By Burnett Munthali
Zuneth Sattar, a businessman based in the United Kingdom, has been released on bail totaling K4.8 billion, which is equivalent to approximately £2 million.
The bail was granted by the Westminster Magistrates Court following his formal charging with multiple counts of corruption.
Sattar and his company, Xavier Limited, face 18 separate charges linked to alleged corrupt dealings.
The allegations revolve around the supply of goods and services to the Government of Malawi at grossly inflated prices.
During the bail hearing, Sattar appeared via video link and did not enter any plea to the charges.
The case is scheduled to return to court on June 26, 2025, for further proceedings.
It is expected that the case will be committed to the Crown Court, which deals with serious criminal matters in the UK.
According to details from the charge sheet, Sattar is accused of offering bribes to senior Malawian government officials.
Among those named are the late Vice-President Saulos Chilima and State House Chief of Staff Prince Kapondamgaga.
Others implicated include former Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Director General Reyneck Matemba and former Inspector General of Police George Kainja.
Also named are former PPDA Board Chairperson John Suzi Banda, Malawi Police Service Director of Legal Services Mwabi Kalua, and Judge Advocate General Dan Kuwali of the Malawi Defence Force.
In reaction to the UK court proceedings, United States Charge d’Affaires Amy Diaz welcomed the development.
She described it as a vital move in the pursuit of justice and accountability for the Malawian people.
The accusations against Sattar have sparked concern among the Malawian public and civil society.
Activist groups in Malawi have called on the government to act urgently in response to the revelations.
They have demanded a halt to all active contracts involving Sattar’s companies and a full recovery of any funds paid out.
The unfolding case has also reignited debate about Malawi’s ability to combat corruption effectively.
Some observers have expressed frustration at the slow pace of justice in previous high-profile corruption cases.
Questions have been raised about whether the authorities are fully committed to transparency and upholding the rule of law.
As the legal process continues, Zuneth Sattar’s case remains a defining moment in Malawi’s anti-corruption efforts.
Its resolution may significantly influence public confidence in the justice system and government accountability.
