Blantyre Water Board CEO suspension upheld by High Court

The High Court in Blantyre has vacated an injunction that previously barred the suspension of Blantyre Water Board (BWB) Chief Executive Officer Yeremiah Chihana. Justice Allan Muhome ruled that Chihana must remain away from his office while the Board reviews the decision to suspend him. The ruling follows an application by government counsel arguing that Chihana’s presence could interfere with Board operations and water service provision.

Separately, Mlauzi Legal Solutions has denied allegations of impropriety regarding a payment of over MK62 million received from the BWB. The firm maintains the funds were for legitimate legal services, noting they have acted as external counsel for the board since July 2021 and are currently representing the BWB in over 100 court cases. The controversy arose after a payment advice showed the transaction was categorized as ‘salary’ rather than a professional fee, a matter previously questioned by Chihana regarding the lack of supporting contractual documentation. Mlauzi Legal Solutions has threatened legal action over what it describes as ‘false and defamatory’ claims.