Drama: DPP Kayuni suspended, Chizuma's charges dropped

Malawi: In a dramatic turn of events, the country's Director of Public Prosecutions, Steve Kayuni, has been suspended, and the charges against ACB Director General Martha Chizuma have been unconditionally dropped.

Kayuni has been suspended, according to Minister of Justice Titus Mvalo, following his complaint to the police about a leaked phone conversation between ACB Director Ms Martha Chizuma and another person.

Mvalo also revealed that Ms Chizuma, who was arrested early Tuesday morning, had her charges dropped unconditionally.

According to a police statement issued today, the arrest was made in response to a complaint filed by Kayuni, who claimed that he was portrayed negatively in the January audio.

The Justice Minister has also announced the formation of a commission of inquiry into the arrest, which will include retired Justice of Appeal Edward Twea, retired Inspector General of Police Lot Dzonzi, and Malawi Law Society member Mercy Chijere.

Meanwhile, the Opposition Leader in Parliament, Kondwani Nankhumwa says the developments are unfortunate for democracy and the fight against corruption.