President Lazarus Chakwera has suspended the head of Malawi’s Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Martha Chizuma over a leaked audio.
Her suspension was announced Wednesday by the secretary to cabinet, Colen Zamba, but some legal experts have questioned the protocol used.
The audio, which leaked more than 12 months ago had comments that could potentially prejudice people accused of corruption.
President Chakwera described it at the time as “corruption fighting back”. He also suggested that the audio was being circulated to force him into sacking her.
Ms Chizuma remained on the job with the president’s backing and went ahead to charge several high-profile officials, including Vice-President Saulos Chilima and a cabinet minister, on various corruption-related charges. They denied any wrongdoing. The presidency is yet to respond or comment on the suspension.
Meanwhile, MP representing Lilongwe South, Hon. Peter Dimba who is the chairman of Parliament’s Legal Affairs Committee has resigned over what he referred to as ‘Malawi government’s disregard for the rule of law.’