Dr Kalekeni Kapale, a Senior Counsel for the accused says these charges were filed only months before national elections, suggesting potential political motivations behind the arrests.  

The case, he argued, could be an attempt to undermine political opponents by casting doubt on their integrity.  

Malawi police have arrested several prominent individuals, including former Minister of Finance Joseph Moynam Vega and former Secretary to the Treasury, Dr Cliff Chiunda . Also apprehended were Justice Lloyd Muharra, the former Chief Secretary to Government, and Collins Magazine, the former Chief Executive Officer of Malawi’s Energy Regulatory Authority.

The arrests are linked to allegations of mismanagement in the provision of a government guarantee that secured a loan for the state-owned Greenbelt Authority. The investigation centres on claims that certain procedures were not properly followed during the financing process.  

Kapale, a Senior Counsel representing some of the accused, explained that the case revolves around a guarantee provided by the government to capitalise a venture involving the Greenbelt Authority and an Indian sugar company. The project, which aimed to establish Salima Sugar Limited, was part of a broader initiative to boost Malawi’s agricultural sector.

The prosecution alleges that key financial procedures were bypassed in securing the loan, although Kapale insists the actions taken were in line with established government practices. He pointed out that such guarantees are often provided outside the main budget and later regularised through supplementary appropriation acts.  

The defence maintains that the accused acted on behalf of the government and did not enrich themselves personally.

As investigations continue, the judiciary’s role in ensuring a fair trial will be crucial. The accused individuals maintain their innocence, with further developments expected in the coming months.

--ChannelAfrica--