BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Malawi Law Society (MLS) has raised serious concerns over President Peter Mutharika’s appointment of some individuals into high-ranking public offices before they have been cleared of allegations of corruption and other criminal activities.

In a public statement issued on October 29, 2025, the Society warned that such appointments pose a threat to public confidence in the Government’s commitment to uphold the rule of law and combat corruption.

The statement was part of a broader reflection on public expectations following the September 2025 general elections.

According to the MLS, while it recognizes the legal principle that every person is presumed innocent until proven guilty, this presumption should not be used as a shield to justify questionable appointments.

The Society emphasized that leadership positions must be entrusted only to individuals with unquestionable integrity and a clean record.

“Such appointments risk undermining public confidence in the Government’s commitment to the rule of law and its declared stance against corruption,” the Society said, urging authorities to adopt a cautious and principled approach when filling key public roles.

The MLS further stated that the credibility of any administration is reflected in the people it entrusts with public responsibility.

By appointing individuals facing corruption allegations, the government risks sending mixed signals about its seriousness in fighting graft and promoting accountability.

It noted that Malawi continues to struggle with deep-rooted corruption in the public sector, and careless decisions in leadership appointments could weaken the progress made toward integrity and transparency. The Society therefore encouraged the administration to use appointments as an opportunity to rebuild trust between citizens and the government.

The statement also highlighted that anti-corruption efforts require a united and uncompromising front, where no individual or political ally is seen as being above scrutiny.

MLS said this approach will not only strengthen public confidence but also demonstrate the government’s genuine commitment to good governance.

Furthermore, the Society appealed to relevant oversight institutions, including the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and the Office of the Ombudsman, to remain vigilant and proactive in scrutinizing public appointments and ensuring that merit, not political loyalty, guides decision-making.

The MLS called on all Malawians to demand accountability and uphold integrity in public life, stressing that corruption weakens institutions, deters investment and undermines national development. It said every citizen has a duty to support transparency and ethical leadership.

In conclusion, the Malawi Law Society reiterated its call for a “true zero tolerance attitude” toward corruption, urging the government to ensure that appointments into public office reflect honesty, professionalism and respect for the rule of law.

The Society maintained that lasting reform will only be achieved if the fight against corruption starts from the top.

The Maravi Post