Chief Resident Magistrate’s Court in Lilongwe has adjourned the case involving former Energy Minister Newton Kambala, AFORD President Enoch Chihana, and former Presidential Advisor Chris Chaima Banda to 27th January.
The State presented its third witness, Patrick Matanda, who served as Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Energy.
During cross examination, Matanda testified regarding the fuel contract issue, stating that although Kambala had responsibilities related to fuel procurement, his actions were supposed to be within the bounds of the law.
Defence lawyer Khumbo Soko expressed satisfaction with the witness’s testimony.
The State is also expected to present its fourth investigative witness in the case.
Kambala, Chihana, and Chaima Banda are accused of attempting to influence a public officer in fuel procurement at the National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA), contrary to the Corrupt Practices Act.
By Abdul Rahim Kamwana & Madalitso Mhango
