By Burnett Munthali
Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Vice President for the North, Jappie Mhango, was on Tuesday, 3rd June 2025, taken back to the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) offices in Mzuzu for the recording of a caution statement.
This development followed his overnight detention at Mzuzu Police Station after his arrest on Monday.
Mhango, who is also the Member of Parliament for Rumphi North, was apprehended by the ACB in connection with alleged abuse of office charges.
The allegations stem from events believed to have occurred between 2016 and 2017, during his tenure as Minister of Transport and Public Works.
According to the ACB, Mhango is accused of misusing his public office to benefit Cuthbert Mhango and eleven others.
The allegations involve his authorization of the sale of government houses under the Ministry of Transport and Public Works at undervalued prices.
The properties were reportedly sold for MK2.95 million, a figure significantly below market value, resulting in the loss of government revenue.
Following the recording of his caution statement, Mhango was later taken to court.
Meanwhile, a group of DPP supporters gathered at Mzuzu Police Station, which is situated close to Mzuzu High Court.
The supporters sang praise songs for Mhango, signaling solidarity and support for the embattled politician.
Later in the day, Mhango was released on bail.
Speaking to the crowd shortly after his release, Mhango described his arrest as politically motivated.
His statement added fuel to ongoing debates about whether the fight against corruption in Malawi is being applied fairly or is being used to target political opponents.
As the case progresses, Malawians are closely watching both the legal proceedings and the political implications of the arrest.
