By Wezzie Gausi:
Questions over the continued stay of Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Director General (DG) Gabriel Chembezi beyond the commonly cited six-month acting period have prompted the government to clarify that his tenure remains lawful and in line with existing legal provisions.
The issue has attracted public attention in recent weeks, with some observers questioning why Chembezi has remained at the helm of the anti-graft body more than six months after his appointment when interviews for a substantive DG were reportedly conducted.
However, Attorney General (AG) Frank Mbeta has dismissed suggestions that the arrangement violates the law, saying the government lawfully extended Chembezi’s contract up to November 2026 pending the appointment of a substantive office holder.
Mbeta said the law provides room for such an extension to ensure continuity at the institution while the recruitment process is being concluded.
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“The government renewed his contract up to November 2026. The law allows for the extension until a substantive director general is appointed,” Mbeta said.
The AG further said the current administration remained committed to respecting legal procedures in all public appointments.
“This government will always abide by the rule of law. If a new person is appointed to the position, the public will be informed,” he said.
Meanwhile, Peoples’ Federation for National Peace and Development Executive Director Edward Chaka has said some works may be negatively affected if governance institutions such as the ACB have no leaders.
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“Considering that corruption has adverse effects on national development efforts, there must always be continuity of leadership in key institutions, hence it is encouraging to learn that the ACB continues to do its job and that there is no vacuum there.
“The most important thing is for the authorities to be following the country’s laws. That is all Malawians want; adherence to the rule of law,” Chaka said.
