Malawi Freedom Network 
By Suleman Chitera
Corruption continues to grow in Malawi, not because anti-graft agencies are inactive, but because the judiciary itself has become a part of the system that hinders the fight against corruption. Many Malawians now believe that corruption cannot end as long as courts continue to operate the way they do today.
There is no denying that the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) often does its job well. The ACB investigates, arrests, and prosecutes people who steal public funds—money that could otherwise be used to develop the country, buy medicines for hospitals, improve schools, and help the poor. But the problem starts when these cases reach the Malawi judiciary.
All too often, individuals caught in major corruption cases are released on bail easily, given the chance to return home and continue misappropriating stolen funds. Many Malawians ask the same troubling question: Do judges or magistrates benefit from these releases? Even without definitive proof, these actions are enough to make the public seriously doubt the integrity of the courts.
This is why much of Malawi’s corruption stems from the courts themselves. If courts were serious about corruption—denying unnecessary bail, ensuring cases are handled swiftly, and imposing strict penalties—Malawi would be much further ahead in the fight against corruption.
Sadly, the judiciary appears overly harsh on the poor. A poor person caught in a minor offense, such as stealing a chicken or a small item to survive, receives no bail and may face harsh sentences—10, 15, or even 20 years in prison. Meanwhile, wealthy or politically connected individuals involved in massive corruption often face no consequences.
This has made the judiciary seem like it serves the rich and powerful, not justice. Such a system cannot help the country fight corruption. Instead, it widens the gap between the wealthy and the poor and erodes public trust in the law.
If Malawi wants a future free from corruption, the judiciary must be reformed urgently and comprehensively. This should include:
- Reviewing how bail is granted in corruption cases
- Ensuring corruption cases are handled swiftly
- Imposing fair and strict penalties regardless of a person’s wealth or influence
- Increasing accountability and oversight within the court system
Without judicial reform, Malawi cannot end corruption. The ACB may do its work well, but if the courts continue as they are, corruption will persist, development will stall, and the poor will continue to suffer. Justice must be equal for everyone—otherwise, the country cannot progress.
- Wicknell Chivayo, Wife Lulu to Be Buried Without Body Viewing After Helicopter Crash
Share Listen to this article By MFN News Desk TeamPublished: October 7, 2026 Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy “Lulu” Muteke, will be buried together on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Glen Forest Cemetery in Harare following their deaths in a helicopter crash. The families have confirmed that there will be no public… - NBM plc supports FMDA conference with K5 million
Share Listen to this article By Suleman Chitera National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc has supported the Financial Market Dealers Association (FMDA) with K5 million towards its 2026 Annual Lakeshore Conference, which aims to bring together financial market players to discuss challenges affecting the sector. The conference will be held from October 15 to 17… - Chiradzulu-Based Activist Suleman Chitera Calls on Mutharika to Recognise Loyal Activists and Journalists Ahead of Elections
Share Listen to this article By Suleman Chitera A Chiradzulu-based activist, political and social commentator, Suleman Chitera, has urged Malawian President Arthur Peter Mutharika to recognise and appreciate activists, journalists, and grassroots defenders who stood firmly behind him and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) during difficult political times and election campaigns. Speaking during a political… - Rhodrick Junaid Kalumpha Congratulates Domasi Police After Trophy Win
Share Listen to this article By Suleman Chitera, MFN ReporterOctober 4, 2026 | Songani, Domasi, Zomba Rhodrick Junaid Kalumpha has congratulated Domasi Police for winning a trophy at a sporting event held in the Songani-Domasi area of Zomba. Kalumpha, who described himself as a son of the community, thanked local residents for their support and… - Kalumpha Thanks UNIMA Students for Social Weekend Invitation
Share Listen to this article By Suleman Chitera, MFN ReporterOctober 7, 2026 | 5:00 AM Rhodrick Junaid Kalimpha has thanked the University of Malawi (UNIMA) community for inviting him to its Social Weekend, praising the organisers and attendees for turning up despite heavy rain. Kalumpha said the poor weather did not stop students and guests…
