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Journalist in hiding after exposing government’s corruption
In early February 2024, investigative journalist Gregory Gondwe, who exposed the Malawian government's alleged purchase of 15 armoured vehicles from a company linked to corruption, went into hiding for fear of arrest by the military. This followed his publication of a story linking the Malawi Defence Force to a firm associated with businessman Zuneth Sattar in relation to a contract worth millions of dollars for military equipment. According to the publication, the Defence Force entered into a contract worth nearly $20 million for the procurement of 32 armoured personnel carriers. The UK based businessman Sattar is under scrutiny in Malawi for allegedly bribing Malawi Vice President Saulos Chilima in return for government contracts.
Civil society organisations expressed concerns about intimidation of whistleblowers, while authorities denied plans to arrest Gondwe.
Journalist detained over August 2023 story
On 8th April 2024, journalist Macmillan Mhone was detained by police over a story published by online news site Malawi24 in August 2023, about businessman Adul Karim Batatawala. He was charged with
"publication of news likely to cause fear or public alarm”,and was released on bail the following day pending further investigations. Macmillan was charged with three counts, including publication of false news likely to cause fear and alarm to the public, cyber spamming, and extortion. MISA emphasised the need to utilise civil redress for reputation damage claims as opposed to criminal litigation.
Journalist assaulted during Super League Match
on 7th April 2024, journalist Yasin Limu was assaulted and ordered to leave the designated press area by club supporters during a football match. He suffered injuries to his face and jaw and sought medical treatment. The Football Association of Malawi stated it was investigating the case.