Blantyre Water Board Suspends CEO Yeremia Chihana
Published on April 27, 2026 at 4:30 PM by Edgar Naitha
The Blantyre Water Board (BWB) has suspended its Chief Executive Officer, Yeremia Chihana, pending a disciplinary hearing over a series of allegations.
According to a suspension letter dated April 27, 2026, the decision was made during an extraordinary meeting of the board’s human resources and administrative committee. The board chairperson, Stanley Chirwa, confirmed the development.
The letter states that the board resolved to suspend Chihana with immediate effect in line with clause 9.5 (b) of the staff services regulations, pending the outcome of a disciplinary process.
Chihana is facing multiple allegations, including reportedly causing the arrests and detention of acting directors without the knowledge or approval of the board. He is also accused of making public statements that contradict BWB policies.
Among the claims are that he announced plans to provide free water through kiosks in cholera, affected areas and to write off arrears owed by kiosk operators, decisions the board says were made without its authorization.
Additionally, Chihana is alleged to have permitted unauthorized individuals access to BWB premises, documents, meetings, and vehicles without approval from management or the board.
Sources indicate that some of his statements, particularly those related to free water provision during cholera outbreaks, raised concern within the board for deviating from established procedures.
Chihana is currently awaiting guidance from the disciplinary committee, which will determine the next course of action following the hearing.
