Watchman Reinstated on Nsanje District Council Payroll after Ombudsman Intervenes

NSANJE, Malawi— Misheck Mbeta, a 59-year-old watchman, is one of the happiest men in Malawi after he was re-introduced on the Nsanje District Council's payroll, writes Winston Mwale.

This comes after the Office of the Ombudsman intervened in his case, according to a statement from the public protector.

Mbeta, along with his colleague Benson Yotamu, was removed from the payroll in March 2016 without explanation, despite having served the government for 21 years.

The two were technically dismissed from employment without prior warning or having their sides heard, which is contrary to Section 43 of the Constitution.

This section demands that a person be given in writing the reasons for a decision that adversely affects them.

Mbeta and Yotamu lodged a complaint with the Office of the Ombudsman for the injustice they suffered.

The office launched investigations into the matter in line with its mandate as provided for in Section 123 of the Constitution of the Republic of Malawi.

According to the statement from the public protector, in a telephone interview from his duty station on May 2, 2023, Mbeta described the removal from the payroll as a significant disruption to his life.

He expressed gratitude to the Office of the Ombudsman for ensuring that he received justice in his case without paying anything.

Unfortunately, Yotamu died after being reinstated, according to the statement from the public protector.

Ombudsman Grace Malera praised Nsanje District Council for complying with recommendations from her office.

The reinstatement of Mbeta is a victory for the office, which seeks to protect the rights of Malawians and ensure that justice is served.