The head of Malawi’s Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Martha Chizuma, has been suspended over a leaked audio in which she discussed official matters with a person not employed by her office.
The audio leaked more than 12 months ago with President Lazarus Chakwera describing it at the time as “corruption fighting back”.
He also suggested that the audio was being circulated to force him into sacking her.
Ms Chizuma remained in the job with the president’s backing and had since indicted several high profile officials, including Vice-President Saulos Chilima and a cabinet minister, on various corruption-related charges. They denied any wrongdoing.
Ms Chizuma’s suspension was announced on Wednesday by the secretary to cabinet, Colen Zamba, but some experts have questioned the protocol used.
President Chakwera’s office has not commented on the suspension.
