Former cabinet ministers, government top official behind bars over Mk 200 billion East Bridge Contract
By Michael Martin//MALAWI
The Malawi Police Service (MPS) working jointly with the Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) has arrested three former senior government officials in connection with investigations into contracts awarded to East Bridge.
The arrests relate to contracts involving the supply of fertilizer, soya beans and tobacco to the Government of Malawi and its institutions.
Senior Superintendent Lael Chimtembo, the Malawi Police Service Public Relations Officer has confirmed the arrests in an official statement.
Chimtembo said the suspects are Sosten Gwengwe, former Minister of Finance; Samuel Dalitso Kawale, former Minister of Agriculture; and Colleen Zamba, former Secretary to the President and Cabinet.
She said that the contracts were signed between East Bridge and the Government of Malawi, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Smallholder Farmers Fertilizer Revolving Fund of Malawi (SFFRFM).
“Investigators estimate that the total value of the contracts exceeds MK200 billion,” she said.
Chimtembo said the suspects are being investigated for abuse of office, fraud other than false pretences and money laundering.
She added that the suspects are currently in police custody and are expected to appear in court soon.
The Malawi Police Service has assured the public that investigations are ongoing and that more details will be communicated in due course.
Chimtembo emphasized that the arrests form part of broader efforts to strengthen accountability and fight corruption in public procurement.
In an interview, good governance expert Wonderful Mkhutche has described the arrests as a critical test for accountability institutions.
Mkhutche said the case demonstrates growing cooperation between law enforcement agencies and anti corruption bodies.
He noted that successful prosecution would send a strong message against abuse of public resources.
In his remarks, governance analyst George Chaima echoed similar sentiments, saying the arrests reflect rising public demand for transparency.
Chaima said Malawians are increasingly expecting leaders to be held accountable regardless of political status.
He added that the handling of the case will shape public confidence in the justice system.
Law expert Garton Kumchezera from the University of Malawi said the charges listed are serious and carry heavy penalties if proven.
Kumchezera explained that abuse of office cases often focus on whether officials acted outside their lawful authority.
He added that fraud and money laundering charges require prosecutors to demonstrate intent and financial benefit.
The legal scholar emphasized that due process must be followed to ensure fair trials.
He also noted that the courts will play a crucial role in interpreting procurement and financial regulations.
Civil society groups have urged police and the ACB to ensure transparency throughout the process.
They have also called for regular public updates on the progress of the case.
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