HRDC demands suspension of MRA security contract linked to ministers

By Michael Martin//MALAWI

The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has called on the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) to immediately suspend a controversial security contract awarded to companies allegedly linked to serving government ministers.

HRDC says the move is necessary to allow for transparency and compliance with the law, amid growing public concern over possible abuse of office and conflict of interest.

In a mediastatement signedby HRDC chairperson, Michael Kaiyatsa, the manner in which the contract was awarded raises serious legal and ethical questions.

Kaiyatsa argued that the procurement process appears to be contrary to existing public procurement and governance laws in Malawi.

He said HRDC expects MRA to temporarily halt the implementation of the contract to allow for a thorough review and a lawful procurement process.

According to Kaiyatsa, there are doubts about whether the companies awarded the contract have the technical and operational capacity required to provide nationwide security services to MRA.

He further alleged that the companies may have been favored due to political influence from the ministers who are believed to own them, rather than on merit.

Kaiyatsa warned that allowing such decisions to stand would undermine public trust in state institutions and weaken accountability mechanisms.

He emphasized that public institutions must be seen to operate independently and free from political pressure, especially in matters involving public funds.

HRDC has since urged MRA to respond openly to the concerns and provide justification for its decision.

Kaiyatsa said failure by MRA to address the matter will leave the organization with no option but to pursue all available legal and civic avenues.

These, he said, include formal complaints to oversight bodies as well as peaceful demonstrations to demand justice and accountability.

The civil rights group maintains that demonstrations would be conducted within the confines of the law and aimed at protecting public interest.

Masters Security Services and Iringa Security Services are among the three companies awarded the security contract by MRA.

The two companies are reportedly owned by Minister of State, Alfred Gangata and Deputy Minister of Homeland Security, Norman Chisale.

HRDC argues that ownership of companies doing business with state institutions by serving ministers presents a clear conflict of interest.

The organization says such arrangements erode the principles of fairness and transparency in public procurement.

Meanwhile, MRA has yet to publicly respond to HRDC’s demands or clarify the criteria used in awarding the contract.

The development comes amid increased scrutiny of government contracts and calls for stronger enforcement of anti-corruption and procurement laws in Malawi.