By Amry Nyondo
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has issued a stern letter to President Lazarus Chakwera, demanding immediate intervention in the passport crisis that has gripped Malawi for three months.
They have also condemned the Immigration Department’s incompetence, citing the failure to contract a reliable passport printing supplier, resulting in chaos and economic losses.
“The situation has left thousands of citizens stranded, waiting for hours in the sun, hoping to obtain a passport. “reads the ultimatum,signed by its national coordinator,Kelvin Chirwa.
The department’s inability to print quality passports has sparked concerns of gross mismanagement or deliberate exploitation.
But the coalition has faulted the department for it’s decision to he recruit E-Tech Systems, saying the company has failed to alleviate the situation, casting doubt on its decision-making processes.
HRDC is demanding the immediate presidential intervention, including a firsthand assessment of the situation.
They are also calling for the cancellation of the existing contract with E-Tech Systems and the initiation of an open tender process to ensure efficient passport printing services.
“We are demanding the dismissal of Director General Brigadier General Charles Kalumo. “
“He has demonstrated incompetence in managing the crisis.”
The coalition is also seeking a thorough explanation from Minister Ken Zikhale Ngo’ma regarding the ransomware incident, in which hackers allegedly demanded a $2 million ransom.
“We are demanding accountability and transparency in the Immigration Department.There is need for urgent action to restore order and dignity to Malawians,” further reads the letter.
The nation awaits President Chakwera’s response to these demands, hoping for a swift resolution to the crisis.
