Kalua seeks answers on Mulanje arrests

Rumphi East member of Parliament (MP) Kamlepo Kalua (People’s Party-PP)yesterday demanded answers to reports that police in Mulanje were keeping in custody 15 suspects on charges related to a fracas that ensued over Blantyre Water Board (BWB) Likhubula Water Supply System project.

The question, under Standing Order 14, came after First Deputy Speaker Esther Mcheka Chilenje advised them to use proper channels.

After going through two delegation reports, Kalua stood on a point of order, saying he had information that some people were languishing in jail, despite being granted police bail.

Commenting on the issue, Mulanje South MP Bon Kalindo (Democratic Progressive Party-DPP) said the women and children had not been granted police bail.

But in her response, Minister of Home Affairs Cecilia Chazama said inquiries to Mulanje Police Station indicated that there were no children in police custody except for two 18-year-olds.

She read out names of 15 suspects (men and women) who she said were in custody for “demanding answers on a project”.

“The suspects were arrested and appeared in court but they are due to appear in court again on Monday for hearing. Only two of the suspects are aged 18 years old,” said Chazama.

However, it remains unclear what charges have been levelled against the 15. na