LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi’s revered governance and human rights advocate, Undule Mwakasungula, has urged Malawians to remain calm and maintain their confidence in the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) as the body continues to count and verify the votes cast in the September 16, 2025, General Elections.
Mwakasungula has challenged citizens to be vigilant and demand transparency from the pollster, stressing that this is key in avoiding “a repeat of the 2019 elections, which came to be known as the “Tippex elections.”
He made the sentiments in a statement shared on Monday, in which he is also asking MEC to pay attention to the concerns raised by Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and United Democratic Front (UDF) about irregularities in 13 districts.
According to Mwakasungula, for Malawians to trust the outcome, every claim of malpractice must be properly checked.
“In this waiting period, Malawians have a role to play. The law gives MEC enough time to count and verify all votes, so we must give them the space to finish their work. As we move into the post-election period, unity is what the country needs most. Whoever wins must govern for all Malawians, not only for their supporters,” he emphasized.
“We should avoid a repeat of the 2019 elections, which came to be known as the Tippex elections, where altered tally sheets and widespread irregularities damaged public confidence and forced a costly rerun. Lessons from 2019 must guide us now, so that history does not repeat itself. Lessons from 2019 must guide us now, so that history does not repeat itself,” he said.
Mwakasungula is a renowned Malawian governance, public policy, and human rights advocate. He has played a central role in advancing democracy, civic participation, and development dialogue in Malawi and across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
Mwakasungula noted with concern the escalation of misinformation and disinformation surrounding the outcome of the presidential poll, with both Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and MCP declaring that their torchbearers have won.
He warned that spreading rumours or following unofficial announcements could create confusion and tension; hence, he advised political leaders to guide their followers to remain peaceful.
“Civil society must continue civic education, and the media must avoid reporting unverified stories. MEC is the only body that has the legal power to announce results and guide the country through this sensitive period. Until MEC speaks, everything else people hear from other sources is just rumours or fake news that is misleading the nation. This is why Malawians must be very careful and remain calm as we wait for the official results,” he emphasized.
However, he commended Malawians for demonstrating resilience and belief in democracy, as evidenced by a peaceful campaign period.
“But democracy is not only about voting, it is also about protecting the vote, counting it fairly, and announcing results transparently. Interesting that the arrest of eight people suspected of data manipulation shows that the process is not without challenges. Police confirmed that similar investigations are happening in a number of districts. These cases must be taken seriously and concluded quickly so that the truth is known before MEC declares the final results,” he said.
“This is the moment to heal divisions and focus on peace, development and service delivery. Malawi is at a crossroads. We can choose conflict and mistrust, or we can choose patience, respect for the law, and faith in our institutions. The only way forward is for MEC to finish investigations, address concerns, and announce results that truly reflect the will of the people. This is how democracy will survive and Malawi will move forward,” concluded Mwakasungula.
In a move that has sparked widespread criticism, Undule Mwakasungula, a known MCP sympathizer masquerading as a human rights activist, has urged opposition political parties to refrain from making negative statements against the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC).
Mwakasungula’s call for restraint comes on the heels of opposition parties and some Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) raising concerns about MEC’s decision to use the electronic system in the upcoming elections.
Critics have accused Mwakasungula of using his platform to defend the ruling MCP and attack opposition parties.
His latest statement, carried out in a tone that suggests he is more interested in protecting the interests of the ruling party than in promoting free and fair elections.
An independent electoral observer, Unandi Banda, has also weighed in on the issue, appealing to political parties to avoid issuing divisive remarks. Banda emphasized that political parties have a responsibility to promote peace and unity during the election period.
Given Mwakasungula’s track record of defending the ruling party, his statement should be viewed with skepticism.
Rather than promoting peace and stability, Mwakasungula’s comments appear to be designed to stifle legitimate criticism of MEC and undermine the democratic process.
It is essential for Malawians to be aware of Mwakasungula’s biases and to critically evaluate his statements on electoral issues.
The focus should remain on ensuring that the upcoming elections are free, fair, and transparent, and that all stakeholders are held accountable for their actions.
In the lead-up to the elections, it is crucial that all parties engage in constructive dialogue and promote a peaceful and respectful electoral environment.
Mwakasungula’s comments, rather than contributing to this goal, seem to be part of a broader effort to suppress debate and maintain the status quo.
Ultimately, the people of Malawi deserve better than to be misled by individuals who prioritize partisan interests over the integrity of the electoral process.
Undule Mwakasungula’s recent statements on women’s representation in leadership roles have raised eyebrows, casting doubt on his credibility as a genuine human rights advocate. Instead of providing a balanced analysis, Mwakasungula’s comments seem to be a thinly veiled attempt to promote the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) administration’s agenda.
Mwakasungula’s praise for President Lazarus Chakwera’s administration, highlighting the appointments of women to key positions, including the Chief Secretary to the Government and Minister of Foreign Affairs, comes across as overly enthusiastic and partisan.
While it’s true that these appointments are notable, a closer examination reveals that the MCP administration still has a long way to go in terms of achieving gender parity in decision-making roles.
As of January 2025, President Chakwera’s cabinet consists of 25 members, with only eight women appointed to serve. This translates to a mere 32% representation, far from the 50% target that would reflect true gender parity.
Moreover, the MCP administration’s track record on women’s rights and empowerment is not without controversy. Critics argue that the party’s rhetoric on women’s empowerment often falls short in practice.
Mwakasungula’s call for stakeholders to support women’s participation in leadership roles is a noble one, but it rings hollow when juxtaposed with his apparent MCP bias.
A genuine human rights advocate would likely be more critical of the administration’s shortcomings and more vocal about the need for meaningful reforms.
Furthermore, Mwakasungula’s failure to acknowledge the MCP administration’s limitations and challenges in promoting women’s rights raises questions about his independence and objectivity.
His comments seem to be more focused on promoting the MCP’s image rather than advocating for genuine human rights and social justice.
Undule Mwakasungula’s statements on women’s representation in leadership roles appear to be more MCP propaganda than genuine human rights advocacy.
His partisan tone and failure to critically evaluate the administration’s record on women’s rights suggest that he may be more of an MCP agent than a genuine human rights advocate. As such, his comments should be viewed with skepticism, and his credibility as a human rights advocate should be called into question.
The people of Malawi deserve better than partisan rhetoric masquerading as human rights advocacy.
They need genuine advocates who will hold those in power accountable and push for meaningful reforms that promote social justice and human rights for all.
Until Mwakasungula can demonstrate a more nuanced and critical approach to human rights advocacy, his credibility will remain suspect.
A recent national address by former President Peter Mutharika has ignited a heated debate, with some critics accusing him of undermining the authority of the current president. However, others argue that Mutharika’s address was well within his rights as a former head of state and leader of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
At the center of the controversy is Undule Mwakasangula, an agent of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), who has been vocal in his criticism of Mutharika’s address. Mwakasangula claims that Mutharika’s actions are a clear attempt to undermine the authority of President Lazarus Chakwera.
However, a closer examination of the Malawi Constitution reveals that former presidents are not prohibited from addressing the nation through various media channels. In fact, the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, which includes the right to communicate one’s views to the public.
It’s worth noting that Mutharika’s address did not claim or imply that he is the current head of state. Rather, he spoke as the leader of the DPP and a former president, addressing his supporters and the broader Malawian public.
Mwakasangula’s criticism of Mutharika’s address has been met with skepticism by some, who argue that he is overstepping his bounds. “Mwakasangula should stop poking his nose into issues he doesn’t understand,” said one observer. “He failed to cite a single section of the Constitution that prohibits former presidents from addressing their supporters through media channels.”
The controversy has also raised questions about the role of the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC), which is a public broadcaster funded by taxpayers’ money. While MBC is supposed to be an impartial platform for public discourse, critics argue that it has been hijacked by the MCP government and used as a propaganda tool.
In a surprising twist, some have questioned Mwakasangula’s motives, suggesting that his criticism of Mutharika’s address may be driven by a desire to curry favor with the MCP government. “Mwakasangula is a failed activist who has been trying to advance his own interests by attacking the DPP,” said one commentator. “It’s no surprise that he’s now trying to defend the MCP government’s actions.”
As the debate continues to rage, one thing is clear: the Malawi Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, and former presidents like Peter Mutharika have the right to communicate their views to the public. Whether or not one agrees with Mutharika’s views, it’s essential to respect his right to express them.
DPP slams Undule Mwakasungula over attacks on Mutharika’s national address
The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has exposed an imposter claiming to be a member of the Mutharika family
By Twink Jones Gadama
The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has come out swinging in defense of former President Peter Mutharika’s recent national address, slamming Undule Mwakasungula for his biased and unfounded claims about the speech.
In a strongly-worded press release, the DPP denounced Mwakasungula’s assertion that only the current president can deliver a national address, calling it a “false notion”.
The party also took issue with Mwakasungula’s claim that the struggles faced by Malawians under the current administration are not solely the result of President Lazarus Chakwera’s failed leadership.
According to the DPP, Mutharika’s address was not an attempt to undermine the current administration’s privileges, but rather a necessary and timely intervention to shed light on the critical governance failures and challenges that are impacting Malawians today.
“The address was a call to action, a reminder that the current administration’s mishandling of the economy has resulted in a staggering 33% inflation rate and a severe shortage of foreign currency,” said Shadric Namalomba, DPP’s National Publicity Secretary and Party Spokesperson. “Malawians are facing unprecedented levels of hunger, and it’s time for the current administration to take responsibility for its failures.”
The DPP urged critics, including Mwakasungula, to focus on the substance of Mutharika’s address rather than engaging in pointless debates about its delivery. The party also encouraged Mwakasungula to adopt the role of a progressive and independent activist who prioritizes the well-being of Malawi and puts the interests of the nation above all else.
“Mwakasungula should not dwell on his past or serve as a mere puppet for the current administration’s failed agenda,” said Namalomba. “Instead, he should use his platform to speak truth to power and hold the current administration accountable for its failures.”
The controversy surrounding Mutharika’s national address has sparked a heated debate in Malawi, with many calling for the current administration to take responsibility for its failures. The DPP’s press release is the latest salvo in the battle for public opinion, and it remains to be seen how the current administration will respond.
The Implications of Undule Mwakasangula’s Accusations Against Former President Peter Mutharika: A Constitutional Perspective
The Implications of Undule Mwakasangula’s Accusations Against Former President Peter Mutharika: A Constitutional Perspective
By Twink Jones Gadama
In the complex political landscape of Malawi, the interplay between former and current leaders often stirs controversy, particularly when it comes to the interpretation of constitutional rights and responsibilities. The recent accusations leveled by Undule Mwakasangula, an agent of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), against former President Arthur Peter Mutharika, have ignited a debate about the boundaries of political discourse and the rights of former leaders to engage with the public. Mwakasangula’s assertion that Mutharika’s national address undermines the authority of the current president raises critical questions about the nature of political communication, the role of former leaders in a democratic society, and the legal frameworks that govern such interactions.
At the heart of Mwakasangula’s accusations is the claim that Mutharika’s address constitutes an infringement on the authority of the sitting president. This perspective suggests a zero-sum view of political power, where the actions of one leader are seen as a direct challenge to another. However, this interpretation overlooks the fundamental principles of democratic governance, where the exchange of ideas and opinions is not only encouraged but is essential for a healthy political environment. The Constitution of Malawi guarantees freedom of expression, which extends to all citizens, including former presidents. Mutharika, as a former head of state, retains the right to communicate with the public, share his views, and engage in national discourse without fear of retribution or accusations of undermining authority.
Moreover, Mwakasangula’s criticism raises questions about the nature of authority itself. In a democratic system, authority is not absolute; it is contingent upon the consent of the governed and is subject to scrutiny and debate. The notion that a former president should remain silent or refrain from public engagement simply because they are no longer in power undermines the very essence of democracy. It suggests a political culture where dissent is stifled and where leaders are expected to retreat into silence once they leave office. This is not only detrimental to the democratic process but also risks creating a political environment characterized by fear and repression.
The accusation also highlights a broader issue within Malawian politics: the tendency to view political opposition as a threat rather than a vital component of a functioning democracy. Mwakasangula’s stance reflects a mindset that perceives any critique or alternative viewpoint as an attack on the current administration. This perspective can lead to a dangerous precedent where political discourse is curtailed, and individuals are discouraged from expressing their opinions for fear of being labeled as undermining authority. Such an environment stifles innovation, critical thinking, and the healthy exchange of ideas that are necessary for the progress of any nation.
Furthermore, the legal framework surrounding the rights of former presidents in Malawi is clear. The Constitution does not prohibit former leaders from engaging with the public or expressing their views on national issues. In fact, it can be argued that their experience and insights are invaluable to the ongoing political discourse. Former presidents, having held the highest office in the land, possess a unique perspective on governance, policy, and the challenges facing the nation. Their contributions can enrich public debate and provide a historical context that is often lacking in contemporary discussions.
In this light, Mutharika’s decision to address the nation should be viewed not as an act of undermining the current president but as an exercise of his constitutional rights. It is a demonstration of his continued engagement with the political landscape of Malawi, which is a hallmark of a vibrant democracy. By sharing his thoughts and experiences, Mutharika contributes to the collective understanding of the nation’s challenges and potential solutions. This engagement can foster dialogue, encourage collaboration, and ultimately strengthen the democratic fabric of the country.
Moreover, Mwakasangula’s accusations may inadvertently reflect a deeper insecurity within the current administration. The perception that Mutharika’s address poses a threat to the authority of the sitting president suggests a lack of confidence in the current leadership’s ability to govern effectively. In a healthy political environment, former leaders should be seen as allies in the pursuit of national progress rather than adversaries to be silenced. The current administration should embrace constructive criticism and differing viewpoints as opportunities for growth and improvement, rather than viewing them as challenges to be quashed.
The political dynamics in Malawi are further complicated by the historical context of leadership transitions in the country. The legacy of past administrations, including Mutharika’s, continues to shape the political landscape, and former leaders often play a significant role in influencing public opinion and political discourse. The ability of former presidents to engage with the public is not only a constitutional right but also a reflection of the ongoing evolution of Malawi’s democracy. As the nation grapples with pressing issues such as economic development, social justice, and governance, the insights of former leaders can provide valuable guidance and perspective.
In conclusion, Undule Mwakasangula’s accusations against former President Arthur Peter Mutharika raise important questions about the nature of political authority, the rights of former leaders, and the role of public discourse in a democratic society. The Constitution of Malawi guarantees freedom of expression to all citizens, including former presidents, and it is essential to uphold these rights to foster a vibrant and inclusive political environment. Rather than viewing Mutharika’s engagement as a threat, the current administration should embrace the contributions of former leaders as part of a broader dialogue aimed at addressing the challenges facing the nation. Ultimately, a healthy democracy thrives on the exchange of ideas, the respect for differing viewpoints, and the recognition that all voices, regardless of their political affiliation, have a role to play in shaping the future of Malawi.
In Malawi, a significant debate has emerged among prominent human rights activists regarding the upcoming nationwide demonstrations organized by concerned citizens for next month. This division highlights differing perspectives on the appropriateness and timing of the protests.
Undule Mwakasungula, a well-known figure in Malawi's human rights advocacy scene, has taken a firm stance against the planned demonstrations. He argues that the timing is insensitive, particularly due to the recent national tragedy involving the death of the vice president and eight others in a plane crash earlier this month. Mwakasungula asserts that the country is currently in a period of mourning, and initiating protests during this sensitive time could be perceived as disrespectful and disruptive to the mourning process.
However, Mwakasungula’s position has not gone without criticism. Critics question his legitimacy as a human rights activist, pointing to his past involvement in controversial issues such as the Mathanyula agenda and alleging his close ties to the Malawi Congress Party (MCP). Some media voices have called for a reevaluation of Mwakasungula’s role in public discourse, suggesting that his advocacy may be influenced by political affiliations rather than solely by human rights concerns.
The planned demonstrations aim to address widespread discontent over economic hardships and perceived governmental shortcomings under the current MCP administration. Supporters argue that peaceful protests are a constitutional right, providing a platform for citizens to express their grievances and demand accountability from elected leaders.
As Malawi prepares for the potential demonstrations, the discord among activists reflects broader societal divisions and differing strategies for addressing national challenges. It underscores the complexities faced by civil society in navigating political dynamics while advocating for social justice and human rights.
In conclusion, the debate surrounding the impending demonstrations underscores the need for nuanced dialogue and respectful engagement within Malawi’s human rights community. It emphasizes the importance of balancing democratic rights with ethical responsibilities in advancing meaningful societal reforms and addressing pressing issues facing the nation.
MZUZU-(MaraviPost)-Undule Mwakasungula is a name that has become synonymous with controversy and hypocrisy in Malawi.
While he claims to be an activist fighting for human rights, his actions and associations tell a different story.
Mwakasungula is nothing more than a fortune seeker who has aligned himself with the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) to further his agenda.
Throughout his so-called activism, Mwakasungula has failed to offer any tangible message to the people of Malawi.
Instead, he is constantly torn between his loyalty to the MCP and his activist persona, causing confusion and mistrust among those who once believed in his cause.
His lack of consistency and clear direction only serve to undermine his credibility and expose him as a puppet of the ruling party.
One of the most glaring examples of Mwakasungula’s hypocrisy is his past advocacy for same-sex marriage.
While he may have once championed the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, he has since abandoned this cause in favor of aligning himself with President Chakwera and attacking his political opponents.
This flip-flopping on important issues not only shows his lack of integrity but also raises questions about his true motives.
Mwakasungula’s role as a mouthpiece for President Chakwera against former President Peter Mutharika and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) only further exposes his true colors.
Instead of focusing on genuine human rights issues and advocating for positive change, he has allowed himself to be used as a tool for political gain.
His constant attacks on Mutharika and the DPP only serve to highlight his own shortcomings and lack of substance as an activist.
It is clear that Mwakasungula is out of his depth and in over his head. His attempts to undermine Mutharika and the DPP have only backfired, as they have only strengthened their resolve and exposed him as a failed human rights activist.
It is time for Mwakasungula to reevaluate his priorities and focus on truly making a difference in the lives of the Malawian people.
Undule Mwakasungula’s hypocrisy and lack of direction have marked him as a failed activist and a puppet of the MCP.
His misguided efforts to attack political opponents and further his own agenda have only served to discredit him and undermine his credibility.
It is time for Mwakasungula to step back, reevaluate his priorities, and learn from his mistakes before he further tarnishes his reputation and the causes he claims to support.
MZUZU-(MaraviPost)-The country’s Human rights and social commentator Undule Mwakasungula has commended President Lazarus Chakwera strategic decision of declaring a state of disaster in 23 out of 28 districts following the disaster which has heavily affected the areas.
He said in response to the escalating challenges posed El Niño weather patterns, Chakwera’s declaration of disaster is welcome.
Undule said the action reflects a proactive and commendable move the government.
“This action is an indication of the administration’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of Malawians and addressing the increasing impacts of natural disasters, ” he said.
He said the declaration carries several important benefits for Malawi and all Malawians citing the point that, this serves as a key step in mobilizing resources and assistance to mitigate the adverse effects of El Niño.
Mwakasungula added while formally acknowledging the severity of the situation, the government could leverage both domestic and international support to provide immediate relief and long-term resilience-building measures for affected communities.
Undule said the declaration facilitates enhanced coordination and collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and humanitarian partners.
“These efforts ensure a more effective and efficient response to the crisis, maximizing resource allocation and minimizing duplication of efforts. Importantly, President Chakwera’s emphasised on national unity amidst the disaster highlights the imperative of transcending political divides for the collective good.
“By rallying together as a one nation, Malawians could utilize their collective strength and resources to confront the challenges at hand, promoting resilience and solidarity across communities, ” he said.
Undule said the current situation also offers valuable lessons for Malawi and its citizens reminding them on the importance of proactive disaster preparedness and risk management strategies.
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-At a time when her performance is under serious scrutiny from all quarters, Martha Chizuma is having her story of failing to run affairs at the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) now paraded on international media.
Days ago Voice of America (VOA) spoke to governance and human rights expert, Undule Mwakasungula, to get his views on how Malawi is faring in the fight against corruption.
Through its NightLife Africaprogram, VOA probed into why there are growing calls in Malawi for the ACB director to leave the stage.
Undele trashes Chizuma
“Chizuma should resign to save the reputation of the bureau and avoid national ridicule. She has been dragging cases and has practiced selective justice. Furthermore, she lacks strategic direction and leadership,” said the seasoned activist.
Mwakasungula singled out Chizuma’s failure to act professionally on the report she presented to the President as one major reason she should resign or get fired.
“Malawians have seen no response to the report the anti-graft body presented to President Chakwera in June this year. It was wrong to start mentioning names of people when you don’t have evidence. At first the report showed that evidence is already there but there has been no action. You cannot implicate people before having concrete evidence,” said Mwakasungula who in 2021 was one of the people who loudly supported Chizuma’s hiring at ACB.
On whether there is enough time for the ACB director to redeem herself and act according to people’s expectations, Mwakasungula cast serious doubts but left everything in the hands of the appointing authority.
“It’s up to the President to decide whether to replace her or not. But I am worried because her term is fast elapsing and she may not do enough at this pace”
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The country’s renown human rights activist Undule Mwakasungula continues to rebuke embattled Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Martha Chizuma’s selective prosecution of some cases.
In a press statement made available to The Maravi Post on Wednesday, September 28, 2022 expressed worrisome on how ACB leadership lacks strategic direction.
Undele trashes Chizuma
Mwakasungula observes that ACB leadership accepted that the responsibilities are too huge to handle.
“I am one of those who very much supported for the ACB Director appointment but I am short of words to say I have been disappointed months down the line with the slow pace of cases, selective prosecution of the cases, lack of strategic direction and leadership of ACB hence making it very difficult to still continuing having confidence in her.
“I believe it is time that the ACB leadership accepted that the responsibilities are too huge to handle. May be its time to pave way for others or for the appointing authority to decide otherwise for the good of the fight against corruption in Malawi. Moving in circles with the business as usual approach is a disaster in this fight against corruption,” observes Mwakasungula.
Below is Mwakasungula’s full statement on current ACB status:
Progress and Way forward on Malawi’s fight against corruption
Malawi has registered progress in the fight against corruption and this is a positive sign of commitment from the leadership and government. The Presidential assent to the Corrupt Practices (Amendment) Act weeks ago is a major milestone in the fight against corruption. This gives all stakeholders the opportunity on the need to take a deep reflection on how to contribute towards the success of the cause.
Part of that reflection could be a candid discussion amongst on how Malawi has fared in the past and how we intend to re-route our efforts with the new legal instruments put in place.
The coming in of the new law is a very welcome development as it will add value to the fight against corruption. However, on the other hand it will take more than a good law to achieve desirable results.
Firstly, we must appreciate that the new law was advocated for as a remedy to slow progress in handling cases by the Anti Corruption Bureau. The advocacy on the other hand was birthed at the back of goodwill towards the current ACB Director General, Martha Chizuma, who people thought needs more freedom to initiate prosecutorial processes independently.
Notwithstanding that the new law is a plus to the cause, it is worrisome to note that as a nation we needed a new law to address mistrust and misunderstanding between/among state agencies that are mandated to coordinate in the fight against corruption.
This is also taking into views of some renowned legal experts who also pointed out the errors that were made in thinking that a new law is enough to fight corruption and address all the limitation on ACB in prosecuting cases.
Martha Chizuma falls at ACB
Further to the new law, Malawians have however somehow noted the ACB Director General displaying both moral and professional inefficiencies which might be affecting the operations of the institution not limited to the ones as outlined below;
Since she assumed office 18 months ago, the ACB Director General has somehow seemed to have spent more time in the media limelight instead of focusing on the core duties. Time and again we have noted a galvanized army of social media advocates who push media agenda even when it was not necessary. This conduct many feels has compromised the efforts and impact of the ACB.
The ACB Director General has also courted negative publicity for moral and unprofessional reasons when early this year appeared in a leaked phone call. In that call divulging sensitive operational information was heard and shared to someone who is not sanctioned by law to access the same much to disappointment of many who supported and had confidence in her as a professional.
In relation to reasons that facilitated the passing and assenting of the Corrupt Practices (Amendment) Act, the ACB Director General seemed to demonstrate lack of teamwork with other state agencies. The ACB lone approach in dealing with prosecution of cases has been making Malawians point a finger at the Judiciary, Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Attorney General and Minister of Justice, probably over issues that are straight forward for the sake of speeding up prosecuting cases. In this what is needed is for the ACB Director General and ACB to create synergies or understand the advice offered by other actors in the fight against corruption guided by the Legal Enforcement Coordination Strategy.
Further this is in inclusion of other key stakeholders such as the Financial Intelligence Authority (FIA), Malawi Police Service (Fiscal Police) and Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) among others who seem to have been less or not at all consulted. We can not win the fight against corruption when ACB is working in isolation.
Way forward
It is clear that the new Corrupt Practices (Amendment) Bill has come at the right time but the nation still has outstanding issues to address within the ACB.
The new law may not be implemented effectively with lack of strategic focus by the ACB and maybe some personality and conduct of the leadership.
Implementing a new law in the midst of lack of strategic focus and direction, all this unprofessional conduct is a dangerous path in the fight against corruption.
What needs to be done urgently
Where Malawi stands right now it will only be right and proper to allow the new Corrupt Practices (Amendment) Bill be implemented in an environment that is conducive for success. Unfortunately, it is worrisome that this point in time the ACB and its leadership seem to be moving in circles and signing the same old songs.
Malawians need to see progress at ACB in terms of movements of the cases and not to hear media briefings or unnecessary excuses. With the new law the ACB leadership cannot excuses anymore to give to Malawians. Failure to deliver with the new law in place will give many Malawians further questions in terms of inefficiency of the ACB leadership and institution as a whole.
I am one of those who very much supported for the ACB Director appointment but I am short of words to say I have been disappointed months down the line with the slow pace of cases, selective prosecution of the cases, lack of strategic direction and leadership of ACB hence making it very difficult to still continuing having confidence in her. I believe it is time that the ACB leadership accepted that the responsibilities are too huge to handle. May be its time to pave way for others or for the appointing authority to decide otherwise for the good of the fight against corruption in Malawi. Moving in circles with the business as usual approach is a disaster in this fight against corruption.
May the Lord help us as we strive collectively to make Malawi free from corruption.
Signed by Undule Mwakasungula, Governance and Human Rights Defender.
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-There has developed a consistent collective thought among Malawians on the tenure of embattled Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) director Martha Chizuma with more prominent voices calling for her to step aside as the only remedy to reinvigorate the fight against corruption.
Latest of those calls have been made by seasoned governance and human rights activist Undule Mwakasungula.
The activist says the only way to bring back ACB to its rightful role is for Chizuma to pave way for someone more competent and with enough public goodwill.
Martha Chizuma falls at ACB
“The ACB director started well but has lost the plot along the way. If as a nation we are serious to deal with corruption decisively then we need someone who has requisite abilities,” said Mwakasungula in an interview with MIJ Radio on Zatani program.
The activist said Chizuma lacks strategic direction and approach to investigations and prosecution of cases. He wondered why ACB is fond of arresting people and leaving them in suspense for a long time.
“When one is arrested for corruption and mentioned in some report, it is right and proper to expedite their legal processes so that their fate in known. When you do nothing you are simply destroying their livelihoods.
“These people have built careers and served the nation in many capacities as such their being connected to corruption attracts social disdain which in the end affect their jobs and social connections in the family and community,” lamented the rights activist.
Mwakasungula also accused Chizuma of concentrating on propping her image instead of delivering results.
“There has been a lot of focus on positioning of herself in the media than doing the actual work she is mandated to do. So she has been giving out media interviews time and again instead of leaving that task to the bureau’s public relations apparatus.”
Mwakasungula chides Chizuma
He also questioned Chizuma’s failure to work in coordination with other state agencies as a major setback in the fight against corruption.
Since last year, the ACB director has openly been in defiance to professional legal advice from other state agencies especially the offices of Attorney General, (AG) and Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
Undule says even though the President has assented the Corrupt Practices Amendment Act into a Bill, there is still little hope if ACB will turn around the fortunes.
“It will depend with how she coordinates with other equally important offices. What we have seen in the past hasn’t inspired enough confidence that she is up to the task. Probably it is time others took over and continue from where she will stop,” he said.
Undule is remembered as a vigorous activist who kept late Bingu wa Mutharika under constant check in the human rights space.
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