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Armed Robber Shot, Arrested as MPS Tighten Security

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Armed Robber Shot, Arrested as MPS Tighten Security



By Rahim Abdul

Police officers on the night of January 10, 2026, thwarted an attempted armed robbery at Mbowe Filling Station in Lilongwe following an intelligence-led undercover operation aimed at flushing out criminals who have been terrorising the area.

According to the Malawi Police Service (MPS), the suspect, whose name has been withheld, was armed with a knife and attempted to rob an undercover police officer who was posing as an Auto Teller Machine (ATM) user near the filling station.

Police said officers lawfully used force to neutralise the threat after the suspect advanced on the officer. The suspect was shot, disarmed and immediately arrested at the scene.



He was later taken to a medical facility where he is currently receiving treatment under police guard and is expected to be taken to court once he is medically fit.

The operation forms part of heightened security measures by MPS in response to a rise in criminal activities around City Mall, Crossroads, Mbowe and surrounding areas in Lilongwe.

MPS has since issued a strong warning to all criminals operating in these hotspots, as well as in other urban and rural areas across the country, that the security net is rapidly tightening.
Police have intensified both undercover and overt patrols and reiterated that officers will not hesitate to act decisively against anyone who poses a threat to public safety.

MPS has also appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities to the police.

The service has reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, stressing that protecting lives and property remains its top priority.

A second chance for economic stewardship: Henry Mathanga’s appointment sparks hope

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A second chance for economic stewardship: Henry Mathanga’s appointment sparks hope

By Burnett Munthali

The Concerned Citizens of Malawi, People Power Movement CCM-PPM, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Peter Mutharika for appointing Henry Mathanga as Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM) responsible for Economic Affairs.

This appointment is a testament to President Mutharika’s commitment to choosing individuals with proven track records, and it’s almost like Mr. Mathanga is returning to a role he was meant to be in – a position he previously held in 2019.

The High Court of Malawi, Financial Crimes Division, ruled in Mr. Mathanga’s favor, emphasizing fair trial rights and prosecutorial power limits, a move that’s seen as a vindication of his integrity.

Mathanga



The Court found insufficient evidence for renewed charges, refusing further prosecution, and as reported by various media outlets, Mr. Mathanga has not been proven guilty of any wrongdoing.

Mr. Mathanga hasn’t been convicted of wrongdoing, and allegations against him are pending and unproven, making it unfair to prejudge him.

As a fundamental right, Mr. Mathanga is presumed innocent until proven guilty, and his appointment shouldn’t be judged on unproven allegations.

Throughout his career, Mr. Mathanga has demonstrated competence and integrity, making him a fit and proper person for the role of Deputy Governor.

“We urge the public and authorities to support Mr. Mathanga’s appointment, as it will contribute to Malawi’s economic stability and growth”, said Comrade Edward Kambanje.

The Concerned Citizens of Malawi is thankful for the President’s vision but shocked by criticism against his appointments, seeing Mr. Mathanga’s appointment as a prime example of merit-based selection.

Despite being targeted by some, Mr. Mathanga’s experience and qualifications make him ideal for the role, and it’s puzzling why he’s being singled out when there are many public servants facing court cases.

In 2021, he resigned citing constructive dismissal, and in 2023, he faced a disciplinary hearing for alleged involvement in fraudulent transactions, which he contested, but the fact remains that he’s returning to a position he held in 2019.

Comrade Edward Kambanje, on behalf of The Concerned Citizens of Malawi, has signed this statement in support of Mr. Mathanga’s appointment, hoping that it will bring much-needed stability to Malawi’s economy.

The appointment of Mr. Mathanga is seen as a positive step towards strengthening Malawi’s economy and reinforcing the principles of fairness and justice.

With his experience and expertise, Mr. Mathanga is well-positioned to make a significant impact as Deputy Governor of the RBM.

The focus now shifts to ensuring that Mr. Mathanga is given the support he needs to excel in his new role, and Malawians are eagerly awaiting the positive changes that his appointment will bring.

As the nation looks to the future, one thing is certain – Henry Mathanga’s appointment is a vote of confidence in his ability to steer Malawi’s economy towards prosperity.

Centenary Bank revises branch operating hours

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Centenary Bank revises branch operating hours

By Chisomo Phiri

The Catholic-owned Centenary Bank Limited has adjusted its branch operating hours in a move aimed at improving customer convenience and ensuring greater certainty on service availability.

In a statement, the bank’s Marketing and Customer Experience Manager, Lindani Nkosi, says the new hours take effect from today January 12, 2026,with all branches opening at 8:00am and closing at 4:00pm from Monday to Friday, from the previous closing time of 4:40pm.

Lindani Nkosi



She says on Saturdays, branches will operate from 8:30am to 12:00 noon, while the Gateway Mall and Malangalanga branches in Lilongwe will extend their services until 1:00pm.

Nkosi says the revised hours are intended to help customers plan their visits more efficiently.

“We want our customers to know exactly when they can visit us. Our focus remains on providing a reliable and convenient banking experience,” she says.

Nkosi adds that customers who are unable to visit physical branches can still access banking services through mobile and online platforms, automated teller machines (ATMs), and a network of over 350 banking agents across the country.

“Centenary Bank remains among the banks in Malawi offering some of the longest banking hours, giving customers greater flexibility to manage their financial needs. This is part of our ongoing commitment to accessibility, convenience, and excellent customer service,” she says.

Meanwhile,one of the bank’s customers, Charles Kagwere, has welcomed the move, describing it as timely and supportive of business growth.

“As a business operator, this gives me adequate time to complete my transactions and deposit my daily proceeds. It is a worthwhile initiative by the bank, and it could not have come at a better time than the start of the new year,” he says.

Centenary Bank currently operates 16 branches, two microfinance outlets, and more than 350 banking agents nationwide.

Concerned citizens back Mathanga’s appointment as RBM deputy governor

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Concerned citizens back Mathanga’s appointment as RBM deputy governor



By Chisomo Phiri

A grouping calling itself the Concerned Citizens of Malawi under the People Power Movement (CCM–PPM) has welcomed the appointment of Henry Mathanga as Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM) responsible for Economic Affairs.

In a statement signed by Comrade Edward Kambanje, the group has hailed president Peter Mutharika for what it describes as a merit-based appointment, arguing that Mathanga possesses the experience and professional credentials required for the role.

Kambanje



The group notes that Mathanga previously held the same position in 2019, describing his appointment as a return to a role he is well suited for due to his track record in economic and financial management.

Addressing concerns surrounding Mathanga’s past legal challenges, the group says the High Court of Malawi’s Financial Crimes Division ruled in his favour, citing insufficient evidence to warrant renewed prosecution.

According to the group, the court emphasized the importance of fair trial rights and the limits of prosecutorial authority.

“As reported by various media outlets, Mr. Mathanga has not been proven guilty of any wrongdoing,” the statement reads in part.

The group further stresses that Mathanga has never been convicted of any offence and that the allegations previously raised against him remain unproven.

It argues that it would be unjust to prejudge him based on unresolved claims.

The group also invokes the constitutional principle of presumption of innocence, stating that Mathanga, like any other citizen, is innocent until proven guilty and should not be judged on the basis of allegations alone.

Describing Mathanga as a fit and proper person, the group says he has demonstrated competence, integrity and professionalism throughout his career, qualities the group believes qualify him for the deputy governor position.

The group has since called on the public and relevant authorities to support Mathanga, saying his expertise will contribute to Malawi’s economic stability and growth.

While expressing appreciation for the president’s leadership, the group says it is surprised by criticism directed at some presidential appointments.

It points out that Mathanga resigned from his previous position in 2021, citing constructive dismissal, and questioned why he was being singled out for criticism when many public servants currently face court cases.

The group has also urged Malawians to judge the appointment on merit and experience rather than on allegations that have not resulted in a conviction.

A nation mourns: Madalitso Kazombo to be laid to rest

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A nation mourns: Madalitso Kazombo to be laid to rest

By Burnett Munthali

The funeral prayers for the late Madalitso Kazombo, former Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, are being held at Lingadzi CCAP Church in Lilongwe.

The ceremony is being attended by prominent figures, including former President Lazarus Chakwera and his wife Monica Chakwera, UDF leader Atupele Muluzi, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Victor Musowa, and Esther Jolobola, among other dignitaries.

The presence of these leaders underscores the respect and admiration Kazombo earned during his tenure as a public servant.



Kazombo passed away on Thursday evening, and his body will be laid to rest on Sunday in Vikuyu village, under the jurisdiction of Chief Kaomba in Kasungu district.

Earlier today, his body was taken to the Malawi Congress Party headquarters in Lilongwe, where a farewell ceremony was held, allowing party members and supporters to pay their last respects.

The mourning period has brought together people from various walks of life, all united in their grief and appreciation for Kazombo’s contributions to Malawi’s development.

Kazombo’s legacy extends beyond his role in parliament, as he was known for his commitment to public service and ability to work effectively with others.

As Malawians reflect on Kazombo’s life and service, it’s clear that he left a lasting impact on the country’s political landscape.

The funeral proceedings are a testament to the impact Kazombo had on his community and the nation at large.

His commitment to public service, fairness, and professionalism earned him admiration across the political divide.

Kazombo’s passing is a loss to Malawi, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders and public servants.

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