By Burnett Munthali
In a dramatic twist to the ongoing certificate fraud case involving Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Deputy President Alfred Gangata, the courtroom was stunned when the key witness, Andrew Mphamba, revealed he was lured into sitting national exams on Gangata’s behalf with promises of wealth — only to be abandoned with nothing to show for it.
Taking the stand on Monday, Mphamba confessed that he had impersonated Gangata during national examinations.
According to his testimony, Gangata and his associates assured him of a better life in return for his services.
“I was promised riches.
They said I would never struggle again,” Mphamba told the court, his voice echoing through the tense courtroom.
“But I got nothing — absolutely nothing.”
The witness claimed he was approached by individuals linked to Gangata who laid out a grand vision of how his loyalty and help would be handsomely rewarded.
However, once the exams were completed and the deed was done, Mphamba said communication ceased, and all promised benefits vanished into thin air.
He recounted how, at first, he felt proud to be considered for such a “high-level” task and thought it would be the beginning of a new chapter in his life.
But instead, he now finds himself entangled in a legal battle, exposed to public shame, and left to carry the weight of a fraud he claims was orchestrated by those above him.
“I risked everything thinking I was entering a better life,” he lamented.
“Now I’m left to face the consequences alone while those who used me walk free.”
The courtroom was gripped as Mphamba detailed the alleged manipulation, portraying himself as a young man who was taken advantage of by powerful individuals seeking academic shortcuts to advance their political careers.
He admitted guilt but pleaded for understanding, claiming he was naïve and blinded by the hope of social mobility.
Legal analysts suggest that the case could have significant ramifications not only for Gangata but also for the broader perception of integrity within Malawi’s political elite.
If Mphamba’s testimony holds under cross-examination, it could expose a troubling network of academic fraud linked to political ambition.
Meanwhile, the prosecution is expected to summon more witnesses to corroborate Mphamba’s claims, while Gangata’s legal team is preparing a strong defense to challenge the credibility of the allegations.
As the case unfolds, Malawians are watching closely, with many expressing frustration over the growing reports of dishonesty and corruption among political leaders.
For Andrew Mphamba, what was once a secretive act for someone else’s benefit has now become a personal nightmare unfolding in full public view.
This story, still developing, paints a vivid picture of the desperation, manipulation, and fallout that often accompany the abuse of power for personal gain.
