Musician Zeze Kingstone has come under heavy criticism on social media after a video went viral showing him throwing banknotes at a crowd while performing.
The footage, recorded in the early hours of Sunday during a live performance at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) grounds in Lilongwe, shows the artist tossing K2,000 banknotes to fans while dancing on stage.
The act has since sparked mixed reactions, with many Malawians condemning it as disrespectful to the national currency, while some of his fans have defended it as part of showbiz entertainment.
The controversy has also raised legal questions. Reports indicate that fiscal police may have to look into the matter, although no official complaint or police statement has been issued so far.
According to the law, deliberately damaging, mutilating or misusing currency is an offence in Malawi. Under Section 54(2)(c) of the Reserve Bank of Malawi Act, 2018, throwing, splashing, or stepping on Malawi Kwacha banknotes at social events, weddings, or concerts is illegal.
The Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM) has repeatedly warned the public against throwing, tearing, or soiling banknotes, saying the practice is not only disrespectful but also costly to the nation.
Reports indicate that damaged currency forces the central bank to spend millions of dollars in foreign exchange each year printing replacement notes, although the exact figure has not been verified.
As debate continues online, many are calling on artists and public figures to lead by example in respecting the Kwacha as a symbol of national pride.
