LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC) has raised alarm over what it describes as a growing culture of unverified accusations on social media, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to Malawi’s justice system and democratic stability.
Particularly targeting Alexious Kamangila, Onjezani Kenani, Ntanyiwa, JB and others that they must provide enough evidence on any allegations leveling individuals on corruption.
Speaking during a press briefing in Lilongwe on Thursday, Board Chairperson Robert Mkwezalamba and Board Member Desmond Mhango,called for responsibility and adherence to the rule of law in the digital space.
HRCC says it is deeply concerned with the rise in allegations targeting the Judiciary, public officials, business leaders and private citizens without evidence or engagement with lawful investigative institutions.
The Committee specifically cited individuals such as Alexious Kamangira and Onjezani Kenani, accusing them of making sweeping corruption claims on social media without presenting proof or reporting to authorities like the Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) and the Financial Intelligence Authority (FIA).
According to HRCC, such actions risk creating a “trial by public opinion,” where accusations are treated as facts, undermining due process and weakening confidence in formal justice systems.
Mkwezalamba and Mhango emphasized that while freedom of expression is protected under the Constitution, it is not absolute and must be exercised responsibly, with respect for truth, evidence and the rights of others.
They warned that persistent attacks on the Judiciary, especially those lacking factual backing, could erode judicial independence, a key pillar of Malawi’s democracy protected under Section 103.
HRCC also highlighted concerns over the unauthorized recording and live streaming of court proceedings, describing the practice as a violation of legal procedures that may amount to contempt of court.
The Committee further noted that some individuals are making allegations from outside Malawi in an apparent attempt to avoid accountability, but stressed that jurisdiction is determined by where the harm occurs.
From a legal standpoint, HRCC warned that unverified allegations could attract serious consequences, including defamation lawsuits, contempt of court charges and possible cybercrime offences.
The organization has since engaged key institutions such as the Judiciary, the Malawi Human Rights Commission and law enforcement agencies, urging them to act decisively to protect institutional integrity.
HRCC also called on Malawians to exercise critical thinking and avoid spreading unverified information, stressing the importance of using formal channels when raising serious allegations.
Mkwezalamba and Mhango reaffirmed the principle of presumption of innocence, warning that if left unchecked, the spread of unverified claims could erode trust in institutions and undermine the rule of law in Malawi.
