By Chisomo Phiri
A legal battle is looming between the Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiative (CDEDI) and Minister of Lands Chimwemwe Chipungu after the governance watchdog refused to apologise over allegations the minister says are defamatory.
The dispute follows a demand letter from Chipungu, through his lawyer Khwima Mchizi, requiring CDEDI to retract statements made during a press conference on July 27, 2026, and issue a public apology within 48 hours.
According to the letter, CDEDI alleged that after his appointment as Minister of Lands, Chipungu acquired seven vehicles worth K2.8 billion and began constructing a hotel beyond his known sources of income.
The organisation also claimed that the minister was involved in transactions concerning land owned by Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation (ADMARC) Development Limited (ADL).
Chipungu has however dismissed the allegations as false and defamatory, arguing that they have damaged his reputation and demanding that CDEDI withdraw the claims.
However, CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa has ruled out any apology, insisting that the organisation’s actions fall within its mandate of promoting transparency and accountability in public office.
Speaking to local media on Wednesday, Namiwa said CDEDI is prepared to defend its position in court if legal proceedings are instituted.
He said:”Demanding accountability from a public officer is never and shall never be defamation. Therefore, we will not apologise or retract. Should he decide to go to court, that will be a golden opportunity for us and Malawians to get all the relevant documents.”
The exchange has heightened public interest, with the matter now expected to shift from the court of public opinion to the courts of law if the minister proceeds with legal action.
Disputes between public officials and civil society organisations over allegations of corruption, abuse of office and unexplained wealth are not new in Malawi.
Over the years, organisations such as CDEDI and other governance watchdogs have consistently called for greater transparency and accountability from holders of public office.
The Ministry of Lands has, in particular, remained under public scrutiny due to recurring controversies surrounding public land allocations, land administration and the disposal of state-owned properties.
