By Burnett Munthali
In an exclusive interview with Zodiak Broadcasting Station, lawyer and human rights advocate Alexius Kamangila has revealed alarming insights into the corruption plaguing Malawi’s judiciary. During the nearly two-hour discussion, Kamangila estimated that at least 10 percent of judiciary staff, including judges and court personnel, engage in corrupt practices that tarnish the reputation of the majority who serve with integrity.
Kamangila emphasized that the corruption problem is not just an isolated issue but rather a systemic problem deeply embedded within the judicial framework. He pointed to the failure of key institutions, including the Judicial Service Commission and the Malawi Law Society, to effectively address and mitigate the rampant corruption within the judiciary.
“The Judiciary is supposed to be the pillar of justice in our society, but when the very individuals entrusted with upholding the law engage in corrupt activities, it undermines public trust and the integrity of the entire system,” Kamangila stated. “It is disheartening to see a minority of corrupt officials taint the image of those who are genuinely committed to justice.”
Kamangila also highlighted the challenges faced by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) in its efforts to combat corruption within the judiciary. He criticized the ACB for its limited ability to prosecute corrupt officials effectively, as it often has to navigate the same courts that are implicated in the corruption scandals.
“The ACB’s effectiveness is severely hampered by the very system it operates within. When the bureau has to prosecute cases in courts where corruption is rampant, it creates a conflict that can hinder justice,” Kamangila explained. “We need a more robust and independent mechanism to ensure that those involved in corrupt activities within the judiciary are held accountable.”
The interview is set to be broadcast in a series on Friday, October 11, 2024, and is expected to draw significant attention as it addresses the pressing issue of corruption in the judicial system. Kamangila’s revelations are likely to resonate with many Malawians who have experienced the repercussions of corruption in their interactions with the legal system.
As the public awaits the full airing of the interview, Kamangila’s statements underscore the urgent need for reform within the judiciary. He advocates for a collaborative effort among legal professionals, civil society organizations, and government institutions to root out corruption and restore public confidence in the judicial system.
“Malawi needs a judiciary that the people can trust. We must work together to ensure that justice is served and that those who violate the law are held accountable, regardless of their position,” he concluded.
As this story develops, the public is encouraged to tune in to Zodiak Broadcasting Station for the full interview, which promises to shed light on the critical issues facing Malawi’s judiciary and the steps needed to combat corruption effectively.
Youth empowerment in action: Judith Msusa applauds success of Business Acceleration for Youth Project By Burnett Munthali, November The Director of Youth in the Ministry of Youth, Judith Msusa, has expressed her satisfaction with the impact of the Business Acceleration for Youth (BAY) project, describing it as a transformative initiative for empowering Malawian youth economically. Msusa commended the project during a visit to some grant beneficiaries who have successfully turned their ventures into thriving enterprises. Speaking during her visit, Msusa lauded the program for equipping young entrepreneurs with the tools they need to enhance their livelihoods. "The government is impressed with the youth who, through this initiative, have been able to increase their revenue streams. This not only enables them to live decent lives but also positions them as job creators for their peers," she said. Msusa emphasized the project's role in fostering a generation of self-reliant, innovative, and economically active young people. Adding to Msusa's sentiments, David Slane, Chief of Party for the project, expressed his own delight at the progress made. "It’s rewarding to see these young individuals demonstrating tangible successes as a result of this support. They are living proof of what is possible when young people are given the right opportunities and resources," said Slane. The three-year BAY project, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is being implemented by the Alliance of Biodiversity International and the Centre for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT). Focused on the districts of Zomba, Balaka, Chiradzulu, Chikwawa, Machinga, and Mangochi, the project aims to nurture the entrepreneurial spirit among youth by providing grants, mentorship, and technical assistance. During the visit, several beneficiaries shared their inspiring stories of transformation. One of them, a poultry farmer from Mangochi, recounted how the project’s financial and technical support helped her scale her business, enabling her to employ two additional workers. Another young entrepreneur in Zomba, specializing in agro-processing, highlighted how mentorship from the project helped him navigate market challenges and significantly increase his revenue. These testimonials reflect the project's profound impact on communities. Beyond financial gains, the BAY initiative is helping youth build confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose, all of which are critical for sustaining long-term economic growth. As Malawi grapples with high unemployment rates among the youth, the BAY project stands out as a beacon of hope. With continued support from USAID and partners, the initiative could serve as a model for youth empowerment not only in Malawi but across the region. Msusa’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to supporting programs that align with its broader vision of reducing poverty and unemployment. "The youth are the backbone of our nation," Msusa concluded. "Projects like BAY remind us of their untapped potential and the immense possibilities that emerge when we invest in them strategically." The success of the BAY project serves as a testament to the power of collaboration between government, development partners, and the private sector in addressing pressing societal challenges.
