The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has called on Malawians to take a stronger stand against corruption, saying the vice continues to threaten the country’s development, integrity, and justice systems.
In a statement marking International Anti-Corruption Day, the Bureau says this year’s commemorations carry special significance under the theme: “Uniting with Youth against corruption: Shaping tomorrow’s integrity.”
The ACB emphasizes that corruption remains one of the biggest obstacles to Malawi’s progress.
“The fight against corruption is critical to achieving national prosperity. The vice undermines trust in institutions, fuels inequality, and diverts resources meant for essential services,” reads the statement.
The statement also highlights the need for every citizen to play a role, beyond government and institutions.
The ACB notes that Malawi continues to record cases that affect service delivery and public confidence, stressing that collective action is the only way to reverse the trend.
But political analyst Chimwemwe Tsitsi says Malawi is far from winning the fight.
He told Nthanda Times that the country is “not doing well as a whole,” pointing to high-profile cases that drag on for years.
Tsitsi warns that political interference remains a major barrier.
“We have trials that are never concluded, and in some cases evidence goes missing simply because the cases have been prolonged.
“You see an ACB director being pushed around, sometimes being arrested, and their contract not renewed despite public approval of their performance. This shows that political will in the fight against corruption is very weak,” he said.
Tsitsi, however, believes deeper reforms are necessary if the country is to move forward.
He added that the ACB needs full protection from political pressure.
“Politicians must walk the talk. They give Malawians rhetoric, but they do nothing. We need an ACB that is well-funded and fully independent.
“The executive may appoint the director, but the firing should be vetted by Parliament to prevent abuse,” he said.
International Anti-Corruption Day is observed globally on 9 December to raise awareness of the impact of corruption and to encourage collective action.