Pressure group Mbadwa Zokhuzidwa has expressed concern over what it describes as unreasonable arrests, warning that the practice is eroding public resources and undermining justice.
Speaking at a press conference held on Tuesday, February 4, 2026, in Lilongwe, the organisation said law enforcement agencies should only arrest suspects when there is sufficient and credible evidence.
Addressing the media, Mbadwa Zokhuzidwa chairperson Fredrick Billy Malata cautioned police against being used to advance political interests, urging them to operate professionally and in line with the law.
Malata also criticised the recent introduction of what he termed “heavy taxes,” arguing that the measures are negatively affecting people’s livelihoods and placing an excessive burden on ordinary Malawians.
The group further raised concern over the frequent and allegedly arbitrary transfers of civil servants, saying the practice disrupts public service delivery and lacks transparency.
Mbadwa Zokhuzidwa also weighed in on the arrest of several senior figures linked to the opposition Malawi Congress Party (MCP), including former Minister of Finance Sosten Gwengwe, former Minister of Agriculture Sam Kawale, and former Secretary to the Office of the President and Cabinet, Colleen Zamba. The trio is facing charges related to alleged financial crimes and the awarding of contracts to East Bridge Company.
According to the group, the arrests appear politically motivated and should not be used as a tool to settle political scores.
The organisation additionally questioned the effectiveness of the Office of the Vice President, arguing that it continues to consume public resources without delivering tangible benefits to citizens.
Mbadwa Zokhuzidwa also called on the judiciary to ensure impartiality, expressing concern that some cases involving members of the former Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) administration, dating back to between 2020 and 2025, appear to have stalled.
The group warned that justice should not be influenced by a change of government, stressing that courts must remain independent and avoid any perception of political bias.
The remarks were made during the same press briefing held in Lilongwe.
