CSOs on Chakwera’s neck over Chizuma’s interdiction

Civil Society Organisations have given President Lazarus Chakwera up to this Monday, to direct Colleen Zamba, Secretary to President and Cabinet to withdraw the interdiction of the Director General of Anti-Corruption Bureau Martha Chizuma or risk nationwide demonstrations.

The ultimatum is contained in a statement issued by ten CSOs which includes CHRR, YAS, CSAT, HRDCC, MHRRC, National Advocacy Platform , Centre for Civil Society Strenghtening , NGO Gender Coordinaiton Network and Women Manifesto Movement.

According to the statement , the interdiction of Chizuma coincided with the alleged warrant of arrest which is believed to have been obtained by the ACB in pursuit to fight against corruption.

In addition, the CSOs have said they are persuaded to conclude that they are a continuation of systemic and intentional government’s tactics to frustrate any meaningful fight against corruption, and government is committed use its apparatus and individuals to achieve its aspiration of removing Chizuma.

“Should the President and government fail to formally withdraw the interdiction by Monday , 6th February , 2023 , we will be compelled to mobilise Malawians across the divide to stand up for justice and the rule of law through demonstrations and other civil means,” the statement reads in part.

Meanwhile, the CSOs have asked the newly appointed Director of Public Prosecutions to review a file for Chizuma and inform Malawians on the direction that his office intends to take not later than 10th February, 2023

Source:MIJ