Lilongwe, Malawi — In a stunning turn of events, Colleen Zamba, the former Secretary to the President and Cabinet in Malawi, has been formally charged with abuse of office and is set to face the judiciary. The charges come amidst growing public concern over corruption within the government.
Zamba, who served under the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) administration from 2022 until her resignation in September 2025, was arrested on December 3, 2025, at Kamuzu International Airport (KIA) in Lilongwe. She was en route to Geneva, Switzerland, to attend her daughter’s graduation when she was detained and questioned by police officials. The following day, she was placed in police custody at the National Police Headquarters in Lilongwe, pending her court appearance.
The charges against Zamba, outlined under Section 95 of the Penal Code, relate to the alleged abuse of her office. This comes as no surprise to many, as Zamba had previously been under scrutiny for alleged corruption. In November 2025, public allegations of corruption against her resurfaced, casting a shadow over her tenure.
The arrest and subsequent charges against Zamba have sparked a heated debate among Malawians, who are increasingly calling for accountability within the government. The incident has highlighted the need for stronger anti-corruption measures and a more transparent political system.
Zamba’s case is significant not only for its potential impact on the MCP administration but also for its broader implications for the fight against corruption in Malawi. The country has been grappling with corruption issues for years, and this case could serve as a catalyst for much-needed reforms.
Experts from various fields have weighed in on the implications of Zamba’s arrest and charges. Political analysts argue that the case could undermine public confidence in the government, while legal experts stress the importance of ensuring a fair trial for Zamba.
As Malawians await the outcome of the trial, the case of Colleen Zamba serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that the country faces in its ongoing battle against corruption. It remains to be seen how this incident will shape the future of Malawi’s political landscape and its commitment to fighting corruption.
Source: Panafricanvisions
Additional reporting by ImNews
