Centre for Social Accountability and Transparency (CSAT) Executive Director Willy Kambwandira has urged President Lazarus Chakwera to direct his anger and energy on fighting corruption, other than blaming the United States of America for imposing travel restrictions on four former senior officials of Malawi and their spouses.
The US imposed travel restrictions to Reyneck Matemba (former Solicitor General and Principal Secretary for Justice), John Suzi-Banda (former Director of the Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Agency), Mwabi Kaluba (former Malawi Police Service lawyer), and George Kainja (former police Inspector General).
However, Chakwera questioned the US government’s decision, stating that the officials have not been convicted of any wrongdoing since their cases are still in court.
He also added that corrupt practices are more rampant in the US than Malawi.
However, Kambwandira said what Chakwera has done is just trying to save Malawi’s bruised face.
“In all fairness, the US statement is shame on law enforcement agencies including the courts and other legal institutions. It is a statement of diplomatic disapproval, and demonstrates Americans undivided commitment to the fight against corruption.
“Government must take the US statement with a pinch of salt, as it’s consequences are dire to the innocent Malawians. Let to them direct their energy on fighting corruption.
“Lastly, the Malawi government statement is for a lack of better term a feeling of shame and pretence about the issue at hand, the US position is about failure of all systems not just the judiciary.
“It is unfortunate that Malawians have embraced ignorance and lack of drive to demand transparency and accountability, instead we clap hands for thieves while politicians manipulate the systems,” he said
In a statement, the US embassy stated that endemic corruption stifles Malawi’s economy and that the US is committed to fighting corruption and promoting justice.
The embassy pledged to continue working with those who share the same commitment.
The ban on the four officials extends to their spouses as well. Their names are Rhoda Violet Matemba Maxwell, Mariana Ismael Suzi-Banda, Bernadette Mwangosi, and Jacqueline de Silva Kainja.
