By Kelly Napolo
The truth behind the suspected organised K51 billion fraud at Salima Sugar Company Limited remains elusive, as suspects are still at large almost ten months after the government launched a probe into the matter.
The delay has prompted some local governance and accountability groups to suspect there are deliberate attempts to suppress justice, “because the abuse also implicates some politicians and senior government officials.”
In December last year, Attorney General Thabo Chakaka Nyirenda pledged to expedite the investigation and ensure that those responsible for the fraud are brought to justice.
Ministry of Justice spokesperson Frank Namangale said that a team investigating the issue was expected to meet this week to finalise its findings before instituting criminal investigations.
However, Namangale downplayed growing allegations that the probe has stalled due to the alleged involvement of senior government officials and politicians.
“After the revelations, we had to instruct relevant institutions to undertake criminal investigations, hence the time required.
“We can’t prosecute based on revelations alone, but,” Namangale said.
The Ministry of Justice was quoted by Malawi News in March 2024 that a high-profile taskforce comprising key law enforcement agencies had been established to look into the matter.
Executive Director of the Centre for Social Accountability and Transparency, Willy Kambwandira, voiced concerns that the delay in initiating criminal proceedings raises suspicions that certain influential figures might be protected by the government.
“We encourage Malawians to continue demanding accountability on this matter and Parliament, through the relevant authorities, should take an interest in this case,” Kambwandira said.
Earlier, Chakaka Nyirenda indicated that a team of investigators, legal experts and prosecutors was already working “diligently” on the matter.
“The impact of such fraudulent activities on our economy is profound; our economic growth is stifled, public service is compromised and public trust is eroded,” he said.
In its report, Audit Consult, appointed as forensic auditors, established that Salima Sugar Company Limited was allegedly conducting business with related and suspicious companies incorporated in foreign countries.
The audit findings triggered growing calls for a swift investigation into the matter to ensure those responsible are held accountable for the mess.
0 Comments