Powers and functions of the Police

(1) The Malawi Police Service shall be an independent organ of the executive which shall be there to provide for the protection of public safety and the rights of persons in Malawi according to the prescriptions of this Constitution and any other law. (2) The Malawi Police Service shall enjoy only such powers as are necessary for the protection of rights under this Constitution and the maintenance of public safety and public order in accordance with the prescriptions of this Constitution and the law. (3) In the exercise of their functions, members of the Malawi Police Service shall be subject to the direction of the courts and shall be bound by the orders of such courts. (4) Political responsibility for the Malawi Police Service shall vest in a Minister of the Government who shall ensure that the discipline and conduct of the Malawi Police Service accords with the prescriptions of this Constitution and any other law. [13 of 2001]