BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC) has come out strongly in defence of National Bank of Malawi (NBM), arguing that the Bank acted within the law in the controversial K5 billion cash withdrawal saga linked to the sale of Amaryllis Hotel.
HRCC chairperson Robert Mkwezalamba said it is misleading to place blame on the Bank when regulatory institutions that were duly informed failed to act.
“National Bank followed procedure. They verified the transactions, confirmed with the account holder, and notified the relevant authorities. At that point, their legal obligation was fulfilled,” said Mkwezalamba.
The K5 billion cash withdrawals, now under parliamentary scrutiny, have raised serious questions about the role of oversight bodies, particularly the Financial Intelligence Authority (FIA), which reportedly received prior alerts on the transactions but did not intervene.
According to information emerging from the probe, NBM officials reportedly contacted FIA ahead of the large cash withdrawals, including the K1.5 billion transactions conducted on two separate occasions in January 2026.
Mkwezalamba stressed that banks are not law enforcement agencies and cannot arbitrarily block legitimate transactions.
“A bank cannot refuse to honour a customer’s cheque without lawful justification. If anything, the law compels them to pay on demand once due diligence is satisfied. The responsibility to investigate suspicious transactions lies with enforcement agencies like FIA,” he said.
The HRCC chairperson further warned against what he described as a growing tendency to scapegoat institutions that operate within the confines of the law while ignoring failures by those mandated to act.
“We must be careful not to criminalise compliance. If the bank alerted authorities and no action was taken, then accountability must start with those who had the power to investigate and intervene,” said Mkwezalamba.
The controversy has been further inflamed by revelations that former FIA Director General Jean Piriminta was dismissed after allegedly leaking CCTV footage of the transactions, which reportedly show high-profile individuals, including State House-linked operatives, involved in the cash withdrawals.
Mkwezalamba said the focus must now shift to institutional accountability and systemic reform.
“This issue is bigger than one bank. It exposes gaps in our financial oversight systems. The question Malawians should be asking is: why were red flags ignored?”
The HRCC has since called for a transparent and impartial investigation into the matter, urging Parliament and relevant agencies to establish the full facts without political interference.
As pressure mounts, the unfolding scandal continues to test the credibility of Malawi’s financial governance systems, with NBM now finding unlikely support from civil society voices insisting the bank may have simply done its job.
Tag Archives: Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC) Chairperson Robert Mkwezalamba
HRCC Calls for Constitutional Restraint amid public pressure on AG Mbeta’s resignation calls
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC) has urged Malawians to uphold constitutional principles and due process in the wake of growing public calls for the resignation of the country’s Attorney General.
Addressing the news conference on Friday, HRCC Board Chairperson Robert Mkwezalamba observes that said the demands on Attorney General (AG) Frank Mbeta’s resignation is not adding up.
Despite acknowledging accountability as cornerstone of any democratic society, the committee, emphasized the need to be pursued within the confines of the Constitution and established legal procedures.
According to the HRCC, the matter under public debate relates to events allegedly connected to the Attorney General’s prior private legal practice, as well as a court order reportedly restraining investigative action. The Committee noted that, as it stands, there is no criminal charge, indictment or conviction against the Attorney General.
Citing Section 42(2)(f)(iii) of the Constitution, HRCC stressed that every person accused of a criminal offence is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. It warned that suspicion cannot replace proof, and allegations cannot substitute judicial determination.
The Committee further underscored that seeking protection from the courts is a constitutional right available to every Malawian, including public officials. It argued that invoking judicial remedies cannot be interpreted as misconduct.
HRCC pointed out that if a court granted an order restraining investigative action, responsibility for that decision lies with the court itself an independent constitutional body mandated to assess evidence and apply the law. It cautioned against attributing wrongdoing to an individual merely because judicial relief was granted.
Where concerns exist about the propriety of a court order, the Committee said, the law provides mechanisms such as appeal, review or applications to set aside or vary the order.
Resorting to public pressure, it warned, risks undermining the very legal system designed to resolve such disputes.
The HRCC also highlighted the constitutional role of the Attorney General under Section 98, describing the office as the principal legal adviser to government. It clarified that the Attorney General does not investigate, prosecute or adjudicate criminal matters responsibilities that fall under other institutions.
Removal from office, the Committee noted, is only permissible on specific legal grounds such as incompetence, incapacity or compromised impartiality. Allegations alone, without established facts or legal findings, do not constitute lawful grounds for removal.
While making it clear that it does not defend impunity, HRCC maintained that credible evidence of wrongdoing must be handled through lawful investigation and, where appropriate, prosecution.
Accountability, it said, must remain evidence based and consistent with constitutional safeguards.
Quoting Sections 19 and 20 of the Constitution, the Committee reaffirmed that dignity and equality before the law apply to all persons, regardless of public office. It warned against “trial by media” and resignation driven by rumor rather than lawful process.
HRCC called for restraint, responsible public discourse, and unwavering respect for due process, arguing that Malawi’s democracy is safeguarded not by outrage, but by adherence to the rule of law.
HRCC defends fuel prices hike, urges Malawians to adopt expenditure control measures
LILONGWE-(Maravipost)-The Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC) has urged Malawians to accept current fuel prices, saying the country must bear the cost if fuel is to remain available.
HRCC board chairperson Robert Mkwezalamba said this in an interview with Maravipost on Friday.
Mkwezalamba said the recent fuel price increase currently standing at 41 percent reflects the pressure Malawi faces in sustaining fuel supplies.
“Our lives depend on fuel availability. If fuel is to be available in abundance, then the country has to pay the price.
“Malawi does not produce fuel, so we rely entirely on imports”, Mkwezalamba said.
He explained that various fuel levies are necessary to support national development and described the recent price increase as a necessary measure to stabilize supply.
Mkwezalamba noted that even during the previous administration, HRCC called for fuel price adjustments to avoid persistent shortages.
“We asked the past regime to increase fuel prices so that the country could stabilize the fuel market,” he said.
HRCC added that fuel scarcity has serious consequences, particularly on public transport, as shortages force operators and consumers to turn to the black market at much higher prices.
“With adequate fuel supply, public transport can stabilize. Scarcity only fuels exploitation through illegal markets,” Mkwezalamba said.
The HRCC executive director further expressed support for the automatic fuel pricing mechanism, saying it would help stabilize prices in the long term and ensure fair compensation for workers in the fuel supply chain.
He concluded by urging Malawians to live within their means and understand the economic realities behind fuel pricing, emphasizing that availability remains more critical than artificially low prices.
HRCC unhappy with suicide cases rises over festive season’s pressures
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC) has expressed deep concern over the rising number of suicide cases being reported across the country as the festive season approaches, calling for urgent psychosocial support and financial reforms, inclusivity in the banking sector to prevent further loss of life.
Speaking in an interview with Maravi Post on Monday, HRCC Board Chairperson Robert Mkwezalamba described the trend as “shockingly sad,” noting that many people are taking their own lives due to pressures ranging from marital problems to severe financial stress.
Mkwezalamba said Malawi continues to face a serious shortage of psychosocial experts, leaving many citizens without access to timely and affordable counselling services.
He urged the Ministry of Gender and Social Welfare to step up recruitment of social workers and ensure they are deployed nationwide with specialized training in psychosocial support.
“Times are getting hard each passing moment hence more Malawians need counselling on various aspects of their lives, but the services are simply not available or accessible where people live,” he said.
Mkwezalamba also linked the increase in suicides to financial distress associated with informal lending schemes, commonly known as banki nkhonde.
He said the popularity of such schemes reflects deeper failures within the formal financial system.
“Our financial institutions have focused on profits and ignored the real needs of their customers”
“This has forced people into loose and unregulated financial support systems that offer easy access to money but little protection when someone defaults,” he said.
He explained that many people are drawn to banki nkhonde because of their accessibility, flexible repayment methods, and the perceived understanding among members- advantages often lacking in mainstream banks.
However, when members fail to meet repayment obligations, the pressure and shame can become overwhelming.
HRCC has therefore appealed to banki nkhonde groups to exercise love, understanding and compassion, especially toward members who have consistently complied with their obligations but face temporary difficulties.
“If someone has been contributing all year and suddenly struggles, reasoninh must prevail. Preserving life and maintaining member’s integrity must come first,” Mkwezalamba said.
He suggested allowing such members to roll over into the next cycle and clear their debts within three to six months, warning that “with death, the whole group loses, but managing a defaulter gives them a chance to recover what was due!.”
He further emphasized the importance of due diligence at the start of each savings cycle, including seeking consent from spouses or next of kin, to ensure families can be engaged early when challenges arise.
“Many people suffer in silence because they fear embarrassment or bringing shame to their families. If one cannot own up to debts, it is better not to join such groups,” he advised.
Mkwezalamba urged Malawians to rethink the expectations surrounding Christmas and New Year celebrations.
He cautioned against excessive spending driven by the desire to impress others.
“December is just like any other month,we still have rentals, utility bills, salaries to pay, and January comes with school fees and many other demands. No one has ever died for not having a fan or lavish celebrations during Christmas,”he said.
He called on citizens to live within their means, plan ahead, and use the festive season as a time for reflection and prayer rather than accumulating debt.
“Let us choose simple living, compassion and understanding,”
“That way, we can save lives and enter the new year with hope, not despair.”Mkwezalamba said.
Malawi’s human rights activists deny receiving MK3bn from NEEF
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-In a shocking revelation, a circular allegedly from the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF) has sparked controversy, claiming that eight prominent human rights activists in Malawi received MK3 billion for civic education, youth empowerment, and community development initiatives.
However, the activists named in the circular have vehemently denied the allegations, labeling the document as fake.
Robert Mkwezalamba, one of the activists listed, described the circular as “fake and written by enemies.” In an interview, Mkwezalamba emphasized that NEEF is regulated by the Financial Services Act and would not publicly disclose such information.
“It’s fake, boss. Nothing true in that. NEEF is regulated by the Financial Services Act, and there’s no way they’ll go to the public making such pronouncements,” Mkwezalamba stated.
The activists named in the circular include Benedict Kondowe, Robert Mkwezalamba, Fryson Chodzi, Unandi Banda, Gift Trapence, Undule Mwakasungula, Agape Khombe, and Mavuto Bamusi.
According to Mkwezalamba, even if NEEF did provide loans to individuals, the details would remain confidential, as agreements are signed between the fund and the individual, and cannot be disclosed to the public.
“NEEF’s operations are transparent in terms of their mandate, but specific loan details are confidential,” Mkwezalamba added. “Adani athu basi awa bro” or “these are our enemies, brother,” Mkwezalamba exclaimed, underscoring the malicious intent behind the fake circular.
The denial by the activists raises questions about the authenticity of the circular and the potential motives behind its creation.
If indeed the circular is fake, it may be an attempt to discredit the activists or create confusion about NEEF’s operations.
NEEF’s role in Malawi’s economic development is to provide financial support to individuals and businesses.
However, the specifics of their funding allocations, especially regarding high-profile cases or sensitive areas like human rights activism, are typically subject to strict confidentiality agreements to protect both the fund and the recipients.
This incident highlights the need for vigilance and verification of information, especially when it involves public figures and institutions.
The activists’ swift response and denial of the allegations demonstrate their commitment to transparency and accountability.
As this story unfolds, one thing is clear: the truth behind the circular will be crucial in determining the credibility of the claims and the potential impact on Malawi’s human rights landscape.
For now, the activists’ statements cast significant doubt on the authenticity of the document, and it remains to be seen how NEEF will respond to these allegations.
“Chakwera Govt entitled to hold SKC commemoration as he died on duty”— HRCC
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-As the nation commemorates the lives of late Vice President Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima and nine others tomorrow June 10th,who tragically died in a plane crash, human rights activists are urging for unity and peace during the memorial events.
In an interview with Maravi Post on Monday June 09,Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC) Chairperson Robert Mkwezalamba emphasized that the government is within its rights to organize official commemorations, given that Dr. Chilima died while serving in office.
Mkwezalamba called for the commemorative ceremonies to be held in both Msipe, Chilima’s home area, and Chikangawa Forest, the site of the tragic accident, to accommodate public mourning and honor the lives lost.
“We appeal to all parties to hold the ceremonies peacefully. This is a time for unity, not division,” he said.
He further proposed that Malawi should, going forward, designate a national day of remembrance for all public servants who die in the line of duty, including Chilima and the other victims of the crash.
While acknowledging the complexity surrounding the tragedy, Mkwezalamba urged the public to remain calm in the face of ongoing conspiracy theories alleging political foul play.
“As we approach the first anniversary of the accident, a government report has just been released. It clearly indicates that this was an accident. Let people read it for themselves,” observes Mkwezalamba.
The tragic crash, which occurred in June 10th 2024, claimed the lives of Vice President Chilima and eight others in Chikangawa sending shockwaves throughout the nation and beyond.
As memorial events unfold, Malawians are being urged to reflect, mourn respectfully, and work toward national healing.
HRCC Mkwezalamba advises Chakwera “Not to appear before parliament amid crises but address the nation”
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC) observes its not healthy for President Lazarus Chakwera to appear before parliament amid numerous crises.
HRCC has therefore advised Chakwera to address the nation with practical solutions to the crises including fuel, forex, food shortage, high cost of living.
HRCC Chairperson told the Maravi Post in an interview that “there is no genuineness in the call for HE to appear before the assembly as they simply want to embarrass and redicule him”.
Mkwezalamba argued further that “Its not necessarily for President to attend parliament at this time as he might not have the answers to the pressing issues at hand”.
“For now, our focus should be on urging the president to address the nation with concrete actions the government has taken to tackle these problems, along with timelines that allow us to assess progress,” he said.
On the inquiry commission involving the late Vice President Saulos Chilima, Mkwezalamba stated that there is no justification for doubting the commission, “Despite the missed opportunity created by the withdrawal of the Civil Society Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa”.
The current administration is facing numerous economic challenges, including fuel shortages, issues with the Affordable Input Program such as the lack of fertilizer, and foreign exchange difficulties.
Recently, the leader of the opposition, George Chaponda, has called for Chakwera to appear before parliament as the 6th meeting of the 50th session begins on Monday, November 25, for the 2024-2025 mid-year budget review.
Chinese court slaps Malawian lady Estina Mukasera with 24-year jail term for drug trafficking
HONG KONG-(MaraviPost)-A court in Hong Kong, China has sentenced a Malawian woman Estina Mukasera aged 30 to 24 years imprisonment with hard labor after she was found guilty of drug trafficking.
Estina was arrested in Hong Kong after she was found in possession of 2.2kgs of cocaine in August 2018.
Hong Kong is a special administrative region of the People’s Republic of China with Executive, Legislative, and Judicial powers devolved from the national government.
Nigerian nationals involved into drug trafficking in Malawi sent her to Hong Kong in 2018 to deliver the parcel of which she claimed she wasn’t aware what was in the bag.
Malawi Foreign Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Rejoice Shumba confirmed Estina’s sentence saying government tried its best to provide legal support for Mukasera.
“Kukasera was was found guilty and as per country’s laws, she was sentenced to 24 years jail term. As government, the court role was to ensure she was represented in court and her case was heard impartially. All that was done until the time of passing judgement,” says Shumba.
Reacting to the development Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC) Chairperson Robert Mkwezalamba says his organisation has written Foreign Affairs Ministry and other government agencies to have the convict Mukasera repatriated home.
Mkwezalamba insisted that Mukasera was a victim of trafficking hence ” We can use her experiences to speak against the vice”.
HRCC has been pursuing the matter since the lady was arrested in 2018 and has previously engaged Malawi government to request China to send Mukasera back home.