worsened over the weekend, forcing prison authorities to take him to Kamuzu Central Hospital.
Mvula’s brother, Hastings, confirmed that Humphrey was on Sunday examined by the chief physician at the hospital who indicated that he is in an early stage of a stroke.
“The police and whoever is involved in the arrest of my brother knew that he has been quite sick but they didn’t care. His illness was even mentioned in court but everybody ignored this until now when his situation is getting worse,” said Hastings.
He said the doctor has been to see Mvula in prison three times and recommended that he be released on bail but that no-one took heed.
He said the whole of Mvula’s right side has become numb.
“He’s been experiencing severe headaches because his blood sugar levels have not been managed properly ever since he was arrested. He also has some high blood pressure,” said Hastings.
A medical report from Lilongwe Private Hospital signed by a Dr P.W. Chirwa indicates that the doctor recommended Mvula’s admission on October 27, 2004, saying from his medical evaluation it was his conclusion that his patient was developing complications from “poorly managed hypertension and diabetes” and that this may lead to congestive heart failure and other problems.
According to the report, Mvula had swelling of both feet, occasional heart palpitations, dizzy spells and blurred vision.
“He has continued to take his medications as prescribed but has been unable to follow the strict dietary regime required for his ailments,” stated Chirwa.
Chirwa said Mvula was diagnosed with high blood pressure 15 years ago, was last attacked with gout three months ago, suffers from Non-Insulin Dependant Diabetes Mellitus diagnosed five years ago, heart palpitations noticed a year ago and has since two months ago been suffering from Agoraphobia which is a pathological fear of public places.
Mvula was first admitted to Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital on October 31 after suffering from high blood pressure when he was first arrested on corruption charges.
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