Tag Archives: Hillary Chilomba

Development

Immigration officials assure passport seekers of improved services amidst corruption crackdown

Burnett Munthali

By Burnett Munthali

In response to recent corruption concerns, immigration officials in Lilongwe have reassured passport seekers that efforts are underway to ensure a smooth and efficient processing system. This reassurance comes in the wake of recent arrests by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) involving middlemen who were accused of defrauding service seekers.

ACB arrests eight immigration officers, two civilians in passport corruption scandal

Hillary Chilomba, Acting Director General of the ACB, confirmed that the bureau has made significant progress in addressing corrupt practices related to passport issuance. The crackdown on these middlemen highlights ongoing efforts to restore integrity within the immigration system.

Superintendent Alexander Maseko, the Regional Immigration Officer for the Central Region, addressed the public, emphasizing that the department is now prioritizing the processing of passport applications dating back to 2021. Maseko acknowledged the previous delays, particularly concerning express passports, which are supposed to be processed within 48 hours.

To further address the situation, Maseko urged individuals who have encountered issues with corrupt practices, including those who have illegally paid officers to expedite their processing, to report these incidents to the authorities. This call for transparency is part of the department’s broader strategy to enhance service delivery and rebuild public trust.

The immigration department’s commitment to improving its services comes as a crucial step in rectifying past inefficiencies and ensuring that all passport seekers receive timely and fair assistance.

corruption, Malawi

NAP calls for merit-based ACB Director appointment

MaraviPost

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The country’s National Advocacy Platform (NAP) has has emphasised the need for transparent and merit-based selection process towards appointment of new Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Director General.

NAP Chairperson Benedicto Kondowe told The Maravi Post in an interview that the transition period requires prompt action to ensure continuity and stability within the bureau.

Kondowe was reacting to the appointment of Hillary Chilomba as ACB Acting Director General following the expiry of Martha Chizuma’s contract last Friday..

In a statement issued on Tuesday, May 4, 2024, ACB Principal Public Relations Officer Egrita Ndala said the bureau’s operations are continuing and stakeholders should offer Chilomba support.

Chilomba was deputy director general for the bureau.

But NAP Chairperson Kondowe observes, “To appoint a substantive Director General, a transparent and merit-based selection process should be initiated, involving a thorough vetting of candidates to ensure the most qualified individual is chosen.

“An objective oversight role by the Public Appointments Committee (PAC) is essential in this process, ensuring that the recruitment is depoliticized and free from external influences. Levelling the playing field for competent candidates is key to securing a leader who can effectively combat corruption”.

He added, “Additionally, ongoing support for the ACB is crucial, including adequate funding, resources, and political backing, to empower the bureau in its critical role of upholding integrity within the public sector”.

President Lazarus Chakwera remains key in appointing new ACB director whose name will be vetted by PAC.

According to law, the Acting ACB director serves for three months before appointment for a full office.