The 2022 Afrobarometer report identified the Malawi Police Service (MPS) as the most corrupt institution, followed by the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA).

Despite having a robust legal framework to combat corruption, experts argue that the lack of political will is the primary barrier to effective anti-corruption efforts.

Youth and Society (YAS) Executive Director Charles Kajoloweka emphasized the need for decisive action beyond debate and rhetoric. He cited legislations such as the Financial Crimes Act, Corrupt Practices Act, and the Assets Recovery Act as clear guides on combating corruption.

“We need to move beyond debate and rhetoric and take action. For too long, we have debated without implementing our clear anti-corruption strategies,” Kajoloweka stated.

“National Anti-Corruption Strategies 1 and 2 had minimal impact due to insufficient technical and financial investment.”

Kajoloweka called for a combination of strategies and political will, which he noted are currently lacking.

Centre for Social Accountability and Transparency (CSAT) Executive Director Willy Kambwandira faulted political leaders for failing to follow through on anti-corruption promises. He highlighted the failure to implement public service reforms as a significant contributing factor.

“It’s not about weak legislation; we have some of the strongest laws in the region. The issue is moral decay across government agencies and ministries,” Kambwandira said.

“We need consistent implementation of the law, ensuring that anyone involved in corruption faces justice, and genuine independence for anti-corruption agencies.”

Kambwandira also urged the Judiciary to expedite corruption cases to ensure those guilty are promptly punished.

In response, Minister of Information Moses Kunkuyu claimed the government is committed to fighting corruption. He noted improvements such as increased human capital at the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), enhanced prosecutorial powers, and a significant increase in resources allocated to the ACB.

“There is political will in dealing with corruption in the country,” Kunkuyu asserted.