Principal Resident Magistrate Benjamin Chulu has adjourned the high-profile trial of actor Tumpe Mtaya, popularly known as Phwedo, to August 21, 2025, after acknowledging the state’s efforts to verify the age of the alleged minor victim.
Phwedo
Mtaya faces charges of sexual intercourse with a female child and child abduction, allegations linked to incidents said to have occurred between February and April 2025. He has pleaded not guilty to both charges.
The court had earlier directed the state to present the minor’s Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) identity card to confirm her age.
Police investigations revealed that the minor discarded the ID after completing her exams.
Efforts to obtain her date of birth from the Malawi National Examinations Board (MANEB) confirmed she was listed as a candidate at a Lilongwe school but failed to provide her exact birth date, as MANEB is not mandated to release individual birth details.
Despite the absence of the MSCE ID, the magistrate ruled that the state demonstrated reasonable effort, and the trial will proceed with the minor present on the next hearing date.
Phwedo’s lawyer, Khwima Mchizi, expressed satisfaction with the decision, indicating readiness for the next court appearance.
The case continues to attract public interest, with child rights advocates urging speedy proceedings and accountability in matters involving minors and public figures.
The family of the late renowned music talent, Victor Mwangobola popularly known in the Malawian music industry as Tremour has announced the posthumous release of one of his unreleased tracks titled Ndekha.
Tremour, who earned recognition for his unique voice and emotional compositions, tragically passed away in 2023 following a motorcycle accident.
His brother, Standie Mwangobola, revealed that the song will officially be released on August 1, 2025, a date chosen to honor his burial anniversary.
New single from the late Tremour
“He left behind several songs that he had already recorded. We feel it is important to share his art with the world rather than keeping it to ourselves”,he said
” Ndekha will be released on this special day as a tribute to his memory,” Standie added.
According to the family, the song will be available in both audio and video formats, giving fans a rare chance to experience Tremour’s final works.
Music lovers and fellow artists in Malawi have expressed anticipation, viewing the release as a celebration of the artist’s legacy and a reminder of his lasting impact on the local music scene.
In a significant ruling from the High Court Commercial Division, lawyer Innocent Tepeka has been ordered to pay K45 million to Shayona Cement Corporation following a failed repayment agreement.
The judgment, delivered by Justice Trouble Kalua, highlights serious concerns over professional conduct and financial dealings involving Tepeka and businessman Rodwell Kawere.
The case centered on a sum of K50 million that Tepeka, acting on behalf of Kawere, allegedly collected from Shayona Cement under false pretences.
According to court records, only K5 million of the amount was repaid, leaving an outstanding balance of K45 million.
The court found Tepeka’s defence to be a “sham,” indicating that he admitted to owing the money but failed to provide any credible justification for the repayment failure.
Justice Kalua’s ruling not only mandates the repayment of the principal amount but also includes accrued interest and legal costs, underscoring the seriousness of the breach.
The judgment sends a clear message about the legal consequences of failing to honour financial commitments, especially when public trust and professional integrity are at stake.
Moreover, the judge referred Innocent Tepeka to the Malawi Law Society for possible professional misconduct.
This referral suggests that Tepeka’s actions may violate the ethical standards expected of legal practitioners in Malawi.
If found guilty of misconduct, Tepeka could face disciplinary measures by the professional body, which may include suspension or disbarment.
Shayona Cement Corporation, one of Malawi’s leading cement producers, has been actively pursuing the recovery of the funds, which are crucial for its operational and capital expenditure.
The company’s legal representatives expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, emphasizing that the ruling reinforces the importance of accountability and transparency in business transactions.
The involvement of Rodwell Kawere, a prominent businessman, further complicates the matter, as it raises questions about the nature of the financial arrangement and the roles played by those involved.
While the court’s focus was on Tepeka’s liability, the broader implications of this case may prompt further scrutiny of Kawere’s business dealings.
This case serves as a reminder to professionals and businesspeople alike that financial obligations must be honoured and that the judiciary remains vigilant in upholding the rule of law.
The High Court’s firm stance aims to deter similar conduct and protect the interests of creditors and investors in Malawi’s commercial sector.
As this story develops, attention will undoubtedly turn to the Malawi Law Society’s investigation and any subsequent actions taken against Innocent Tepeka.
Meanwhile, Shayona Cement Corporation looks to move forward, reinforced by the court’s strong endorsement of their claims.
In a significant ruling from the High Court Commercial Division, lawyer Innocent Tepeka has been ordered to pay K45 million to Shayona Cement Corporation following a failed repayment agreement.
The judgment, delivered by Justice Trouble Kalua, highlights serious concerns over professional conduct and financial dealings involving Tepeka and businessman Rodwell Kawere.
The case centered on a sum of K50 million that Tepeka, acting on behalf of Kawere, allegedly collected from Shayona Cement under false pretences.
According to court records, only K5 million of the amount was repaid, leaving an outstanding balance of K45 million.
The court found Tepeka’s defence to be a “sham,” indicating that he admitted to owing the money but failed to provide any credible justification for the repayment failure.
Justice Kalua’s ruling not only mandates the repayment of the principal amount but also includes accrued interest and legal costs, underscoring the seriousness of the breach.
The judgment sends a clear message about the legal consequences of failing to honour financial commitments, especially when public trust and professional integrity are at stake.
Moreover, the judge referred Innocent Tepeka to the Malawi Law Society for possible professional misconduct.
This referral suggests that Tepeka’s actions may violate the ethical standards expected of legal practitioners in Malawi.
If found guilty of misconduct, Tepeka could face disciplinary measures by the professional body, which may include suspension or disbarment.
Shayona Cement Corporation, one of Malawi’s leading cement producers, has been actively pursuing the recovery of the funds, which are crucial for its operational and capital expenditure.
The company’s legal representatives expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, emphasizing that the ruling reinforces the importance of accountability and transparency in business transactions.
The involvement of Rodwell Kawere, a prominent businessman, further complicates the matter, as it raises questions about the nature of the financial arrangement and the roles played by those involved.
While the court’s focus was on Tepeka’s liability, the broader implications of this case may prompt further scrutiny of Kawere’s business dealings.
This case serves as a reminder to professionals and businesspeople alike that financial obligations must be honoured and that the judiciary remains vigilant in upholding the rule of law.
The High Court’s firm stance aims to deter similar conduct and protect the interests of creditors and investors in Malawi’s commercial sector.
As this story develops, attention will undoubtedly turn to the Malawi Law Society’s investigation and any subsequent actions taken against Innocent Tepeka.
Meanwhile, Shayona Cement Corporation looks to move forward, reinforced by the court’s strong endorsement of their claims.
Engineer Vitumbiko Mumba is not a man who shouts to be heard—he is a man who works to be felt.
His name may not dominate daily political headlines, but his influence is increasingly undeniable.
As one of Malawi’s most principled technocrats-turned-political actors, Mumba represents a fresh breath of integrity, competence, and humility in a political landscape often marred by corruption, egotism, and empty rhetoric.
Mumba’s background is deeply rooted in engineering and development.
With a solid academic foundation and years of practical experience in infrastructure planning, energy, and water systems, Mumba has proven his ability to solve complex national problems with calm determination and technical precision.
He has long been respected in the corridors of civil service and public institutions, not for playing politics, but for getting things done.
His decision to enter the political arena was not driven by ambition, but by duty—a call to serve a nation desperate for leaders who can both speak and act with honesty.
Mumba’s moral compass stands firm.
While many others have chosen political convenience over national interest, Mumba has consistently aligned himself with transparency and national development.
He does not carry the baggage of scandal, nepotism, or arrogance.
Instead, he walks with quiet dignity, believing in the power of institutions and the rule of law.
In an era where Malawians are tired of recycled politicians and loud populists, Mumba’s humility and clarity of vision are profoundly refreshing.
He does not promise miracles.
He promises to work.
His recent rise to the national stage, especially alongside President Chakwera in the Chakwera-Mumba campaign team, signals a major shift in political tone and strategic thinking.
Mumba
This is not about charisma—it is about competence.
This is not about noise—it is about delivery.
Mumba brings a scientific mind into a space that has been too long dominated by empty slogans.
His inclusion is a signal that serious minds are once again being considered in the governance of Malawi.
Support for Mumba is not blind hero-worship—it is rooted in evidence.
It is rooted in the need for leaders who understand systems, planning, and the need to build national resilience in the face of economic and environmental shocks.
Mumba’s voice is one that calls for investment in infrastructure, local manufacturing, and youth empowerment.
He believes in transforming Malawi not by chance, but by calculated effort.
Vitumbiko Mumba is the future of value-based leadership in Malawi.
He may not seek the spotlight, but the spotlight is slowly finding him.
In a nation where hope has been dimmed by broken promises and elite betrayal, Mumba stands out as a symbol of what is still possible.
He represents the new wave of public service—a brand of leadership that is not loud but deeply committed, not desperate for applause but determined to deliver.
Conclusion
If Malawi is to rise beyond slogans, beyond tribal politics, beyond the decay of the old guard, then men like Engineer Vitumbiko Mumba must be supported, elevated, and protected.
His presence in national affairs is not just a political calculation—it is a moral necessity.
In a time when many shout about change but continue with the same tired habits, Mumba quietly embodies the change we need.
Malawi deserves more leaders like him—steady, sincere, and future-focused.
