By Burnett Munthali
The Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) has sounded the alarm over a disputed Electricity Generation Company (EGENCO) spare parts deal, calling for urgent action to address the alleged irregularities.
The deal, signed in May 2022, involved Dubai-based Savari Energen Commodity DMCC supplying Mitsubishi genset parts for Kanengo and Mapanga, but CDEDI Executive Director Silvester Namiwa alleges that most of the items were faulty, yet EGENCO paid over $770,000, and the parts remain unused.
This has raised concerns that the costs may have been passed on to electricity consumers, further exacerbating the already challenging economic situation in Malawi.
Namiwa is urging the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) to reactivate investigations to ensure accountability and restore public trust.
The ACB is being asked to take urgent action, as the alleged irregularities in the deal are seen as a breach of public procurement procedures and a possible case of corruption.
The controversy surrounding EGENCO is not new, with previous allegations of financial mismanagement and procurement irregularities.
A forensic audit report revealed a K6.7 billion procurement scandal at EGENCO, involving unissued stock, unauthorized requisitions, and single sourcing of materials and services.
The demand for investigation and accountability highlights the need for transparency and good governance in Malawi’s public institutions.
The outcome of the investigation will be closely watched, as it may have implications for the country’s fight against corruption and the management of public resources.
The people of Malawi are looking to the ACB to take decisive action and hold those responsible for the alleged irregularities accountable.
The EGENCO scandal is a stark reminder of the need for robust anti-corruption measures and effective oversight mechanisms to prevent the misuse of public funds.
As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial that all stakeholders, including the government, civil society, and the public, work together to ensure that justice is served and public trust is restored.
