Update: Malawi's Public Accounts Committee (PAC) is set to resume hearings into the controversial purchase of the Amaryllis Hotel, according to AfricaBrief. PAC Chairperson Steve Malondera confirmed that the upcoming session will focus on interviewing key figures to conclude the investigation. Those expected to testify include former Reserve Bank Governor Mafuta Mwale, senior National Bank officials, and former Chief Secretary to the Government Colleen Zamba. Malondera noted that efforts are underway to facilitate Zamba's return to Malawi from abroad so she can present her account of the transaction.
Update: The search for a new Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) director-general has advanced, with the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs shortlisting eight candidates from an initial pool of 50 applicants, Nation Online reports. Ministry spokesperson Frank Namangale stated that selection interviews were scheduled for mid-April. While the names of the shortlisted candidates remain confidential, Namangale indicated that the selection process will be transparent and based on merit. The top ACB position has been vacant since May 2024.
In ongoing police matters, the Independent Complaints Commission has launched an investigation into an officer at Kanengo Police Station over alleged extortion in a child defilement case, according to Nyasa Times. The officer is accused of demanding and receiving K70,000 from the mother of an 11-year-old victim under the premise of needing funds to facilitate an arrest. Despite the payments, the suspect remained free in the community. Child rights organisations are monitoring the case and pushing for the immediate prosecution of both the defilement suspect and any officials found obstructing justice.
Additionally, police in Lilongwe arrested a 25-year-old man for selling counterfeit tickets outside Bingu National Stadium during the Charity Shield match between FCB Nyasa Big Bullets FC and Mighty Wanderers FC. Nyasa Times reports that officers apprehended Wyson Kamangira and recovered 168 fake tickets along with K338,000 in cash. Authorities have launched further investigations to track down other individuals possibly involved in the production and distribution of the counterfeit tickets.