By Burnett Munthali
The National Anti-Corruption Alliance (NACA) has welcomed the commencement of a court hearing involving Zuneth Sattar, a UK-based businessman facing 18 counts of bribery in the United Kingdom.
In a statement signed by NACA Chairperson Michael Kaiyatsa, the Alliance has described the development as a historic step in the fight against corruption in Malawi.
Kaiyatsa emphasized that the court proceedings mark a significant breakthrough in holding powerful figures accountable for corrupt dealings that have undermined Malawi’s governance and public trust.
The Alliance further called for justice to be extended to local officials in Malawi who have been implicated in the corruption scandal linked to Sattar’s dealings.
Zuneth Sattar was arrested in 2021 by the National Crimes Agency (NCA) of the United Kingdom in partnership with Malawi’s Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB).
He is alleged to have bribed senior Malawi government officials in order to secure lucrative business contracts in key public institutions.
The institutions named in the scandal include the Malawi Defence Force and the Malawi Police Service, where contracts were reportedly awarded in exchange for kickbacks.
The 44-year-old businessman appeared before the UK court via video link for a preliminary hearing related to the charges.
According to authorities, Sattar is expected to return to court on 26 June 2025 as the legal process continues.
NACA has reiterated its stance that tackling corruption must involve accountability at both local and international levels.
The Alliance urged Malawian authorities to act swiftly and transparently in bringing implicated officials to justice.
The case has attracted widespread public attention as it touches on systemic corruption involving millions of dollars in questionable contracts.
Observers say the outcome of Sattar’s case could set an important precedent for how corruption cases with international dimensions are handled.
Meanwhile, NACA has pledged to continue monitoring the proceedings and advocating for a corruption-free Malawi.
