Atupele backs Namiwa, demands rule of law

UDF president Atupele Muluzi has thrown his weight behind CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa, saying Malawians must be free to demand transparency and accountability without fear.

His remarks come after Namiwa has been summoned to the National Police Headquarters in Lilongwe this afternoon, hours after Lands and Urban Development Minister Chimwemwe Chipungu demanded an apology over corruption allegations made against him.

According to a public alert issued on Thursday by CDEDI Communications Officer Promise Thom, Namiwa was instructed to report to Area 30 Police Headquarters at 2:30 p.m., where he was expected to meet Criminal Investigations Department Director Gerland Chiwanda before proceeding to meet Inspector General of Police Richard Luhanga.

CDEDI said the summons was communicated through WhatsApp.

This comes less than a day after Chipungu, through his lawyer Khwima Mchizi, gave Namiwa 48 hours to retract and apologise for remarks made during a press briefing on Monday.

During the briefing, CDEDI called for accountability from the minister and challenged him to voluntarily undergo a lifestyle audit over allegations surrounding his wealth.

Reacting in a Facebook statement, Muluzi said citizens and civil society organisations should be free to hold public officials accountable without fear of intimidation or harassment.

Namiwa: challenges Chipungu to sue him

He also appealed for due process and fairness following Namiwa’s summons, saying democracy is anchored on freedom of expression, the rule of law and justice.

“At a time when our country needs greater accountability, transparency and open dialogue, we must be careful that those who raise questions about the conduct of public officials are not made to feel that speaking out comes at a personal cost.

“If Mr Namiwa has been summoned to answer questions, he should be afforded the full protection of the law, treated with dignity and allowed to exercise his constitutional rights. Equally, any concerns raised by him or CDEDI should be addressed through proper, transparent and lawful processes,” wrote Muluzi.

The UDF leader said democracy is strengthened, not weakened, when citizens can question those entrusted with public office.

“I therefore stand in solidarity with Mr Namiwa and with all Malawians who peacefully and responsibly advocate for accountability and good governance,” he added.

Meanwhile, CDEDI said Namiwa remains resolute despite what it described as mounting pressure and threats.

“CDEDI is assuring the nation that despite all the pressure accompanied by life-threatening remarks, including imminent arrest, Mr Namiwa has vowed to hold duty-bearers accountable for their actions and inactions,” reads the public alert.