By Jones Gadama
The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has arrested two individuals, George Gopani and Gabriel Mkandawire, for allegedly providing false information to the District Commissioner at M’mbelwa District Council.
The arrests were made on April 22, 2025, following investigations that began in August 2022.
According to the ACB’s publicist, Egrita Ndala, the duo is accused of misrepresenting the progress of road grading works in Mzimba North Constituency under legislator Yeremia Chihana.
This alleged misrepresentation facilitated the release of K15 million to Northworks Limited, where Mkandawire serves as an accountant.Further investigations revealed that Mkandawire forged a document purporting to be a quotation from E and V Engineering for road grading works on several roads in Mzimba North, including the KIA-Luhomero-Kasasile, Enukweni-Kavula-Malokotera, and Bwengu-Katope roads. This act is contrary to Section 358 of the Penal Code.
The ACB’s investigations established that Gopani, who was the Acting Director of Public Works for M’mbelwa District Council, provided false information to the District Commissioner to deceive the procurement committee. This offence contravenes Section 122(a) of the Penal Code.
Both suspects were taken to court, where they were formally charged and later granted bail after meeting the court’s prescribed conditions.
The conditions include reporting to the ACB offices in Mzuzu on Fridays, paying a cash bond of K200,000, and surrendering their travel documents to the Bureau.
The ACB remains committed to ensuring accountability and integrity in public service.
The bureau’s director-general encourages citizens to Resist, Reject, and Report Corruption by calling the ACB hotline on 113.
This case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in government projects.
The ACB’s efforts to combat corruption in Malawi are crucial in promoting good governance and ensuring that public resources are used effectively.
The case will proceed in court, where the suspects will face the charges against them.
The outcome of the case will be closely watched, as it has significant implications for accountability and transparency in government projects in Malawi.
