The family of Lilongwe-based businessperson Samsone Belachew Mulugeta has asked authorities to intervene in a matter in which Malawi Defence Force (MDF) has detained their relation since April 20 2025.
The Malawian of Ethiopian descent was arrested by MDF last year for suspected trafficking in persons but since then he has been under MDF’s hook despite several court orders to have him released.
In a letter addressed to The Nation titled ‘Urgent appeal for information regarding the unlawful re-apprehension of Samsone Mulugeta by the Malawi Defence Force’, the family claims that since April 20 2025 they have no idea about his whereabouts as well as his health.
The family said it is seeking assistance to have their relation’s “immediate and safe return as his fundamental rights are being violated and his safety is of our paramount concern”.
In an interview yesterday, Mulugeta’s younger brother, Michael implored any person with information about his brother’s location or the circumstances surrounding his re-apprehension to come forward.
Michael also said the family has since written the Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) to bring to their attention what Mulugeta has been going through.
MHRC director of civil and political rights Peter Chisi confirmed yesterday receiving an appeal letter from the Mulugeta family.
The businessperson was first arrested by MDF on November 4 2024.
In the letter to MHRC, the family claims that Mulugeta, who has been living in Malawi for over 20 years doing business, has been denied contact with his family despite repeated efforts by their lawyer Kalekeni Kaphale, SC, a former Attorney Genetral.
On February 28 2025, Malawian authorities attempted to unlawfully deport him to his native country but Ethiopia denied him entry into that country.
In a brief interview, Kaphale also confirmed that Mulugeta was re-arrested by MDF.
“MDF abducted him contrary to court orders. That’s all I know,” he said.
MDF spokesperson Major Emmanuel Mlelemba did not respond to The Nation enquiry by press time yesterday.
