Ras Chikomeni arrested over cannabis possession

Board member of the Cannabis Regulatory Authority David Chikomeni Chirwa, popularly known as Ras Chikomeni, has been arrested in Mzimba.

Chikomeni, former presidential aspirant, was reportedly arrested alongside another man after police allegedly found them in possession of 19.2 kilograms of suspected Cannabis Sativa during a search at the Jenda Police roadblock in Mzimba District.

According to Jenda Police Station Public Relations Officer, Sub-Inspector Gladwell Simwaka, the two suspects were intercepted during the night of August 6, 2026, while travelling from Lilongwe to Mzuzu in a Toyota Sienta, registration number BW 2336.

The second suspect has been identified as Storm Kandodo, 45, from Mpulula Village, Traditional Authority Nsamala in Balaka District.

Police say a search of the vehicle led to the discovery of 19.2 kilograms of suspected Cannabis Sativa, which the occupants allegedly failed to produce the required legal permit to possess or transport. The suspected narcotics have since been seized.

The two suspects remain in police custody and are expected to appear in court once investigations and necessary paperwork are completed. They are expected to face charges of being found in possession of Cannabis Sativa without a permit.

Ras Chikomeni came into the national spotlight ahead of the 2020 presidential election, when he announced his intention to contest for the country’s highest office. However, he did not make it onto the ballot after failing to raise the required MK2 million presidential nomination fee.

During the 2025 general elections, Chikomeni campaigned for a reduction in the presidential nomination fee, which was set at MK10 million, and even led street demonstrations to raise 10 million kwacha. However, the efforts did not achieve the intended outcome.

Following the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP)’s victory in the elections, Chikomeni was appointed as a board member of the Cannabis Regulatory Authority.