By Suleman Chitera

The Government of Malawi has suspended Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) Chief Executive Officer Henry Kachaje to pave the way for ongoing investigations into his conduct.

Confirming the development, Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr. Justin Saidi, said the decision follows the government’s commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in public institutions.

“Yes, Mr. Kachaje has been suspended pending the conclusion of investigations,” said Dr. Saidi.

The suspension of the MERA CEO comes shortly after the government also suspended three other top executives:

Daud Suleman, Director General of the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA),

George Kasakula, Director General of the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC), and

Humphrey Mdyetseni, Chief Executive Officer of the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF).

Three parastatal bosses sent on suspension as government launches investigations

These developments indicate a wider public sector shake-up as authorities intensify efforts to strengthen governance, curb corruption, and restore public trust in state agencies.

The government has not yet disclosed the specific allegations against Kachaje, but officials say investigations are underway and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings.

Kachaje, a well-known economist and entrepreneur, was appointed MERA CEO in 2021. His leadership has been marked by several key decisions in the energy sector, including fuel pricing reforms and regulatory changes.

The Ministry of Energy is yet to announce an acting CEO to oversee MERA operations during the suspension period.